Whatsapp In Bolivia: Adding A Cell Phone Number

If you're looking to add a Bolivian phone number to WhatsApp, there are a few ways to go about it. Firstly, it's important to note that WhatsApp requires a phone number to sign up, but it doesn't have to be a mobile number. You can use a landline or a free phone number from an app like TextNow. This is especially useful if you're concerned about privacy and don't want to share your regular phone number.

If you're travelling to Bolivia and want to get a local SIM card, it's recommended to purchase one from either Entel or VIVA, the two largest mobile operators in the country. SIM cards are cheap and easily available in Entel, Tigo, and VIVA stores, as well as other places like electronic shops and pharmacies. You can also find them at the Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru International Airport, but they may be more expensive there. Keep in mind that registration may be required for your SIM card, so it's best to do the initial purchase and registration in a store, and don't forget to bring your passport.

Alternatively, if you want to avoid the hassle of buying a local SIM card, you can get a plan with your current carrier that allows you to make emergency calls or receive texts while in Bolivia. This option may be more convenient, especially if you're travelling to multiple countries in South America.

Get a local SIM card to use WhatsApp

If you want to use WhatsApp in Bolivia, getting a local SIM card is a great option. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get set up:

• Choose a mobile operator: Bolivia has three main mobile operators: Entel, Tigo, and Viva. Entel is the largest and has the best overall coverage, especially in remote areas. Tigo offers good 4G/LTE coverage and Viva is the fastest but has more limited nationwide coverage.
• Purchase your SIM card: You can buy SIM cards from official stores of Entel, Tigo, and Viva, as well as some third-party stores like electronic shops and pharmacies. SIM cards typically cost around 10 BOB (about 1.45 USD), but prices may be higher at airports. It's recommended to buy from branded stores for smoother registration.
• Register your SIM card: In Bolivia, you are required to register your SIM card. It's best to do this in person at a store of the operator. Remember to bring your passport for identification.
• Top-up your SIM card: All three operators offer various top-up options. You can buy vouchers from their stores or other authorised locations, and top up by dialling a code or through their mobile apps. Entel and Tigo also offer online top-ups with international debit and credit cards.
• Activate WhatsApp: With your local number and SIM card, you can now activate and use WhatsApp. Simply download the app, verify your phone number, and set up your profile.

By following these steps, you'll be able to get a local SIM card and use WhatsApp in Bolivia. This option provides affordable rates and a more reliable connection compared to international roaming.

Register your SIM card in Bolivia

Registering your SIM card in Bolivia is a straightforward process, but it's recommended that you do it in person at a store of the operator whose SIM card you have purchased. You will need to bring your passport with you.

If you have purchased a Tigo SIM card, you can register by dialing *108# and following the instructions in Spanish, or by going online. If you are unable to understand the Spanish instructions, you can call *555 and ask for instructions in English. Alternatively, you can visit a Tigo point in downtown Bolivia and ask someone nearby to help you with registration by calling *611 or *555 and speaking on your behalf. You will need to provide your ID or passport number.

If you have purchased an Entel SIM card, you can activate the card online by logging in and selecting the "Registro" option. For login, select "TELÉFONO", and use your new SIM card number and PIN. You can obtain the PIN by calling *122# and selecting the first option.

If you have purchased a Viva SIM card, you can activate it by calling 100.

Set up WhatsApp with a landline number

Setting up WhatsApp with a landline number is possible, but there are some limitations and drawbacks. Firstly, it's important to note that you can only use a landline number with WhatsApp Business, not the standard WhatsApp Messenger app. This means it's mainly designed for professional or business use, and you won't be able to use it for personal chats.

Here's a step-by-step guide to setting up WhatsApp with a landline number:

Step 1: Download and Install WhatsApp Business

Go to your device's app store and download WhatsApp Business. This is a separate app from the standard WhatsApp Messenger and is designed specifically for business use.

Step 2: Open the App and Select Your Language

Once the app is installed, open it and select your preferred language. Then tap "Agree and Continue" to proceed.

Step 3: Enter Your Country Code and Landline Number

On the next screen, you will be asked to enter your phone number. First, select your country from the drop-down list, which will automatically fill in the country code. Then, enter your landline number without the initial '0'. Make sure you enter the correct landline number as this will be linked to your account.

Step 4: Request a Phone Call for Verification

WhatsApp will attempt to verify your number by sending an SMS with a verification code. Since a landline typically cannot receive text messages, you will need to request a phone call instead. Tap "Call Me" and wait for the call to come through on your landline.

