Last checked: 25 October 2026 by Lia. Sources: Operator websites. Hero photo: I.D. R.J., CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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Install an eSIM on Wi-Fi before you fly, then switch it on when you land. That is the least annoying way to have data in Medellín. A local SIM from Claro, Movistar or Tigo is cheaper per gigabyte and costs you a shop visit and your passport. Check that the phone is unlocked and that it actually supports eSIM. Plenty of people only find out at the airport.
eSIM or local SIM?
Get an eSIM if your phone supports it.
| eSIM | Local SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Before you fly | In a store |
| Cost | Higher per GB | Cheaper |
| Number | Usually data only | Local number |
Coverage
Coverage is good in the city. It gets patchy once you are out in the hills, including around Guatapé. Download the map before you leave the valley.
Tips
- Check your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.
- Install it on Wi-Fi before you fly.
- Bring your passport if you buy a local SIM.
Frequently asked questions
Does my phone support eSIM?
Most recent iPhones and many Android phones do. Check the settings, not a forum from 2019.
Should I buy a local SIM instead?
If you want a Colombian number or the lowest price per gigabyte, yes. For a short trip, the eSIM is the one I would bother with.
