Skip to Content

El Salvador: 4 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

El Salvador – known for being the land of volcanoes. The country has to deal with volcanic activity and earthquakes frequently.

Somehow, its flag does not feature a volcano – perhaps they have too many bad memories of it.

But you as a visitor can have fantastic memories of El Salvador if you plan your trip right.

Besides being known as the land of volcanoes, El Salvador is also a surfer's paradise. It has many beaches with perfect conditions for surfing.

But the country is also full of history. El Tazumal is a Mayan ruins complex with a museum attached.

Lake Ilopango is a beautiful lake… in a volcanic crater.

And Ruta de las Flores is simply a beautiful flower-lined path going through colonial towns.

Honestly, there is no need to be bored in El Salvador. Especially if you like volcanoes – there are plenty of them.

But before you start posting 261 photos of volcanoes on social media, be aware that international roaming can be expensive. Like, really pricey.

Luckily, you can avoid international roaming rates by using local SIM cards, like one from El Salvador.

This way, you can enjoy local rates – almost always cheaper than roaming.

But how expensive are SIM cards in El Salvador?

You can get a Salvadoran SIM card for as little as 1 USD from the four mobile operators (Claro, Movistar, Tigo & Digicel). Tigo also sells other starter packs up to 5 USD. SIM cards are sold at El/San Salvador International Airport.

1 USD for a SIM card? That is nothing!

And I can already tell you that the mobile data rates in this country are low too!

But before you get too excited already, I still have to go over some things.

In this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in El Salvador. Let's go.

Buying a SIM Card in El Salvador Guide (logos of Claro, Movistar, Tigo & Digicel)

Original publication: 10th of January 2020. Last updated: 25th of September 2023.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

Can You Buy a SIM Card in El Salvador?

Anyone living in or visiting El Salvador can buy a Salvadoran SIM card from the mobile network operators (Claro, Movistar, Tigo & Digicel) in their stores or from resellers without any restrictions.

You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.

Moreover, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in El Salvador).

Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in El Salvador?

You can get a Salvadoran SIM card in Claro, Movistar, Tigo & Digicel stores and from authorized dealers, including grocery stores. It is also possible to buy SIM cards at El/San Salvador International Airport (Saint Oscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez).

You can expect to pay the following for Salvadoran SIM cards:

  • Claro El Salvador: 1 USD
  • Movistar El Salvador: 1 USD
  • Tigo El Salvador: 1 USD, 2 USD, 3.25 USD & 5 USD
  • Digicel El Salvador: 1 USD

TIP: Check out my SIM card prices lookup tool for a detailed overview of SIM card starter pack benefits (for Salvadoran SIM cards and SIM cards worldwide).

Can You Use Your Phone in El Salvador?

El Salvador uses GSM for its cellular communications, meaning that you need a GSM-capable phone to use your phone in the country. CMDA-phones will not work in El Salvador, but there is about a 99% chance you have a GSM phone anyway.

You also need to be aware of the ITU Regions to determine whether your phone will work in other parts of the world.

Although there are three ITU Regions, you only need to know these two terms: American Frequencies and European Frequencies.

El Salvador uses American Frequencies, which are used in the Americas (North-, Central, and South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2). Phones sold in the Americas typically have no issues when using their phone in other ITU Region 2 countries.

In Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3), they typically use European Frequencies, meaning phones bought in those regions can be used in countries using European Frequencies without issues.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in El Salvador.

If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3) and have a low/medium-end device without Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you want to go with Digicel El Salvador. It supports traditional European frequencies on 2G and 3G.

If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can go with any operator because your phone will support both American and European frequencies – also on 4G/LTE.

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in El Salvador

Cellular Connectivity Illustration by Phone Travel Wiz

El Salvador has four mobile network operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

  • Claro El Salvador
  • Movistar El Salvador
  • Tigo El Salvador
  • Digicel El Salvador

The following frequencies are used in El Salvador:

  • 2G: 850 MHz, 900 MHz & 1900 MHz
  • 3G: 850 MHz, 900 MHz & 1900 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700 MHz (Band 4) & 1900 MHz (Band 2)

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in El Salvador, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).

Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).

If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.

5G NR in El Salvador

5G NR Connectivity Illustration by Phone Travel Wiz

5G NR is not available in El Salvador as of 2022, and the Salvadoran government has not made any indications of when they will auction 5G licenses.

Best SIM Card in El Salvador

If you want to buy the best SIM card in El Salvador, I recommend going with Claro. It has the best coverage and the fastest speeds.

Phone Travel Wiz Approved Seal
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Best eSIM in El Salvador

Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIM to prepaid customer in El Salvador yet.

Note that the Salvadoran mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards (will be discussed later).

However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.

The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for Salvador.

But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.

Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).

So here are the seven best eSIMs for Salvador:

  • Airalo Cerrecom eSIM with four choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (best value for money)
  • Alosim El Salvador eSIM with four choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (priced roughly the same as Airalo with a bit more options – use code PTW for 5% off)
  • Holafly El Salvador eSIM with one 6 GB option (straight to the point eSIM options – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off)
  • Airalo Latamlink eSIM with four choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (best value for money for 19 American countries)
  • Holafly South America eSIM with one 6 GB option (simple eSIM covering 13 American countries)
  • AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (53/143) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
  • Nomad Global eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (extensive global coverage (109 or 139 countries) at high(er) prices – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)

Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Salvador, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).

If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for Salvador, you better check out my El-salvador eSIM buying guide.

It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.

Buying an eSIM for El Salvador Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Nomad & Cerrocom)

SIM Card Registration in El Salvador

SIM card registration, with the use of your passport information, is mandatory in El Salvador. This will be done at the point of purchase.

El Salvador Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

Flag of El Salvador

Mobile data is relatively cheap in Latin America.

At least, when looking at it from a global perspective and if you do not have a local wage.

Even then, the prices in this region are lower than the worldwide average.

What about El Salvador, then?

The average price for 1 GB of data in El Salvador is 4.49 USD, below the Central American average of 2.40 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.

This makes El Salvador the Central American country with the second-lowest mobile data rates in the region.

And compared to 2019's figures, the average has decreased by 70.8%.

Let's talk about speeds. How fast are mobile data speeds in El Salvador?

El Salvador's average mobile download speed is around 20 Mbps, about half the global average.

If you think these are slow figures, then you are right – they are slow.

But, mobile download speeds are not the fastest in Central America.

Currently, Costa Rica represents the region with an average download speed of 33 Mbps – still much slower than the global average.

On the other hand, Panama is the slowest, with an average of about 20 Mbps.

So, it could be (slightly) worse in El Salvador.

Luckily, SIM cards are affordable, and the cost of mobile data is also low.

There is nationwide coverage, but the speeds are on the slow end.

Overall, you should have a good network experience in El Salvador.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Currency in El Salvador

10 US Dollar Note
© U.S. Currency Education Program

El Salvador uses the US Dollar with the symbol USD (which will be used throughout this article).

Prices in El Salvador are listed in just $.

For up-to-date USD:your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.

Their fees are MUCH lower than banks and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).

I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

Salvadoran Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through Claro El Salvador, Movistar El Salvador, Tigo El Salvador & Digicel El Salvador, and go through:

  • Background information
  • Mobile coverage
  • SIM card types, prices, and availability
  • Recharge/top-up information
  • Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs) 

With that being said, let’s see what El Salvador has to offer.


Claro El Salvador

Claro Logo New
© Claro

Claro El Salvador, just Claro, is the largest mobile network operator in El Salvador.

Claro, as a company, is active in Central America and South America.

This is what you will learn about Claro:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Claro SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Claro El Salvador

Claro has the best coverage in El Salvador.

Although its 4G/LTE coverage is not as extensive as Tigo El Salvador's.

Below is Claro's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Claro's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Claro El Salvador

You can buy a Claro SIM card for 1 USD in Claro stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, phone shops, and kiosks. It is also possible to get SIM cards at El/San Salvador International Airport.

