Are you planning to travel to Colombia and looking for the best tourist eSIM to stay connected? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know about using an eSIM when traveling to Colombia including a comparison of the best Colombia tourist eSIMs in 2024.
Don't waste money on high roaming charges, read my recommendations below before ordering an eSIM for Colombia. Find up to date prices and info as per September 2024, including all eSIM specifications.
This guide will explain how eSIMs work, show you where and when to order an eSIM for Colombia, answer all FAQ about using eSIMs, more info about the best network coverage in Colombia, the fastest 4G/5G data speed, explain the difference between eSIMs and local prepaid sim cards and of course links to directly order your eSIM for traveling to Colombia on the internet.
Since 2012 I am traveling the world full time and turned my passion for traveling into a lifestyle and became a full time nomadic travel blogger. In 2022 I visited 62 different countries and in 2023 I traveled to 34 countries so imagine how many different prepaid and eSIMs I used throughout the last two years.
In the past I used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in every country, but nowadays I mostly use eSIMs to stay connected when traveling abroad.
Traveltomtom also wrote a complete guide on how to buy a prepaid sim card in Colombia.
Find more than 200 sim card guides on Traveltomtom from all around the world: Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, USA, Canada, Europe, Spain, Madrid, San Fransisco, Los Angeles, Miami, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, French Polynesia, Casablanca, Rabat, Hurghada and many more.
So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid sim card and eSIM advice for your holiday destination. Bookmark me and let me help you save money while traveling!
Some links in this article about the best eSIMs for Colombia are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don't worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!
My recommendation
Let me start with giving you my eSIM recommendation. This is my favorite eSIMs for traveling to Colombia in 2024.
1. Jetpac eSIM for Colombia - $19 USD
- 5 GB data-only
- valid in Colombia
- No calls/sms
- valid for 30 days
- Operates on the 4G/LTE network of Claro
- $3.8 USD per Gigabyte
The main reason why Traveltomtom recommends a Jetpac eSIM for Colombia is that it operates on the Claro mobile data network which has by far the best 4G/5G coverage in Colombia.
Speaking from my own experience... eSIMs that operate on the Movistar, Tigo and WOM network can be a disaster. For example in North Colombia (Santa Marta, Tyrona and surrounding) there is barely signal from Movistar, Tigo and WOM.
Jetpac has 5 different eSIM plans for Colombia. Their 10 GB data pack is actually the best-buy as it goes down to a rate of only $2.9 USD per Gigabyte.
As a comparison:
- Jetpac Colombia 5 GB = $19 USD (Claro network)
- Sim Local Colombia 5 GB = $27.5 USD (network not specified)
- Holafly 1 week unlimited = $28.90 USD (Movistar network)
- SimOptions Colombia 5 GB = $31.90 USD (network not specified)
- Airalo Colombia 5 GB = $32.5 USD (Movistar network)
- Nomad Colombia 5 GB = $45 USD (network not specified)
Jetpac is the cheapest among all eSIM providers.
Traveltomtom readers now get an extra 10% off on all Jetpac eSIMs when using the discount code TOMTOM10 at check out!
Is Colombia one of your stops on a trip around the world then you can also look into getting an international eSIM for traveling the world or an eSIM from Roamless, a different eSIM concept that allows you to use the available data in any country that is supported and has no expiry date.
There are 2 very important things to check before ordering an eSIM for Colombia, see the following.
Unlocked phones only
Make sure your phone is unlocked. eSIMs only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked then contact your mobile internet provider in your home country.
In general phones from Europe, Asia and the Middle East tend to be unlocked. Phones from North America are often locked.
If your smartphone is locked that means it does not allow another prepaid sim card or eSIM to operate in the device. You can easily unlock your phone, but depending on your mobile internet provider you will be charged a fee for unlocking your phone.
eSIM compatible phones only
Second, and equally important: eSIMs only work if your smartphone supports eSIMs, also called eSIM compatible. All newer smartphones support eSIMs. If you are not sure if your phone is eSIM compatible then simply go to Google and type in your mobile phone model in the search bar and ask if it is eSIM compatible. You will get the answer instantly.
If your phone is NOT eSIM compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an eSIM for traveling to Colombia.
In that case check out Traveltomtom's complete guide on how to buy a prepaid sim card in Colombia.
