Planning a trip to Peru and wondering if you can use your US phone? The good news is, you have several options to stay connected while exploring this incredible country.
Whether you're visiting the bustling streets of Lima or hiking the remote trails of the Andes, here’s how you can get cell service in Peru.
Will my cellphone work in Peru? Yes, you just need to activate global roaming or purchase a local SIM card.
Hello, my name is Cesar. I live in San Jose, CA, but I am originally from Peru and visit Peru frequently leading Groups. I use my data as if it were a local phone. However, if you prefer not to use your international data, in this blog post, I'll share how we can travel in Peru while hiking in the mountains or visiting Machu Picchu, just like I do with my customers.
Table of contents
Global Roaming
If your phone has global roaming activated, you can use it in Peru, but be prepared for potentially high costs. Global roaming typically allows you to use your existing phone plan abroad, meaning you can make calls, send texts, and use data as you would at home, though often at a premium price.
Before you leave, contact your carrier to see if they offer an international plan that covers Peru.
Some carriers like AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile offer international day passes, which may help you save on costs.
Related Post: Planning and Trip to Peru Important Tips
Where to buy a Loca SIM Card
You have 2 options to buy a SIM card and a data plan from Peru SIM, both extremely easy. You can either buy it ahead of time and pick it up at one of their stores or purchase it in person where you can ask all the questions you might have.
LIMA
Kennedy Park: The main store is located inside the Tourist Information Center at Av Diagonal 494, Miraflores, on the corner of Parque Kennedy (Kennedy Park).
Related: Lima Travel Guide
Cusco
Plaza de Armas, Cusco: The store is located at the main plaza in Cusco, Plaza de Armas with the following address: Plaza de Armas, Portal de Comercio 125, Cusco.
Prices for SIM Cards
Please take note of the following information: Prices for SIM cards in Peru are generally around S/35 (which is under $10). The plans vary based on the amount of data you require.
Additionally, make sure to purchase phone credit for the SIM card at the same time so that you can make calls immediately.
The cost of SIM cards and phone credit will vary depending on the service provider and the amounts you choose. Also, inquire about using texts or WhatsApp messages with your SIM card, as these may have different prices.
SIM Card
One of the most affordable options is to buy a local SIM card once you arrive in Peru. Local SIM cards offer you access to Peruvian networks, allowing for cheaper calls and data. You can pick one up easily at airports, phone retail shops, and convenience stores in larger cities and towns.
Note: Keep in mind, that you’ll need to make sure your phone is unlocked to use a SIM card from another country.
Prepaid SIM Card
A prepaid SIM card is another budget-friendly choice, especially for short-term travelers. With a prepaid card, there’s no long-term contract, and you simply recharge it when your balance runs low. This is an excellent option if you plan on using your phone primarily for local calls, navigation, or quick data access.
Major carriers such as Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel offer prepaid plans with easy top-ups throughout the country.
Coverage in Peru
Peru’s major mobile operators include Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel. Here’s what you need to know about their coverage:
Entel and Movistar: These two carriers offer the most reliable service, with about 90% of the time providing 4G or better coverage in the cities.
While coverage is solid in urban areas like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, it can be poor or even non-existent in more rural or mountainous regions, such as the Sacred Valley or the Amazon or inca trail to machu Picchu.
Bitel and Claro: These networks also cover 89% of the time with 4G or better service, making them strong contenders for staying connected.
If you're thinking about activities like hiking the classic Inca Trail or another hiking tour, choose the one with the best service. From my experience as a tour guide, Bitel and Claro work better outside Cusco city, especially in the Andes mountains or the Amazon region.
You can also check the mobile coverage in specific areas by visiting sites like AT&T’s international coverage maps.
Here are some Carrier options for unlimited data, calling, and texting in Peru:
Best eSIM Options for Peru (2026)
For most travelers, an eSIM is now the easiest way to get data in Peru: no physical SIM swap, no trip to a phone shop in Lima or Cusco, and you can usually activate it before you land. Here's how the main providers compare:
- Maya Mobile: unlimited data eSIM for Peru, from $9.99 for 3 days up to $49.99 for 30 days (about $1.67/day on the longest plan), on a fast 4G/5G network. Good default choice if you want unlimited data without comparing metered tiers.
- Airalo: budget, metered-by-GB eSIMs for Peru starting from $4.50. Worth checking if you only need a small amount of data for a short trip and don't want to pay for unlimited.
- Holafly: unlimited data eSIM plans starting around $16 for 3 days, aimed at travelers who want to not think about data caps at all for the whole trip.
