Peru – known for one of the seven World Wonders (Machu Picchu), plenty of ancient ruins, and its impressive culture.
While many wish to see Machu Picchu, there are many things to do in this wonderful country.
Many ruins and canyons can be visited, including the Sacred Valley, Colca Canyon & the Nazca Lines.
Plazas such as Plaza de Armas de Lime or Plaza de Armas.
Or its nature, including the Gocta Waterfall, the Taquile Island & its plenty of beaches.
And of course, the nightlife is thrilling in Peru.
As you can see, there is no need to be bored in Peru.
Before you post your Peru-life photos online, be aware that international roaming can be expensive.
That is why local SIM cards, such as Peruvian ones, are recommended because they are almost always the cheapest way to stay connected when abroad.
Luckily, SIM cards are affordable in Peru.
You can get a Peruvian SIM card for 10 PEN (2.65 USD | 20 PEN (5.35 USD) for Bitel) in the official and partner stores of Movistar, Claro, Entel & Bitel, or from resellers, including kiosks and pharmacies. Claro sells SIM cards at Lima-Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) for 50 USD.
Yeah, you better not get that SIM card at the airport unless you like to waste money.
But as you can see, SIM cards are affordable in Peru, except for at the airport. And the cost of mobile data is low too.
In this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Peru. Let's get started.
Original publication: 2nd of March 2020. Last updated: 15th of November 2023.
le of Contents
What is the Best SIM Card in Peru?
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Peru, I recommend going with Movistar or Claro. Movistar has the best coverage and 4G/LTE availability (the latter together with Entel). Claro is the fastest option and has the best 4G/LTE coverage experience.
So, who are all these mobile operators and what options are available for you?
Peru has four mobile operators offering prepaid services that are easily accessible to travelers:
- Movistar Perú
- Claro Perú
- Entel Perú
- Bitel (formerly Viettel Perú)
Anyone living in or visiting Peru can buy a Peruvian SIM card with some restrictions.
Officially, your biometrics (fingerprints) need to match the one(s) recorded in the national ID register of RENIEC (Registro Nacional de Identificación y Estado Civil).
This means that your fingerprint(s) will be checked when purchasing a Peruvian SIM card.
As a tourist, your fingerprint will not be in the said database.
Fortunately, travelers can use their passports as a form of identification when purchasing a local SIM card.
Resellers, such as kiosks, are unlikely to do that or do not even know about this exception to the rule.
Therefore, you should visit the official (partner) stores to get a Peruvian SIM card.
But be aware – stores in rural Peru may also not know about this rule.
Even some stores in urban Peru may refuse to sell you a SIM card because of this regulation (as heavy fines have been levied for failing to check biometrics in the past) – even when tourists are exempt.
Besides that (potential) restriction, you are free to use Peruvian SIM cards.
- Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
Where Can You Buy a Peruvian SIM Card (+Prices)?
You can get a Peruvian SIM card in Movistar, Claro, Entel & Bitel stores and third-party stores, including kiosks, pharmacies & grocery stores. Some Peruvian airports sell (tourist) SIM cards (at inflated prices).
You can expect to pay the following for Peruvian SIM cards:
- Movistar Perú: 10 PEN
- Claro Perú: 5 PEN
- Entel Perú: 20 PEN
- Bitel (formerly Viettel Perú): 10 PEN
Note that Peruvian SIM cards can be more expensive than those listed above when purchased at an airport.
Use the Wise Currency Converter tool (free) for up-to-date PEN (Peruvian Sol) to your currency (let's say USD – US Dollar) exchange rates.
For your convenience, below are some exchange rates between PEN and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 PEN = 0.25 USD
- 10 PEN = 2.65 USD
- 100 PEN = 26.65 USD
But for any other currency, the Wise Currency Converter tool.
(Travel) eSIMs for Peru
In recent years, (travel) eSIMs have become extremely popular.
Especially after Apple made iPhones (14- & 15 series) sold in the United States eSIM-only, forcing its users to use eSIMs – even when abroad.
As a result, the adoption of eSIM technology by mobile operators worldwide rose impressively quickly.
Currently, no Peruvian mobile operator offers eSIMs to prepaid customers.
But if you purchase an eSIM from any of these mobile operators, you must comply with Peru's SIM card registration regulations.
