Uruguay SIM cards give visitors an easy method to remain in touch while visiting the island, guaranteeing rapid communication, maps, and travel advice.
Uruguay SIM cards are the best option if you want to stay in touch when traveling to Uruguay. Since a SIM card provides inexpensive data, calls, and messages without requiring you to pay astronomical roaming fees from your home service provider, purchasing one can make traveling to Uruguay easier. We’ll cover all the important information about getting a prepaid SIM card in Uruguay in this post.
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Uruguay has three major mobile network operators offering prepaid SIM card services: Antel, Claro, Movistar.
Antel is Uruguay’s leading telecom provider, covering over 98% of the population with its mobile network. Whether you’re exploring Montevideo, relaxing in Punta del Este, or visiting smaller towns, Antel’s got you covered with solid 4G and even 5G in major areas. For tourists, their prepaid SIM cards (called “Chip Prepago”) are a hassle-free way to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Antel offers a variety of prepaid plans tailored to different needs, from short-term visitors to those staying longer. You’ll need to top up your SIM with credit to activate these packages. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:
| Plan Name | Data Allowance | Calls/SMS | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Día (Daily) | 3GB | None (pay-per-use) | 30 UYU (~$0.75) | 24 hours |
| BAM 100 | 1.5GB | None (pay-per-use) | 100 UYU (~$2.50) | 7 days |
| Mes 200 (Monthly) | 2GB | None (pay-per-use) | 200 UYU (~$5) | 30 days |
| Tourist SIM (1-day) | 1GB | None (pay-per-use) | 150 UYU (~$3.75) | 24 hours |
| Tourist SIM (7-day) | 40GB | None (pay-per-use) | 1000 UYU (~$25) | 7 days |
Special Promotion (Until March 31, 2025):
If you top up 250 UYU or more within 30 days of activating a new prepaid SIM, you get a bonus of 50GB free per month for 2 months. Just recharge 250 UYU again after the first month to keep the bonus rolling.
Movistar is one of Uruguay’s top mobile operators, owned by the Spanish telecom giant Telefónica. It’s known for fast 4G/5G speeds and reliable coverage, especially in urban areas like Montevideo, Punta del Este, and Colonia, making it a solid choice for tourists visiting Uruguay. While it doesn’t match Antel’s rural reach, Movistar shines in cities and offers prepaid SIM cards (called “Movistar Prepago”) that are easy to grab and use.
| Data | Validity | Call Minutes | Price (UYU) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 GB | 5 days | 100 min to Movistar | $235 | One-time purchase |
| 5 GB | 10 days | 100 min to Movistar | $340 | One-time purchase |
| 5 GB | 15 days | 100 min to Movistar | $375 | One-time purchase |
| 20 GB | 7 days | 50 min to Movistar | $300 | Subscription |
| 30 GB | 7 days | 50 min to Movistar | $350 | Subscription |
| 40 GB | 7 days | 50 min to Movistar | $370 | Subscription |
| 50 GB | 7 days | Not specified | $425 | One-time purchase |
| 100 GB | 7 days | Not specified | $415 | App-exclusive offer |
Claro Uruguay, part of the América Móvil family, is the smallest of the three major mobile operators in Uruguay but still packs a punch with decent 4G coverage and competitive prepaid plans. It’s a great option for tourists who want affordable data and reliable service, especially in cities like Montevideo and tourist spots like Punta del Este. While its rural coverage isn’t as strong as Antel’s, Claro’s prepaid SIM cards (called “Chip Claro Tajetero”) are easy to get and perfect for short-term stays.
Here’s a look at some popular options:
| Plan Name | Data Allowance | Calls/SMS | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Día (Daily) | 1GB | None (pay-per-use) | 30 UYU (~$0.75) | 24 hours |
| Pack Ya 150 | 3GB | 50 on-net mins, 25 off-net mins | 150 UYU (~$3.75) | 7 days |
| Pack Ya 300 | 6GB | 100 on-net mins, 50 off-net mins | 300 UYU (~$7.50) | 15 days |
| Pack Ya 500 | 10GB | 200 on-net mins, 100 off-net mins | 500 UYU (~$12.50) | 30 days |
Uruguay SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, online or in kiosks and convenience stores.
Many cell companies, like Antel, Claro, and Movistar, have official websites where you may purchase prepaid SIM cards directly from your computer. These websites allow you to acquire SIM cards for various providers and have them mailed directly to your destination in Uruguay, eliminating the need to purchase them in person while traveling. Online ordering makes it simple to acquire SIM cards delivered before your travel or shortly after arrival.