Claro SIM Card
© Claro

Dial *222# to see your Claro phone number.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Claro has no eSIMs.

Note that the Salvadoran mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for El Salvador (without personal detail capturing), you can get the El Salvador (Cerrocom) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers).

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

El Salvador Cerrocom eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

Or you can get El Salvador eSIMs from Holafly:

  1. Unlimited data eSIM for 5 days (new)
  2. Unlimited data eSIM for 7 days (new)
  3. Unlimited data eSIM for 10 days (new)
  4. Unlimited data eSIM for 15 days (new)
  5. Unlimited data eSIM for 20 days (new)
  6. Unlimited data eSIM for 30 days (new)
  7. El Salvador 6 GB eSIM for 15 days
Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for El Salvador (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

Finally, you also get El Salvador eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 5 GB/30 days).

Nomad El Salvador eSIMs

Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!

Airalo introduced an eSIM for Latin America (Central- and South America): Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.

Latamlink Latin America eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers to be used in El Salvador and 18 other Latin American countries:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Latamlink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!

TIP: check out my Best El Salvador eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for El Salvador, including ones not mentioned above.

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Claro El Salvador

Claro top-up vouchers are sold in Claro stores, grocery stores, corner shops, and electronics shops throughout El Salvador.

To top up your Claro SIM card, dial *106*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *106*123456#.

You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.

You can also recharge online (1/2) with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text SALDO to 72536 or CONSUMO to 4777 to check your Claro balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Claro (My Claro) app (Android/iOS).

Mi Claro App
© Claro

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Claro El Salvador

Claro has one data-featured plan, which is the Superpack de Internet (Internet Superpacks). It is a combo plan with data (without 5G NR access), minutes, and SMS.

Below are the Superpack de Internet, which you can activate by dialing *555# and following the sequence of the options:

PricePlanDataSocial DataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesOn-Net SMSValidityActivation Code
1 USDSuperpack Express $11 GBUnlimited 3Unlimited10 minutes 4Unlimited2 days*555# – 1 – 1
1 USDSuperpack Xtreme 2 Días1 GB2 GB 7 + Unlimited 5N/AN/AN/A2 days*555# – 2 – 1
2 USDSuperpack Xtreme 4 Días2 GB5 GB 7 + Unlimited 5N/AN/AN/A4 days*555# – 2 – 1
2 USDSuperpack Express $22 GB500 MB 8 + Unlimited 3Unlimited20 minutes 4Unlimited4 days*555# – 1 – 1
2 USDSuperpack de Internet 3 GB3 GBUnlimited 6N/AN/AN/A3 days*555# – 1 – 2
2.50 USDSuperpack de Internet 1 GB1 GBUnlimited 2N/AN/AN/A5 days*555# – 1 – 2
4 USDSuperpack Express $44 GB2 GB 9 + Unlimited 3Unlimited40 minutes 4Unlimited8 days*555# – 1 – 1
4 USDSuperpack Xtreme 8 Días3 GB6 GB 10 + Unlimited 5N/AN/AN/A8 days*555# – 2 – 1
5 USDPaquete Sin Vigencia 1 GB1 GBN/AN/AN/AN/ANo expiry*555# – 2 – 1
5 USDSuperpack de Internet 5 GB5 GBUnlimitedN/AN/AN/A10 days*555# – 1 – 2
10 USDPaquete Sin Vigencia 3 GB3 GBN/AN/AN/AN/ANo expiry*555# – 2 – 1
10 USDSuperpack Express $105 GB2 GB 9 + Unlimited 3Unlimited60 minutes 4Unlimited30 days*555# – 1 – 1
10 USDSuperpack de Internet 9 GB9 GBUnlimited 2N/AN/AN/A20 days*555# – 1 – 2
15 USDSuperpack de Internet 12 GB12 GBUnlimited 2N/AN/AN/A30 days*555# – 1 – 2

1 Instagram & WhatsApp
2 Facebook, Instagram & WhatsApp
3 Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & WhatsApp
4 also to Canada & United States
5 WhatsApp
6 Instagram
7 Instagram, TikTok & Twitch
8 YouTube
9 TikTok & YouTube
10 Instagram, TikTok, Twitch & YouTube

Claro El Salvador Superpack de Internet Internet Superpacks Plans

APN/Internet Settings – Claro El Salvador

  • Name: Internet Claro
  • APN: internet.ideasclaro

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Movistar El Salvador

Movistar Logo New
© Movistar

Movistar El Salvador, just Movistar, is the second-largest mobile operator in El Salvador.

