How To Use Cell Phone In Peru 2024: Traveler’s Guide To Stay Connected

David Smith

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Published: June 2024

Use cell phone in Peru when traveling to this country is something that is of interest when traveling to this country. All will be shared through the article below.

Important information for tourists about how to use cell phone in Peru will be shared specifically in this article. Specific options include mobile data, local SIM card, eSIM, Wifi or data roaming. From there, Gigago wants to help tourists have the most economical travel and experience.

I. Highlights of Phone Compatibility, Frequencies and Networks in Peru

Some quick information about the network in Peru that you may not know:

• Phone compatibility: GSM is the frequency compatible with most smartphones in Peru. However, travelers should check specific bands to ensure compatibility with the local network.
• Frequencies: 2G (850 MHz, 1900 MHz), 3G (850 MHz, 1900 MHz), 4G/LTE (Band 2 – 1900 MHz, bands 4 – 1700 MHz, bands 5 – 850 MHz, bands 28 – 700 MHz).
• Network standards: Operates mainly on GSM network, gradually eliminating CDMa network.
• Coverage: 4G/LTE network covers large cities and urban areas. Remote and rural areas may have restrictions.
• SIM cards: Peru SIM cards can be purchased from supermarkets, kiosks, and official network stores.
• Regulations: You need to provide identification documents such as passport or ID card to buy a SIM card in Peru.

II. Will My Cell Phone Work In Peru?

Yes, you can use cell phone in Peru. However, many factors need to be considered when using a phone in Peru. You need to consider whether your phone device has an open band or not. This tells you whether you can use data roaming services in this country.

In addition, network frequency is also a factor to consider. This will help you know in advance how fast your internet connection will be when you arrive in Peru: 700 MHz, 850 MHz, 1900 MHz, 2600 MHz and 5G spectrum bands, including 3.5 GHz.

III. Do I Need An International Plan In Peru?

Yes, an international plan in Peru is necessary for tourists. This is a way for them to enjoy traveling with the support of the internet to help connect with family members back home. It can be said that the international plan helps travelers stay in touch better when abroad, save on roaming costs and feel secure in using data.

Although I can use free wifi, this method has a few disadvantages. On the contrary, the benefits of the international plan have outstanding benefits such as:

• Call and text internationally at preferential rates
• Use mobile data abroad at better rates than regular data roaming rates
• Keep your home phone number when abroad
• You can choose different packages depending on your needs and travel time

IV. What Are Options To Use Cellphones In Peru For Tourists?

Nowadays, there are many options for using international plans for phone usage in Peru. Among those options, include SIM cards, eSIM and Pocket wifi. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages as well as different places of purchase, purchase prices, and data packages.

1. eSIM Plan for Peru

eSIM is an electronic SIM card, easier to receive and use than a regular physical SIM card. The only requirement for people wanting to use eSIM in Peru is that their device is compatible. That said, users will not need to pay any additional fees for this option.

2. International SIM card for Peru

Prepaid SIM cards are a traditional form of use for many international tourists, including visitors to Peru. It is very easy for you to buy and receive it, whether it is an online store or an offline store, you can buy a prepaid physical SIM card.

It is essential to use an international SIM card when the phone is unlocked, this allows you to avoid high data roaming charges and allows access to the local network. Some major carriers in Peru are Claro, Movistar or Entel.

3. Pocket WiFi

Pocket Wifi is also a popular choice for tourists coming to Peru in recent times. This is a device similar to fixed wifi at home but is compact and can be carried everywhere in your pocket. The biggest advantage of pocket wifi is the ability to allow many people to connect at the same time, usually from 5 to 10 devices (including phones, tablets, laptops,…).

The downside of pocket wifi is the cost, not only paying for data packages but also having to pay for renting or buying the device. In addition, there may also be costs for renting accessories and insurance for the device.

V. Will My Local Network Work In Peru?

We have many options for using the internet in Peru and each person has their own choice, including those who choose to use the services of a local operator. Therefore, this is most likely possible.

Most of the time, your domestic network will work in Peru, but the downside is that roaming charges are very high. This is the most expensive option among all the options. And if you do not strictly control your habits or usage needs, you will have to pay a lot of money at the end of the trip.

VI. Gigago eSIM – An Alternative To Get Internet In Peru With Your Cell Phone

eSIM is the best option to get the internet while traveling in Peru. It’s worth buying, worth using for the following reasons: easy to buy, set up, diversifying plans to choose,… If you have a compatible device, it is recommended that you check out eSIM in Peru. 

Which Peru eSIM plan should you choose for your trip? 

A famous and reputable eSIM provider on the market today that cannot be ignored is Gigago – an eSIM provider from Hong Kong. Gigago offers a variety of eSIM data plans for travelers to Peru, starting with a 1 GB data plan for 1 day for 7 days for only $8.9 USD.

The best thing about Gigago is its ability to provide a variety of Peru eSIM data packages. Financially, you can choose from $8.9 USD to $35.9 USD. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the number of days you travel to Peru. Gigago accommodates this diversity with packages that last 7, 15, and 30 days.

VII. Extra Tips To Use Cell Phone in Peru

To make the most of your trip, Gigago offers additional tips to ensure you get the most out of your Peru mobile phone experience. Here are specific tips:

• Unlocked phone: Before traveling to Peru, check with your carrier to make sure your phone is unlocked and available for use with carriers in Peru.
• Find out the network coverage range: Please check the information of the carrier you will use the service to see if the area you are visiting has coverage from that carrier or not.
• Download offline maps: Before traveling, download offline maps to save as much data as possible.
• Respect local culture: Standards for cell phone use in public vary from country to country, for example, do not talk loudly on the phone in public.
• Battery backup: If you go out for a long time without a power outlet, don’t forget to bring a backup charger so you can experience the trip with peace of mind.

VIII. FAQs about Use Cell Phone in Peru

IX. Conclusion

The article has shared information about use cell phone in Peru along with popular options. Hopefully this has helped you get more useful information on your upcoming trip to Peru. Don’t forget Gigago offers Peru eSIM and answers your questions if you need it!