Suppose you do not wish to do so for privacy reasons (for example) or want to be connected immediately without paying for an overpriced SIM card (or eSIM) sold at a Peruvian airport. In that case, you may consider getting a travel eSIM for Peru.
In my Peru eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
Surprisingly, travel eSIMs can be cheaper than a Peruvian SIM card or eSIM in specific scenarios.
Moreover, Latin (Central- and South) America-wide and global eSIM options are also available at competitive prices (without having to deal with expensive international roaming rates).
In this Peru SIM card buying guide (the one you are reading), I will stick to the local SIM cards and eSIM, but you can read my Peru eSIM buying guide for more information about travel eSIMs covering the country.
But here is a quick overview already + applicable discount codes if you are interested in purchasing a travel eSIM for Peru:
- Airalo: Habla Telefon (Peru only), Latamlink (19 countries in Latin (Central- and South) America) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS)
- Alosim: Peru
- Holafly: Peru & South America (14 countries in Central- and South America) – options include unlimited data
- Nomad: Peru & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant)
Here are some discount codes to sweeten the deal:
- Airalo: DEC15 for 15% off (if you have never bought an Airalo eSIM before). Otherwise, DEC10 for 10% off (for existing users) – only the first 3000 users can redeem either discount code)
- Alosim: PTW for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
- Holafly: PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
- Nomad: ADU123 for 3 USD off (on your first-ever Nomad order only)
Once again, check out my Peru eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.
The eSIM guide is as comprehensive as this SIM card buying guide, but it solely focuses on travel eSIMs (while the guide you are reading focuses on local SIM cards and eSIMs for prepaid users (where applicable).
Peruvian Prepaid SIM Cards Explored
Below, I will guide you through Movistar Perú, Claro Perú, Entel Perú & Bitel (formerly Viettel Perú), and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices & availability
- Recharge/top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans & special packs (such as social media packs)
With that said, let's see what Peru offers us.
Movistar Perú
Movistar Perú, just Movistar, is the largest mobile operator in Peru.
It is a combination of the former Telefónica Móviles and BellSouth.
Movistar, as a brand, is active in Central America, South America & Spain.
Movistar uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 1700 MHz (Band 4) & 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 Perú
Movistar has the best network in Peru.
It also has the best 4G/LTE availability (together with Entel Perú).
Below is Movistar's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see Movistar's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Movistar Perú
You can buy a Movistar SIM card for 10 PEN with 3 GB (10 days), unlimited Facebook, Instagram & Movistar Play (10 days) & unlimited WhatsApp (30 days) in Movistar stores. Resellers, including kiosks and pharmacies, sell SIM cards too. It is not possible to get Movistar SIM cards at Lima-Jorge Chávez International Airport.
Dial *515# to access the Movistar 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)
Movistar has no eSIMs.
You can consider getting a travel eSIM for Peru, which can, in specific scenarios, be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Movistar.
Especially if you get a Latin (Central- and South) America-wide eSIM (for when you visit at least two or more supported Latin American countries) or a global eSIM (for frequent travelers visiting multiple continents).
In my Peru eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
But I will introduce them here quickly:
- Airalo: Habla Telefon (Peru only), Latamlink (19 countries in Latin America) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
- Alosim: Peru – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: Peru & South America (14 countries) – all variants in both options include unlimited data – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: Peru & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
Once again, check out my Peru eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.
For now, I will continue with Movistar.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Movistar Perú
Movistar top-up vouchers are sold in Movistar stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Peru.
The following (online) top-up options are available:
- 5 PEN
- 7 PEN
- 10 PEN
- 15 PEN
- 20 PEN
- 30 PEN
- 50 PEN
To top up your Movistar SIM card, you would dial *515# and follow the instructions.
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 *515# to check your Movistar balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Movistar Perú (My Movistar Peru) app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Movistar Perú
Movistar has five data-featured prepaid plans:
- Llamadas + Datos/Calls + Data (combo)
- Preplan (combo)
- Megas Libres/Free Data (data – which you have to pay for)
- Redes Sociales/Social Media (social data)
- Video y Gaming (data for gaming/video streaming apps)
All Movistar plans can be activated by dialing *515#.
I will list all the prices in PEN (Peruvian Sol).
To convert PEN to your currency (let's say BRL – Brazilian Real) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Llamadas + Datos (Calls + Data) – Movistar Perú
The Llamadas + Datos (Calls + Data) are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.
