Verified Facts
In Chile, you can expect a well-developed internet infrastructure with good connectivity options, including a range of mobile network providers and widespread WiFi availability.
Quick Facts
Internet Overview
Chile has a relatively high level of internet penetration, with over 80% of the population having access to the internet. The internet quality in urban areas such as Santiago is generally good, with fast speeds and reliable connections. However, there is a significant urban-rural divide, with rural areas often experiencing slower speeds and less reliable connections. Despite this, the overall internet infrastructure in Chile is well-developed, with a range of internet service providers offering a variety of plans and packages to suit different needs and budgets.
The reliability of the internet in Chile is generally good, with minimal downtime and a strong network infrastructure. This makes it an attractive destination for digital nomads and remote workers, who can stay connected and productive while enjoying the country's unique culture and natural beauty. However, as with any country, there may be occasional outages or disruptions, particularly in rural areas. Overall, Chile's internet infrastructure is well-suited to support the needs of tourists, businesses, and residents alike.
Getting a SIM Card
Getting a SIM card in Chile is relatively straightforward, with a range of options available for tourists and travelers. The main carriers, Entel, Movistar, and Claro, all offer SIM cards and prepaid plans that can be purchased at airports, stores, and other locations throughout the country. To buy a SIM card, you will typically need to provide a valid passport and proof of address, although some carriers may have additional requirements. It's a good idea to research the different options and plans available before making a purchase, as prices and data allowances can vary significantly.
| Carrier | Tourist Plan | Data | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entel | Tourist Plan | 5GB | 15 | Includes international calls and texts |
| Movistar | Prepaid Plan | 10GB | 20 | Includes access to Movistar's WiFi network |
| Claro | Chile Plan | 3GB | 10 | Includes international calls and texts |
| Virgin Mobile | Tourist Plan | 2GB | 5 | Includes access to Virgin Mobile's WiFi network |
WiFi Availability
- Hotel WiFi quality is generally good, with most hotels and hostels offering free WiFi to guests
- Cafe WiFi culture is widespread, with many cafes and coffee shops offering free WiFi to customers
- Coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular, with many locations throughout Santiago and other major cities offering fast and reliable WiFi
- Public WiFi is available in many parks and public spaces, although the quality and reliability can vary
- Many restaurants and bars also offer free WiFi to customers, making it easy to stay connected while enjoying the local cuisine and nightlife
For Remote Workers
- Coworking spaces such as WeWork and Regus offer fast and reliable WiFi, as well as a range of other amenities and services
- Reliable cafe chains such as Starbucks and Cafe Rio offer good WiFi and a comfortable working environment
- Backup internet options such as mobile hotspots and portable WiFi routers can be useful in case of an outage or disruption
- VPNs can be useful for remote workers who need to access sensitive information or connect to company networks
- Many coworking spaces and cafes also offer other amenities such as meeting rooms, printers, and scanners, making it easy to stay productive while working remotely
Tips & Warnings
- Internet censorship is relatively low in Chile, although some sites may be blocked or restricted
- VPN use is not restricted, and can be a useful tool for accessing sensitive information or connecting to company networks
- Roaming alternatives such as eSIM and international roaming plans can be expensive, so it's a good idea to research options before traveling
- Public WiFi networks can be vulnerable to hacking and other security threats, so it's a good idea to use a VPN and keep software up to date
- Some carriers may have restrictions on certain types of content or activity, such as torrenting or streaming, so it's a good idea to check the terms and conditions before signing up for a plan
- [CALLOUT] Be sure to research and understand the terms and conditions of your SIM card or WiFi plan before making a purchase, as some carriers may have restrictions or limitations on certain types of activity.