Comparison of the best eSIMs for Colombia
On arrival in Colombia you can now also buy an eSIM in an official phone store from one of the mobile internet providers: Tigo, WOM, Movistar or Claro.
However, if you want to arrive prepared and have data on your phone as soon as the plane lands it is much more convenient to order an eSIM for Colombia on the internet.
There are multiple eSIM Providers on the internet that sell eSIMs for Colombia. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for traveling in Colombia from one of the well-known eSIM providers that have proven to be reliable operators: SimOptions, Jetpac, Nomad, Holafly, Roamless, Airalo, Sim Local, etc.
But before you buy an eSIM for Colombia first read all my tips below.
SimOptions also offers international prepaid sim cards for Colombia. These are pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards and will be delivered to your home address before your trip to Colombia and it is plug and play when you arrive.
Airalo, Holafly, Sim Local, Roamless, Jetpac and Nomad only sell eSIMs for Colombia.
Jetpac
Jetpac quickly made name in the eSIM world by not only offering very affordable eSIM solutions, but also by adding a couple benefits for travelers who order an eSIM via Jetpac.
The Traveltomtom team has tried Jetpac now in a couple different countries without any issues, only positive reviews. Check out our extensive Jetpac eSIM review with all pros and cons.
One of the main reasons why Jetpac is listed as one of the best eSIMs for Colombia are their competitive prices and in fact when we look at the price per Gigabyte, Jetpac is one of the best eSIMs for Colombia in 2024.
On top of that Jetpac operates on the Claro mobile data network, which is the best and most extensive 4G/5G network in Colombia.
Check out the Jetpac eSIM plans for Colombia in 2024:
- 1 GB data for 4 days = $1 USD
- 3 GB data for 7 days = $12 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $19 USD
- 10 GB data for 30 days = $29 USD
- 20 GB data for 30 days = $58 USD
Click here to order a Jetpac eSIM for Colombia.
Traveltomtom readers now get an extra 10% off on all Jetpac eSIMs when using the promo code: TOMTOM10 at check out!
The Jetpac eSIM plan for Colombia with 5 GB data for just $19 USD makes it the best value 5 GB eSIM for Colombia. The same 5 GB packs cost much more at other eSIM providers. Nomad charges even $45 USD for the same data plan.
You can instal your Jetpac eSIM before your trip to Colombia, but it only activates from the moment it connects to a supported network in Colombia. That moment your days also start counting. The Jetpac eSIMs have to be installed within 1 year.
The Jetpac Colombia eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. Jetpac eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of Claro. Yes, the Jetpac eSIMs are 5G ready.
An extra advantage of using a Jetpac eSIM is that you get a free VPN subscription, 50% discount on airport lounges and Fast Track passes. And Jetpac also provides free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed. However, you will have to register your flight before you travel to Colombia and in case of a delayed or canceled flight a LoungeKey voucher will automatically be provided.
These are all complimentary services that no other eSIM provider offers. For more info check the Jetpac website.
Airalo
Airalo is a very reputed eSIM provider, in fact the first eSIM provider and market leader. Airalo is very much recommended by Traveltomtom and ordering your eSIM for Colombia via Airalo is done fast and easy.
Why using Airalo?
Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Never an issue and often some of the best eSIM deals.
Airalo also has 6 different Colombia eSIM plans:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $8 USD
- 2 GB data for 15 days = $15 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $21 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $32.5 USD
Click here for more info or to order a Colombia eSIM via Airalo.
Get an extra discount of $3 USD on your first Airalo eSIM with the code: TOMTOM3.
These data-only eSIMs are from Hartonet and operate on the Movistar 4G/LTE network. Data-only means that incoming or outgoing calls/sms are not supported and the Hartonet eSIMs from Airalo do not come with a phone number.
An Airalo eSIM has to be activated within 90 days after purchase and after activation the credit validity starts when it connects the first time to a supported network, basically on arrival in Colombia. For more info check out the Airalo website.
Sim Local
Sim Local is another trusted eSIM provider and Traveltomtom has been recommending Sim Local for several different countries. Sim Local is no-nonsense, straight forward and easy to use. For more details check out Traveltomtom's extensive review of Sim Local.
Sim Local offers 6 different eSIM plans for Colombia: 3 eSIMs plans from Smartroam, 1 eSIM from Orange and 2 Flexiroam eSIMs for Latin America.
