Most travelers get a local prepaid SIM card in Colombia, but nowadays you can easily use an eSIM and already have a network on arrival at the airport and you don’t have to worry about finding a store first.
Whether in Cartagena during sightseeing, on a graffiti tour in Medellín or on the beach in the Tayrona National Park – with the providers listed by us you always have a good Internet connection.
Colombienblog has written a detailed article explaining how to buy, install and activate a prepaid eSIM card for Colombia, as well as highlighting the pros and cons.
My recommendation for the best eSIM cards for Colombia!
If you are traveling in Colombia, it matters a lot which mobile network your eSIM uses. There are four different mobile Internet providers in Colombia: Claro, Tigo, WOM and Movistar. The biggest difference between these providers lies in the network coverage. Claro offers by far the best network coverage and Movistar the worst. That’s why I recommend eSIMs that use the Claro network.
It is important that your smartphone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Otherwise, you will not be able to use an eSIM!
The Best eSIMs for Colombia
Airalo - eSIM Colombia
Airalo offers several eSIM data plans for Colombia.
Here is an example:
- Data Volume: 20 GB Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Price: 41,50 USD
Get a 15% discount if you sign up via my link or click here!
Airalo is one of the most well-known eSIM providers and is considered a pioneer in the market because the ordering process is simple and fast.
Why use Airalo?
The platform usually offers some of the best eSIM deals and has proven to be reliable.
It may be that a verification (KYC) is necessary if you want to buy an Airalo eSIM for Colombia. This depends on the regulatory and security-relevant measures of the respective country.
Airalo eSIM-Prices for Colombia Airalo offers six different eSIM fares for Colombia:
- 1 GB for 7 days = 4,50 USD
- 2 GB for 15 days = 8,00 USD
- 3 GB for 30 days = 11,00 USD
- 5 GB for 30 days = 16,00 USD
- 10 GB for 30 days = 28 USD
- 20 GB for 30 days = 41,50 USD
According to Airalo, these pure data plans (called “Chimba“) use the Airalo 4G/LTE network.
Since these are data-only tariffs, neither incoming nor outgoing calls or SMS are possible, and the eSIMs do not have their own telephone number.
Airalo eSIMs with data, calls and SMS
Since 2025, Airalo has also been offering eSIMs with voice and SMS function:
1 GB + 10 minutes + 10 SMS (7 days) = 6,00 Eur
2 GB + 20 minutes + 20 SMS (15 days) = 10,00 EUR
3 GB + 30 minutes + 30 SMS (30 days) = 13,00 EUR
5 GB + 50 minutes + 50 SMS (30 days) = 19,00 EUR
10 GB + 100 minutes + 100 SMS (30 days) = 34,00 EUR
20 GB + 200 minutes + 200 SMS (30 days) = 48,50 EUR
These tariffs also use the so-called “Airalo network”, although it remains unclear on which mobile operator they are based.
An Airalo eSIM must be activated within 90 days of purchase. The validity period starts from the first connection to a supported network, usually after arrival in Colombia.
For more information, it is worth taking a look at the Airalo website.
Holafly - Unlimited Data
Holafly offers several eSIM data plans for Colombia.
Here is an example:
- Data Volume: Unlimited Data
- Validity: 5 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network
- Hotspot function: It is possible to share up to 500 MB of data per day
- Price: 20,90 USD
Holafly offers eSIM rates for Colombia, with terms ranging from 1 to 90 days.
Get a 5% discount if you sign up via my link or click here.
Holafly is the perfect solution for frequent users, as only unlimited data plans are offered here. So if you stream or download a lot, this provider is just right for you.
Data Plans Holafly:
- 5 Days: Unlimited Data for $20.90
- 10 Days: Unlimited Data for $36.90
- 15 Days: Unlimited Data for $50.90
- 20 Days: Unlimited Data for $61.90
- 30 Days: Unlimited Data for $93.90
- 60 Days: Unlimited Data for $191.90
- 90 Days: Unlimited Data for $288.90
Network: Holafly uses the mobile network of Movistar.
Holafly is an international provider of eSIMs based in Spain, offering mobile data solutions to travelers in over 200 countries and regions worldwide.
Pros of Holafly eSIMs:
- Easy ordering and installation: The purchase process is uncomplicated; after the purchase, you will receive a QR code by e-mail, which will be scanned to install the eSIM on your device.
- Unlimited Data Plans: Holafly offers unlimited data in numerous countries, including Europe, the USA, Mexico, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan and Colombia.
- Physical SIM Card compatibility: You can keep your local phone number while using Holafly‘s eSIM for data and avoid somot roaming charges.
- Reliable high-speed connection: Many users report stable and fast Internet connections, often at 5G speed, without noticeable throttling.
- Excellent Customer Service: Holafly offers 24/7 technical support in several languages, including English, Spanish, German and French.
Cons of Holafly eSIMs:
- No data sharing: Some unlimited data plans do not support tethering or hotspot functionality.