Movistar, as a brand, is active in Central America and South America.

Movistar uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 850 MHz
  • 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 1900 MHz (Band 2)

This is what you will learn about Movistar:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Movistar SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Movistar El Salvador

Movistar has great coverage throughout El Salvador.

Its 4G/LTE coverage is still mostly concentrated around urban areas.

Below is Movistar's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Movistar's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Movistar El Salvador

You can buy a Movistar SIM card for 1 USD in Movistar stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, phone shops, and kiosks. It is also possible to get SIM cards at El/San Salvador International Airport.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Movistar has no eSIMs.

Note that the Salvadoran mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for El Salvador (without personal detail capturing), you can get the El Salvador (Cerrocom) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers).

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

El Salvador Cerrocom eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

Or you can get El Salvador eSIMs from Holafly:

  1. Unlimited data eSIM for 5 days (new)
  2. Unlimited data eSIM for 7 days (new)
  3. Unlimited data eSIM for 10 days (new)
  4. Unlimited data eSIM for 15 days (new)
  5. Unlimited data eSIM for 20 days (new)
  6. Unlimited data eSIM for 30 days (new)
  7. El Salvador 6 GB eSIM for 15 days
Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for El Salvador (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

Finally, you also get El Salvador eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 5 GB/30 days).

Nomad El Salvador eSIMs

Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!

Airalo introduced an eSIM for Latin America (Central- and South America): Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.

Latamlink Latin America eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers to be used in El Salvador and 18 other Latin American countries:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Latamlink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!

TIP: check out my Best El Salvador eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for El Salvador, including ones not mentioned above.

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Movistar El Salvador

Movistar top-up vouchers are sold in denominations of 1.60 USD, 2.60 USD & 5.25 USD in Movistar stores, grocery stores, corner shops, and electronics shops throughout El Salvador.

Movistar El Salvador Top Up Cards
© Movistar

Movistar top-up credit has no expiry. Moreover, each top-up includes unlimited WhatsApp data for 30 days.

The following online and eTop-Up options are available:

Online Top-UpValidity
0.50 USDNo expiry
1 USDNo expiry
1.50 USDNo expiry
2 USDNo expiry
2.50 USDNo expiry
3 USDNo expiry
4 USDNo expiry
15 USDNo expiry
20 USDNo expiry

To top up your Movistar SIM card, dial *701*VoucherCode*1#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *701*123456*1#.

You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.

Dial *555 or text SALDO to 700 to check your Movistar balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Movistar El Salvador (My Movistar El Salvador) app (Android/iOS).

Mi Movistar El Salvador App
© Movistar

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Movistar El Salvador

Movistar has two data-featured plans: Paquetes #ConTodo/Packages #WithEverything (combo) & Paquetes Sin Vegencia/Packages Without Validity (data-only).

Paquetes #ConTodo (Packages #WithEverything) – Movistar El Salvador

The Paquetes #ConTodo (Packages #WithEverything) are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.

The following Paquetes #ConTodo are available by dialing *700#:

PriceDataSocial DataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesValidity
1 USD1.5 GB750 MB 2Unlimited 1N/A2 days
2 USD3 GB1.5 GB 2Unlimited 120 minutes5 days
3 USDUnlimited 3N/AUnlimited 1N/A4 days
4 USD6 GB3 GB 2Unlimited 150 minutes10 days
5 USDUnlimited 3N/AUnlimited 1N/A7 days
7 USD8 GB10 GB 2Unlimited 160 minutes18 days
10 USD10 GB20 GB 2Unlimited 180 minutes31 days

1 also to Canada & United States
2 Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, Twitter & WhatsApp
3 unlimited on 4G/LTE, 5 GB on 3G

Unused allowances will roll over when you renew your plan.

