How to Get Mobile Internet in Brazil for Travelers: What Option to Choose?

Published: April 2024

Travelers may care about the mobile Internet in Brazil to support their trips. However, do you know much about the internet system in Brazil? How do you use the mobile Internet most smartly? This article will show you all. Let’s find out together!

How to Get Mobile Internet in Brazil for Travelers: What Option to Choose?

In this article

I. Mobile Internet in Brazil – Coverage and Speed

The mobile Internet standard of Brazil can be judged through its coverage and speed.

1. Brazil Mobile Internet Coverage

Brazil Mobile Internet - Claro Coverage — Brazil Mobile Internet – Claro Coverage

All major operators Claro, Vivo, and Tim provide 4G/4.5G coverage in major cities and towns in Brazil. However, the coverage may be limited in remote or rural areas where only 2G/3G networks are available. Here are the details about the mobile internet coverage of major operators in Brazil:

Known for having the fastest mobile internet in Brazil according to Speedtest, Claro offers services in 2G, 3G, and 4G networks.
Vivo offers prepaid plans to navigate at a 4.5G network. They have plans with data amounts of 2 GB, 3 GB, and 4 GB for seven days.
Tim provides a network connection speed of 4.5G for plans with data amounts of 25 and 26 GB that are available for 30 days. These plans include all the WhatsApp functions and unlimited social network surfing.

In conclusion, Claro is reported to have the widest 4G coverage across the country compared to other operators. However, the actual speeds and availability depend on location and network traffic. Regular prepaid SIMs from these local operators provide the best coverage within Brazil.

2. Brazil Mobile Internet Speed

Brazil Mobile Internet - Vivo Speed Map — Brazil Mobile Internet – Vivo Speed Map

All major operators claim support for 4G/4.5G networks in major Brazilian cities and towns. Actual speeds experienced can range from 10Mbps to 500Mbps depending on location, network conditions, support by device, and plan selected. Here are some information about the mobile internet speeds offered by major operators in Brazil:

Claro: Known for having the fastest mobile internet speeds in Brazil according to Speedtest, Claro provides speeds on its 4G network. However, the actual speeds may vary depending on location and network traffic.
Vivo offers speeds on its 4.5G network across major areas. The 4.5G network is said to offer download speeds between 100-500 Mbps.
Tim has a 4.5G network that provides speeds in the range of 100-500 Mbps. Tim’s plans mention support for 4.5G connectivity but the real speeds would depend on network coverage and availability.

In general:

Speeds tend to be higher in cities and lower in rural areas due to network availability.
Claro may have an edge in coverage and speeds in some locations compared to others.
Speeds are indicative and can vary significantly based on usage and network conditions.

In summary, speeds of up to 500Mbps are advertised on 4.5G networks but real experiences may be lower based on multiple factors. All operators provide 4G connectivity in popular areas.

II. What are Connectivity Options for Tourists to Brazil?

To stay connected when visiting Brazil, there are several connectivity options for tourists to Brazil:

Local SIM card: Purchasing a prepaid SIM card from one of Brazil’s major providers like Claro, TIM, or Vivo is very affordable. SIMs work with any unlocked phone and provide data and calling services on their nationwide 4G/LTE networks. Cards are easily available at airports and stores.
eSIM from international providers: Services like Holafly allow remotely activating data-only eSIM profiles on compatible devices. Their multi-day Brazil plans offer unlimited data without roaming charges. Profiles are downloaded via the app.
Roaming with a home provider: If you have an international roaming plan, you can use your phone by paying daily rates, which are significantly higher than local plans. Some carriers offer daily roaming passes at flat rates.
Pocket Wi-Fi rental: Renting a portable hotspot allows multiple devices to connect simultaneously, useful for families or groups. However, rentals tend to cost more than SIMs or eSIMs for longer visits. Delivery is also required.
Free Wi-Fi: Many cafés, restaurants, hotels, and public places provide complimentary internet access in major cities and tourist areas. Quality may vary and coverage is limited compared to mobile connectivity.
Internet cafés: Urban locations have internet cafés and coworking spaces that offer reliable connections on an hourly pay-as-you-go basis, useful when no other option is available.

► Our recommendations: Local SIM cards or eSIM profiles provide the most economical and convenient solutions for mobile data and connectivity throughout a tourist’s stay in Brazil. However, we still highly recommend buying eSIM because of its elite benefits. You can refer to the Gigago eSIM plan to get one for your Brazil trip.