- Higher price: Compared to some competitors, Holafly’s plans are more expensive. However, the unlimited data and reliable service justify the costs for many travelers.
Conclusion:
Holafly offers an easy-to-use and reliable eSIM solution for travelers who want to stay connected worldwide. The combination of easy installation, unlimited data plans and excellent customer service makes Holafly a recommended choice for international travel.
Airhub eSIM for Colombia - 7 GB for $ 12.50
- 7 GB of Data Valid in Colombia
- No calls or SMS
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses Claro’s 4G/LTE Network Price per GB: 1.80 USD
- Con: The 12 GB tariff on Airhub already costs $ 44.
Airhub offers 6 data packs for Colombia.
Here are the data packages listed on the Airhub:
Netzwerk: Airhub nutzt das Mobilfunknetz von Claro.
Key Features of Airhub eSIMs for Colombia
✅ Multiple data plans – You have different options available for different usage needs
✅ Easy eSIM activation – No card change required
✅ Immediate use – Can be activated immediately after purchase
✅ Regional and global eSIM options – Connection beyond Colombia possible
✅ Compatibility with Android and iOS – Works on many eSIM-enabled devices
✅ 24/7 Live chat support – Customer service will help you around the clock
Airhub also offers a Latin America fare, which is particularly suitable for backpackers and long-term travelers. The data plan is valid for the following countries:
✅ Pros
✔️ Easy activation – The installation installation is quite simple and is done by scanning a QR code
✔️ Regional and global eSIM options – You can also get a Latin America tariff, which is valid in most countries of South and Central America
✔️ Android and iOS compatibility – Works on a wide range of eSIM-enabled devices
✔️ 24/7 Live chat support – Round-the-clock support for questions or problems
✔️ No roaming – Direct connection to local networks for stable Internet connection
❌ Cons
❗ No support for calls or SMS – At Airalo there is only mobile data, no calls or SMS are supported
❗ Limited network coverage in rural areas – In remote regions the network may be weaker
❗ No unlimited data volume – users need to choose a fixed data package in advance, for unlimited packages Holafly is the better choice
❗ Possibly more expensive than local SIM cards – SIMs bought directly in Colombia could be cheaper
Jetpac eSIM for Colombia - 10 GB for 33,50 EUR
- 10 GB of Data valid in Colombia
- No calls or SMS
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses Claro’s 4G/LTE network
- Price: 33.50 USD
Jetpac offers a total of eight different eSIM fares for Colombia.
Jetpac offers five data-only plans with an option that does not include calls. Here are the data rates listed on the website:
- 1 GB valid for 4 days = 3.70 EUR (instead of 6.50 EUR, 1FOR1 offer for new users)
- 3 GB valid for 30 days = 12.90 EUR
- 5 GB valid for 30 days = 15.60 EUR (instead of 20.30 EUR, 23% discount)
- 10 GB valid for 30 days = 25.80 EUR (instead of 36.80 EUR, 30% discount)
- 15 GB valid for 30 days = 39.60 EUR (instead of 47.80 EUR, 17% discount)
- 20 GB valid for 30 days = 51.50 EUR
- 30 GB valid for 30 days = 69 EUR
- 40 GB valid for 30 days = 110.40 EUR
Network: Jetpac uses the Claro network
What are the pros and cons for Jetpac for Colombia?
✅ Pros
✔️ Easy activation – You can easily activate di eSIM via a QR
✔️ Good selection of tariffs – Jetpac offers several options, such as 1 GB for 4 days, 3 GB for 30 days or 10 GB for 30 days.
✔️ Good network coverage – The eSIMs use the 4G/LTE network of Claro, the largest mobile operator in Colombia, which allows a reliable connection.
❌ Cons
❌ No data packages with calls – There are no options that include calls.
❌ No unlimited Data Packages – Jetpac does not offer unlimited data plans.
Saily
At Saily, there are four SIM data plans for Colombia. Here is an example:
- Data Volume: 3GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5G/4G/LTE network Prices: 19.99 USD
NordVPN developers Nord Security have been using their eSIM provider since 2024. Although some providers have been around a lot longer, but with an experienced team, Saily has already become one of the top Esim providers in Colombia.
Data Plans Saily Colombia:
- 1 GB valid for 7 days = 6.99 USD
- 3 GB valid for 30 days = 17.99 USD
- 5 GB valid for 30 days = 27.99 USD
- 10 GB valid for 30 days = 45.99 USD (15% discount with the code SAILYUK)
All Saily data packages have a 30-day activation period. If you buy a package today and do not activate it after 30 days, it will be activated automatically. Network: Not specified
What are the Pros and Cons of Saily?
✅ Pros
✔️ Easy activation – Your eSIM can be easily installed via a QR code and we will activate it upon arrival in Colombia.
✔️ Flexibility – You can switch tariffs quickly without having to buy or insert a new physical SIM card.
✔️ Cost efficiency – If you use local data packages, high roaming charges can be avoided.
