Indosat SIM Cards & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate

For travelers planning a trip to Indonesia, having reliable and affordable internet access is essential. Among the major mobile network providers in the country, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IM3) stands out as a top choice for tourists seeking stable connectivity, competitive data packages, and easy-to-access services.

This article is dedicated to Indosat SIM cards and eSIM plans, providing details on how to acquire them, the benefits they offer, and guidance on selecting the ideal package for your trip in Indonesia.

Indosat sim cards and eSIM

I. Overview about Indosat Indonesia – What You Need to Know

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, commonly referred to as IM3, is one of Indonesia’s leading telecommunications providers. It combines affordability, reliable service, and innovative technology to meet the needs of both locals and international visitors.

  • Founded: 1967
  • Full Company Name: Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison
  • Services Offered: Cellular/mobile, broadband internet, multimedia data services
  • Coverage: Strong network coverage in major cities and tourist destinations, with some limitations in remote areas
  • Customer Base: Over 58 million users as of late 2018, making it the second-largest carrier in Indonesia
  • Support: 24/7 customer service available in Indonesian and English
Indosat - one of the leading mobile carriers in Indonesia
Indosat – one of the leading mobile carriers in Indonesia

II. Indosat Coverage in Indonesia

Indosat’s network covers over 70% of Indonesia’s population, with reliable 4G service across major cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Yogyakarta. The network also offers excellent services in popular travel destinations, highways, ferry routes, making it a practical and cost-effective option for most tourists.

Indosat coverage map. Source: nPerf
Indosat coverage map (Source: nPerf)

III. Indosat Speed in Indonesia

Indosat speeds in Indonesia. Source: Opensignal
Indosat speeds in Indonesia (Source: Opensignal)
  • Average download speed: 18.2Mbps (Opensignal, Dec 2023)
  • Average upload speed: 9.3Mbps
  • Consistent quality: rated at 64.8% (highest, ahead of Telkomsel 61.7% and XL 58.7%)

Indosat’s speeds are sufficient for tasks like navigation, social media, video streaming, and messaging.

IV. Does Indosat Have eSIM in Indonesia?

Yes, Indosat provides eSIM technology for compatible devices, allowing travelers to access the network without a physical SIM card. This convenient option is ideal for modern travelers who want to avoid handling physical SIMs.

Advantages of Indosat eSIM:

  • Flexibility: Store multiple carrier profiles on your device and switch between them easily.
  • Travel-Friendly: Purchase short-term data plans while abroad directly from your phone.
  • Dual SIM Optimization: Use both a physical SIM and eSIM simultaneously on compatible devices.

V. Top Indosat SIM Cards for Tourists

Here are some of the prepaid tourist SIM card options offered by Indosat:

PlanDataValidityCost
Travel On 30GB30GB + 10 call minutes (domestic & international)30 daysIDR 100,000 (~$6.40)
Travel On 80GB80GB + 30 call minutes (domestic & international)30 daysIDR 200,000 (~$12.80)

Bonus: Both plans include 1GB roaming data for countries like India, Malaysia, Japan, Australia, UAE, and the USA.

Important Notes:

  • After the free call quota is used, standard retail tariffs apply.
  • Regularly check the Indosat website for updated plans and promotions.

Important Notes: 

  • The plans above have a bonus quota of 1GB roaming in India, Malaysia, Japan, Australia, UAE, USA
  • After bonus-free calls are fully used, the next call will be charged at retail tariff.
  • Regularly visit the Indosat website for the latest tourist SIM plans.

VI. Where to Buy Indosat SIM Cards and eSIM?

1. Indosat SIM cards:

At Airports: Indosat kiosks at major airports like Denpasar (Bali) and Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta International Airport) offer immediate access upon arrival.

  • Pros: Convenient and quick setup.
  • Cons: Prices may be slightly higher than in the city.

Indosat Stores and Authorized Retailers: Indosat stores are widely available in cities and towns, offering affordable rates and a variety of SIM packages. For example, you can visit the Indosat store in Blok M Plaza, Jakarta.

