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This guide will show you exactly where to buy a SIM card at Santiago Airport, the expected prices, and how to register it.
Buying Movistar Chile SIM cards & eSIMs: Detailed Guide
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Movistar Chile SIM cards & eSIMs are your gateway to staying connected effortlessly during your trip to Chile.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Movistar Chile SIM cards & eSIMs. Whether you’re curious about network coverage, speed, or the best SIM options and where to purchase them, this article is your go-to resource for making an informed decision.
In this article
I. Overview of Movistar Chile – What you need to know
Movistar Chile is a telecom company offering mobile phone services, internet, and TV in Chile. Here are some highlights of it:
- Foundation: Founded in 1992 as part of Telefónica, a Spanish company.
- Popularity: Movistar operates in 14 Latin American countries, like Chile, Argentina, Colombia, and Peru.
- Rank: It is the second-largest mobile operator in Chile, holding about 30% market share.
- Coverage: Strong in cities like Santiago, Valparaíso, and Concepción, but weaker in rural areas. It reaches around 98% of the population.
- Speed: Movistar’s 4G network is among the fastest in Chile, with speeds up to 100 Mbps.
- Highlights: In 2019, it merged with VTR, a cable TV company, to provide cable and internet services.
II. Movistar Coverage in Chile
Source: nperf.com
Movistar’s coverage in Chile is a bit of a mixed bag, with some strengths and weaknesses regarding availability and quality. According to the Opensignal’s latest report:
- Coverage Experience: Movistar’s 4G coverage experience is strong in urban areas, with users able to access 4G signals 85.5% of the time.
- Availability: Movistar’s 4G availability is high, with users accessing 4G signals in 98.7% of the country.
Regional Coverage:
- Strong coverage: Movistar’s coverage is strong in popular tourist provinces such as:
- Valparaíso (home to Viña del Mar and Reñaca)
- Santiago Metropolitan Region (including the capital city)
- Antofagasta (a major mining hub)
- Weak coverage: Movistar’s coverage is weaker in more rural provinces such as:
- Aysén (a sparsely populated region in southern Chile)
- Magallanes (a remote region in southern Chile)
Movistar’s coverage in Chile is solid in urban areas but slightly drops off in rural regions. Its 4G is widely available, but 5G is still pretty limited. As more people start using 5G, Movistar must step up and invest in expanding its network to stay competitive.
III. Movistar Speed in Chile
Mobile network experience of different mobile network carriers in Chile (Source: opensignal.com)
- Movistar offers a solid mid-range speed experience for both downloads and uploads in Chile.
- Although it’s not the fastest provider (that title goes to WOM), Movistar does a pretty good job, especially compared to Claro.
- While Movistar might not be the top choice, it’s a dependable option for users who need stable internet speeds for everyday browsing, streaming, and basic online tasks.
Movistar is a strong contender, even if it’s not the leader in the Chilean mobile network scene.
IV. Types of Movistar Chile SIM Card Options for Tourists
There are two main Movistar SIM card options for tourists in Chile: Prepaid SIM cards and eSIM.
- Prepaid SIM cards
- eSIM
Comparison Table of Movistar SIM Card Options for Tourists
| Criteria | Prepaid SIM Card | eSIM |
| Activation | Physical activation in-store or online | Digital activation via QR code |
| Availability | Available in stores and online | Instant download and activation online |
| Cost | Fixed price with different data packages | Slightly cheaper with flexible data plans |
| Convenience | Requires physical SIM insertion | No physical SIM needed, instant activation |
| Compatibility | Requires unlocked phone with SIM slot | Requires eSIM-compatible device |
Recommendation: For tourists visiting Chile, using a Movistar eSIM is more convenient. It offers instant activation, no need for a physical SIM card, and flexible data plans that can be managed easily online.
V. Top Movistar SIM cards for Tourists & Prices
Here are some plans for tourists. For more information, you should go to check the website movistar.cl
| Package Name | Validity | Data | Price (CLP) | Price (USD) | How to Purchase |
| Free Bags | 1 day | Free | 1000 | 1.06 | Mi Movistar App, *303# option 3, or through a virtual branch |
| 3 days | Free | 2000 | 2.12 | Mi Movistar App, *303# option 3, or through a virtual branch | |
| 7 days | Free | 4000 | 4.24 | Mi Movistar App, *303# option 3, or through a virtual branch | |
| Bags per hour | 1 hour | Free | 250 | 0.27 | Mi Movistar App, *303# option 3, or through a virtual branch |
| 3 hours | Free | 300 | 0.32 | Mi Movistar App, *303# option 3, or through a virtual branch | |
| 12 hours | Free | 500 | 0.53 | Mi Movistar App, *303# option 3, or through a virtual branch | |
| Multimedia Night Bags | 1 day | 3 GB | 800 | 0.85 | Dial *303# option 3 |
| 3 days | 3 GB | 1200 | 1.27 | Dial *303# option 3 | |
| 7 days | 5 GB | 2500 | 2.65 | Dial *303# option 3 | |
| 10 days | 5 GB | 3500 | 3.71 | Dial *303# option 3 | |
| Monthly Multimedia Bags | 30 days | 7 GB | 5000 | 5.30 | Mi Movistar App, *303# option 3, or through a virtual branch |
VI. Where can tourists buy Movistar Chile SIM cards?
Tourists visiting Chile have three main options for purchasing Movistar SIM cards: at Santiago International Airport, in city centers, or online before departure. Let’s explore each option in detail.