Whichever provider you pick, check current pricing on their site before you book since eSIM plans change often, and confirm the eSIM works with your specific phone model (most phones from the last few years support eSIM, but it's worth a 30-second check before you land in Peru).
AT&T offers a few international plans that cover Peru, including:
If you're on one of AT&T's Elite 2.0, Premium 2.0, Unlimited Premium, or Unlimited Elite plans, you already have free unlimited talk, text, and data roaming in Peru and 19 other Latin American countries, no add-on needed. On a different AT&T plan, the AT&T International Day Pass covers Peru for $12/day, charged only on the days you actually use your phone there.
T-Mobile
T-Mobile's Go5G, Magenta, and One plans include free unlimited data (at a reduced 256kbps speed) and unlimited texting in Peru, with calls at $0.50/minute. If you want full-speed data, T-Mobile's International Pass add-on runs $5 for 1 day (512MB), $50 for 10 days (15GB), or $75 for 30 days (30GB).
Verizon
Verizon's TravelPass covers Peru at $12/line per day, and you're only charged on the days you actually use data, call, or text while there. It's a simple option if you'd rather not deal with an eSIM or a local SIM at all.
Maya Mobile
Maya Mobile now sells unlimited data eSIMs for Peru rather than metered GB plans: $9.99 for 3 days, $19.99 for 7 days, $27.99 for 14 days, or $49.99 for 30 days. See the full Maya Mobile Peru eSIM plans for current pricing before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best eSIM for Peru?
It depends on how much data you need. Maya Mobile and Holafly both sell unlimited data eSIMs, which suit anyone who doesn't want to think about a data cap. Airalo's metered, GB-based plans are cheaper if you only need a small amount of data for a short trip. All three activate before you land and work alongside your existing US number.
Which SIM card is best to use in Peru?
If you'd rather use a physical SIM than an eSIM, Movistar and Claro have the widest coverage across Peru, including in the Sacred Valley and Cusco region where you'll likely spend most of your trip. A local prepaid SIM generally costs around S/35 (under $10) and can be bought at the airport or at phone shops in Lima and Cusco.
Is there good cell service in Peru?
Yes, Peru has fairly reliable cell service in cities and major tourist areas. Operators like Movistar, Claro, Entel, and Bitel offer 4G coverage about 89-90% of the time. However, coverage can be limited or non-existent in rural or mountainous areas, such as parts of the Sacred Valley, the Amazon, or along remote trekking routes like the Inca Trail.
Do you need a SIM card for Peru?
Getting a local SIM card is a great option if you want to save money and avoid expensive international roaming fees.
It allows you to access local networks at much lower rates for calls, texts, and data. You can easily buy a SIM card at the airport or in larger cities like Lima and Cusco. Just make sure your phone is unlocked!
Do I need a converter to charge my phone in Peru?
Yes, Peru uses 220 volts and Type C and Type A electrical outlets. If your phone charger is only compatible with 110 volts, you will need a voltage converter. Most modern phone chargers are dual voltage (110-220V), so check the label on your charger before packing. Additionally, you may need an adapter to fit Peruvian sockets if you’re coming from a country that uses different plug types.
These quick tips should make your stay in Peru more convenient and stress-free! Let me know if you have any more questions about using your phone during your trip.
Can I use a European phone and use it in South America without any problems?
Yes, you can buy a mobile phone in Europe and use it in South America, but consider the following:
- Network Compatibility: Ensure the phone supports the frequency bands used by mobile networks in South America. Check the phone’s specifications to confirm compatibility.
- Unlocked Device: Buy an unlocked phone not tied to a specific carrier so you can use a local SIM card in South America.
- SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM card in South America. Ensure the phone is unlocked to accept it.
- Voltage and Charging: Check the voltage and plug type. Europe uses 220V, while South America may use 110V or 220V. Most modern chargers are dual voltage but confirm compatibility.
- Warranty and Repairs: If repairs are needed, service may be more complicated in South America if the phone was bought in Europe.
By considering these factors, you should be able to use a European phone in South America without major issues.
Final Thoughts
To ensure a smooth trip, decide what works best for you based on your phone usage needs. Whether it's global roaming, a local SIM, or a prepaid SIM card, there are plenty of options for staying connected in Peru.
Just be mindful of the coverage limitations in remote areas, and you’ll be all set for your adventure.
Feel free to leave any questions in the comments if you're still unsure about your phone plan in Peru! Safe travels!
