Data Plans In Bolivia: A Traveler's Guide

Bolivia is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, and staying connected while travelling through the country is essential. There are several options for data plans in Bolivia, including local SIM cards and eSIM cards. Local SIM cards are available from Entel, Tigo, and Viva, and typically cost between BOB 10 and BOB 50, depending on the provider and plan chosen. Data plans usually start from BOB 30 for smaller bundles. eSIM cards, on the other hand, offer convenience and flexibility, allowing users to get connected without the need for a physical card. eSIM cards for Bolivia are offered by providers such as GigSky, Holafly, and Nomad, providing high-speed data and seamless connectivity.

eSIMs are available for Bolivia, including from providers GigSky, Holafly, and Nomad

GigSky

GigSky offers a range of eSIM plans for Bolivia, including fixed data amounts and unlimited data options. Their plans are compatible with smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches that support eSIM technology. GigSky's eSIMs can be easily set up and activated before travelling, providing a fast, reliable, and stable internet connection.

Holafly

Holafly provides unlimited data eSIM plans for Bolivia, allowing travellers to stay connected without worrying about data limits. Their eSIMs are compatible with smartphones that have eSIM technology enabled, and they offer good coverage in the main cities and tourist destinations. Holafly's plans are customizable, allowing users to choose the duration that fits their needs.

Nomad

Nomad offers a 7-day, 1 GB eSIM plan for Bolivia, providing travellers with data access for a week.

With these eSIM options, visitors to Bolivia can stay connected and easily access the internet during their stay.

Bolivia has three mobile operators: Entel, Tigo, and VIVA

Entel

Entel, short for Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones, is the largest mobile operator in Bolivia, with the best overall performance and the biggest market share in the country. It is state-owned and offers the best coverage in Bolivia, with its 4G/LTE coverage being less extensive than Tigo's. However, 2G and 3G reception can be found almost anywhere throughout the country. Entel SIM cards are available for 10 BOB in Entel stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and electronic shops. They are also available at Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru and La Paz-El Alto International Airports. Entel offers five data-featured prepaid plans: Combo Navegador/Browser Combos, Combo Hablador/Talking Combos, Paquetes Diarios/Daily Packages, Mix Paquetes/Mix Packages, and Paquetes Mensuales/Monthly Packages.

Tigo

Tigo is the second-largest mobile operator in Bolivia. It merged with TELECEL Bolivia in 2005, gaining many customers. Tigo has the best 4G/LTE coverage in Bolivia, with reception almost anywhere. Tigo SIM cards are available for 10 BOB in Tigo stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and electronic shops. They may also be available at the Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru International Airport. Tigo offers only one data-featured prepaid plan: PaqueTigos, which includes 24 Horas, Larga duración, and Nocturno PaqueTigos options.

VIVA

VIVA, formerly known as Nuevatel, is the smallest mobile operator in Bolivia, but it is the fastest. VIVA has the worst coverage in the country, with limited nationwide coverage compared to its competitors. VIVA SIM cards are available for 10 BOB with 10 BOB credit (60 days) in VIVA stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and electronic shops. They may also be available at the Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru International Airport. VIVA offers only one data-featured prepaid plan: Yeii Prepago, which includes options for data, voice, and text at competitive prices.

SIM cards are cheap in Bolivia, costing around 1.45 USD

Bolivia is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, and staying connected while travelling through the country is essential. The good news is that SIM cards are cheap in Bolivia, costing around 1.45 USD (10 BOB). You can purchase a SIM card from one of the three main providers in Bolivia: Entel, Tigo, or Viva. All three providers offer prepaid plans with data, voice, and text options, and they have stores in major cities and airports.

It is recommended to purchase your SIM card from a branded store to ensure smooth registration. You will need to register your SIM card in Bolivia, so make sure to bring your passport when you go to buy one.

The cost of SIM cards in Bolivia can vary between 1.45 USD and 3.70 USD (10 BOB to 25 BOB), depending on the provider and the included benefits. Data plans typically start from around 4.35 USD (30 BOB) for smaller bundles, with options for larger data volumes at higher prices.

In addition to the three main providers, there are also some other options for purchasing a SIM card in Bolivia, such as mobile network stores, convenience stores, or other retail outlets. This option allows you to compare plans in person and select the best option for your needs.

Overall, getting a SIM card in Bolivia is a straightforward process and a great way to stay connected during your travels.

SIM cards can be purchased at official stores, airports, electronic shops, and pharmacies

When purchasing a SIM card in Bolivia, it is recommended to do so at a branded store to ensure a smooth registration process. SIM cards can be purchased at official stores, airports, electronic shops, and pharmacies.

Official stores for the three network providers in Bolivia are as follows:

• Entel: Multicentro Entel
• Tigo: Tigo oficinas or agencias
• Viva: Viva shops or outlets

SIM cards are also available at Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) and La Paz-El Alto International Airport.

The price of a SIM card in Bolivia typically ranges from BOB 10 to BOB 50, depending on the provider and plan chosen. It is recommended to bring your passport for identification purposes when purchasing a SIM card.

Bolivia has good 4G/LTE coverage, with Entel and Tigo offering the best coverage

Entel, the state-owned incumbent provider, offers the best overall coverage, even in remote areas. It started with 4G/LTE on 700 MHz (B13) in 2014 in the cities of La Paz, El Alto, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba. Its 4G footprint has since expanded to other departmental capital cities and larger cities. Entel had a 44% market share in 2015.

Tigo, the second provider in Bolivia with a 29% market share, offers the fastest network performance speeds. It was the first to deploy 4G/LTE in 2013, which has spread to at least one city in each of Bolivia's eleven departments. Tigo's 4G coverage is on bands 4 (1700 MHz) and 17 (700 MHz).

Viva, the smallest provider with a 27% market share, offers the lowest data prices where it has coverage. It was the last to start 4G/LTE in the summer of 2015 in the La Paz area. Its 4G coverage is on band 4.

While Bolivia has good 4G/LTE coverage, the coverage and speeds can vary depending on location and are generally a bit lower than in neighboring countries. However, operators are investing heavily to improve their networks.

Frequently asked questions