❌ Cons
❌ No support for calls and SMS – Only pure data plans, no calls possible.
❌ Compatibility problems with older devices – Older mobile phones do not support eSIM technology. It is important to check the compatibility of your own device before buying.
Quick comparison of eSIM providers:
- Airhub: 7 GB for 22.50 USD (Claro network)
- Airalo: 5 GB for 16,00 USD (network not specified)
- Jetpac: 5 GB for 15.60 EUR (Claro network)
- Saily: 5GB for $27.99
- Holafly: 5days unlimited data for 20.90 USD (Movistar network)
- Saily: 5 GB for 27.99 USD for 30 days
Important reminder: The most important criterion is the network – not the price! Movistar’s network coverage is miserable in Colombia. Therefore, I recommend only eSIMs that use the Claro mobile network.
Especially in northern Colombia (Santa Marta, Tyrona and surroundings) there is hardly any reception with Movistar, Tigo or WOM.
If Colombia is only one stop on your trip around the world, an international eSIM could also be interesting. Alternatively, there is Roamless, a special eSIM concept that allows flexible data usage without an expiration date.
Wo kann ich eine eSIM für Kolumbien kaufen?
Order online
There are quite a few online providers who have eSIMs for Colombia in their shops. Buy from a reputable provider so that there are no problems,
Jetpac
Holafly
SimOptions
Nomad
Airalo
GigSky
Airhub
aloSIM
Saily
The competition is big, so you should read my tips carefully before buying.
Directly in Colombia
Alternatively, you can buy an eSIM directly after your arrival at one of the official Claro, Tigo, WOM or Movistar shops.
However, I recommend getting an eSIM before the trip. So you are already online from landing and save yourself the search for a provider on site.
When should you order/activate an eSIM for Colombia?
You can order an eSIM for Colombia at any time. Most eSIMs need to be installed within a month of purchase, some even within a year, so you have enough time.
However, the time of installation/activation is more important. For some eSIMs, the validity starts immediately after installation, for others only when they connect to a supported network for the first time.
I recommend that you install your eSIM on the day of your departure to Colombia or shortly before. You need an internet connection for the installation.
Therefore, it is advisable to install/activate the eSIM before departure so that you are immediately connected when landing in Colombia.
How do you activate your Colombia eSIM?
The installation and activation of an eSIM is very simple. Anyone can activate an eSIM, and the instructions for this are very detailed and will be sent to you immediately by e-mail. But it’s even easier: just scan the QR code.
After ordering an eSIM plan for Colombia, you will immediately receive a summary of your order, including a QR code, after the payment has been made.
You will see a summary of your eSIM order with a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will receive an email with the same QR code. The e-mail contains instructions for installing and activating your Colombia eSIM.
Installing and activating an eSIM is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone on which you want to activate the eSIM. The QR code contains all the information about your Colombia eSIM.
As soon as you scan the code, you will be guided through a few simple steps, and within less than a minute your eSIM will be successfully installed.
It is very important that you stay connected to the Internet during the installation of your eSIM, otherwise errors may occur.
Tip: If you order the eSIM with the same phone you want to install it on, ask a friend or someone close to you to take a photo of the QR code, and then scan the QR code from his/her phone to start the installation.
Things to know before ordering an eSIM for Colombia:
Here are some general tips for using eSIMs when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply to Colombia eSIMs, but are generally to be considered before buying an eSIM.
Make sure your phone is unlocked:
To emphasize once again: eSIMs work only in unlocked phones. If your phone is unlocked, you can use any eSIM without any problems.
If your phone is locked, ask your mobile service provider in your home country to unlock it before you travel to Colombia. It is likely that your provider will charge a fee for this.
If you can’t unlock your phone, you might consider using a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected during your trip to Colombia, or better yet, bring a second unlocked phone and use it as a portable Wi-Fi device.
Which smartphones support eSIMs?
Another very important point is to check if your smartphone supports eSIMs. If you own one of the latest smartphones, you don’t need to worry; all the new smartphones from the well-known brands support eSIMs.
The fastest way to find out if your phone is eSIM compatible is to dial *#06# on your phone. A screen will appear and show you a series of barcodes. If you see a barcode labeled ‘EID’, you know that your device is eSIM compatible.
If you’re not sure, just ask Google, “Is my (your phone model) eSIM compatible?” It’s that simple!
If your phone is NOT eSIM compatible, there is no other solution, and you cannot use eSIM for your trip to Colombia.
In that case, check out my complete guide on how to buy a prepaid SIM card in
Conclusion: Why an eSIM for Colombia?
- Kein Wechseln physischer SIM-Karten mehr
- Sofort online nach der Landung
- Kein Stress mit Roaming-Kosten
- Bessere Planbarkeit und einfaches Online-Bestellen
Wenn du Fragen hast oder Hilfe bei der Auswahl benötigst, hinterlasse gerne einen Kommentar. Ich helfe dir gerne weiter!
Viel Spaß in Kolumbien und eine gute Reise!
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