This guide will explain why having a Panama SIM card is beneficial and how it can enhance your trip.
You may be wondering how to obtain a SIM card if you’re traveling to Panama. A Panama SIM card is necessary to keep connected when traveling because it makes it simple to send and receive messages, make calls, and browse the internet.
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Having a local Panama SIM card can be incredibly useful for tourists for staying connected, navigating, and accessing information on the go. Here are some of the best options for tourists: Claro, +Movil and Tigo.
One of Panama’s largest operators, Claro provides a variety of services at low prices. They provide a range of prepaid plans, from data-heavy bundles to solutions with a balance of text and voice, all of which are designed to meet varied consumption requirements.
| Package Type | Duration | Data Allowance | Price (USD) | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Data with Minutes | 4 days | Unlimited | 3 | Includes minutes to other networks |
| Unlimited Data with Minutes | 7 days | Unlimited | 5 | Includes minutes to other networks |
| Unlimited Data with Minutes | 14 days | Unlimited | 10 | Includes minutes to other networks |
| 4 GB with Social Media | 14 days | 4 GB | 15 | Free social media access |
+Móvil is one of the leading mobile operators in Panama, known for its extensive coverage and fast network speeds. It offers a variety of flexible prepaid plans, making it a great choice for tourists who need reliable connectivity. Here are prepaid sim card deals for tourists:
| Plan | Price | Validity | Network | Unlimited Data | Voice Minutes | Data to Share | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 Days – Unlimited 5G+ | B/. 7.00 | 7 days | 5G Network | Yes (Recurring) | 30 minutes to other operators | 5GB for 7 days | Includes international minutes |
| 7 Days – Unlimited LTE | B/. 6.00 | 7 days | LTE Network | Yes | 25 minutes to other operators & long distance | 3GB for 7 days | Includes international minutes |
| 3 Days – Unlimited LTE | B/. 3.50 | 3 days | LTE Network | Yes | 10 minutes to other operators | 500MB for 3 days | — |
Tigo Panama is a top telecommunications provider in Panama, delivering reliable coverage nationwide, including cities and major tourist spots. Tigo offers a range of prepaid Panama SIM card plans designed for tourists, providing convenient access to data, calls, and texts.
Tigo Panama offers the following prepaid Panama SIM card plans for tourists:
► Recommendation: If your phone supports eSIM technology, choosing a Panama eSIM over a physical SIM card is highly recommended. With a Panama eSIM, you can keep your home number active while using a local Panama plan, eliminating the need to swap SIM cards. eSIMs also allow you to add multiple carriers (especially beneficial for those people using iPhone 14 Pro and other newest smartphones).
Tourists in Panama can buy SIM cards at airports, mobile operator stores, convenience stores, and online before arrival.
Tourists can purchase a Panama SIM card or eSIM online before traveling. Order a pre-activated physical prepaid sim card for Panama and have it sent to your home before you travel. Don’t waste time looking for a Sim card retailer in Panama.
Suitable for: those who want instant connectivity upon arrival.
Pros: No need to visit a store, activated before arrival, convenient for short trips, eSIM available for compatible phones
Cons: Might be more expensive than local options, limited plan choices, requires an unlocked phone
There are no other locations at Panama City Airport where you can purchase a SIM card other than these kiosks. These kiosks are located both airside and landside across the airport. This means that you can purchase a Panama tourist SIM card at one of these kiosks as soon as you get off the plane, even before you go through immigration and get your bags.
Suitable for: Short term visitors, travelers needing immediate connectivity
Pros: More choices and affordable costs.
Cons: Complicated registration, required identification documents. You will need to present your passport to register personal information. Some places also require a portrait photo. This is to ensure compliance with network operator regulations.
If you are already in Panama and need a reliable way to stay connected, buying a local SIM card in the city center is a convenient and cost-effective option.
Suitable for: Tourists who need a local Panama SIM card for calls and data. Visitors who prefer physical SIM cards over eSIMs.
Pros: Affordable prepaid plans with flexible options.
Cons: Requires visiting a store in person. Might need to swap out your home SIM card. Some locations may have language barriers.
Where to buy: To buy a Panama SIM card in the city center such as Panama City, Boquete or Bocas del Toro, tourists can visit shopping malls like Albrook Mall or Multiplaza, find nearby convenience stores, supermarkets, and official carrier stores.
Below are some official stores of Panama SIM card providers you can find by using Google Maps:
A tourist Panama SIM card costs between $3 to $10, depending on the provider and data package.
Prices may vary based on promotions and where you buy the SIM in airport or city stores.
Tourists in Panama can choose from two main types of SIM cards: prepaid SIM card Panama and tourist eSIM for Panama.
Here is breakdown of Panama Tourist SIM Card and eSIM:
| Feature | Prepaid SIM Card Panama | Tourist eSIM for Panama |
| Convenience | Must buy and activate in-store | Buy and activate online before arrival |
| Compatibility | Works with all unlocked phones | Only works with eSIM-compatible phones |
| How to Use | Insert SIM and follow activation steps | Scan QR code and activate instantly |
| Example Plan | +Móvil: $3 for 3 days unlimited data | Gigago: $8.9 for 1GB (valid for 7 days) |
| Price | $3 – $10 depending on the plan | $9+ depending on data needs |
Yes. In order to stay connected while visiting Panama, it is highly recommended that you get a SIM card. Making calls, sending messages, and utilizing mobile data will all be dependable when you have a local SIM card.
The following are the main causes:
In Panama, there are a few special considerations to consider when purchasing a Panama SIM card:
Panama eSIMs are an excellent alternative to traditional Panama SIM cards for tourists, offering convenience, ease of use, and instant activation. With an eSIM, you can avoid swapping physical SIM cards, keeping your original number active while traveling in Panama. You can easily buy Panama eSIM from online providers like Gigago.
Gigago Panama eSIM offers 1GB of data valid for 7 days starting at just $8.90 . This plan is perfect for short-term travelers who need reliable internet for navigation and staying connected on the go. Otherwise, Gigago still has more plans around $8.90 – $35.90 .
In Panama, tourist SIM cards usually offer validity periods of 7, 15, or 30 days, depending on the selected plan. Most prepaid Panama SIM card options are designed for short-term visitors, allowing you to choose a plan that aligns with your stay. Be sure to check the exact validity period before purchasing, as some plans may require top-ups to extend usage.
Here are steps to activate a SIM card and eSIM in Panama:
This article will explain the estimated costs, where to get a SIM card at Panama Tocumen Airport, and how to register it. After reading this post, you’ll know if it’s better to get a SIM card at the airport or look into other possibilities like an eSIM.