Smartroam eSIMs
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $7 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $18.5 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $27.50 USD
The Smartroam eSIMs do not specify on which mobile data network in Colombia they operate. Data is only valid in Colombia.
Flexiroam eSIMs Latin America
- 5 GB data for 30 days in 13 countries in Latin America = $31.5 USD
- 10 GB data for 30 days in 13 countries in Latin America = $60.5 USD
The Flexiroam eSIMs are valid in: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela.
Orange Holiday World eSIM
- 10 GB data for 30 days = $32 USD
The Orange Holiday World eSIM gives you 10 GB data valid in 149 countries according to the Sim local website. The Orange eSIM does not specify which network it uses in Colombia.
All Colombia eSIMs from Sim Local are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are not supported and these eSIMs do not come with a phone number.
Click here for more info or to order an eSIM for Colombia via Sim Local.
Traveltomtom readers now get an extra 15% discount on all Sim Local eSIMs when using the promo code: TRAVELTOMTOM at check out!
SimOptions
SimOptions is a very reliable eSIM provider and Traveltomtom has used SimOptions uncountable times in more than 50 countries around the world. I can totally recommend using SimOptions for ordering an eSIM.
Why using SimOptions?
SimOptions has proven over the years to be very reliable. Excellent costumer service, great eSIM deals, eSIMs for pretty much every country in the world and an innovative product. Traveltomtom never faced an issue with SimOptions eSIMs.
Check out Traveltomtom's detailed and honest SimOptions eSIM review.
SimOptions has Colombia eSIMs, Global eSIMs for Colombia as well as South America eSIMs.
SimOptions eSIMs valid in Colombia only:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $7.90 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $19.90 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $31.90 USD
Three HK 30-day pass Global valid in 93 countries:
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD
On top of that SimOptions also has eSIMs for South America with unlimited data... but these eSIMs are not recommended!
- unlimited data in 8 countries in South America for 7 days = $54.90 USD
- unlimited data in 8 countries in South America for 7 days = $79.90 USD
- unlimited data in 8 countries in South America for 7 days = $119.90 USD
These eSIMs are valid in: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay.
Why not recommended? It says unlimited data, but it is in reality just 2 GB data per day! Data speed of 384 Kbps is completely useless!
Click here for more info or to order an eSIMs for traveling in Colombia via SimOptions.
All SimOptions eSIMs do not come with a phone number and they do not offer incoming/outgoing calls or sms services. The validity of these eSIMs is 1 year and the credit validity starts in general only on arrival in any of the supported countries. But some eSIMs from SimOptions have different policies, so always be aware of this when installing your SimOptions eSIM.
For more info check the SimOptions website.
Holafly
Personally Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with unlimited data. Unlimited is only unlimited if there is NO so called FUP (Fair Use Policy). Holafly is an eSIM provider that only sells eSIMs with unlimited data, but uses an FUP. Unfortunately they do not specify what is their FUP.
Especially when traveling in Colombia, a huge country with very long bus rides, you don't want anyone to tell you that you have used too much data on your 'unlimited' data eSIM.
But that is just my personal advice.
- 1 day 'unlimited' data = $7.90 USD
- 2 days 'unlimited' data = $9.90 USD
- 3 days 'unlimited' data = $12.90 USD
- 4 days 'unlimited' data = $15.90 USD
- 5 days 'unlimited' data = $20.90 USD
- 6 days 'unlimited' data = $24.90 USD
- 7 days 'unlimited' data = $28.90 USD
- 8 days 'unlimited' data = $30.90 USD
- 9 days 'unlimited' data = $34.90 USD
- 10 days 'unlimited' data = $36.90 USD
- 11 days 'unlimited' data = $39.90 USD
- 14 days 'unlimited' data = $47.90 USD
- 20 days 'unlimited' data = $61.90 USD
- 30 days 'unlimited' data = $93.90 USD
The Holafly eSIMs for Colombia are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported. These eSIMs do not come with a phone number. The Holafly eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of Movistar.
You can use a hotspot on the Holafly Colombia eSIMs, but it is capped at 500 MB per day.
Because of the FUP Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with 'unlimited' data and therefore it is not my first recommendation when looking for an eSIM for Colombia.