Pros:
Cons:
In Uruguay, you can buy SIM cards at the following airports:
Procedure: Identification, such as a passport, is typically required for purchases. According to Portuguese law, employees frequently help with activation; nonetheless, in order to register, a photo or ID scan is required for personal verification.
Pros: Easy setup and activation when you get there. It’s simple to buy basic travel packages that include Internet and call minutes.
Cons: Limited options, usually only entry-level packages, more difficult to register for than online alternatives.
There are a number of benefits and conveniences to purchasing a SIM card in Uruguay’s major cities, such as Montevideo, Punta del Este, or Salto, but there are also some disadvantages to take into account. In the urban areas of Uruguay, SIM cards are available for purchase in large retail chains, electronics stores, and approved carrier outlets like Antel, Movistar, or Claro. Here is a summary of the benefits and drawbacks, as well as where to get SIM cards.
Pros:
Cons:
Google Maps allows you to look up the closest official Uruguay SIM card carriers’ outlets. Here are a few places to think about:
Prepaid plans with durations ranging from 1 night to 30 days unlimited access to certain apps are available from the major operators and range in price from $0.25 to $415.
There are 2 types of Uruguay SIM Cards available for tourists: Prepaid SIM card Uruguay, tourist eSIM for Uruguay.
Here’s breakdown of 2 options:
| Criteria | Prepaid SIM card Uruguay | Tourist eSIM for Uruguay |
| Convenience | Purchased physically at airports, stores, or online | Activated digitally, no physical SIM needed |
| Compatibility | Compatible with most unlocked phones | Must be used on eSIM-compatible devices |
| How to Use | Insert the SIM into the phone and activate | Scan the QR code sent to activate the eSIM |
| Plan Example | 3GB for 30 days at $15 | 5GB for 30 days at $25 |
| Price | Generally cheaper than eSIMs | Typically a bit more expensive than physical SIMs |
Yes. When traveling to Uruguay, you will undoubtedly need a SIM card. Although public Wi-Fi is available, it is frequently sporadic and not the safest choice. You’ll always have dependable internet access with a local SIM, which is ideal for checking maps, communicating, or making last-minute travel plans.
Instead of having to search for free Wi-Fi, using a SIM is less expensive than roaming. It’s much better if your phone has eSIM support. Without having to deal with physical cards or standing in line, you can set it up prior to your journey and be connected as soon as you land. It’s hassle-free, quick, and safe.
In Uruguay, purchasing a physical SIM card requires patience and your passport. Here are some things to be prepared.
Must-have items:
At least 30 minutes of your time for registration
Special needs:
eSIM technology provides convenience, simplicity, and flexibility, making it the ideal solution for staying connected during your visit to Uruguay. With a Uruguay eSIM, you can skip the hassle of visiting a physical store or waiting in line to buy a traditional Uruguay SIM card. Simply purchase your Uruguay eSIM online before your trip, and you’ll be ready to use mobile data the moment you land.
When exploring eSIM providers, Gigago stands out as a reliable option. All you need to do is buy your Uruguay eSIM online and activate it by scanning the provided QR code. Gigago Uruguay eSIM is budget-friendly, with plans starting as low as $9.90 for 1GB of data valid for 7 days. For more flexibility, you can choose from a variety of plans offering 1GB to 5GB of data, with validity periods ranging from 7 to 30 days. Check out the full range of options and prices at $9.90 – $41.50 .
Tourist SIM cards in Uruguay offer various validity periods to accommodate different travel durations, typically lasting between 7 days and up to a month. Most Uruguay SIM cards and eSIM activate automatically once your phone is connected to the network, so be prepared to use them right after purchase to maximize their validity.
Using a Uruguay SIM card is straightforward. Follow these steps:
In conclusion, getting a prepaid Uruguay SIM card is a convenient and cost-effective way for tourists to stay connected while exploring the country. Whether you opt for a physical prepaid SIM card or the more modern eSIM, both options provide flexibility and reliable service. Prepaid SIM cards are widely available at airports, stores, and online, while eSIMs offer the added benefit of digital activation without the need for physical cards. By choosing the right option based on your device compatibility, data needs, and budget, you can ensure smooth communication and internet access throughout your stay in Uruguay.
In addition to highlighting the major carriers and available plans, this guide will give you a comprehensive overview of eSIM possibilities, answer some commonly asked questions, and explain where you can quickly purchase a SIM card at Carrasco Airport.
