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How to get Mobile internet in Colombia: What is the best option?
In this article, we are going to give you all the information needed to know how to get internet in Colombia so you can fully enjoy your trip.
February 8, 2023
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If you intend to travel to Colombia, you probably don’t want to miss anything about this remarkable destination. And to make it, you have to be connected to the cellular internet in Colombia at all times.
In this article, we are going to give you all the information needed to know how to get a cellular internet connection in Colombia and be able to enjoy your trip to the fullest. If you don’t have time to buy a new SIM card, or if you want to keep using your old SIM, you can opt for an eSIM card with unlimited cellular data for Colombia.
eSIM for Colombia
>>Buy an eSIM for Colombia with unlimited data<< Get 5% OFF. Code: MYESIMNOW5
Alternatives to connect to the Mobile Internet in Colombia
Here you are going to read about different options to connect abroad, from the SIM card to the eSIM card, pocket WiFi, roaming, and free WiFi. It is very easy to connect. The difficult part is to decide which option you want.
(You may also be interested in how to have mobile internet in Jamaica)
eSIM card for Colombia
We have previously told you that this service is very good, it offers has 4G coverage, and you can connect to all the local operators. But you have to make sure that your cellphone is eSIM compatible because not all devices can support this technology yet. You can get this alternative, no matter where you are because you receive it in your email, and all you have to do to use it is to scan the QR code for the eSIM activation.
Advantages:
- Unlimited data plans are available.
- You will receive it immediately in your email.
- Easy installation and activation.
- You can keep using your local SIM card.
Disadvantages:
- Not all cellphones are compatible with eSIM cards.
- Compatible cellphones are expensive high-end phones.
| Days | Data | Price | Price |
| 5 | Unlimited data | $19 | $19 |
| 7 | Unlimited data | $27 | $27 |
| 10 | Unlimited data | $34 | $34 |
| 15 | Unlimited data | $47 | $47 |
| 20 | Unlimited data | $54 | $54 |
Prepaid SIM cards for Colombia
If you don’t want to pay for the expensive international roaming service to connect to cellular internet in Colombia, you can buy a SIM card with cellular data. It is a great option that connects to the networks of the main operators at your destination.
With the SIM card for Colombia, you won’t have to worry about your connection, you can also keep your WhatsApp number in your language, and you can use it to make calls and send texts.
Other SIM cards to get Mobile internet connection in Colombia:
Local SIM cards: You can get them at the airport in El Dorado, but it is not very recommendable, and since they do not offer plans for travelers, so you will have to top up your SIM card.
Pocket WiFi in Colombia
This is a device that you can carry in your pocket anywhere you go. It works as a small router that generates a private network for you and your loved ones or friends to connect to. You can buy one, but you have to also purchase a SIM card to get cellular data, or you can rent the device. There are online stores that offer this product, like Wifibox. But, keep in mind that this is not a common option to go for in Colombia.
Free WiFi
It is the cheapest option, but it is not safe. Since you connect to open networks, you have to be very careful not to provide personal information while connected because it can be easily stolen.
Another disadvantage is that the connection speed is not the best. Given that many people connect to these networks, the speed is slow and unstable. If you want to know which networks are in a specific area, you can use apps to find them. But in Colombia, you will find places with signs that say ‘Free WiFi’.
(You may also be interested in how to have mobile internet in Trinidad and Tobago)
How much does roaming cost in Colombia?
Roaming service will let you connect with a different operator when you leave your country. There are commercial agreements among operators that let you do this. That price that the foreign operator charges your domestic is the one that you have to pay, which will make you want to deactivate the roaming service during your trip whenever you don’t use it.
Advantage:
- Easy activation, sometimes it is already included in your invoice.
- It includes calls and texts that you also have to pay for.
Disadvantages:
- You may have to pay a hefty invoice because you have to pay for every MB you consume.
- Many other services are easier to get.
Roaming prices in Colombia depending on your country:
| Country | Cellular operator | Price (Price/MB) | How do activate it |
| UK | O2 | $6/day | Text O2TRAVEL to 23336. |
| UK | Three | $5/day | On your device’s settings, turn on the roaming. |
| UK | Vodafone | $6/day | On their website or App |
| USA | AT&T | $2.05/MB | Calling *611 or activate roaming on your cellphone |
| USA | T-Mobile | $15.00/MB | call #RON# to activate it. |
| USA | Verizon | $2.05/MB | On your device’s settings, turn on the roaming. |
| Canada | Rogers | $15/10MB | On your device’s settings, turn on the roaming. |
| Canada | Telus | $10/MB | Through their website or send a message to 7626. |
| Australia | Optus | $1/MB | Through My Optus app. |
| Australia | Telstra | $10/day | Through My Telstra app. |
Comparison table between the different alternatives to get mobile internet in Colombia
Most services have similar characteristics, but some small aspects can make the all difference, some as comfort, price, easy usage, safety, and more. You can find a comparison table below:
| Characteristics | eSIM cards | SIM cards | Roaming | Pocket WiFi | Free WiFi |
| Is it accessible? | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Great connection? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Unlimited internet? | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Additional cost? | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Can I share cellular data with other devices? | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Do I have to pay if I lose it? | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Easy usage and installation? | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Our recommendation: which is the best alternative?
There are many alternatives, but if you want to enjoy your trip fully, then the eSIM card with cellular data from Holafly is the best option. You can buy it online, and you will receive it on your email. You will also enjoy the best coverage, and you will have 24-hour customer service and support, unlimited data, extensive coverage and much more.
Be careful with local SIM cards, there are many operators, but only three of them have the best coverage in Colombia: Claro, Movistar, and Tigo. The rest have limited coverage.
