Belize's Digicell Micro Sim Card Options Explored

Belize has two mobile operators: DigiCell, a subsidiary and mobile division of the national carrier Belize Telemedia Limited, and Smart!, a newcomer to the market. DigiCell offers a range of prepaid plans with varying data allowances, while Smart! offers a tourist SIM card with unlimited data. Both networks offer 3G and 4G services and provide good signal coverage in major cities and tourist locations. SIM cards in Belize are available in three different sizes: standard, micro, and nano.

DigiCell Tourist SIM

DigiCell offers a range of options for tourists visiting Belize who want to stay connected.

Purchasing a SIM Card

DigiCell SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, in convenience stores, service stations, and at the Belize Telemedia Limited office in town. The SIM card costs $22.50 BZD ($11.25 USD) and includes $10.00 BZD worth of credit.

It is important to note that Belize has a mandatory registration scheme for mobile users, so you will need to provide an ID or passport when purchasing the SIM card. Additionally, SIM cards come in different sizes, so ensure you know which size your phone requires (Standard SIM, Micro SIM, or Nano SIM).

Topping Up Credit

With DigiCell, you can buy a certain amount of credit that lasts for 30 days and can be extended by "Topping Up" your credit for as low as $2.00 BZD. Local calls to other DigiCell numbers cost $0.47 BZD, while calls to other local carriers cost $0.50 BZD. Incoming calls are free.

You can top up your credit online using a credit card or at agents. Press *10 to recharge your account using top-up cards, and press *20 to check your account balance.

Data Plans

DigiCell offers various prepaid data plans to suit your needs. For example, they have a 24-hour plan of 225 MB for $2.00 BZD and a 30-day plan of 5000 MB (5GB) for $40.00 BZD ($20.00 USD). You can purchase data directly from your phone using your phone credit.

DigiCell also offers postpaid plans with unlimited talk & text and various data amounts.

On-Net and Off-Net Calling

DigiCell provides both Local On-Net Calling and Local Off-Net and International Calling options. However, please note that international calls and SMS are only included in specific plans, such as the Traveler 30 plan, which offers unlimited Digicel-to-Digicel calls and SMS.

Coverage

DigiCell offers 3G and 4G services and provides good signal coverage in major cities and tourist locations such as Belize City, San Ignacio, and San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. However, due to the limited number of telecommunication operators in Belize, you may not get high-speed coverage compared to other Central American countries.

Tips for Using Your DigiCell SIM Card in Belize

• Ensure your phone is unlocked before using a DigiCell SIM card in Belize.
• Adjust your data usage settings to monitor your data consumption and avoid running out of credit unexpectedly.
• Set your cloud backup services (iCloud, Dropbox, or Google Photos) to backup only when on WiFi to save data.
• Disable automatic downloads for podcasts and app updates to prevent unnecessary data usage.
• Download offline Google Maps before your trip to navigate without using data.
• Consider purchasing a larger data plan than you think you need to avoid running out of data during your trip.

By following these tips and choosing the DigiCell Tourist SIM options that suit your needs, you can stay connected and enjoy your vacation in Belize.

DigiCell SIM card cost

DigiCell offers a range of prepaid SIM card options for tourists visiting Belize. The cost of a DigiCell SIM card varies depending on the plan chosen and the amount of data, talk time, and text messages included. Here is an overview of the DigiCell SIM card cost and plan details:

• A DigiCell SIM card for a new number costs $22.50 Belize Dollars ($11.25 USD) and includes $10 worth of credit. This SIM card can be purchased at the Belize Telemedia Limited office.
• DigiCell offers various prepaid data plans with different data allowances. For example, a 24-hour plan with 225 MB of data costs $2 Belize Dollars, while a 30-day plan with 5 GB of data costs $40 Belize Dollars ($20 USD).
• DigiCell also offers combo plans that include data, talk time, and text messages. The cost of these plans varies depending on the inclusions. For example, a 3-day plan with 300 minutes of on-net local talk and 1 GB of data is available as part of the Prime Brawta Bundle.
• DigiCell's prepaid SIM Pack, which includes an activated SIM card, phone number, and a $10 prepaid voucher, is available for $20 at BTL Customer Services Centers and authorized dealers and agents.
• Tourists can also purchase a DigiCell Vacation SIM card, which offers talk time, text messages, and data valid for a specified number of days. The cost of the Vacation SIM varies depending on the inclusions, with options ranging from $12 to $50 USD.

