Verified Facts
In Peru, you can expect to find a relatively well-developed internet infrastructure, with widespread coverage in urban areas and a growing number of options for getting online, including SIM cards and WiFi.
Quick Facts
Internet Overview
The internet in Peru is generally of good quality, with average download speeds of around 15 Mbps, although this can vary depending on the location and the service provider. In urban areas such as Lima, the internet is widely available and reliable, with many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offering free WiFi. However, in rural areas, the internet can be slower and less reliable, with limited coverage and a greater reliance on mobile networks. The urban-rural divide in terms of internet access is a significant issue in Peru, with many rural communities lacking access to fast and reliable internet.
Despite these challenges, the Peruvian government has made efforts to improve internet access in recent years, including the launch of a national broadband plan aimed at increasing access to high-speed internet in rural areas. As a result, the internet is becoming increasingly available and affordable, with many Peruvians now using the internet to access a range of services, including online banking, shopping, and education. However, the reliability of the internet can still be a problem, with outages and slow speeds common during peak hours or in areas with high demand.
Getting a SIM Card
Getting a SIM card in Peru is relatively straightforward, with many mobile providers offering prepaid plans and tourist SIM cards. The main carriers, including Claro, Movistar, and Entel, have stores and kiosks in major cities and towns, where you can purchase a SIM card and register for a plan. To buy a SIM card, you will need to provide a valid passport and proof of address, and you may also need to register your SIM card with the authorities. The cost of a tourist SIM card is around 10 USD, and data plans start from around 5 USD per month for 1GB of data.
It's worth noting that some carriers may offer better coverage and service in certain areas, so it's a good idea to research the different options and choose a carrier that meets your needs. For example, Claro has a strong presence in urban areas, while Movistar has better coverage in rural areas. You can also purchase SIM cards at airports, bus stations, and other tourist areas, making it easy to get connected as soon as you arrive in the country.
| Carrier | Tourist Plan | Data | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claro | Tourist Plan | 1GB | 5 | Valid for 30 days |
| Movistar | Prepaid Plan | 2GB | 10 | Valid for 30 days |
| Entel | Tourist SIM | 3GB | 15 | Valid for 30 days |
| Bitel | Prepaid Plan | 1GB | 3 | Valid for 7 days |
WiFi Availability
- Hotel WiFi is generally of good quality, with many hotels offering free WiFi to guests
- Cafe WiFi culture is widespread, with many cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi to customers
- Coworking spaces are becoming increasingly popular, with many cities now having at least one coworking space with fast and reliable WiFi
- Public WiFi is available in many parks and public areas, although the quality can be variable
- Many shopping malls and supermarkets also offer free WiFi, making it easy to stay connected on the go
For Remote Workers
- Coworking spaces such as WeWork and Regus offer fast and reliable WiFi, as well as other amenities such as meeting rooms and printers
- Reliable cafe chains such as Starbucks and Cafe Britt offer good WiFi and a comfortable working environment
- Backup internet options such as portable WiFi hotspots and mobile networks can be useful in case of an outage or slow speeds
- VPNs can be necessary to access certain websites and services, and to protect your data when using public WiFi
- Many cities in Peru have a growing expat and digital nomad community, with many resources and events available for remote workers
Tips & Warnings
- Internet censorship is relatively low in Peru, but some websites and services may be blocked
- VPN use is recommended to protect your data and access certain websites and services
- Roaming alternatives such as portable WiFi hotspots and local SIM cards can be more cost-effective than using your home carrier's roaming service
- eSIM options are becoming increasingly available, making it easy to get connected without needing a physical SIM card
- Be aware of your data usage and avoid using public WiFi for sensitive activities such as online banking
- Research your carrier and plan carefully to ensure you get the best coverage and service for your needs