Movistar El Salvador Paquetes #ConTodo Packages #WithEverything Plans
Paquetes Sin Vegencia (Packages Without Validity) – Movistar El Salvador

The Paquetes Sin Vegencia (Packages Without Validity) are data-only plans (without 5G NR access) with no expiry.

Paquetes Sin Vegencia can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 700:

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
1 USD50 MBNo expiryINTER1
5 USD500 MBNo expiryINTER5
10 USD1 GBNo expiryINTER10

APN/Internet Settings – Movistar El Salvador

  • Name: Movistar Internet
  • APN: internet.movistar.sv
  • Username: movistarsv
  • Password: movistarsv

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Tigo El Salvador

Tigo Logo Big
© Tigo

Tigo El Salvador, just Tigo, is the third-largest mobile operator in El Salvador.

Tigo, as a company, is active in Central America and South America.

Tigo uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 850 MHz
  • 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 850 MHz (Band 5), 1700 MHz (Band 4) & 1900 MHz (Band 2)

This is what you will learn about Tigo:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Tigo SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Tigo El Salvador

Tigo has great coverage in El Salvador. It also has the best 4G/LTE reception.

Its 4G/LTE coverage is rather extensive.

Below is Tigo's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Tigo's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Tigo El Salvador

You can buy a Tigo SIM card for 1 USD to 5 USD, depending on the starter SIM card, in Tigo stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, phone shops, and kiosks. It is also possible to get SIM cards at El/San Salvador International Airport.

Tigo Store
© Tigo

Dial *627# to see your Tigo phone number.

Dial *123# or *611# to access the Tigo menu.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Tigo has no eSIMs.

Note that the Salvadoran mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for El Salvador (without personal detail capturing), you can get the El Salvador (Cerrocom) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers).

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

El Salvador Cerrocom eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

Or you can get El Salvador eSIMs from Holafly:

  1. Unlimited data eSIM for 5 days (new)
  2. Unlimited data eSIM for 7 days (new)
  3. Unlimited data eSIM for 10 days (new)
  4. Unlimited data eSIM for 15 days (new)
  5. Unlimited data eSIM for 20 days (new)
  6. Unlimited data eSIM for 30 days (new)
  7. El Salvador 6 GB eSIM for 15 days
Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for El Salvador (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

Finally, you also get El Salvador eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 5 GB/30 days).

Nomad El Salvador eSIMs

Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!

Airalo introduced an eSIM for Latin America (Central- and South America): Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.

Latamlink Latin America eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers to be used in El Salvador and 18 other Latin American countries:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Latamlink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!

TIP: check out my Best El Salvador eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for El Salvador, including ones not mentioned above.

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
Tigo El Salvador SIM Card
© Tigo
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Tigo El Salvador

Tigo top-up vouchers are sold in denominations of 0.50 USD to 7 USD in Tigo stores, grocery stores, corner shops, and electronics shops throughout El Salvador.

The following top-up options are available:

  • 0.50 USD
  • 1 USD
  • 2 USD
  • 4 USD
  • 7 USD
Tigo El Salvador Top Up Cards
© Tigo El Salvador

The following online and eTop-up options are available:

  • 0.50 USD
  • 1 USD
  • 1.50 USD
  • 2 USD
  • 3 USD
  • 5 USD
  • 10 USD
  • 15 USD
  • 20 USD
  • 40 USD
Tigo El Salvador Top Ups
© Tigo El Salvador

To top up your Tigo SIM card, text the Voucher Code to 404.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, text 123456 to 404.

You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.

Dial *725# your Tigo balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Tigo El Salvador (My Tigo El Salvador) app (Android/iOS).

