How to Buy a SIM Card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO) for Tourists: Where and Price

Learn how to quickly purchase a SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO), including key details on where to buy, pricing, and the best plans to suit your needs.

SIM Card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport

Purchasing a SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport is a convenient way to stay connected while traveling abroad. It helps you avoid high roaming fees from your home provider and ensures continuous access to mobile data throughout your trip.

I. How to Get a SIM Card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO)?

Buying a SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport is simple, with multiple easy options to choose from:

  • Pre-purchase online and pick up at the airport: Buy in advance through platforms like SimOptions and collect your SIM card upon arrival for a smooth and convenient experience.
  • Buy upon arrival: Major carrier stores and smaller shops near security checks provide SIM cards and data plans from Claro, CNT, Movistar. Look for their logos near the exits for quick and easy purchases. 
  • Purchase an eSIM (if supported): Instantly activate a digital SIM online, eliminating the need for a physical card or on-site registration.

II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO)?

You can purchase a SIM card at the airport from telecom kiosks or convenience stores located in the arrival halls or near the baggage claim area. Telecom providers often display signs like “Recarga Aquí” (Recharge Here) or “Tarjetas SIM” (SIM Cards). These are easy to spot in the arrival area. Remember, you’ll need to show your passport to register the SIM card, as it’s a legal requirement in Ecuador. 

Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport map
Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport map

1. Buy Claro SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport

Claro store at the airport
Claro store at the airport

Claro is the leading mobile carrier in Ecuador, providing extensive nationwide coverage and a range of prepaid and postpaid plans. You can purchase a Claro SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport from their store or kiosks located inside the terminal.  

  • Location: Airport Arrival Hall
  • Hours: 24/7
  • Estimated Price: $10 – $20 (USD)

2. Buy CNT SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport

Buying CNT SIM card at the airport
Buying CNT SIM card at the airport

If you’re arriving at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport (UIO) and need to buy a CNT SIM card, here’s what you need to know:

  • Location: There isn’t a dedicated CNT store inside the airport, but you can find SIM cards at general telecom kiosks or convenience stores in the arrivals area. Look for shops like “Quiport” or “Telefónica” on the N2 floor (they sometimes sell CNT SIMs alongside their own).
  • Hours: Airport kiosks are usually open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but hours may vary
  • Price: A CNT SIM card usually costs around $2-5 USD, depending on the plan or promotions.

3. Buy Movistar SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport

Convenience store to buy Movistar SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport
Convenience store to buy Movistar SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport

Movistar has extensive coverage across Ecuador. Movistar plans are designed to be budget-friendly for short-term visitors. Movistar often has partner vendors at the airport, offering prepaid SIM cards for tourists.

  • Location: Movistar does not have its own dedicated kiosk at the airport, but you can purchase a Movistar SIM card at Smartphone Soluciones SmartSim, located on the N2 floor of the airport.
  • Opening hours: 24 hours all week
  • Price: The SIM card itself typically costs between $1.05 and $30.00, depending on the plan you choose.

If you’re unsure which provider to choose in Ecuador, we recommend Movistar Ecuador. Movistar SIM cards and eSIM are widely available at Movistar stores, authorized retailers. Movistar understands the needs of travelers and offers plans that are easy to use without long-term commitments.

III. Do SIM card shops at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport open after midnight?

Yes. SIM card shops at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport are open after midnight, allowing you to purchase a SIM card even during late-night arrivals. The airport’s Duty-Free shop is also open 24/7, providing services at all hours.

IV. Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport SIM card Price ?

Depending on the carrier and data plan you select, a SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport usually costs between $5 and $20 USD. Variable data, voice time, and text choices are typically included in prepaid plans. Plans with 3GB to 10GB of data, for instance, may be available for $10 to $15 USD. Checking the alternatives at the airport kiosks or stores is always a good idea because the precise cost can vary depending on the provider and the plan chosen.

V. Registration Process on Buying a SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport? 

If you’re buying a SIM card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport, here’s what you need as a tourist:

  • Passport: This is mandatory. Ecuador requires all SIM cards to be registered with a valid passport for security reasons.
  • Unlocked Phone: Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with local networks (GSM 850/1900 for Ecuador).
  • Payment Method: Most kiosks accept both cash (USD) and credit/debit cards, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • Basic Spanish (Optional): While staff may speak some English, knowing a few Spanish phrases can help smooth the process.

Buying a SIM card in Ecuador involves a registration process where you must provide personal details. Some tourists find this inconvenient or uncomfortable as it requires sharing passport information. 

VI. eSIM at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport – Alternative to Ecuador SIM Card

An Ecuador eSIM offers a modern and convenient alternative to a traditional SIM card. Unlike physical SIMs that require purchasing, inserting, and swapping, an eSIM can be bought and activated online instantly—whether before arrival or while you’re at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport.

You can purchase an Ecuador eSIM online from either local mobile network operators that provide eSIM services for tourists or international eSIM retailers. While local operators do offer eSIMs, buying from a trusted eSIM provider like Gigago is often simpler and more convenient. Gigago Ecuador eSIM is a reliable and highly recommended choice for travelers. 

Gigago offers multiple Ecuador eSIM plans from leading telecom operators, ensuring strong and fast internet coverage throughout the country. Plans start at $8.90 , providing connectivity with a minimum option of 1GB for 7 days. More plans are available at $8.90$35.90 .

VII. FAQs about SIM Card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport

Do I need to show identification to buy a SIM card?

Yes, you will need to present your passport to register the SIM card.

Is there free Wi-Fi at the airport to activate my Ecuador eSIM?

Yes. The airport offers free Wi-Fi, which you can use to activate your Ecuador eSIM or set up your phone.

What languages are supported by customer service when buying SIM Card at Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport?

Customer service is primarily in Spanish, but some representatives may speak English.

VIII. Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a SIM card at Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) offers tourists a convenient way to stay connected upon arrival.  Whether opting for an airport purchase or choosing to explore other options in Quito, ensuring you have a working phone and data plan will undoubtedly enhance your travel experience in Ecuador.