Traveltomtom tested the Holafly eSIMs personally on my recent trip to Colombia and it was very disappointed. I traveled around the Northern Provinces in Cartagena, Santa Marta and Tyrona and barely had a phone connection. There was most of the times no Movistar signal. But even in Cartagena when I was connected to the Movistar network, the data speed was extremely slow and I ended up buying a local prepaid sim card in Colombia to stay connected.
As you can understand Traveltomtom does not recommend a Holafly eSIM for Colombia.
Nomad
Nomad is quickly trying to gain some market share in the eSIM business by constantly adding new eSIM deals. Traveltomtom has had some mixed experiences with Nomad eSIMs.
Here are the Nomad eSIM plans for Colombia:
- 1 GB data for 7 days = $25 USD
- 3 GB data for 30 days = $40 USD
- 5 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD
Click here to order an eSIM for Colombia from Nomad.
The prices for Nomad Colombia eSIMs are not something that will get you super excited of course. Other eSIM providers have much better eSIM deals for Colombia than Nomad.
All the Nomad eSIM plans for Colombia are from 1GLOBAL and they do not specify on which mobile data network they operate in Colombia. The Nomad eSIMs are not 5G ready. These 1GLOBAL plans are data-only sim cards. Incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.
The Nomad Colombia eSIMs have to be installed/activated on your phone within 60 days after purchase otherwise they are automatically activated. After installing, the eSIMs starts its validity from the first moment when it connects to a supported network, basically the moment the plane lands in Colombia. For more info check the Nomad website.
Then there are also the local prepaid sim cards from the mobile internet providers in Colombia: Tigo, Movistar, WOM and Claro. They also offer eSIMs nowadays, but you can only buy them in person in an official phone store and you will need to bring your passport for registration.
Claro
You pay a little less than $1 USD for the sim card registration, but then you can choose from the following eSIM plans, including free Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter:
- 1.5 GB data + unlimited calls/text for 7 days = 7,500 COP - $1.6 USD
- 2.5 GB data + unlimited calls/text for 10 days = 11,000 COP - $2.3 USD
- 9 GB data + unlimited calls/text for 30 days = 31,000 COP - $6.4 USD
The Claro eSIMs for tourists come with free calling and texting in Colombia.
Movistar
A Movistar prepaid sim card costs 6,000 COP ($1.5 USD) for the registration and they have the eSIMs for tourists including unlimited local calls/sms in Colombia:
- 4 GB data for 7 days = 3,500 COP - $0.7 USD
- 12 GB data for 15 days = 16,000 COP - $3.3 USD
Movistar also includes free apps like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, etc.
Tigo
A Tigo prepaid sim card is free. They only have two Colombia prepaid sim card plans for tourists at Tigo:
- 5 GB data for 7 days + unlimited calls/text = 10,000 COP - $2.1 USD
- 10 GB data for 15 days + unlimited calls/text = 20,000 COP - $4.2 USD
WOM
I have been warning you for the Movistar network coverage around Colombia, but the WOM network is even much smaller. An eSIM from WOM is my last recommendation for staying connected in Colombia. The WOM network is so weak that it is absolutely not recommended for tourists traveling in Colombia.
What is the cheapest eSIM for Colombia?
Apart from the local eSIMs from Tigo, WOM, Movistar and Claro there is no other eSIM provider can beat the $1 USD eSIM for Colombia from Jetpac. You get 1 GB data for 4 days.
Sim Local is a good second best with an eSIM plan for Colombia for just $7 USD for 1 GB data for 7 days.
Why ordering an eSIM for traveling to Colombia
eSIMs are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Colombia in 2024 and you can arrange everything online in just a couple clicks. No more visiting a sim card shop and swapping physical sim cards. Order online, scan the QR code, follow the steps and you are connected in less than 2 minutes.
The most important reason to get an eSIM is because we would like to stay connected on our trip to Colombia without wasting money on high roaming costs. Our smartphones are pretty useless without a working data connection. Think about ordering a taxi through an app, finding nearby friends, restaurants and bars. Get directions from Google Maps or simply staying in touch with family back home, check your social media apps on long bus rides or your banking apps when paying contactless.
One of the best things about arriving in Colombia with an activated eSIM is that you are online as soon as the plane lands and you don't have to buy a prepaid sim card at Bogota Airport.
There are so many reasons to stay connected when traveling to Colombia, but the most important reason is that it makes your trip to Colombia so much more convenient and fun!
