Planning a trip to Colombia? With so much to explore, from the bustling streets of Bogotá to the serene coffee plantations of Medellín, staying connected is crucial. An eSIM can make your travels smoother and easier, allowing you to navigate, communicate, and share your experiences without interruption. Let’s explore what an eSIM is, how it works, and why it might be the best choice for your Colombian adventure.
What is an eSIM and How Does it Work?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is like a digital SIM card that’s already built into your phone or tablet. Instead of using a physical SIM card that you have to insert, an eSIM works through software. Think of it as a virtual SIM. The coolest thing about an eSIM is how easy it is to use. You can quickly activate a mobile plan by scanning a QR code, and switch between different plans without ever needing to swap out a tiny SIM card. It makes staying connected while traveling super convenient!
eSIMs are becoming increasingly popular in modern smartphones, tablets, and even smartwatches, offering a convenient way to stay connected globally. Take a look at the Pros and cons of eSIMs vs. prepaid SIM cards in Colombia and additionally, we share with you this article so you can go deeper into the comparison:
| Feature | eSIM | Prepaid SIM Card |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Instant setup via QR code | Requires visiting a store, often with ID |
| Flexibility | Easily switch plans remotely | One plan per SIM, manual swaps required |
| Setup Internet | Needs Wi-Fi for initial activation | Works immediately after insertion |
| Availability | Purchase online before you travel | Readily available, may require registration |
| Compatibility | Works on eSIM-compatible devices only | Works on all unlocked phones |
| Convenience | No physical SIM required, activate anywhere | Must visit a vendor in person |
| Eco-Friendliness | No plastic waste | Generates unnecessary plastic waste |
You Might Also Like to Read: eSIM vs. Physical SIM 2025: Which One Should You Use?
Why Choose an eSIM for Traveling in Colombia?
Save on Roaming Costs
Traditional roaming fees can be incredibly expensive, potentially costing you a small fortune just to check emails, use navigation apps, or share photos on social media. Traditional roaming can easily add up to $5 per MB, potentially costing you $150 for a mere 5MB of daily data. With an eSIM, you gain access to local data plans at significantly lower rates, paying local prices instead of exorbitant international roaming fees.
Imagine this: A tourist relying on traditional roaming in Colombia might accumulate a monthly bill exceeding $300, while an eSIM plan providing the same data could cost as little as $30. That translates to an impressive 90% savings! You may be interested in finding out more in this practical guide.
Activate Instantly, Stay Connected
Avoid the hassle of searching for a SIM card store upon arrival at airports in cities like Bogotá or Medellín. eSIMs enable you to purchase and activate your data plan before you even set foot in Colombia. The moment you land, you’re connected, ready to access maps, messaging services, and ride-sharing apps immediately.
Stay Connected Across Borders
If your travel itinerary extends beyond Colombia, perhaps including quick excursions to Ecuador or Peru, an eSIM offers unmatched convenience. Many eSIM providers offer plans that work seamlessly across multiple countries, eliminating the need to purchase new SIM cards each time you cross a border. It’s perfect for travelers exploring South America.
Travel Smarter, Go Greener
Every year, billions of plastic SIM cards are produced, with many ending up in landfills after just one use. eSIMs actively reduce this environmental impact by removing the demand for physical SIM cards. By opting for an eSIM, you’re making an environmentally conscious decision, contributing to the preservation of Colombia’s natural landscapes.
Stay Online, No Matter Where You Are
Colombia is a vast and geographically diverse country with a landscape characterized by sprawling cities, tropical rainforests, towering mountain ranges, and expansive coastlines. When selecting an eSIM provider, prioritize reliable 4G/5G coverage, even in remote regions such as the Amazon rainforest or the Coffee Triangle. Staying connected ensures you can safely navigate and explore every corner of Colombia with confidence.
How to Choose the Best eSIM for Colombia
Network Coverage – Will It Work Everywhere You Go?
Coverage across Colombia can vary significantly depending on your location and the eSIM provider you choose. If you primarily plan to stay in metropolitan areas like Bogotá, Medellín, or Cali, most eSIM providers will provide sufficient coverage.
However, if your travel plans include exploring remote areas such as the Amazon rainforest or the Tatacoa Desert, it’s crucial to ensure that your chosen eSIM provider partners with reliable local networks such as Claro, Movistar, or Tigo.