Step 5: Receive the Phone Call and Enter the Verification Code

When you receive the phone call, an automated voice will read out the 6-digit verification code. Make a note of this code and enter it into the app. This will verify your landline number and allow you to proceed with the setup.

Step 6: Complete Your Profile Setup

Once the verification is complete, you can finish setting up your profile. This includes adding a profile picture, your company name, and any other relevant business information.

After completing these steps, you will be able to use WhatsApp Business with your landline number. Keep in mind that this setup is specifically for business use, so it may not be suitable for personal chats or communications outside of your professional contacts.

Additionally, it's important to note that not everyone has a landline number, and setting up WhatsApp with a landline may incur additional costs, especially if you need to set up a new landline service. There are alternative options, such as using a virtual phone number service, which can provide more flexibility and potentially lower costs.

Use a third-party app to get a free phone number

There are several third-party apps that can help you get a free phone number for WhatsApp. Here are some options:

TextNow

TextNow is a reliable app that works on both Android and iOS devices. Here's how to use it to get a free phone number for WhatsApp:

• Install the TextNow app on your device.
• Launch the app and enter your area code. The app will generate five different virtual phone number options for you to choose from.
• Select a number and complete the setup.
• Install WhatsApp on your phone and perform its setup. Make sure to enter the temporary number generated by TextNow.
• Wait for the SMS verification to fail and choose to receive a phone call instead.
• Keep the TextNow app running in the background. You will receive an authentication call on your TextNow number, stating the verification code for WhatsApp.
• Once you have the verification code, launch WhatsApp and complete the initial setup.
• VirtualPhone.com

VirtualPhone.com is another option to get a free virtual number for WhatsApp. Here's how to use it:

• Go to the VirtualPhone.com website and sign up for an account.
• Choose the country and area code for your desired phone number.
• Select a virtual phone number from the available options.
• Follow the instructions to set up your virtual number.
• Use this virtual number during the WhatsApp setup process and receive the verification code.
• Numero eSIM

Numero eSIM offers a free US virtual phone number that can be used for WhatsApp verification. Here's how to use it:

• Download the Numero eSIM app.
• Follow the instructions to get a free US virtual phone number.
• Use this virtual number during the WhatsApp setup process and receive the verification code.
• Google Voice

Google Voice is another option to get a free virtual number, but it is only available in the US and Canada. Here's how to use it:

• Download the Google Voice and WhatsApp applications from the App Store or Google Play Store.
• Sign up and obtain a Google Voice Number.
• Verify your Google Voice Number with your actual phone number.
• Set up WhatsApp with your Google Voice Number. If you already have WhatsApp set up with your current number, you'll need to reinstall WhatsApp.
• Open WhatsApp and select the location where your Google Voice number is located.
• Enter your Google Voice number and verify it.
• Enter the verification code you receive either through a message or voicemail notification on your Google Voice dashboard.
• Grizzly Sms

Grizzly Sms is a virtual SMS activation service that provides free temporary phone numbers for WhatsApp. Here's how to use it:

• Go to the Grizzly Sms website and select one of the available countries of mobile operators.
• Choose one of the available numbers and copy it.
• Download, install, and launch the WhatsApp application.
• Sign up on the WhatsApp website, indicating the copied WhatsApp number.
• Return to the Grizzly Sms page and find the authorization code in the list of SMS received on the used number.
• If the number has already been used, try a different number or country, or wait for new available numbers to appear.

Buy a Bolivian SIM card at the airport

If you want to buy a Bolivian SIM card at the airport, you can do so at the Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru International Airport (VVI). This is a convenient option if you want to ensure you're connected as soon as you arrive in Bolivia. However, please note that SIM cards purchased at the airport may be more expensive than those bought elsewhere.

The SIM cards sold at the airport are typically "tourist SIM cards," and the prices may be inflated compared to purchasing a SIM card from a local provider in the city. The standard price for a Bolivian SIM card from providers such as Entel, Tigo, or VIVA is around 10 BOB (about 1.45 USD). These providers offer a range of prepaid plans with data, voice, and text options, and you can also purchase SIM cards from their retail stores or authorized dealers in the city.

Therefore, if you're not in a hurry, you may want to wait until you get to the city to buy your Bolivian SIM card. There are kiosks and phone shops in La Paz and Santa Cruz de la Sierra where you can find more affordable options with better packages. Remember to bring your passport, as you will need to register when purchasing a SIM card in Bolivia.

Frequently asked questions