The ability to stay connected at all times is a requirement for safety and convenience, especially when navigating a new city and using services such as Uber, Didi, and Google Maps. Purchasing a local SIM card in Medellín is a simple process that will save you from costly international roaming charges.
For Hotel Sloh guests who value efficiency and autonomy, this guide ensures you will be online from the moment you land.
1. The 3 Key Companies and Coverage
Colombia has good 4G and 5G network infrastructure, especially in urban areas such as Medellín and El Poblado.
1. Claro
• Leader in Coverage.
• Generally offers the best nationwide coverage, ideal if you plan to travel to rural areas or remote towns.
• Stores in shopping malls (Oviedo, El Tesoro) and authorized distributors.
2. Tigo
• Strong in Urban Areas.
• Good service in Medellín and metropolitan areas.
• Usually has good deals on data and minute packages.
• Stores in shopping malls and points of sale.
3. Movistar
• Good Quality.
• Direct competitor of Claro, with excellent performance in large cities.
• Official stores and authorized points of sale.
2. Where to Buy Your SIM Card
The purchase and activation of SIM cards for foreigners can be done quickly and securely at official locations.
Airport (Recommended):
You can purchase a SIM card at mobile phone stores or technology kiosks at José María Córdova International Airport (MDE) in Rionegro or Olaya Herrera Airport (local). This is the most convenient way to stay connected from the start.
Official Stores / Shopping Centers:
The large shopping malls in El Poblado (Oviedo, El Tesoro, Santa Fe) have official Claro, Tigo, and Movistar stores. The staff here is trained to activate cards for foreigners.
Neighborhood Stores (Caution):
Although some neighborhood stores and pharmacies sell SIM cards, activation for foreigners (which requires passport registration) is more reliable at official locations.
3. Activation Process for Foreigners
To activate a prepaid line, Colombian law requires user identification.
Present your passport: You must present your original passport for registration.
Registration and Activation: The salesperson will register your identification number and activate the SIM card in the system.
IMEI Registration (Important): If you plan to stay for more than 30 days, you must register your cell phone's IMEI with the company. If you do not, the line may be blocked after one month for security reasons. Check with your provider if this needs to be done at the point of sale.
4. Data Plans (Prepaid for Tourists)
Prepaid is the best option for tourists.
Daily/Weekly Packages: Companies offer data and minute packages that last 7, 15, or 30 days. For example, a 30-day plan with unlimited data and domestic minutes usually costs between $60,000 and $80,000 COP (depending on the company and offer).
Minutes and Messages: Most packages include unlimited minutes to Colombian numbers and, sometimes, minutes to the United States or Canada.
Recharge: Once you run out of data, you can recharge your balance at thousands of authorized locations (supermarkets, neighborhood stores, etc.) or through the companies' mobile apps.
Sloh: Effortless Connectivity
Digital nomads and slow travelers depend on the mobile network to transition between work and leisure.
Backup WiFi: At Hotel Sloh, you will have high-speed WiFi at all times for your work. The SIM card acts as an excellent backup when you are away from the property.
Location in Manila: You are in an area with a high density of services (El Poblado), which guarantees excellent 4G/5G coverage and quick access to stores for shopping and recharging.
Connect, relax, and explore the city with the peace of mind of having internet in your pocket.