How Much Data Do You Actually Need?
Determine your specific data requirements based on your expected usage patterns. For light users who primarily check emails, use navigation apps, and engage in occasional browsing, a data allocation of 1GB to 3GB per week should suffice. Medium users who intend to stream music and videos, use social media, or make video calls should consider allocating 5GB to 10GB for a two-week period.
Heavy users, such as remote workers or individuals who frequently stream content on platforms like Netflix, should opt for an unlimited data plan or allocate at least 20GB or more per month.
Pro Tip: Many providers allow you to easily add more data if you run out, so don’t stress about choosing the perfect amount initially!
How Long Are You Staying?
eSIM plans are available in varying durations, allowing you to select the most appropriate option based on the length of your trip. For short trips lasting between one and seven days, consider opting for a weekly plan with a minimum allocation of 1GB of data per day.
For extended stays ranging from two weeks to a month, options such as 5GB, 10GB, or unlimited plans may be more suitable. If you’re a frequent traveler, explore multi-country or regional plans that offer coverage throughout South America.
Do You Need Calls & Texts, or Just Data?
Most eSIM plans are data-only, necessitating the use of applications such as WhatsApp, Messenger, or Skype for calls and texts. However, some eSIM providers offer plans that include local phone numbers and call minutes. If this feature is essential to you, carefully review the plan details before making a purchase.
Do You Need an eSIM Hotspot?
If you want to share your data connection with a laptop, tablet, or other devices, confirm that your eSIM plan supports tethering, commonly known as hotspot sharing. Some plans may restrict this functionality, so it’s essential to verify this aspect if you require a mobile hotspot.
Pricing
eSIM pricing can vary depending on several factors, including data allowance, the selected provider, and the extent of coverage. Travelers operating on a tight budget can find smaller data packages for as little as a few dollars. Those seeking the best value should look for providers that offer dependable coverage at reasonable prices. For individuals with extensive data needs, unlimited plans are available, albeit at a higher cost.
Best eSIM Providers for Colombia in 2025
Yoho Mobile
Yoho Mobile is one of the best eSIM providers with affordable and highly customizable eSIM plans in Colombia. Their pricing is highly competitive, with a 1GB plan costing around $9.92 for 7 days, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious visitors. The provider offers flexible plans ranging from short-term data packs to long-term options, ensuring that travelers can pick a plan that fits their trip duration.
Yoho Mobile operates on both 4G and 5G networks, guaranteeing fast and stable connections across major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Hotspot sharing is allowed, making it easy to connect multiple devices. A standout feature is their 24/7 multilingual customer support, available through a mobile app for both iOS and Android.
Flexiroam
Flexiroam is well-known for its multi-country eSIM options, making it a great choice if you’re visiting Colombia as part of a broader trip through Latin America. The provider offers flexible plans, such as a 1GB plan for around $14 per week, which can be used across multiple countries without needing to swap SIM cards.
In Colombia, Flexiroam works on stable 4G networks, so you’ll have good service in cities. It also lets you use a hotspot, which is great if you need to connect several devices. But if you’re going to rural areas, it’s worth checking the coverage maps, as service might not be as strong outside the big cities. Also note that customer service can be slow, especially during busy times, which could be an issue if you need help quickly. The setup process is also more complicated than other eSIM providers.
Jetpac
Jetpac stands out for its straightforward plans in Colombia. For instance, a 3GB plan costs around $14 per month, making it a cost-effective eSIM option. Jetpac operates on Colombia’s 4G networks, providing solid coverage in popular destinations. It also allows hotspot sharing, making it a practical choice for remote workers or those needing to share internet access with other devices.
However, Jetpac doesn’t offer unlimited data plans, which could be a problem for those who need a lot of data for streaming or gaming. It’s important to check the plan details before buying to avoid surprises.
Saily
Saily is another option for travelers visiting Colombia, especially for those looking for short-term eSIM plans. Their 3GB plan costs around $17.99 and lasts for 30 days, providing good value for longer stays. The service runs on a stable 4G network, delivering decent speeds in most urban areas.
However, Saily doesn’t offer unlimited data plans, which could be an issue for heavy users. If you plan to stream, you might want to choose a bigger or unlimited data plan from another provider. Saily does allow hotspot sharing, which is handy for connecting multiple devices. While it’s usually affordable, Saily eSIMs can cost more than a local SIM card for longer stays.
