Are you planning a trip to Peru and wondering how to stay connected without hassle? Whether you’re marveling at the ruins of Machu Picchu, exploring the bustling streets of Lima, or trekking through the Amazon rainforest, having a reliable connection can make things easier.
With an eSIM, you can access mobile data right when you land without a physical SIM card. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best plans, pricing, and setup instructions so you can share every moment of your adventure!
Picture by Angel Valladares, Trace Hudson and Rodolfo Clix on Pexels
What is an eSIM and How Does It Work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital alternative to the traditional plastic SIM card. Unlike physical SIMs that require swapping and handling, an eSIM is already built into your phone. You can activate it by scanning a QR code or downloading a plan directly to your device.
This modern technology eliminates the inconvenience of handling multiple SIM cards while traveling. Instead of finding a store, purchasing a local SIM, and changing it manually, you can activate your eSIM instantly, even before departure.
With an eSIM for Peru, you won’t need to carry extra SIMs or worry about losing them. This makes it a must-have travel tool, especially for frequent travelers and digital nomads.
eSIM vs Prepaid SIM Card: Which is the Better Choice in Peru?
Not sure if an eSIM or a prepaid SIM card is right for your trip? Here’s a direct comparison to help you decide.
| Feature | eSIM | Prepaid SIM Card |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Activation | Instant activation via QR code | Requires buying and inserting manually |
| Multiple Plans | Switch plans easily, ideal for frequent travelers | One plan per SIM requires manual swaps |
| Internet Required for Setup | Needs Wi-Fi to activate | Works offline for initial setup |
| Availability | Purchase online before arriving | Readily available in Peru |
| Device Compatibility | Only works on eSIM-compatible devices | Works on any unlocked phone |
| Convenience | No store visits are needed, activate remotely | Must visit a shop for purchase |
| Eco-Friendly | No plastic waste, sustainable | Creates unnecessary waste |
Why Use an eSIM in Peru?
Avoid Expensive Roaming Fees
Many travelers don’t realize how expensive international roaming can be. If you use your regular phone plan in Peru without an international package, your bill could skyrocket into the hundreds of dollars.
With an eSIM, you pay local rates for data, which allows you to save enormously compared to traditional roaming tariffs. Whether you’re using Google Maps, streaming videos, or messaging on WhatsApp, an eSIM ensures you stay connected at an affordable price. We recommend that you consult this practical guide to learn more about it.
Activate Instantly, Stay Connected
Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming. The last thing you want is to spend hours searching for a SIM card vendor at the airport or in an unfamiliar city.
With an eSIM, you can buy and activate your data plan before even boarding your flight. As soon as you land in Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa, your phone will connect to a local network automatically, allowing you to use navigation apps, book transport, and check messages without delay.
Additionally, activating an eSIM is incredibly simple. Just follow these three easy steps:
- Pick a Plan: Choose an eSIM provider that offers coverage in Peru.
- Scan & Install: Once purchased, you’ll receive a QR code. Scan it with your phone’s camera to install your eSIM profile.
- Connect & Explore: Your eSIM activates instantly, giving you access to fast 4G/5G data right away.
Global Access with a Single eSIM
If Peru isn’t your only stop, consider getting an eSIM that works in multiple countries. Some eSIM providers offer coverage across South America, allowing you to use the same data plan in Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, and Colombia. This means you won’t have to buy new SIMs every time you cross a border, making multi-country travel much easier.
Sustainable Mobile Solution
Every year, billions of plastic SIM cards are produced, and many end up as waste. Choosing an eSIM helps reduce environmental impact by reducing plastic waste. By switching to a digital SIM, you’re making a sustainable choice that benefits the planet without sacrificing your convenience.
Strong Coverage Across Peru
Peru’s landscape is diverse, with cities, mountains, and rainforests. A reliable eSIM ensures strong 4G/5G connectivity, whether you’re exploring Lima’s historic center, hiking through the Andes, or venturing into the Amazon basin.
To optimize your connectivity, choose an eSIM provider that partners with Peru’s top mobile networks—Movistar, Claro, or Entel—to get consistent service even in remote areas.
How to Pick the Best eSIM for Peru
Choosing the right eSIM for Peru depends on your travel style and data needs. Keep these key factors in mind:
Network Coverage
Not all eSIM providers offer the same coverage across Peru. While most will work in major cities like Lima and Cusco, connectivity may vary in more remote areas like Lake Titicaca, Huaraz, or Manu National Park. To avoid signal issues, make sure your eSIM connects to Peru’s top mobile networks for strong nationwide service.
How Much Data Do You Need?
Your data usage depends on what you plan to do on your phone:
- Light user: Checking emails, Google Maps, and light browsing? 1GB-3GB per week should be enough.
- Moderate user: Using social media, streaming music, and video calling? 5GB-10GB for two weeks is recommended.
- Heavy user: Streaming videos, working remotely, or gaming? Consider unlimited data or 20GB for a month.
Most eSIM providers allow easy top-ups, so you won’t run out of data unexpectedly.
Your Trip Duration Matters
- Quick getaway (1-3 days): Choose a 3GB plan for quick browsing, maps, and messaging.
- Short vacation (4-10 days): A 5GB to 10GB plan is ideal for social media, video calls, and hassle-free browsing.
- Long stay (2 weeks or more): If you plan to work remotely or stream frequently, go for a 20GB or unlimited plan.