At the same time we don't want to waste money on high roaming charges. Many mobile internet operators still charge $3 USD per MB for data roaming, that means just opening the Instagram app will already cost you 20 MB * $3 USD = $60 USD.
Not kidding… it still is very common in 2024.
eSIMs are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!
Overseas Data Roaming plans
So what about overseas data roaming plans? Well, not recommended! Why? Did you read the small letters at what data speed you can use data roaming? Pretty much all mobile internet operators limit the data speed for overseas data roaming plans, which means you end up with 3G data speed. Do you have the patience to handle 3G? It is frustrating when all around you at pretty much every amazing tourist destinations in Colombia there is 4G/LTE available.
Uncountable times travel friends have asked me: "can I use your hotspot? My data roaming plan is so slow, it is barely working!".
Trust me, get yourself an eSIM or an international prepaid sim card for traveling to Colombia. Spend a couple dollars extra and be connected all the time instead of begging for WiFi or a hotspot from a friend.
Where to buy an eSIM for Colombia?
Online
There are a ton of websites that offer eSIMs for Colombia. Traveltomtom compared multiple eSIM providers and concluded that SimOptions, Sim Local, Roamless, Jetpac, Nomad, Holafly and Airalo are the most reliable eSIM providers for traveling to Colombia in 2024.
When buying an eSIM for Colombia through one of the above recommended eSIM providers you only need your email address and the eSIM is instantly ready to use after installation. There is no ID registration needed.
On arrival in Colombia
There are 4 main mobile internet provider in Colombia: Tigo, WOM, Movistar and Claro. As of 2024 all the mobile internet providers in Colombia sell eSIMs for tourists. In phone stores in Colombia you can now opt for a tourist eSIM as well as a physical prepaid sim cards for tourists.
For more info about how to buy a prepaid sim card for tourists in Colombia click on the link to read my complete guide and comparison of all the mobile internet providers in Colombia, including a comparison of the 4G/5G network.
When to order/activate an eSIM for Colombia?
You can order an eSIM for Colombia pretty much any time you want. Most eSIMs have to be installed on a phone within 1 month after purchasing, some even within 1 year, so you have time.
More important therefore is when do you instal/activate the eSIM. The validity of some eSIMs start straight after the installation, other eSIMs only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.
Traveltomtom advices to instal your eSIM on the day of departure to Colombia or before. You will need an internet connection to instal your eSIM.
Therefore Traveltomtom advices you to install/activate your eSIM before departure to Colombia. As soon as the plane lands you will be connected without any problems.
How to activate your Colombia eSIM
Installing and activating an eSIM is made as simple as possible. Everyone can activate an eSIM and the instructions on how to are very detailed and will be send to you instantly by email. But wait, it gets even easier. Just scan the QR code.
When you order an eSIM plan for Colombia you instantly receive a summery of your order including a QR-code after the payment is processed.
You will see a summary of your eSIM order including a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will also receive an email with the same QR code. The email contains instructions on how to instal and activate your Colombia eSIM.
But installing an activating an eSIM is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone where you want to activate the eSIM on. The QR code contains all the information about your Colombia eSIM.
Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your eSIM is successfully installed.
Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your eSIM otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur.
Tip: if you order an eSIM with the same phone where you want to instal the eSIM on then ask a friend or someone nearby to take a photo of the QR code and then you scan the QR code from his/her phone and start the installation.
Things to know before ordering an eSIM for Colombia
Here are some general tips for using eSIMs when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply for Colombia eSIMs, but are things to know before buying an eSIM in general.
Make sure your phone is unlocked
To make sure you didn't miss this, let me say this again: eSIMs only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any eSIM without any problems.
If your phone is locked then ask your mobile internet provider from your home country to unlock your phone before your trip to Colombia. It is likely that your mobile internet provider will charge you a fee for unlocking your smartphone.
If you are unable to unlock your phone you can look into getting a portable WiFi for staying connected when traveling to Colombia or better… bring a second unlocked phone on your trip to Colombia and use it as a portable WiFi device.
Which smartphones support eSIMs?
Another very important thing you have to check before buying an eSIM is if your smartphone supports eSIMs. If you have any of the latest smartphones then there is no need to worry, all new smartphones of the well known brands support eSIMs.
The fastest way to find out if your phone is eSIM compatible is to dial *#06# on your phone. A screen will pop up and will show you a bunch of barcodes. If you see a barcode with 'EID', then you know your device is eSIM compatible.
