If you’re planning to visit Argentina whether to explore the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, marvel at the glaciers of Patagonia, or sip Malbec in Mendoza you’ll want a reliable way to stay connected. The easiest and most cost-effective option is a local prepaid SIM card. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Argentina’s prepaid SIM landscape, including mobile providers, coverage, prices, where to buy, and what to expect.
Why Choose a Prepaid SIM Card in Argentina?
- Affordable rates for calls, texts, and mobile data.
- No long-term contract required.
- Great for short visits or digital nomads.
- Easy to top-up anywhere in the country.
- Available at airports, kiosks, malls, and mobile stores.
Main Mobile Operators in Argentina
There are three major telecom providers offering prepaid SIM cards in Argentina:
Claro Argentina
- Network type: 4G/LTE, with 5G in major cities (limited).
- Coverage: Excellent nationwide, including remote areas like Patagonia.
- Tourist appeal: Offers strong data packages and easy SIM activation.
- Website: claro.com.ar
Popular Prepaid Plan:
- 3 GB for ARS 500 (~USD 0.50) valid for 7 days.
- Unlimited WhatsApp (text only) and social media browsing.
- Add-ons for YouTube and streaming are available
Movistar Argentina
- Network type: 4G/LTE, some 5G in Buenos Aires.
- Coverage: Very strong urban coverage; reliable in most towns.
- Tourist benefit: Widely available and foreigner-friendly.
- Website: movistar.com.ar
Popular Prepaid Plan:
- 2.5 GB for ARS 450 (~USD 0.45), valid for 7 days.
- Free social media browsing and chat apps.
- Good customer service in English.
Personal (Telecom)
- Network type: 4G/LTE, 5G emerging in capital cities.
- Coverage: Strong urban and semi-rural reach.
- Tourist bonus: Offers dedicated tourist SIM packs in-store.
- Website: personal.com.ar
Popular Prepaid Plan:
- 3 GB for ARS 480 (~USD 0.48), valid for 7 days.
- Includes 200 minutes of national calls and WhatsApp data.
- Packs available for social media and video streaming.
Coverage Map Snapshot
| Region | Claro 📶 | Movistar 📶 | Personal 📶 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅✅ |
| Patagonia | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ |
| Mendoza | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅✅ |
| Iguazú Falls | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ |
| Tierra del Fuego | ✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅✅ |
All three providers cover major cities and towns well. For remote travel, Claro generally offers the best reach.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Argentina
- Airports: Ezeiza International Airport has kiosks for Claro and Movistar (tourist-focused but more expensive).
- Shops: Official stores and franchises for all major providers are found in cities.
- Kioskos (convenience stores): Sell prepaid SIMs and recharge vouchers.
- Shopping malls: Especially in Buenos Aires and Córdoba.
Tip: Bring your passport, as SIM registration is mandatory under Argentine law.
Registration & Activation Process
Argentina has strict regulations for mobile use, so expect the following:
- ID Verification: Passport required for SIM card registration.
- SIM Activation: Usually instant, but may take up to 30 minutes.
- Phone Compatibility: Your device must support GSM 850/1900 MHz and LTE Band 4/28.
Recharge & Top-Up Methods
Recharging (or “recarga”) is simple and widely accessible:
- Via mobile apps (Claro, Mi Movistar, Mi Personal).
- Online via provider websites using international cards (some limitations).
- In-store at kiosks, pharmacies, or supermarkets.
- Using MercadoPago or similar local payment apps.
Important Notes for Tourists
- Roaming from Europe/US is expensive; avoid using your home SIM.
- Data speeds are generally good, especially in cities.
- SIM card cost is usually free or bundled into your first plan (ask in-store).
- English support is limited in kiosks but better in official stores.
Best Option for Tourists?
If you’re flying into Buenos Aires and want immediate connectivity:
- Claro and Movistar offer tourist SIM bundles at Ezeiza Airport.
- Expect to pay around ARS 1,500–2,000 (~USD 1.50–2) for a one-week plan with ~5 GB data.
- Alternatively, head to an official store in the city for cheaper plans and better advice.
Final Thoughts: Which Provider Should You Choose?
| Provider | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claro | Rural travelers | Great nationwide coverage | Slightly higher initial costs |
| Movistar | Urban connectivity | Reliable data, easy to set up | Slower in some rural regions |
| Personal | Budget-conscious users | Good value plans, streaming options | Slightly patchy rural coverage |
Argentina’s prepaid SIM card market is tourist-friendly, affordable, and efficient. Whether you’re here for a few days or a few months, grabbing a local SIM is one of the smartest ways to stay connected. Pick a provider based on your travel route and enjoy fast data without the roaming fees.