Text the Activation Code to 515 to activate TheLlamadas + Datos:
| Price | Data | Social Data | Local Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 100 MB | Unlimited 1 | Unlimited | 1 day | PQ3 |
| 5 PEN | 500 MB | Unlimited 2 | Unlimited | 3 days | PQ5 |
| 7 PEN | 700 MB | Unlimited 2 | Unlimited | 4 days | PQ7 |
| 10 PEN | 1.5 GB | Unlimited 2 | Unlimited | 5 days | PQ10 |
1 for Facebook & WhatsApp
2 +Facebook Messenger
Preplan – Movistar Perú
The Preplan are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following Preplan are available:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 PEN | 650 MB | Unlimited 2, 4 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days |
| 6 PEN | 700 MB | Unlimited 2, 4 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 6 days |
| 7 PEN | 1 GB | Unlimited 3, 5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 8 PEN | 1.1 GB | Unlimited 3, 5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 8 days |
| 9 PEN | 1.2 GB | Unlimited 3, 5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 9 days |
| 10 PEN | 10 GB | Unlimited 3, 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
| 15 PEN | 2.5 GB | Unlimited 3, 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 20 PEN | 4 GB | Unlimited 3, 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 20 days |
| 25 PEN | 4.5 GB | Unlimited 3, 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 25 days |
| 30 PEN | 7 GB | Unlimited 3, 6 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram & WhatsApp
2 +1 GB of TikTok & YouTube for 3 days
3 +unlimited Spotify, TikTok & YouTube for 3 days
4 +unlimited Free Fire & Free Fire MAX for 3 days
5 +unlimited Free Fire & Free Fire MAX for 5 days
6 +unlimited Free Fire & Free Fire MAX until data validity
Megas Libres (Free Data) – Movistar Perú
The Megas Libres (Free Data) plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access) that, unlike the name implies, you have to pay for.
Text the Activation Code to 515 to activate Megas Libres:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | 25 MB | N/A | 1 day | A80 |
| 3 PEN | 200 MB | Unlimited | 2 days | A81 |
| 4 PEN | Unlimited | N/A | 1 night (0:00 – 7:00) | A86 |
| 5 PEN | 600 MB | Unlimited | 2 days | A82 |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited | N/A | 1 day | A85 |
| 7 PEN | 1 GB | Unlimited | 3 days | A83 |
| 10 PEN | 3 GB | Unlimited | 7 days | A84 |
| 20 PEN | 3 GB | Unlimited | 15 days | A20 |
| 30 PEN | 3.5 GB | Unlimited | 30 days | A21 |
1 for WhatsApp
The Redes Sociales (Social Media) are data packages (without 5G NR access) for Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat & WhatsApp.
Text the Activation Code to 515 to activate Redes Sociales:
| Price | Data | Social Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | Unlimited | 1 day | A87 | |
| 1 PEN | Unlimited | Instagram & Snapchat | 1 day | A90 |
| 1 PEN | Unlimited | Spotify | 1 day | A18 |
| 1 PEN | Unlimited | 1 day | A4 | |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited | 5 days | A89 |
Video y Gaming – Movistar Perú
The Video y Gaming are data plans (without 5G NR access) for Movistar Play, Netflix, Spotify & YouTube individually.
The following Video y Gaming are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 1 GB 1 | 1 day | A57 |
| 3 PEN | 3 GB 2 | 3 days | N/A |
| 3 PEN | Unlimited 3 | Daytime (08:00 – 23:59) | N/A |
| 5 PEN | 1 GB 4 | 1 day | A56 |
| 5 PEN | 10 GB 3 | 7 days | N/A |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited 1, 3 | Daytime (08:00 – 23:59) | N/A |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited 1, 3 | Nighttime (00:00 – 07:59) | N/A |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited 2 | 5 days | N/A |
1 YouTube
2 FreeFire + Garena games
3 TikTok
4 Netflix
APN/Internet Settings – Movistar Perú
- Name: Movistar Internet
- APN: movistar.pe
- Username: movistar@datos
- Password: movistar
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Claro Perú
Claro Perú, just Claro, is the second-largest mobile operator in Peru.
It used to be TIM Perú until Claro purchased the former company.
Now, it is the fastest mobile operator in the country.
Claro, as a company, is active in Central America and South America.