It is important to note that the Belizean government has introduced a 12.5% general sales tax on internet and data services, which is included in the prices offered by DigiCell. Additionally, DigiCell requires customers to register their SIM cards with a valid ID or passport.

DigiCell coverage

DigiCell is the largest mobile operator in Belize and offers good coverage throughout the country and certain marine areas close to major coastal population centres. However, reception may be lacking in rural areas, with some users reporting no coverage at all in these regions.

DigiCell operates on the GSM dual-band 850/1900 MHz technology and the 4G LTE network provided by Huawei infrastructure. DigiCell's 2G/EDGE is on 1900 MHz and 3G/HSPA, which is still marketed as "4G", is on 850 MHz. Real 4G/LTE started in 2016 on the 700 (B13) and 1900 (B2) MHz bands.

DigiCell offers both post-paid and pre-paid plans. Post-paid plans are attractive to business people, Belizeans or expatriates as the cell number is permanent. DigiCell also offers DigiNet Bundle plans which provide twice the speed of its previous offerings at half the cost.

DigiCell's 4G/LTE access requires a new uSIM, which can be swapped for free against an old SIM in one of their offices.

DigiCell top-up options

DigiCell offers a wide range of top-up options for its customers, ensuring that they can stay connected without any hassles. Here are some of the ways you can top up your DigiCell phone in Belize:

Direct Top-Up:

This option allows customers to visit specified retail outlets, pay the cashier the desired amount, and have the top-up value credited directly to their phone. No vouchers or pins are required. Customers can purchase any variable value, such as $12, $32, or $48, and are not restricted to specific denominations.

Prepaid Cards:

Prepaid cards are available at any Digi offices countrywide in denominations of $5 and $10. To top up your phone, simply enter the unique pin found on the card.

Authorised Agents:

You can use the Direct TopUp option with authorised agents. Provide your DigiCell Prepaid number and the desired recharge amount, and the credit will automatically be added to your account.

Online Top-Up:

DigiCell offers online top-up options through third-party sites such as Ding, My Top Ups, and e-Top Up. Payment can be made using a Visa or MasterCard.

International Top-Up:

Digicel's International Top-Up service allows you to add credit to a Digicel mobile phone number in Belize from abroad. This is perfect for staying in touch with loved ones back home or ensuring they have sufficient credit while travelling. You can use the Digicel International Website or App to send top-ups instantly.

AutoPay:

With AutoPay, you can set up recurring top-ups to ensure your DigiCell plan never expires. This feature provides peace of mind and guarantees that you always stay connected.

These top-up options offered by DigiCell provide flexibility and convenience, allowing customers to choose the method that best suits their needs and ensuring they can stay connected without interruption.

DigiCell vs Smart

DigiCell and Smart! are the two mobile network operators in Belize. DigiCell is a subsidiary and mobile division of Belize Telemedia Limited, the country's leading state-owned telecommunications company. Smart! is a newcomer to the market, having entered the industry after the government opened it up to competition in 2005. Smart! is owned by SpeedNet Communications.

Both DigiCell and Smart! offer 3G and 4G services, with good signal coverage in major cities and tourist locations such as Belize City, San Ignacio, and San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. However, due to the near-monopoly of Belize Telemedia Limited, coverage at high speeds may not be as extensive as in other Central American countries. Additionally, data prices in Belize tend to be higher than in some European countries.

DigiCell offers various prepaid plans with different data allowances, catering to those who prioritize internet access over calls and texts. Their prepaid data plans range from a 24-hour plan with 225 MB of data for $2.00 to a 30-day plan with 5000 MB (5GB) for $40.00 BZD ($20.00 USD). DigiCell also provides post-paid plans, which are attractive to businesspeople, locals, and expatriates as they offer a permanent cell number. Additionally, DigiCell provides IPTV and internet fibre services, with speeds of up to 120 Mbps.

Smart!, on the other hand, advertises a tourist SIM for travellers, which includes a combination of calls, texts, and unlimited data. Their two options include $45 for $35 worth of calls, 130 SMS, and unlimited data for 10 days, or $20 for $11 worth of calls, 25 SMS, and unlimited data for 24 hours. Smart! also offers prepaid data packages for 3G and 4G/LTE networks, with prices ranging from $5 to $100.

In terms of SIM card availability, DigiCell SIM cards can be purchased at Belize Telemedia Limited offices, convenience stores, and service stations. Smart! SIM cards are available in their stores, and at the main international airport in Belize. Both companies offer SIM cards in various sizes, including standard, micro, and nano, ensuring compatibility with different phone models.

Frequently asked questions