Last updated on February 28th, 2024 at 02:36 am
Looking to buy a SIM Card Medellin Airport? Claro, Tigo, and Movistar are the top SIM cards in Medellín while Holafly and Maya eSIM are good eSIM alternatives.
Arriving at Medellin International Airport and wondering if you can buy a sim card at Medellin Airport? The answer is yes, you will find kiosks selling a Claro sim card for Medellin and Colombia.
The easiest way is getting an eSIM with Holafly offering unlimited data and Maya Mobile with cheap data packages. Claro is our recommended sim card in Medellin and Colombia while Holafly is the best for unlimited eSIM data.
When traveling to Medellín, Colombia, staying connected is crucial for both business and leisure travelers. Having a local SIM card not only keeps you connected but also saves you from exorbitant roaming charges.
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Where to Stay in Medellin
Accommodation prices can take you around $10-12 USD if you sleep in a dorm. For mid-budget accommodation starts at $40-60 USD and for more than $100 USD you will find luxury accommodation in Poblado area.
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Can You Buy a SIM Card in Medellín – SIM Card Medellin Airport
Yes, purchasing a SIM card in Medellín is straightforward. You’ll need a valid form of identification like a passport. Visit kiosks or stores in the airport at the Arrival Hall in Medellin airport or around the city to find SIM cards tailored for short-term or long-term use.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Medellín
- Airport Kiosks: After clearing customs, you’ll find kiosks selling SIM cards.
- Shopping Malls: Visit malls like El Tesoro or Santafé Mall for more options.
- Local Mobile Stores: Stores like Claro, Movistar, and Tigo are spread throughout the city.
- Convenience Stores: Many small shops and kiosks sell SIM cards, though staff might not be well-versed in activation procedures.
- Online: Planning ahead allows you to purchase online, but you’ll still need to register in-person upon arrival.
Where to Purchase a SIM Card at Medellin Airport (Medellin Airport SIM Card)
Unlike many international hubs, Medellin Airport doesn’t have designated phone booths for SIM card purchases. However, travelers have options:
- Departure Hall Phone Store:
- Located on the second floor of the airport, this store primarily sells phone accessories and cases but also offers prepaid SIM cards for tourists
- Tech Port Business:
- Situated on both the first and second floors, Tech Port operates 24/7, selling Claro SIM cards outside the restricted area, ensuring access for all visitors
- Small Store Upstairs:
- An unassuming store that sells snacks and drinks also carries Claro SIM cards. It’s a handy spot for a quick purchase
- Identify the Logos:
- Keep an eye out for the logos of major providers like Tigo, Claro, or Movistar. Some stores, not specific to phones, may offer SIM cards
Features to Look for in a SIM Card
- Data Speed: Depending on your needs, make sure the SIM card offers the data speed you require.
- Coverage Area: Look for SIM cards that provide coverage in the areas you plan to visit.
- Price: Choose a SIM card that fits your budget and meets your data and call needs.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies For Sim Card in Medellín
In Medellín, the mobile communication landscape is primarily dominated by three major carriers: Claro, Movistar, and Tigo. These providers offer a range of services across various network types, including 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE, to meet the diverse needs of consumers. Each has its own set of frequencies and coverage areas, making it essential for users to choose an operator that best suits their specific needs for connectivity, be it in urban or rural settings.
Claro Medellin Sim Card
- Network: Offers 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE services
- Frequency: 850/1900 MHz for 2G; 850/1900 MHz for 3G; Band 7 (2600 MHz) for 4G LTE
- Coverage: Extensive coverage, including in rural areas.
- Popular Plans: Offers a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans catering to different needs. Tourist plans are also available.
Data packages start at 30,000 COP for 10 GB of data valid for 30 days. Claro has the best coverage for sim card in Medellin.
Check the exact location in Google Maps of Claro Stores where you can buy a sim card in Medellin.
Movistar Medellin Sim Card
- Network: Provides 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE services
- Frequency: 850/1900 MHz for 2G; 850/900 MHz for 3G; Band 4 (1700/2100 MHz) for 4G LTE
- Coverage: Good urban coverage but less extensive in rural areas.