Claro uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 1900 MHz (Band 2), 2600 MHz (Band 7) & 3500 MHz (Band 42)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) – for fixed-wireless only (for now)
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 Perú
Claro has extensive coverage throughout Peru.
It does have the best 4G/LTE coverage experience.
Below is Claro Perú's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see Claro Perú‘s official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Claro Perú
You can buy a Claro SIM card for 5 PEN in Claro stores (1/2). Resellers, including kiosks and pharmacies, sell SIM cards too. Claro is also the only mobile operator selling SIM cards at Lima-Jorge Chávez International Airport (for a crazy 50 USD).
- 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)
Claro has no eSIMs.
You may want to get a travel eSIM for Peru, which can be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Claro (in some cases).
Especially when getting a Latin (Central- and South) America-wide eSIM if you do not stay in just Peru or a global eSIM valid for up to a year if you want one eSIM to work practically worldwide.
My Peru eSIM buying guide analyzes various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
Here is a quick introduction to them:
- Airalo: Habla Telefon (Peru only), Latamlink (19 countries in Latin America) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + call and text feature) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
- Alosim: Peru – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: Peru & South America (14 countries) – these eSIMs have unlimited data – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: Peru & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
For more information, such as the prices and data allowances, check out my Peru eSIM buying guide.
But let's continue with Claro for now.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Claro Perú
Claro top-up vouchers are sold in Claro stores (1/2), grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Peru.
Claro offers bonus data, minutes & SMS with each top-up.
The bonuses can be tripled (Triplica tu Recarga – Bono Mejorado) when you reply ACEPTA to a text message you receive from Claro when you recharge your SIM card.
The following standard top-ups are available:
| Top-Up | Credit | Data | Social Media Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 3 PEN | 50 MB | Unlimited 1 | Unlimited | 500 SMS | 1 day |
| 5 PEN | 5 PEN | 200 MB | Unlimited 2, 3 | Unlimited | 500 SMS | 3 days |
| 10 PEN | 10 PEN | 300 MB | Unlimited 2, 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 15 PEN | 15 PEN | 300 MB | Unlimited 2, 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
1 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Twitter & WhatsApp
2 Claro Video (3 days), Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Snapchat (3 days), TikTok (3 days), Twitter & WhatsApp (30 days)
3 500 MB for YouTube (3 days)
These top-ups are available when you reply ACEPTA to a text message you receive from Claro:
| Top-Up | Data | Social Media Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 200 MB | Unlimited 1 | Unlimited | 1000 SMS | 2 days |
| 5 PEN | 650 MB | Unlimited 2, 3 | Unlimited | 2000 SMS | 5 days |
| 10 PEN | 1200 MB | Unlimited 2, 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
| 15 PEN | 1.5 GB | Unlimited 2, 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
1 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Twitter & WhatsApp
2 Claro Video (3 days), Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Signal, Snapchat (3 days), Telegram, TikTok (3 days), Twitter, Waze (15 PEN top-up only) & WhatsApp (30 days)
3 500 MB for YouTube (3 days)
To top up your Claro SIM card, you would dial *788, select option 1, select option 8, and enter the Voucher Code.
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 *778 to check your Claro balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Claro Perú (My Claro Peru) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Claro Perú
Claro has six data-featured prepaid plans:
- Paquetes Exclusivos Online/Exclusive Online Packages (combo)
- Paquetes de Megas/Data Plans
- Paquetes de Redes Sociales/Social Media Packages (social data)
- Paquetes de Redes Sociales y Video/Social Media and Video Packages (social & video data)
- Paquetes Teletrabajo/Teleworking Packages (data)
- Paquetes Gamer/Gamer packages (gaming data)
I will list all the prices in PEN (Peruvian Sol).
To convert PEN to your currency (let's say MXN – Mexico Peso) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Paquetes Exclusivos Online (Exclusive Online Packages) – Claro Perú
The Paquetes Exclusivos Online (Exclusive Online Packages) are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access) and minutes.
The following Paquetes Exclusivos Online are available, which you can activate by dialing *799#:
| Price | Data 1 | On-Net Minutes | On-Net SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 150 MB | N/A | Unlimited | 2 days |
| 5 PEN | 300 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 4 days |
| 10 PEN | 1 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 20 PEN | 2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 12 days |
| 30 PEN | 3 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 20 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Snapchat, Twitter, Waze & WhatsApp
Paquetes de Megas (Data Plans) – Claro Perú
The Paquetes de Megas (Data Plans) are, as the name implies, data plans (with 5G NR access).