If you are not sure then simply ask Google the question: is my (your phone model) eSIM compatible? Simple as that!
Can I trust these eSIM providers?
All the eSIM providers for Colombia recommended in this guide are reputable eSIM providers reviewed and tested by the Traveltomtom Team. All of them are licensed third party companies and resellers that partner or work directly with the mobile internet providers in Colombia.
Traveltomtom has used Airalo and SimOptions sim cards now for more than 5 years and never really faced a major issue.
Check out our Honest Review about SimOptions with all pros and cons.
The Traveltomtom Team has extensively tested and reviewed Nomad and they have proven to be a reliable eSIM provider. However, some mixed reviews have come back from the Traveltomtom Team lately about connectivity and activation.
The Traveltomtom Team only received positive feedback about Jetpac. We went to test it ourselves and came to the conclusion that Jetpac is an excellent eSIM choice. Read more about it in our extensive review about Jetpac eSIMs.
Sim Local proved to be a reliable eSIM provider after Traveltomtom extensively tested and reviewed Sim Local.
Tigo, Movistar, WOM and Claro are local eSIM providers in Colombia. The biggest difference between the mobile internet providers is not the price for prepaid sim cards but is the mobile data network coverage. Find a comparison of the 4G/5G network in Colombia in my guide for buying a prepaid sim card in Colombia.
Since Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with unlimited data and an FUP I hardly use Holafly. So now I let the Traveltomtom Team randomly test Holafly and just like myself, mixed reviews have come back.
On top of that there is now also Roamless, an eSIM provider with no data expiration. A complete different concept, truly a game changer!
Traveltomtom does NOT sell Colombia eSIMs, Traveltomtom only compares and recommends you to use eSIMs for traveling to Colombia.
All eSIM providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund.
Can I keep my phone number from home with an eSIM?
Yes, you can and this is for many people a reason to order an eSIM to stay connected when traveling to Colombia. An eSIM can be used at the same time as your physical or eSIM from your home country at the same time.
So you can have multiple eSIMs installed on your phone? Yes, no problem at all!
For example: you can turn off the mobile data from your sim card from home but still use it for texting and calling. Your new Colombia eSIM you can be used at the same time just for data to ensure you are not wasting money on high roaming costs.
This is also the trick to keep receiving sms for example for OTP (one time password) sms to login to applications.
Switching between physical and eSIMs is a matter of turning them on/off in the settings. Just always make sure your sim card from home is switched off for data roaming.
Can I make phone calls with a Colombia eSIM?
Unfortunately none of the Colombia eSIMs you can buy on the internet supports calling and texting. All of them are data-only.
Does a Colombia eSIM come with a phone number?
Unfortunately none of the eSIMs for Colombia come with a phone number.
Can I use 5G on a Colombia eSIM?
First of all don't get too excited about having 5G when traveling to Colombia in 2024. There is still hardly any 5G around, the 5G network in Colombia is still very limited and pretty much only exists in the city center of the big cities.
Are there eSIMs for Colombia with unlimited data?
Yes, some eSIM plans for Colombia include unlimited data. Holafly and SimOptions both sell eSIMs for Colombia with unlimited data.
Traveltomtom is in general not a fan of data sim cards with unlimited data. Why? There is mostly a so-called FUP (Fair Use Policy), which is sometimes already 2 GB data per day. That means that after 2 GB usage your internet will be slowed down to an useable data speed like 384 Kbps.
Sometimes eSIMs have an FUP of 30 GB data per month. It depends on the eSIM specifications.
In general, unlimited data is pretty much never unlimited data at max speed. And trust me the reduced data speed will creep you out as it barely works!
So yes, there are eSIMs for Colombia with unlimited data but always read the fine print for more details, terms & conditions.
Jetpac, Roamless, Sim Local, Airalo and Nomad do NOT offer eSIMs for Colombia with unlimited data. No hidden fees, no Fair Use Policy. Clear terms & conditions!
Holafly is different and Holafly only offers eSIMs with unlimited data plans per day. However, Holafly but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP) and therefore it is not Traveltomtom's first eSIM recommendation.
On Holafly eSIMs I experienced a reduce in data speed after using more than 2 GB per day. When I contacted support they explained me that I had to wait for 24 hours until my data speed was restored to normal.