- Popular Plans: A range of plans that cater to various data, call, and text needs. Movistar also provides some tourist-focused packages.
Movistar offers various prepaid packages for $6 USD with 30 GB data. Movistar is the cheapest sim card in Medellin.
Check the exact location in Google Maps of Movistar Stores where you can buy a sim card in Medellin.
Tigo Medellin Sim Card
- Network: 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE services available
- Frequency: 1900 MHz for 2G; 1900 MHz for 3G; Band 28 (700 MHz) for 4G LTE
- Coverage: Strong in urban areas, but less so in rural zones.
- Popular Plans: Known for budget-friendly prepaid plans. Tigo also offers various bundles that include data, voice, and text.
Tigo data packages start at $5 USD for 10 GB valid for 15 days.
Check the exact location in Google Maps of Tigo Stores where you can buy a sim card in Medellin.
VoLTE & VoWiFi in Medellín
VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi) are technologies that improve voice call quality and allow for calls to be made over 4G and WiFi networks, respectively. Here’s how they work:
VoLTE
- Availability: Available from most major providers like Claro, Movistar, and Tigo.
- Benefits: Improved call quality and faster call setup.
- Activation: Usually activated by default but can also be turned on from your device’s settings.
VoWiFi
- Availability: Not as commonly supported as VoLTE but is available from Claro and Movistar.
- Benefits: Useful for making calls in areas with poor cellular reception but strong WiFi.
- Activation: Must be enabled from your device’s settings and may require a compatible phone and firmware.
5G in Medellín
The 5G network is still in the initial stages of rollout in Medellín, with limited areas having access to this next-generation service.
- Availability: Currently available in some parts of Medellín, mainly in the city center.
- Speed: Significantly faster than 4G, with speeds potentially up to 20 times faster.
- Operators: Claro and Movistar are the pioneers in rolling out 5G networks in the city.
- Supported Devices: Ensure your device is 5G-compatible to utilize this service.
- Future Expansion: Plans are in place to expand coverage throughout the city and into rural areas over the coming years.
SIM Card Registration in Medellín – Medellin Airport SIM Card
Registration is a requirement in Colombia. Provide an ID at the point of purchase, and you’ll be set to go within a few minutes
Roaming in South America with Medellín SIM Cards
Check with your provider about the availability and costs of roaming in other South American countries.
Medellín Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
Medellín offers good mobile coverage and internet speeds. Prices are generally reasonable but vary between providers. Special tourist packages are also available.
Best SIM Card in Medellín – Comparing eSIMs in Medellín
Holafly Medellín eSIM
Unlimited data for $64 USD (30 days)
Holafly specializes in unlimited data plans, a good fit for business travelers or those who need constant connectivity.
Maya Mobile eSIM Medellín
- 1 GB for $5 USD (30 days)
- 10 GB for $24 USD (30 days)
Maya Mobile offers an eSIM solution that is both affordable and easy to use. With a straightforward setup process, this option is particularly beneficial for short-term visitors to Medellín who need basic data access without the hassle of changing SIM cards. This could be an excellent choice for tourists or business travelers looking for convenience.
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Airalo Medellín eSIM
1 GB for $5 USD (30 days)
10 GB for $24 USD (30 days)
Airalo offers affordable eSIM options that are easy to set up, ideal for short-term visitors who require basic internet access.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Medellín
In summary, Claro and Movistar offer competitive data packages suitable for both short-term and long-term visits. However, if you are in Medellín for a brief period, consider eSIM options like Airalo for flexibility and convenience.
FAQs on Medellin Sim Cards
Q: Is it necessary to have a Colombian SIM card in Medellín?
A: No, but it makes staying connected easier and often cheaper.
Q: Do I need to unlock my phone before using a Colombian SIM card?
A: Yes, make sure your phone is unlocked to accept foreign SIM cards.
Q: What about prepaid vs postpaid?
A: Prepaid is generally more flexible and recommended for short stays.
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Our Final Thoughts and Recommendations
For the most cost-effective SIM card options in Medellín, Claro and Tigo’s prepaid plans are strong contenders. If you prefer eSIMs, Holafly and Maya offer flexible and competitive options.
Happy Travels!
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.