Mi Tigo El Salvador App
© Tigo El Salvador

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Tigo El Salvador

Tigo has three data-featured plans:

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Paquetes Todo Includio (All Inclusive Packages) – Tigo El Salvador

The Paquetes Todo Includio (All Inclusive Packages) are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.

Paquetes Todo Includio can be activated by dialing *123#, *404#, or *611#:

PriceData 1On-Net MinutesOff-Net/International Minutes 2Validity
1 USD1 GB 3Unlimited10 minutes2 days
2 USD2 GB 4Unlimited20 minutes4 days
4 USD4 GBUnlimited40 minutes8 days
7 USD4 GBUnlimited50 minutes16 days
10 USD5 GBUnlimited60 minutes30 days
15 USD10 GBUnlimited80 minutes30 days
20 USD20 GBUnlimited100 minutes30 days

1 with undisclosed Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, WhatsApp & YouTube data
2 to Canada & United States
3 without TikTok & YouTube
4 without TikTok

Tigo El Salvador Paquetes Todo Includio All Inclusive Packages
Tigo USA – Tigo El Salvador

The Tigo USA plans are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.

Although aimed at friends and family living in the United States recharging on someone in El Salvador's behalf, anyone can purchase Tigo USA plans.

Tigo USA can be activated online:

PriceDataSocial Media Data 1Local MinutesInternational Minutes 2Validity
7 USD7 GBUnlimited50 minutesUnlimited8 days
10 USD25 GBUnlimited 3200 minutesUnlimited20 days
15 USD40 GBUnlimited 4300 minutesUnlimited20 days

1 Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp & YouTube
2 Canada & United States
3 +TikTok
4 +TikTok & YouTube

Tigo El Salvador Tigo USA Plans
Paquetes Solo Internet & Gaming (Internet & Gaming Only Packages) – Tigo El Salvador

The Paquetes Solo Internet & Gaming (Internet & Gaming Only Packages) are data-only plans (without 5G NR access).

Paquetes Solo Internet & Gaming can be activated by dialing *123#, *404#, or *611#:

PriceData 1,2Validity
1 USD2 GB1 day
2 USD4 GB3 days
4 USD6 GB7 days
7 USD8 GB14 days
12 USD10 GB30 days

1 +undisclosed Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & WhatsApp data
2 +undisclosed gaming data for Among Us, Call of Duty: Mobile, Candy Crush Saga, Clash of Clans, Clash Royale, Discord, Dream League Soccer, Free Fire, Minecraft, Modern Combat 5, Pokemon Go, PUBG Mobile & Roblox

Tigo El Salvador Paquetes Solo Internet & Gaming Internet & Gaming Only Packages

APN/Internet Settings – Tigo El Salvador

  • Name: Internet Tigo
  • APN: internet.tigo.sv

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Digicel El Salvador

Digicel Logo
© Digicel

Digicel El Salvador, just Digicel, is the smallest mobile operator in El Salvador.

In the past, it used to be a budget option due to its low prices compared to its competitors, but this competitive advantage has vanished over the years.

Quite frankly, it is the worst option out there. But it is still the cheapest option.

Digicel as a company is active in the Caribbean, Central America & Oceania.

Digicel uses the following frequencies:

This is what you will learn about Digicel:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Digicel SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Digicel El Salvador

Digicel has decent coverage throughout El Salvador. However, it has the worst coverage in the country.

Its 4G/LTE reception is close to non-existent.

Below is Digicel's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Digicel El Salvador

You can buy a Digicel SIM card for 1 USD in Digicel stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, phone shops, and kiosks. It is also possible to get SIM cards at El/San Salvador International Airport.

Dial *129# to see your Digicel phone number.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Digicel has no eSIMs.

Note that the Salvadoran mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for El Salvador (without personal detail capturing), you can get the El Salvador (Cerrocom) eSIM from Airalo (1 GB/7 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 2 GB/15 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 days & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers).

