Uruguay
Best SIM and eSIM for Uruguay: data plans, Wi‑Fi and phone tips
Buy an Antel prepaid SIM in Montevideo or load an eSIM before you depart; both give reliable 4G coverage on the coast and decent service inland. Switch if you need more data or want a local number.
More
GuideUruguay
Key facts
- Country code
- +598
- Mobile prefixes
- 09‑xxxx‑xxxx
- Main operators
- Antel (state), Movistar, Claro
- eSIM availabilitycheck
- Antel offers eSIM profiles for tourists (check)
- Public Wi‑Fi
- Free in plazas, bus terminals, and many hotels
Quick answer
Best eSIM: Antel’s Tourist eSIM (4 GB for 30 days, US$15 ≈ €14).
If you prefer a physical SIM, buy a prepaid Antel SIM at the airport or a shop in Montevideo (10 USD for 1 GB).
Both work on most unlocked phones released after 2018.
Plan comparison
| Provider | Type | Data | Price (2026 estimate) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antel | eSIM | 4 GB | US$15 | 30 days |
| Antel | Physical SIM | 1 GB | US$10 | 30 days |
| Movistar | Physical SIM | 2 GB | US$12 | 30 days |
| Claro | Physical SIM | 2 GB | US$12 | 30 days |
Prices are approximate 2026 estimates; check local shops for current rates.
How to get connected
1. Verify your phone is unlocked and supports LTE bands 4/7/28 (used by Antel).
2. For an eSIM, purchase the Antel Tourist eSIM online (official Antel site) before you travel; you’ll receive a QR code by email.
3. Scan the QR code in Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan. Activate when you land; the SIM auto‑registers with your passport number.
4. For a physical SIM, go to a shop in Montevideo’s airport or downtown (e.g., Antel ‑ Avenida 18 de Julio). Bring your passport; the vendor will program the SIM.
5. Top‑up via Antel’s app, prepaid cards sold at kiosks, or online portals. Data bundles reload instantly.
Additional tips
- Coverage is strongest along the coast (Montevideo, Punta del Este, Colonia) and in major cities; Antel’s network is the most extensive inland.
- If you travel to remote interior (e.g., Durazno), keep a backup data pack or use Wi‑Fi in hotels.
- Free public Wi‑Fi is available in most plazas, bus terminals, and in the ferry terminals (Buquebus, Colonia Express).
- Contactless payments work widely; a local data plan helps avoid roaming fees.
FAQ
Questions people ask
What is the best eSIM for Uruguay?
Antel’s Tourist eSIM (4 GB/30 days, US$15) offers the most reliable coverage and easy activation before you fly.
Does my phone work in Uruguay?
Most unlocked smartphones from 2018 onward support the LTE bands used by Antel, Movistar and Claro. Check your device’s band list for 4, 7 or 28.
Is Wi‑Fi easy to find in Uruguay?
Yes. Free Wi‑Fi is common in city plazas, bus terminals, ferry docks and most hotels. Rural areas rely on mobile data.
Can I buy a SIM at Montevideo airport?
Yes. Antel has a shop at Carrasco International Airport. Bring your passport; the SIM is activated in minutes.
How do I top up my prepaid SIM?
Use Antel’s app, buy a prepaid card at any kiosk, or recharge online. Data bundles load instantly.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialAntel – Tourist eSIM
Ask about Uruguay
Loading…
Was this useful?