Airhub
Airhub specializes in multi-country eSIMs, making it a great option if you plan to travel beyond Colombia to other South American destinations. Airhub supports both 4G and 5G networks, ensuring fast browsing speeds and seamless connectivity in major Colombian cities. Hotspot sharing is available, making it a great choice for remote workers or digital nomads who rely on multiple devices.
While customer support is available, it heavily relies on automated responses, which may not always address specific issues quickly. The app can be clunky, and checking data usage is not intuitive as it takes several clicks. Also note that if your eSIM isn’t activated in the destination country, it might stay stuck on “Activating” for a while.
How to Buy & Activate an eSIM for Colombia
Step 1: Choose your preferred eSIM provider
Before purchasing, check if your smartphone supports eSIM technology. Yoho Mobile is a reliable provider with great coverage across Colombia. Compare plans to ensure you choose one that suits your needs.
Step 2: Go to the Yoho Mobile Store
You can visit the Yoho Mobile website or download the Yoho app from the App Store. This will allow you to browse and purchase your eSIM quickly.
Step 3: Choose Your Destination
Select Colombia as your destination, or opt for a multi-country plan if you plan to travel to other regions. For example, if you’re also visiting Peru or Ecuador, you can get a single plan that covers multiple countries.
Step 4: Customize Your Yoho Mobile Plan
Pick a plan that matches the length of your stay and estimated data usage. For example:
- Short trips (1-3 days): A 3GB plan is ideal for checking maps and messaging.
- Longer stays (5-10 days): A 10GB or unlimited plan is better for streaming and video calls.
- Business travelers: Choose unlimited data if you need constant internet access.
Step 5: Buy Your eSIM
Complete your purchase on the website or app:
- Enter your email to receive the eSIM details.
- Use promo codes to save money. Apply the discount code YOHO12 for 12% off.
- Pay using your preferred method, such as credit card, WeChat, Amazon Pay, Alipay, or Cash App Pay, and enter your payment details.
Step 6: Install And Activate Your eSIM
Once you complete the purchase, you’ll receive an email with a QR code to activate your eSIM.
- Ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi.
- Go to your phone settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code sent by Yoho Mobile.
- Wait for activation. Your plan may start immediately or on a specific date.
You may also be interested in how to create your own personalized eSIM plan.
Final Thoughts: Is an eSIM Worth It in Colombia?
Staying connected while traveling in Colombia is easier than ever with an eSIM. Instead of dealing with physical SIM cards or high roaming fees, you can activate your plan instantly and enjoy fast 4G/5G speeds wherever you go. Whether you’re exploring Bogotá’s bustling streets, relaxing along the Caribbean coast, or working from a remote area, an eSIM offers a flexible, affordable, and reliable solution for your connectivity needs.
FAQs About Using an eSIM in Colombia
How much data do I need for my trip to Colombia?
Your data needs depend on your usage habits. For basic activities like checking maps and sending texts, a plan offering 3GB to 5GB per week should be sufficient. If you frequently use social media or make video calls, consider a plan with 10GB to 15GB for a two-week period. For heavy streaming or remote work, an unlimited data plan might be your best option.
Does Colombia support eSIM?
Yes, Colombia fully supports eSIM technology. Major carriers such as Claro, Movistar, and Tigo offer robust network coverage, ensuring that eSIM services work reliably in both urban centers and more remote regions.
Can I make calls and send texts with a Colombia eSIM?
Most eSIM plans in Colombia are data-only, which means you will need to use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Skype for calls and messaging. However, some providers offer plans that include a local phone number for traditional calls and SMS, so be sure to check more details here.
What is the best eSIM for Colombia?
The best eSIM for you depends on your travel style and needs:
- Yoho Mobile provides affordable, flexible plans with excellent coverage.
- Flexiroam is ideal if you plan to visit multiple countries, though its data speeds can be inconsistent in some regions.
- Jetpac offers a budget-friendly option for short stays, but its customer support may take longer to respond.
- Saily is known for its easy setup, albeit with occasional speed variations, and some users report issues with data limits.
- Airhub is perfect for those traveling across several regions, though support response times can vary.