- Exploring South America: If Peru is just one stop, get a multi-country eSIM to avoid buying new SIMs at every destination.
Calls & Texts: Do You Need Them?
Most eSIMs are data-only, meaning you’ll need WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype for calls. However, some providers offer plans with local numbers for traditional calling.
Need a Mobile Hotspot?
If you plan to share your data with a laptop or tablet, check if your eSIM supports hotspot tethering. Some providers block this feature, so confirm before purchasing.
How Much Does an eSIM Cost in Peru?
Prices vary based on provider and data package:
- Traveling on a budget? Look for affordable data plans that cater to light users, ideal for checking maps, browsing, and messaging.
- Looking for the best balance of price and coverage? Consider options that provide extensive coverage and automatic carrier switching for reliable connectivity at a good rate.
- Need unlimited data for work or streaming? Choose flexible data plans with high-volume options, perfect for digital nomads and frequent travelers.
Best eSIM Providers for Peru in 2025
Yoho Mobile
Yoho Mobile offers flexible eSIM plans for travelers to Peru, letting users choose the amount of data and duration they need. Plans start as low as $1, making it a good option for light users who just need data for maps, browsing, and messaging.
The service provides 24/7 customer support in multiple languages, accessible via both iOS and Android apps, and gives a 100% refund policy, so users can try it risk-free. With a 4.8 rating on Trustpilot, it’s well-reviewed by travelers.
Payments can be made through various methods, including credit cards and digital wallets. Yoho Mobile ensures reliable 4G connectivity throughout Peru and supports mobile hotspot functionality.
Picture by Angel Valladares, Rodrigo Arrosquipa and Joel Alencar on Pexels
Jetpac
Jetpac offers budget-friendly eSIM plans for travelers in Peru, including a popular option with 3GB of data for 30 days at $14.00. The service provides 4G connectivity and lets users share their data with other devices through mobile hotspots.
Customer support is available through email and WhatsApp; however, slow response times may occur, with delays of up to 12 hours. It’s important to note that Jetpac’s eSIMs are data-only, meaning they do not support traditional voice calls or SMS.
Saily
Saily provides a range of data plans tailored for travelers in Peru. For example, a 1GB plan valid for 7 days is priced at $6.99. The service supports 4G/LTE, providing reliable internet access in many cities across Peru.
You can use a mobile hotspot without any restrictions to share your connection with other devices. However, the lack of unlimited data plans might not be ideal for heavy data users. Customer support is accessible through the Saily app, offering assistance as needed.
Airhub
Airhub offers eSIM plans for Peru, including options like a 4GB plan valid for 30 days at $13.50. The service provides 4G connectivity and supports mobile hotspot functionality. However, some users have faced problems with activating the eSIM and getting timely customer support.
While Airhub aims to deliver competitive plans, these concerns suggest potential reliability issues compared to other providers.
Flexiroam
Flexiroam provides extensive network coverage in Peru with automatic carrier selection for optimal internet speeds. A popular plan includes 1 GB of data valid for 7 days for a cost of $10. The service supports 4G connectivity and allows the use of mobile hotspots. Customer service is available, but response times may vary, so you may have to wait a bit when you need to be served.
How to Buy & Activate an eSIM for Peru
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 in Peru. 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 Peru
Select Peru as your destination, or choose more countries if you plan to travel to other South American countries. For example, if you’re also visiting Ecuador or Chile, you can get a single plan that covers all three.
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 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.
Is an eSIM Worth It in Peru?
Definitely! An eSIM is a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly way to stay connected while traveling. It saves you money on roaming, can work in multiple countries, and is easy to activate. Plus, with solid coverage even in remote areas, an eSIM keeps you connected everywhere you go in Peru.
Picture by Julian Jimenez Martinez on Pexels
FAQs About Using an eSIM in Peru
How much data do I need for my trip to Peru?
Your data needs depend on how you use your phone. For basic browsing and maps, 1GB-3GB per week is enough. If you use social media and video calls, 5 GB-10 GB for two weeks is recommended. Digital nomads or heavy streamers should consider 20GB or unlimited plans for a month.
Can I use multiple eSIMs on one device?
Yes, most modern smartphones allow multiple eSIM profiles, making it easy to switch between plans when visiting other parts of Peru or neighboring countries.
Does Peru work with eSIM?
Yes! Peru supports eSIM technology, and many local networks provide strong 4G coverage. Providers like Yoho Mobile, Flexiroam, Jetpac, Saily, and Airhub offer eSIM plans specifically for travelers in Peru, ensuring seamless connectivity during your trip.
Can I make calls and send texts with a Peru eSIM?
Most eSIM plans in Peru are data-only, meaning you’ll need apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype to make calls and send texts. However, some providers offer plans with local numbers. Learn more about eSIMs for calling and texting here.
What is the best eSIM for Peru?
When choosing the best eSIM, Yoho Mobile stands out as the top option for travelers. It offers customizable plans that work for all types of trips, making it the most flexible choice. Unlike other providers, Yoho Mobile ensures great coverage and affordability without compromising on service.
While Flexiroam provides reliable 4G and automatic carrier switching, its plans might not be as adaptable. Jetpac is affordable but best suited for short trips, and Saily offers high-data plans but may not be as cost-effective. Airhub, although budget-friendly, has some issues with activation. Yoho Mobile is the best overall option for a seamless and hassle-free experience.