1. Buy Movistar Chile SIM Card at Santiago International Airport
Movistar SIM cards are readily available at Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago, making it a popular and straightforward option for tourists. You can find them at:
- Kiosks and counters in the arrivals area (open 24/7)
- Fotokina shop on the third level (departures area)
The process is simple:
- Locate the Movistar counter or authorized retailer
- Present your passport
- Choose your preferred plan
- Pay and activate your SIM
Price range: ~ $15-$30
Pros:
- Immediate connectivity upon arrival
- Convenient for late-night arrivals
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than city options
- Possible queues during peak hours
2. Buy Movistar SIM in Chile city centers
After arriving in Chile, you can purchase Movistar SIM cards in major cities like Santiago, Valparaíso, and Viña del Mar. Look for:
- Movistar official stores
- Authorized retailers
- Some convenience stores and supermarkets
Use Google Maps to find nearby locations. Some options include:
- Mall Plaza Vespucio (Santiago)
- Movistar Store in Viña del Mar
- Lider Supermarket chains
The buying process:
- Visit a store
- Present your passport
- Register your personal information
- Choose a plan and make payment
While city center options are cheaper, the process can be more time-consuming and may require more Spanish language skills. It’s a good choice if you’re not in a rush and want to explore more options.
3. Buy Movistar Chile SIM card online before departure
This is the most convenient and proactive option for tech-savvy travelers. You can purchase from:
- Travel SIM websites (e.g., Gigago)
- Amazon
- eBay
The process is a breeze:
- Choose your preferred plan
- Provide basic information (name, delivery address)
- Pay online
- Receive your SIM before your trip
Why tourists love this option:
- Hassle-free and time-saving
- Often cheaper than airport prices
- No language barrier to overcome
Remember, having your SIM ready before you land means you can connect with loved ones and start navigating Chile the moment you arrive. It’s a small step that can make your trip so much smoother!
VII. Where to Buy Movistar Chile eSIM for Tourists?
Why should you get an eSIM right away?
- Avoid tedious registration schemes
- No need to present your passport
- Skip the long queues at the airport
- Instant activation upon arrival
Gigago offers an excellent Chile eSIM package that’ll keep you connected throughout your journey. Here’s why travelers love it:
- Powered by Movistar’s reliable 4G network
- Easy installation via QR code
- Hotspot/tethering enabled
- Instant delivery to your email
Gigago offers competitive pricing with plans to fit various needs and budgets. Our Chile eSIM plan is priced at $12.50 , providing great value and flexibility for both light and heavy users. Choose the plan that suits you best for smooth connectivity in Chile.
Don’t let connection worries spoil your Chile trip. Get your eSIM before you go and focus on making great memories in this beautiful country!
VIII. How to top up a Movistar Chile SIM Card?
You can top up your Movistar Chile SIM card in five easy ways:
- Via the Mi Movistar App: Open the app, select your prepaid line, choose the top-up amount, and complete the payment using options like Cuenta Rut, WebPay, or Servipag.
- On the Movistar Website: Visit Movistar.cl, enter your phone number, select the amount, and pay using various online methods.
- Using USSD Code: Dial *303# on your phone, follow the instructions to choose your top-up amount, and confirm.
- At Movistar Stores or Partner Locations: Visit any authorized store, tell the cashier your phone number and the amount you want to top up, and they will complete the process for you.
- Online with a Chilean Credit or Debit Card: Recharge directly online, but note that only Chile-issued cards are accepted.
IX. FAQs about Movistar Chile SIM Cards
How do I activate a Movistar Chile SIM card?
Insert the SIM into your unlocked phone, select the language, and follow the on-screen prompts. You might need to enter a PIN if prompted.
Does Movistar Chile support eSIM?
Yes, Movistar Chile supports eSIM, which can be purchased online and activated via a QR code sent to your email.
How do I top up my Movistar SIM card?
You can top up by dialing *303#, using the Mi Movistar app, online at Movistar.cl, or at authorized retail locations.
X. Conclusion
In summary, a Movistar Chile SIM card is a great option for staying connected in Chile, providing solid coverage and flexible prepaid packages that fit your needs. For even more convenience and security, I suggest switching to an eSIM. It’s super easy to activate and perfect for travelers. I hope you find this guide helpful! For a smooth experience, check out a Gigago Chile eSIM.
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