Those 24 hours were a nightmare as my data speed was barely enough to use WhatsApp. Social media apps were not even loading!
Again, Traveltomtom does NOT recommend eSIMs for Colombia with unlimited data. But if you think you will not use more than 2 GB per day, then this might be your favorite eSIM.
However, if the FUP is 2 GB per day then what is the point of having an eSIM with unlimited data!? Right?
There are a lot of different specifications per eSIM. Another reason why I advice you to take a close at my comparison of the best eSIMs for traveling to Colombia in 2024 before choosing your favorite.
Are eSIMs the best way to stay connected when traveling to Colombia?
eSIMs are the easiest and fastest way to get data on your phone when traveling to Colombia, but what is the best way?
There are 3 ways to stay connected when traveling to Colombia:
- Local prepaid sim cards
- International prepaid sim cards
- eSIMs
Let's compare eSIMs, local prepaid sim cards and international prepaid sim cards, for you to find out what is your preferred way of staying connected.
Local prepaid sim cards
If you use a lot of data then local prepaid sim cards for Colombia are a cheaper way to stay connected compared to the eSIMs you order online from Airalo, Holafly, Sim Local, Airalo, Roamless, Jetpac or SimOptions.
If you buy a prepaid sim card in a phone store in Colombia you will get much bigger data plans for much cheaper than the available eSIMs. On top of that these local prepaid sim cards come with the option of calling and texting.
Find more info about how to buy a prepaid sim card for tourists in Colombia in my complete guide.
International prepaid sim cards
If your smartphone is not eSIM compatible you can order an international prepaid sim card for traveling abroad.
A pre-activated physical sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put this physical sim card in your phone and as soon as the plane touches the ground and the sim card connects to a supported network you are online. Plug and play!
SimOptions is the only provider that sells international prepaid sim cards for Colombia and there is not much choice. Just 5 GB data for $49.90 USD. Not worth it I think.
If after visiting Colombia you are traveling onwards to other continents or countries in the Pacific then check Traveltomtom's list of the best sim cards for traveling internationally.
eSIMs
As explained throughout the article there are two different eSIMs:
- eSIMs that you buy on the internet through a third party
- eSIMs that you buy in Colombia in a mobile internet provider store
As of 2024 eSIMs are now available in phone stores in Colombia. In fact most of the phone stores from Tigo, WOM, Movistar and Claro will allow you to choose between a physical prepaid sim card and an eSIM.
On arrival in Bogota or Medellin International Airport it is a hassle buying a prepaid sim card for tourists. There is not much choice and there are only physical prepaid sim cards available, no eSIMs.
Read all about it in my detailed guide on how to buy a prepaid sim card at Bogota Airport.
eSIMs vs. local prepaid sim cards
Getting an eSIM on the internet is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Colombia, no doubt! You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. Right here, right now and you are all set for your trip to Colombia. You arrive prepared and there is no need to visit a sim card shop on arrival in Colombia. As soon as the plane lands, you are online.
Price
But what is cheaper? An eSIM or a local prepaid sim card for tourists?
When we compare Colombia eSIM prices with local prepaid sim cards for Colombia, our conclusion is that local prepaid sim cards are more affordable and you get more Gigabytes for the same price.
You can already get 9 GB data for less than $7 USD. As a comparison for $7 USD you only get 1 GB data with a Sim Local eSIM for Colombia.
That said, after a long flight you just want to go to your hotel and it is often a big task to go to a sim card from a phone store. With an eSIM that you buy on the internet you are connected as soon as the plane lands.
For this convenience Traveltomtom definitely recommends to order one of the listed best eSIMs for Colombia in the comparison above. Faster, easier and less stress.
Data Speed
Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an eSIM is that eSIMs are often through a third party, a so called MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator). These MVNO's operate on the network of one of the main mobile internet operators and basically buy bandwidth.
This may sound a little bit too technical, but what it means is that eSIMs through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an eSIMs is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.
Bottomline: the data speed of eSIMs can be less compared to a local prepaid sim card you buy in Colombia on arrival.
I am sure some of the above tips for finding the best eSIM for your trip to Colombia were helpful. I hope that after reading through my comparison, tips and tricks it was easier to make a decision and order your eSIM for Colombia right away.
If you still have any questions about eSIMs then please leave me a comment below and I am more than happy to help you out.
Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.
Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world. As of September 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.
Enjoy your trip to Colombia!