2024 Updated information about how to get a Peru SIM card, where to find a SIM card in Peru, and everything you need to know to use your phone while traveling.
While you’re traveling in Peru, you’ll definitely want to have a way to keep in touch with your family and friends back home, while staying connected to social media and your favorite travel apps. One of the best options for doing this is to pick up a SIM card from PeruSIM for your mobile phone. SIM cards in Peru are easy to use and affordable, making this the perfect way for travelers to stay in contact with loved ones. Check out our guide below to learn about Peru SIM cards and prepare for your trip!
First things first, your phone will need to be unlocked before you can use it with a Peruvian SIM card. Many phones come unlocked by default, but make sure you check beforehand so that you don’t have any issues trying to use a SIM card in Peru. Two cell phone networks are used worldwide. These are known as the Global System for Mobiles (GSM) and the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA). Most countries in South America (including Peru) use the GSM network for mobile service. Phones that use the CDMA network may not work with Peruvian phone services, so the network your phone uses should be determined before buying a SIM card in Peru. Fortunately, many newer models of phones are designed to work with both networks. If you have a Motorola G4, E4 or later, an iPhone 6 or later, a Google Pixel, or a Samsung Galaxy S7 or later, you won’t need to worry about network compatibility since all of these models come equipped to work on both GSM and CDMA networks.
The best option for a SIM card in Peru for those traveling is PeruSIM. The sister brand of Cuy Movil and one of several specialized brands from Guinea Mobile. What is great about PeruSIM is that it uses the amazing network from Claro offering countrywide high speed coverage while still being specialized for travelers with all the perks that includes. PeruSIM has positioned itself on the market as the perfect SIM card for tourists as it has been designed specifically for their needs, offering excellent bilingual support through WhatsApp, all the sales staff speaks English and it accepts international credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, American Express and DinersClub.
With Peru Sim you’re in control, deciding whether you want a 5GB, 15GB, or 30GB data plan, all of them coming with unlimited local calls and SMS, Facebook and WhatsApp for 30 days. No contract is needed and purchase is simple and quick.
Where to buy
You have 2 options to buy a SIM card and a data plan from Peru SIM, both extremely easy. You can either buy it ahead of time and pick it up at one of their stores or purchase it in person where you can ask all the questions you might have. They currently have four stores operating across Peru:
Kennedy Park: The main store is located inside the Tourist Information Center at Av Diagonal 494, Miraflores, on the corner of Parque Kennedy (Kennedy Park).
Av. Larco: The second store is located inside the Tourist Information Center at Av. José Larco 799, Miraflores. Just up the street from Larcomar.
Lima Airport: The third store is located inside the International Arrivals Hall next to all the Taxi companies at the Lima Airport Jorge Chávez.
Plaza de Armas, Cusco: The fourth store is located at the main plaza in Cusco, Plaza de Armas with the following address: Plaza de Armas, Portal de Comercio 125, Cusco.
The industry leaders for cell phone service for locals in Peru are Claro (renting out their network to PeruSIM), Movistar and Entel. These companies provide coverage in Peru, an important factor to consider since travel in Peru often involves passing through remote rural areas in the mountains.
Most travelers choose to buy a prepaid SIM card for their trip to Peru. This allows you to make and receive phone calls as well as send messages and use internet data without needing to sign a long-term contract. Simply “recharge” your card when it’s running low and you’re good to go.
To sign-up, you will need to bring your passport and any extra documentation solicited to purchase a prepaid SIM card in one of their official stores. Their locations are notoriously busy so be prepared to wait around an hour and their staff do not speak English. Note, at times – depending on the sales consultants – they may ask for proof of address, which can be problematic if you’re a traveler in Peru. However, they don’t ask for this all the time.
Prices for SIM cards in Peru are generally around S/15 (under $5) and the plans vary based on how much data you need. Make you also purchase phone credit for the SIM card at the same time so that you are able to make calls right away. The cost of SIM cards and phone credit will vary depending on the service provider and amounts. Make sure you also inquire about using texts or WhatsApp messages with your SIM card, since these occasionally carry different prices.
This should be everything you need to know about buying and setting up your Peru sim card. You’ll now be able to communicate with your family and friends back home with ease. If you have any other questions regarding planning your Peru trip, do not hesitate to contact us. To find out all you need to know about Taxis in Peru, look no further!
