Uruguay is one of South America’s most connected and stable countries, with good mobile coverage from Montevideo to the beach resorts of Punta del Este and across the interior. Travellers can use a local prepaid SIM or a travel eSIM, riding a modern network where 5G is now a real option in the capital.
Networks & coverage
Three operators serve Uruguay: the state-owned Antel (with the widest national and coastal coverage), Movistar and Claro. Antel is the most reliable for rural and coastal areas, while all three deliver strong 4G LTE in towns and along main roads. 5G has been rolling out in Montevideo and major urban centres since 2023, so capital-based travellers may see 5G speeds, though most travel eSIMs still run on 4G.
eSIM or physical SIM?
A travel eSIM is the simplest choice and connects on arrival at Carrasco (MVD); plans typically use Antel, Movistar or Claro. Local prepaid SIMs are available from Antel and the other operators, though physical-SIM tourist value is weaker than the eSIM market here, where competition keeps prices low. Passport registration applies for local SIMs.
Data, calls & messaging
Travel eSIMs from Airalo and Holafly are data-only — use WhatsApp or similar apps for calls and texts. Local Antel prepaid plans bundle data with minutes and SMS. For most visitors, a data eSIM plus app-based calling covers everything needed for a short trip.
How much data do you need?
A week of maps, messaging and social media is comfortable on 3–5 GB. Longer stays or streaming favour 10 GB or unlimited. Light users relying on Wi-Fi can manage with 1–3 GB.
Available plans
15 plans available
Prices here are listed in more than one currency — the range is compared against each group in its own currency, values are not converted.
Data last verified: Jul 3, 2026
SIM and eSIM plans in Uruguay — operator, plan, data, validity, network, type and price.
Plans shown are indicative samples for reference. Confirm current pricing, data allowances, and coverage with each provider before purchasing.
Compare with other countries
How we compile this data
Plan data is compiled from the public pricing pages of mobile operators, MVNOs, and eSIM providers serving each destination.
Listings are reviewed by the DROAM telecom desk and kept neutral — we surface a representative sample of options rather than promote any single provider.
Operators change allowances and pricing frequently, so we update entries as plans change and always link out to the provider for the current offer.
Networks & coverage
8 operators appear in the plans listed for Uruguay:
Airalo
Holafly
Saily
Antel
Movistar
MyDataSim
Xipo Flex
Weconnect
Network technology available across these plans: 4G, 5G.
Good to know
The lowest-cost option listed is Airalo at $4.50 for 1 GB over 7 days.
eSIM plans activate instantly by scanning a QR code — no SIM swap or local store visit needed.
A physical SIM can be the better choice for older phones that do not support eSIM.
Check that your phone is carrier-unlocked before buying, and match the data allowance to your trip length.