The following Paquetes de Megas are available, which you can activate by dialing *799#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 200 MB | 2 days |
| 5 PEN | 1.3 GB | 5 days |
| 6 PEN | Unlimited | Until midnight |
| 10 PEN | 3.01 GB | 10 days |
| 20 PEN | 3 GB | 20 days |
| 30 PEN | 4.5 GB | 30 days |
The Paquetes de Redes Sociales (Social Media Packages) are data plans (with 5G NR access) for Facebook and Instagram.
The following Paquetes de Redes Sociales are available, which you can activate by dialing *799#:
| Price | Social Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | Unlimited 1 | 1 day |
| 1 PEN | Unlimited 2 | 1 day |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited 1 | 6 days |
| 20 PEN | Unlimited 1 | 30 days |
1 for Facebook, Twitter & WhatsApp
2 for Instagram
The Paquetes de Redes Sociales y Video (Social Media and Video Packages) are data plans (with 5G NR access) for Snapchat and TikTok.
The following Paquetes de Redes Sociales y Video are available, which you can activate by dialing *799#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 150 MB 1 | 1 day |
| 3 PEN | Unlimited 2 | 3 hours |
| 3 PEN | Unlimited 3 | 6 hours |
| 5 PEN | 620 MB 1 | 2 days |
| 5 PEN | 10 GB 3 | 7 days |
| 10 PEN | 1.5 GB 1 | 5 days |
| 20 PEN | 1.8 GB 1 | 12 days |
| 30 PEN | 3 GB 1 | 20 days |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Snapchat, Twitter, Waze & WhatsApp
2 for Snapchat, TikTok & YouTube
3 for TikTok
Paquetes Teletrabajo (Teleworking Packages) – Claro Perú
The Paquetes Teletrabajo (Teleworking Packages) are data plans (with 5G NR access) for Ms Teams, Webex & Zoom.
The following Paquetes Teletrabajo are available, which you can activate by dialing *799#:
| Price | Social Data 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 6 PEN | 1 GB | 3 days |
| 9 PEN | 2 GB | 5 days |
| 12 PEN | 3 GB | 5 days |
| 15 PEN | 4.5 GB | 10 days |
1 for Ms Teams, Webex & Zoom
Paquetes Gamer (Gamer Packages) – Claro Perú
The Paquetes Gamer (Gamer Packages) are gaming data plans (with 5G NR access) for Free Fire, Free Fire Max & Mobile Legends.
The following Paquetes Gamer are available, which you can activate by dialing *799#:
| Price | Gaming Data 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 3 GB | 3 days |
| 5 PEN | 6 GB | 7 days |
1 for Free Fire, Free Fire Max & Mobile Legends
APN/Internet Settings – Claro Perú
- Name: Claro Internet
- APN: claro.pe
- Username: claro
- Password: claro
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Entel Perú
Entel Perú, just Entel, is the third-largest mobile operator in Peru.
It is the Peruvian brand by Entel from Chile.
It used to be known as Nextel Perú until 2013.
Entel Bolivia is not associated with Entel in Chile and Peru.
Entel uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 3G: 850 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1700 MHz (Band 4) & 2300 MHz (Band 40)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) – for fixed-wireless only (for now)
This is what you will learn about Entel:
* Coverage
* How to Get an Entel SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Entel Perú
Entel has extensive coverage throughout Peru.
It also has the best 4G/LTE availability (together with Movistar Perú).
Below is Entel Perú's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see Entel Perú's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Entel Perú
You can buy an Entel SIM card for 10 PEN with 4 GB, unlimited data for select social media apps (Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram & WhatsApp, unlimited local minutes & unlimited local SMS – all for 30 days in Entel stores (1/2). Resellers, including kiosks and pharmacies, sell SIM cards too. It is not possible to get Entel SIM cards at Lima-Jorge Chávez 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)
Entel has no eSIMs.
You should consider getting a travel eSIM for Peru because they can sometimes be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Entel.
Especially if you get a Latin (Central- and South) America-wide eSIM or a global eSIM.
