Complete Guide for Travelers 路 Updated 2026
Everything you need to know about buying a local SIM card in Colombia. Compare 2 providers, find prepaid plans starting from $5 USD, and learn exactly where to buy and what documents you need.
Cheapest Plan
$5
Providers
2
Network
Currency
COP
El Dorado Airport (Bogota) arrivals or any Claro store
Compare all 2 carriers offering prepaid SIM cards to tourists in Colombia. Side-by-side comparison of coverage, speed, and pricing.
| Carrier | Type | Coverage | Speed | Cheapest Plan | Plans | Buy At |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Claro Colombia Best Coverage | Major | Excellent | Good | $6USD 8 GB / 15 days | 2plans | AirportCarrier StoreConvenience Store |
Movistar Colombia | Major | Good | Good | $5USD 6 GB / 15 days | 1plan | Carrier StoreConvenience Store |
Coverage and speed ratings per carrier
From
$6
8 GB / 15 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid 8GB | 8 GB | 25,000 COP | $6 | 15 days | 100 min local |
| Prepaid 15GB | 15 GB | 40,000 COP | $10 | 30 days | Unlimited Colombia |
From
$5
6 GB / 15 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid 6GB | 6 GB | 20,000 COP | $5 | 15 days | 80 min local |
Select providers to compare their plans directly
Select up to 3 providers to compare. 2/3 selected.
Movistar Colombia
Prepaid 6GB
20,000 COP COP
Claro Colombia
Prepaid 8GB
25,000 COP COP
Claro Colombia
Prepaid 15GB
40,000 COP COP
Visual comparison of carrier pricing in Colombia
Cheapest to most expensive plan (USD)
Cheapest available
$5
Find the best place to buy a prepaid SIM card in Colombia, with details on hours, ease of purchase, and what to expect at each location type.
This is the easiest option for tourists arriving in Colombia.
Carrier counters and kiosks in the arrivals hall. Staff speak English and handle registration on the spot.
Official brand stores with the widest plan selection. Staff can help with activation and troubleshooting.
Available at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and similar stores. Look near the checkout counter.
Bring your passport when buying a SIM card in Colombia. It is required for registration at all official points of sale. Airport counters handle the process quickly.
Colombia uses 4G LTE networks. Here is how each provider compares for coverage and speed across the country.
Coverage Map for Colombia
Visit each carrier's website for their interactive coverage map
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Strong
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Moderate
Colombia requires SIM card registration. Here is exactly what you need and step-by-step instructions for each provider.
Prepare these before buying a SIM in Colombia
Unlocked phoneRequired
Your phone must be SIM-unlocked to use a local SIM card
PassportRequired
Valid passport for SIM registration
SIM ejector toolRequired
Or use a paperclip to open the SIM tray
Cash in local currencyRequired
Some vendors do not accept credit cards
Photo ID (backup)Optional
A second form of ID in case your passport is needed elsewhere
Local addressRequired
Hotel address for SIM registration form
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
Get a printable PDF with provider comparisons, activation steps, and APN settings for Colombia.