  • Pros: Budget-friendly prices and access to full plan options.
  • Cons: Requires some travel to locate a store.
Indosat store in Blok M Plaza in Jakarta, Indonesia
Indosat store in Blok M Plaza in Jakarta, Indonesia

Pro Tips:

  • Ensure your mobile device is unlocked to use the Indosat network.
  • Bring your passport for SIM card registration.
  • Use Google Maps or ask locals to find the nearest Indosat store.

2. Indosat eSIM

Tourists can purchase Indosat eSIMs through the following:

  • Online: Via the Indosat official website.
  • MyIM3 App: Purchase and activate directly through the app.
  • Indosat Outlets: Visit a physical store for assistance with eSIM setup.

Note: Registration requires a passport or ID for verification.

VII. Gigago eSIM for Indonesia – Alternative for Indosat eSIM

While Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison remains a popular choice for tourists in Indonesia due to its affordable SIM card and eSIM options, Gigago eSIM provides an excellent alternative for travelers seeking more extensive coverage and faster speeds. Now powered by Telkomsel, Indonesia’s largest and most reliable network, Gigago Indonesia eSIM ensures seamless connectivity, even in remote areas where Indosat’s coverage may be limited.

eSIM Indonesia Gigago plans
eSIM Indonesia plans by Gigago

Gigago eSIM Indonesia Plan Options

Plan TypeDetailsValidityCost
Daily Plans1GB/day, 2GB/day, 3GB/day3 – 30 daysStarting at $2.90
Total Data3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 30GB, 50GBFlexible$2.90 – $81.50
Unlimited Plan1GB/day high speed, then 5Mbps3 – 30 days$2.90 – Varies

Note: The plans’ information can be changed by time. To get the most updated info, check the button below.

Choose Gigago eSIM for Indone3sia, you can enjoy instant activation (about 5 minutes after purchase), no identity check upon purchase, retain your primary SIM to receive calls, SMS or bank verification codes.

Notes:

VIII. How to Top-up Indosat SIM/eSIM

You can top up your Indosat prepaid SIM/eSIM via the following channels:

1. Online Top-Up

  • Access the Top-Up section on the Indosat website or MyIM3 app.
  • Payments can be made via credit/debit cards.

2. Physical Top-Up

  • Visit an Indosat store or retailer. Provide your phone number and desired top-up amount.
  • Payments can be made in cash, credit, or debit.

Indosat Ooredoo is a popular mobile provider in Indonesia, known for offering good prices and reliable coverage in most areas. They have many different SIM card packages, so you can find one that fits your needs, whether you use a lot of data or mostly talk and text.

But dealing with physical SIM cards can be a bit annoying, especially when you’re traveling. For a more convenient and secure option, think about using an eSIM instead. 

IX. FAQs about Indosat SIM Cards and eSIM in Indonesia

Can I purchase an Indosat SIM card upon arrival in Indonesia?

Yes, Indosat SIM cards are readily available at airports across Indonesia as well as shops in major cities. This makes them very convenient to obtain when you land.

Can I use my Indosat SIM card in tourist destinations like Bali, Lombok or Yogyakarta?

Yes, Indosat SIM cards include national roaming so you can use the same card throughout Indonesia as you travel between islands and provinces.

Which airports/cities in Indonesia can I easily buy Indosat SIM cards and eSIM?

Major airports like Jakarta, Bali have Indosat kiosks or SIM card counters. SIM cards are also widely sold in stores throughout popular tourist areas for hassle-free access everywhere you travel.

X. Conclusion

To sum up, Indosat SIM cards and eSIM offer tourists a cost-effective and easy Internet connection when traveling throughout Indonesia. Indosat’s broad coverage and consistency prove invaluable for everything from navigation, communication, and travel updates to sharing adventures on social media. Remember to choose the connectivity option and data plan that best suit your needs and trip duration.