I discuss various eSIM options of eSIM providers for Peru in my Peru eSIM buying guide, which are:
- Airalo: Habla Telefon (Peru only), Latamlink (19 countries in Latin America) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + minutes and SMS) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
- Alosim: Peru – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: Peru & South America (14 countries) – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: Peru & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
As I said, check out my Peru eSIM buying guide for more information, as I have to continue with Entel for now.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Entel Perú
Entel top-up vouchers are sold in Entel stores (1/2), grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Peru.
Entel offers bonus data, minutes & SMS with each top-up.
The bonuses will apply when you reply to a text message you receive from Entel when you recharge your SIM card.
The following standard top-ups are available:
| Top-Up | Data | Game & Social Data 1 | Social Media Data 2, 3 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 50 MB | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 500 SMS | 1 day |
| 5 PEN | 200 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 500 SMS | 3 days |
| 7 PEN | 200 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 500 SMS | 4 days |
| 10 PEN | 300 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 15 PEN | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 20 PEN | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 29 PEN | 500 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days |
1 Booyah!, Freefire, Freefire Max, Speed Drifters, TikTok & YouTube (360p) – all always for 3 days
2 Facebook, Instagram & Spotify
3 Facebook Messenger & WhatsApp – both always for 30 days
These Recarga POWER (power top-ups) are available when you reply to a text message you receive from Entel:
| Top-Up | Data | Game & Social Data 1 | Social Media Data 2, 3 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 150 MB | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 500 SMS | 2 days |
| 5 PEN | 650 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 500 SMS | 5 days |
| 7 PEN | 800 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited 4 | Unlimited | “Unlimited”, 500 SMS | 5 days |
| 10 PEN | 1.2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited 4 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
| 15 PEN | 1.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited 5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 20 PEN | 2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited 5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
| 29 PEN | 3.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited 5 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days |
1 Booyah!, Freefire, Freefire Max, Speed Drifters, TikTok & YouTube (360p) – all always for 3 days
2 Facebook, Instagram & Spotify
3 Facebook Messenger & WhatsApp – both always for 30 days
4 +Signal & Telegram
5 +Signal, Telegram & Waze
To top up your Entel SIM card, you would dial *144# and select option 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.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *144# and select option 2 to check your Entel balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Entel Perú (My Entel Peru) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Entel Perú
Entel has four data-featured prepaid plans:
- GB y Min Ilimitados/Unlimited GB and Min (combo)
- Datos Bolsas/Data Bags (data)
- Power Bolsas/Power Bags (data)
- Redes Sociales/Social Media (social data)
All Entel plans can be activated by dialing *144# and selecting option 3.
I will list all the prices in PEN (Peruvian Sol).
To convert PEN to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Be aware that Entel throttles (prepaid) speeds.
Below is a table of what type of speeds you can expect with Entel.
GB y Min Ilimitados (Unlimited GB and Min) – Entel Perú
The GB y Min Ilimitados (Unlimited GB and Min) are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
GB y Min Ilimitados can be activated by dialing *144# and selecting option 3 or texting the Activation Code to 999:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 PEN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 10 PEN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 30 PEN | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
Datos Bolsas (Data Bags) – Entel Perú
The Datos Bolsas (Data Bags) are, as the name implies, data plans (with 5G NR access).
Datos Bolsas can be activated by dialing *144# and selecting option 3 or texting the Activation Code to 999:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | 50 MB | 1 day |
| 3 PEN | 500 MB | 1 day |
| 5 PEN | 1300 MB | 5 days |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 10 PEN | 3 GB | 10 days |
| 20 PEN | 4 GB | 20 days |
| 30 PEN | 6 GB | 30 days |
Power Bolsas (Power Bags) – Entel Perú
The Power Bolsas (Power Bags) are data plans (with 5G NR access).
Power Bolsas can be activated by dialing *144# and selecting option 3 or texting the Activation Code to 999:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 150 MB | Unlimited | 1 day | POWER3 |
| 5 PEN | 650 MB | Unlimited | 2 days | TRIPLICA5 |
| 10 PEN | 1.5 GB | Unlimited | 5 days | TRIPLICA10 |
1 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Spotify & WhatsApp
The Redes Sociales (Social Media) are data plans (with 5G NR access) for Facebook, Netflix, TikTok, WhatsApp & YouTube.
