Easy Guide: Adding Bolivian Cell Numbers To Whatsapp

Bolivia has three mobile operators: Entel, Tigo, and VIVA. All three offer prepaid SIM cards that are easily accessible to travellers. To add a Bolivian cellphone to WhatsApp, you need to add the country code +591 to your phone number.

Ensure your phone meets Bolivia's technical requirements

To ensure your phone meets Bolivia's technical requirements, you need to check that it is compatible with the country's cellular frequencies.

Bolivia's 2G and 3G networks operate on 850 and 1900 MHz frequencies, while its 4G/LTE networks use different frequencies depending on the provider:

• Entel: 700 MHz (Band 13)
• Tigo: 700 MHz (Band 17) and 1700 MHz (Band 4)
• Viva: 1700 MHz (Band 4)

If your phone supports these frequencies, it will be able to connect to Bolivia's cellular networks. However, it is always a good idea to check with your phone manufacturer or carrier to confirm compatibility.

Additionally, you will need to ensure that your phone is unlocked if you plan to use a local SIM card. Most phones can be easily unlocked by contacting your carrier and requesting an unlock code. This will allow you to use a SIM card from any of Bolivia's three mobile operators: Entel, Tigo, and Viva.

It is recommended to purchase a SIM card from an official store of these operators, such as Multicentros for Entel, and register it there to avoid any issues. The SIM card prices are typically around 10 BOB (about 1.45 USD) for all three operators, although prices may vary depending on the location and current market conditions.

By ensuring your phone's compatibility with Bolivia's cellular frequencies and unlocking it for SIM card use, you can meet the technical requirements for using your phone in the country.

Get a Bolivian SIM card

There are three mobile operators in Bolivia offering prepaid SIM cards: Entel, Tigo, and VIVA. All three operators provide 4G/LTE services and have SIM cards that can be purchased for around 10 BOB (Bolivian Boliviano). Here's a breakdown of each operator:

Entel

Entel is the largest mobile operator in Bolivia and is state-owned. It offers the best overall coverage in the country, especially in remote areas. Entel SIM cards are available in their stores, as well as from resellers, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and electronic shops. You can also find Entel SIM cards at some Bolivian airports, such as the Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru International Airport. Entel provides a range of prepaid plans with data, voice, and text options.

Tigo

Tigo is the second-largest mobile operator in Bolivia. It has the best 4G/LTE coverage in the country, with reception available almost anywhere. Tigo SIM cards are available in their stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and electronic shops. Tigo SIM cards may also be available at the Santa Cruz de la Sierra-Viru Viru International Airport. They offer various prepaid plans with flexible data bundles and competitive rates.

VIVA

VIVA is the smallest mobile operator in Bolivia, but it is the fastest. Their nationwide coverage is still limited compared to Entel and Tigo. VIVA SIM cards are available in their 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 a variety of prepaid plans, and their data rates are the lowest among the three operators.

It is recommended to purchase your SIM card from an official store of the respective operator to ensure smooth registration. Additionally, remember to carry your passport for identification purposes when buying a SIM card.

Register your SIM card in a store

Registering your SIM card in a store is a straightforward process in Bolivia. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Locate an official store: Visit the branded stores of the three main mobile operators in Bolivia: Entel, Tigo, or Viva. Purchasing your SIM card and registering it at one of these official stores is recommended for a smoother process.
• Bring your passport: Remember to carry your passport with you when going to the store. You will need it for identification purposes during the registration process.
• Purchase the SIM card: SIM cards from Entel, Tigo, and Viva are typically priced at 10 BOB (about 1.45 USD). However, prices may vary depending on the store and current market rates.
• Register your SIM: After purchasing the SIM card, provide your personal information, such as name, contact details, and address, to the store representative. They will assist you in registering your SIM card on their system.
• Activate the SIM: In some cases, you may need to activate your SIM card before using it. This can often be done by calling a specific number provided by the operator or following the instructions included with your purchase.
• Top-up your credit: Once your SIM card is registered and activated, you can top up your credit by purchasing vouchers from authorised retailers, including grocery stores and pharmacies. You can also top up online or through the mobile operator's app, if available.

By following these steps, you will be able to register your SIM card in a store and start using your mobile services in Bolivia. Remember to keep your SIM card registration information up to date, as it is essential for maintaining your mobile services in the country.

Dial *109*# to top up your SIM card

To add a Bolivian cellphone to WhatsApp, you'll first need to purchase a Bolivian SIM card. SIM cards are available from Entel, Tigo & VIVA stores, as well as from some third-party stores, electronic shops and pharmacies. They typically cost 10 BOB (around $1.45 USD).

Once you have your SIM card, you can set up WhatsApp by following the app's instructions.

Topping Up Your SIM Card

To top up your SIM card, you can purchase a top-up voucher from Entel stores, grocery stores, corner shops and electronics shops. Then, simply dial *109*

You can also top up your SIM card by telling the salesperson how much credit you want and providing your phone number. They will then top up your SIM card using the POS system.

Checking Your Balance

To check your balance, dial *105#. You can also use the Entel app (available on Android and iOS) to check your balance and top up your SIM card.

Add the Bolivia country code to your phone number

To add the Bolivia country code to your phone number, you need to include the country calling code of +591. This will allow you to call Bolivia from another country. The country code is followed by an area code, which depends on the location you are calling within Bolivia. For example, the area code for Santa Cruz is 3, for Cochabamba is 4, and for La Paz is 2.

So, if you are calling a number in La Paz, your number will start with +591-2, followed by the seven-digit phone number.

Cell to cell calls within Bolivia are simple, and you just need to dial the eight-digit number. It won't matter if you're calling a cellphone from another city. However, if you are calling from a mobile phone outside of Bolivia, you will need to include the country code and area code first.

If you are calling from a mobile phone within Bolivia to a landline in another city, you must dial the single-digit area code, and then the seven-digit number. For example, if you are calling Sucre from La Paz, you would dial 0-10-4, followed by the seven-digit local landline number.

If you are travelling to Bolivia and wish to use your mobile phone, it is a good idea to purchase a local SIM card to avoid international roaming charges. SIM cards are available from Entel, Tigo, and VIVA stores, as well as some airports, electronic shops, and pharmacies.

Frequently asked questions