Tips:

Before buying SIM cards for Brazil, you need to check your phone first to ensure it is unlocked.
If you would like to use an eSIM, please check your phone to see whether it belongs to the list of eSIM-compatible devices or not. Follow this link to check the list.

II. Internet Rates in Brazil

Good to know: 1 Brazilian Real equals = 0.19 United States Dollar

Operator	SIM Card (Brazil)	eSIM (International)	Roaming (Home Country)
Claro	$2-3 for 500MB-1GB valid 30 days <br> Unlimited talk & text included	N/A	Pay-per-use roaming rates apply <br> Calls & SMS may be charged separately
Vivo	$4-6 for 1-2GB valid 7-30 days <br> Unlimited talk & text included	N/A	Pay-per-use roaming rates apply <br> Calls & SMS may be charged separately
TIM	$3-5 for 1-3GB valid 7-30 days <br> Unlimited talk & text included	N/A	Pay-per-use roaming rates apply <br> Calls & SMS may be charged separately

► Our recommendation:
SIM cards offer a good option because it has affordable plans starting at $2-6 for 1-3GB of data valid for 1-30 days with unlimited calls/texts. Moreover, a SIM card will offer you reliable coverage on 4G/4.5G networks across major areas through wide networks.

However, an eSIM will be the best option for its benefits. While roaming is more expensive. an eSIM provides comprehensive and cost-effective connectivity throughout a tourist’s trip to Brazil.

III. Data SIM Card for Mobile Internet in Brazil

The data SIM card is the best option for mobile internet in Brazil as it provides reliable and affordable connectivity via major networks like Claro and Vivo. Plans starting from $2-6 offer 1-3GB of data valid for up to 30 days, with wide 4G coverage.

SIM cards are easily available and activated in minutes, allowing local experience through calls, SMS, and apps – avoiding high roaming charges through home networks. It’s a simple, affordable, and convenient one-stop solution for tourists’ connectivity needs.

Note: The above price is just for reference, please check with the mobile operators because the price can change following time.

IV. Data eSIM for Brazil – Best Option to Get Mobile Internet for Tourists

Tip: eSIM only works with the device compatible with it.

When using an eSIM, you do not need to hunt like SIM cards because eSIM profiles can be purchased online and activated remotely on compatible devices. This is more convenient.

Moreover, travelers can avoid the risk of losing physical SIM cards as profiles are installed digitally. Multiple eSIM profiles can be stored on the device and toggled as needed for different countries.

If you are going to visit Brazil, you can buy an eSIM from the operator or eSIM providers.

1. Buy eSIM from Brazil Operators

Unfortunately, most local mobile operators in Brazil do not support eSIM service. You can only buy eSIM from mobile providers like Gigago.

2. Buy eSIM from Gigago

Gigago eSIM – An Alternative To Get Internet In Brazil With Your Cell Phone

If you are supposed to buy an eSIM, the easiest way is to get one from eSIM providers like Gigago. Buying eSIM Gigago is known as the most convenient and simplest method for tourists when traveling to Brazil.

You do not need to show a passport or ID card when buying via an online website. Moreover, their customers will not need to wait too long for delivery. Plus, eSIM from Gigago is easy to set up to access the Internet when arriving in Brazil.

To buy an eSIM Brazil from Gigago, let’s access this link and choose the suitable one for yourself, make payment, wait for the email then scan the QR code to activate your eSIM.

For Brazil, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $6.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Brazil eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $6.00 – $46.00 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Brazil, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

V. FAQs

Which mobile networks are available?

The major networks are Claro, Vivo, and TIM. They offer widespread 4G coverage across cities and tourist areas.

How can I get a local SIM card?

SIM cards are available at airports when you arrive or at phone stores. You’ll need your passport. Plans start from $2-6 for 1-3GB valid for 30 days.

Will my non-Brazilian phone work?

Yes, as long as it’s unlocked. Brazilian SIMs use GSM/UMTS/LTE networks compatible with most phones. Check your model and network bands.

VI. Conclusion

Getting a local SIM card is the best way for tourists to have affordable mobile internet in Brazil. Major networks like Claro, Vivo, and TIM offer reliable 4G coverage nationwide. Prepaid SIM plans start from $2-6 for 1-3GB of data, saving huge roaming fees. SIM cards are easily available and activate instantly. However, an eSIM will be the best way to save time, and money but still offer travelers the best mobile internet in Brazil.