Redes Sociales can be activated by dialing *144# and selecting option 3 or texting the Activation Code to 999:
| Price | Social Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | Unlimited 1 | 1 day |
| 3 PEN | Unlimited 2 | 1 day |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited 3 | 5 days |
| 5 PEN | undisclosed 4 | 7 days |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited 5 | 7 days |
1 Facebook & WhatsApp
2 Netflix & YouTube (360p)
3 Instagram, Facebook & WhatsApp
4 FreeFire, FreeFire MAX & Mobile Legends
5 TikTok
APN/Internet Settings – Entel Perú
- Name: Entel Internet
- APN: entel.pe
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Bitel (formerly Viettel Perú)
Bitel is the smallest mobile operator in Peru.
It is owned by Viettel, which is directly owned by the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense.
Bitel was Viettel's first foreign market where the country's GDP exceeded the one of Vietnam.
Bitel uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A – never had it
- 3G: 900 MHz & 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 900 MHz (Band 8)
This is what you will learn about Bitel:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Bitel SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Bitel
Bitel has the worst coverage throughout Peru.
Viettel, the company that owns Bitel, often focuses on building coverage in rural parts of the country first before concentrating on urban areas.
It does this because rural areas are often underserved (with no or barely any coverage).
This approach has been successful in almost all of the markets Viettel entered.
In Peru, however, it has worked somewhat, especially in the beginning.
Nowadays, its competitors have great (or even better coverage than Bitel) coverage, for Peruvian standards, in rural parts of the country too.
Below is Bitel's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Bitel
You can get a Bitel SIM card for 10 PEN with the Bifri 10 plan (1.5 GB, 1.5 GB for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Waze, unlimited local minutes & unlimited local SMS – all for 10 days) in Bitel stores. Resellers, including kiosks and pharmacies, sell SIM cards too. It is not possible to get Bitel SIM cards at Lima-Jorge Chávez International Airport.
Dial *180# to see your Bitel phone number.
Bitel has no eSIMs.
You can consider getting a travel eSIM for Peru, which can, in specific scenarios, be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Bitel.
Especially if you get a Latin (Central- and South) America-wide eSIM (for when you visit at least two or more supported Latin American countries) or a global eSIM (for frequent travelers visiting multiple continents).
In my Peru eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
But I will introduce them here quickly:
- Airalo: Habla Telefon (Peru only), Latamlink (19 countries in Latin America) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
- Alosim: Peru – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: Peru & South America (14 countries) – all variants in both options include unlimited data – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: Peru & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
Once again, check out my Peru eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.
For now, I will continue with Bitel.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Bitel
Bitel top-up vouchers are sold in Bitel stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Peru.
To top up your Bitel SIM card, you would dial *121*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *121*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 with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *122# to check your Bitel balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Bitel (My Bitel) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Bitel
Bitel has eight data-featured prepaid plans:
- Paquetes Todo Ilimitado/Everything Unlimited Packets (combo)
- Paquetes MaxiData/MaxiData Packets (combo)
- Bifri (combo)
- Paquetes Enretenimiento/Entertainment Packets (combo)
- Paquetes DM/DM Packets (data)
- Paquetes Gamer/Gamer Packets (gaming data)
- Paquetes de Facebook/Facebook Packets (social data)
- Paquetes TikTok/TikTok Packets (social data)
I will list all the prices in PEN (Peruvian Sol).