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

El Salvador Cerrocom eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

Or you can get El Salvador eSIMs from Holafly:

  1. Unlimited data eSIM for 5 days (new)
  2. Unlimited data eSIM for 7 days (new)
  3. Unlimited data eSIM for 10 days (new)
  4. Unlimited data eSIM for 15 days (new)
  5. Unlimited data eSIM for 20 days (new)
  6. Unlimited data eSIM for 30 days (new)
  7. El Salvador 6 GB eSIM for 15 days
Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner
No unlimited data for El Salvador (yet)

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

Finally, you also get El Salvador eSIMs from Nomad (from 1 GB/7 days to 5 GB/30 days).

Nomad El Salvador eSIMs

Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!

Airalo introduced an eSIM for Latin America (Central- and South America): Latamlink eSIM. The Latamlink is following the popular Eurolink eSIM for 39 European countries and the fairly new Asialink eSIM for 13 Asian countries.

Latamlink Latin America eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

The Latamlink eSIM comes in four variants: 1 GB/7 days, 2 GB/15 days very popular with PTW readers, 3 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers & 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers to be used in El Salvador and 18 other Latin American countries:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Latamlink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

With the Latamlink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit in Latin America!

TIP: check out my Best El Salvador eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for El Salvador, including ones not mentioned above.

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Digicel El Salvador

Digicel top-up vouchers are sold in Digicel stores, grocery stores, corner shops, and electronics shops throughout El Salvador.

To top up your Digicel SIM card, dial *100 and select option 1.

If you have a DigiAhorro top-up voucher, you dial *123*VoucherCode*PackageCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456 and the package code (shown on the back of the voucher) is 60, you would dial *123*123456*60#.

Digicel El Salvador DigiAhorro
© Digicel El Salvador

You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *100, *120#, or *444# to check your Digicel balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Digicel app (Android/iOS).

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Digicel El Salvador

Digicel has one data-featured plan, which is Prepago. It includes data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.

You can activate Prepago plans through the MyDigicel app:

PricePlanDataSocial DataOn-Net MinutesOff-Net/International Minutes 1Validity
1 USDPaquete Prepago 2GB2 GB500 MB/day (1 GB) 2 + 2 GB 4 + 2 GB 5Unlimited10 minutes2 days
2 USDPaquete Prepago 4GB4 GB500 MB/day (2 GB) 3 + 2 GB 4 + 4 GB 5Unlimited20 minutes4 days
3.50 USDPaquete Prepago 6GB6 GB500 MB/day (4 GB) 3 + 2 GB 4 + 8 GB 5Unlimited50 minutes8 days
6 USDPaquete Prepago 6GB6 GB500 MB/day (8 GB) 3 + 2 GB 4 + 16 GB 5Unlimited70 minutes16 days
9 USDPaquete Prepago 8GB8 GB500 MB/day (15 GB) 3 + 2 GB 4 + 30 GB 5Unlimited90 minutes30 days

1 to Canada and USA
2 for Facebook and WhatsApp only
3 for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & WhatsApp
4 for TikTok & YouTube
5 for GoLoud

Digicel El Salvador Prepago Plans

APN/Internet Settings – Digicel El Salvador

Most phones will automatically retrieve the correct APN settings when inserting a SIM card – the same counts for Digicel El Salvador SIM cards.

If that does not automatically happen, you can dial *100, select option 3, and select option 2 to download the APN settings.

  • Name: Digicel
  • APN: web.digicelsv.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in El Salvador

Getting a SIM card from Claro would do you well when considering an Salvadoran SIM card.


Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences

Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:

Support Phone Travel Wiz

It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate & review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).

Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful).

Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Check Out My Resource Page

Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience

Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!

Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises & accommodation.

Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!

Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling

Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?

In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services & products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.

If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!

Learn About Your Phone Travel Options

You can buy local prepaid SIM cardsinternational SIM cardsmobile hotspots, or roam internationally.

Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.

Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks

I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!

Sign Up for the Phone Travel Wiz Newsletter

Get updates related to the newest guides, videos & recommended products and services.

Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.

Let's Be Social

Did you know that I have a YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about traveling with your phone?

A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!

Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is

Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!