To convert PEN to your currency (let's say ARS – Argentine Peso) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Paquetes Todo Ilimitado (Everything Unlimited Packets) – Bitel
The Paquetes Todo Ilimitado (Everything Unlimited Packets) are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Text the Activation Code to 164 to activate Paquetes Todo Ilimitado:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1, 2 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 200 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days | TI3 |
| 5 PEN | 650 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days | TI5 |
| 7 PEN | 2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days | TI7 |
| 10 PEN | 2.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days | TI10 |
| 20 PEN | 16 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days | Ti20 |
| 30 PEN | 20 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days | Ti30 |
| 40 PEN | 25 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days | TI40 |
1 for Facebook & Instagram
2 for unlimited Line & WhatsApp for 30 days
Paquetes MaxiData (MaxiData Packets) – Bitel
The Paquetes MaxiData (MaxiData Packets) are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Text the Activation Code to 164 to activate Paquetes MaxiData:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 PEN | 1 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 24 hours | 3SO |
| 5 PEN | 3 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days | 5SO |
| 8 PEN | 5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days | 8SO |
| 10 PEN | 7 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 7 days | 10SO |
| 13 PEN | 10 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days | 13SO |
w/ auto-renew
Bifri – Bitel
The Bifri are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following Bifri are available, which can be activated by dialing *9090#:
| Price | Data | Social Data 1, 2, 3 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 PEN | 650 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days |
| 10 PEN | 2.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Line, Telegram, Waze & WhatsApp
2 +1 GB América TVGo, TikTok, Viki & YouTube
3 Among Us, Call of Duty, Clash Royale/Clash of Clan, Garena Free Fire, Mobile Legends, Tu Ruta & Roblox
Paquetes Enretenimiento (Entertainment Packets) – Bitel
The Paquetes Enretenimiento (Entertainment Packets) are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Text the Activation Code to 164 to activate Paquetes Enretenimiento:
| Price | Plan | Data | Social Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.90 PEN | Ti5 Dating | 650 MB | 1.5 GB/per app 1, 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days | TID |
| 7.90 PEN | Ti5 Video | 650 MB | 1.5 GB/per app 1 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days | TIV |
| 7.90 PEN | Ti5 Gamer | 650 MB | 1.5 GB/per app 1, 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days | TIG |
1 for 1.5 GB per app Bitel Video, Deezer, Facebook, Instagram, Line, Spotify, Telegram, Twitter & WhatsApp
2 for 1.5 GB per app Among Us, Alobodega, Brawl Stars, Call of Duty, Clash of Clan, Clash Royale, Free Fire, Mi Media Manzana, Pokemon Go, Super Cool, Tu Ruta, Roblox, RPP & Waze
3 free Tinder Plus for 30 days
Paquetes DM (DM Packets) – Bitel
The Paquetes DM (DM Packets) are data bundles (without 5G NR access).
Text the Activation Code to 164 to activate Paquetes DM:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | 450 MB | 1 day | DM1 |
| 3 PEN | 1.5 GB | 3 days | DM3 |
| 5 PEN | 3 GB | 5 days | DM5 |
| 10 PEN | 7.5 GB | 10 days | DM10 |
| 20 PEN | 15 GB | 20 days | DM20 |
| 30 PEN | 30 GB | 30 days | DM30 |
Paquetes Gamer (Gamer Packets) – Bitel
The Paquetes Gamer (Gamer Packets) are data plans (without 5G NR access) for Among Us, Brawl Stars, Call of Duty, Clash Royale/Clash of Clan, Garena Free Fire, Mobile Legends, Pokemon, Pokemon Go & Roblox.
Text the Activation Code to 164 to activate Paquetes Gamer:
| Price | Gaming Data 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | 512 MB | 1 day | G1 |
| 2 PEN | 1.2 GB | 1 day | G2 |
| 5 PEN | 2.5 GB | 7 days | G5 |
| 20 PEN | 10 GB | 30 days | G20 |
1 for Among Us games, Brawl Stars, Call of Duty, Clash Royale/Clash of Clan, Garena Free Fire, Mobile Legends, Pokemon, Pokemon Go & Roblox
Paquetes de Facebook (Facebook Packets) – Bitel
The Paquetes de Facebook (Facebook Packets) are social data plans (without 5G NR access) for Facebook & Twitch.
Text the Activation Code to 164 to activate Paquetes de Facebook:
| Price | Social Data 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | Unlimited | 24 hours | FB1 |
| 5 PEN | Unlimited | 7 days | FB5 |
| 10 PEN | Unlimited | 30 days | FB10 |
1 for Facebook & Twitch
Paquetes TikTok (TikTok Packets) – Bitel
The Paquetes TikTok (TikTok Packets) are social data plans (without 5G NR access) for TikTok.
Text the Activation Code to 164 to activate Paquetes TikTok:
| Price | TikTok Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 PEN | 300 MB | 24 hours | TT1 |
| 5 PEN | 2 GB | 7 days | TT5 |
| 10 PEN | 5 GB | 30 days | TT10 |
APN/Internet Settings – Bitel
- Name: Bitel
- APN: BITEL
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected in Peru
Getting a SIM card from Movistar or Claro would do you well when considering a Peruvian SIM card.
Going to other places around the world? You should also check out my SIM card buying guides for other destinations worldwide.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
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If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
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You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
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