ESIM and Phone Plans for Traveling South America
- Daniel Safra
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Traveling through Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, or anywhere in South America has never been easier—but one thing that still frustrates many visitors is staying connected. Finding a local SIM card, dealing with paperwork, long lines at the airport, or compatibility issues can turn what should be a smooth arrival into a stressful experience.
That’s why more and more travelers—especially overlanders, digital nomads, and long-distance backpackers—are switching to eSIMs. And after testing many options, the eSIM service we most often recommend is Maya.
If you're traveling in Latin America, you can check their plans here:https://maya.net/plans/latin-america/?pid=CVkG4aKvhFfI
Below, I’ll explain why an eSIM is the best choice for your trip, why Maya stands out, and how to activate it in minutes.
What Is an eSIM and Why Should You Use One in South America?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone—meaning you don’t have to buy a physical SIM, wait in line, or swap anything out. You simply scan a QR code and you're connected.
Key Advantages for Travelers:
Instant activation – connect the moment you land
No physical SIM needed – great for newer phones
Local and regional coverage – use one plan across multiple countries
No contracts, no hidden fees
Perfect for border crossings (Chile → Argentina → Bolivia, etc.)
For overlanders and road-trip travelers, this is a game changer. No more stopping in every country to find the "right" SIM card.
Why We Recommend Maya’s eSIM for South America
After comparing various international data providers, Maya stands out for several reasons:
1. Excellent coverage across Latin America
Whether you’re driving through the Atacama Desert, crossing the Andes, exploring Patagonia, or relaxing on a beach in Brazil, Maya uses strong local partner networks to keep you connected.
2. Regional plans — one eSIM for all your countries
If you're traveling through multiple countries, a single plan covers your entire route. No need to switch SIMs or worry about roaming.
3. Affordable pricing
Maya offers flexible data packages that work for short trips, long stays, or heavy data users. Their regional plans often cost less than buying separate local SIM cards in each country.
4. Fast and simple activation
Most travelers activate their eSIM in under two minutes. Just choose a plan, scan the QR code, and you're online.
5. No passport or Chilean RUT required
This is especially important for travel in Chile, where buying a physical SIM occasionally requires identity verification. With an eSIM, you avoid all of that.
Who Is This eSIM Perfect For?
Overlanders (van life, road trips, motorcycle tours)
If you're renting or buying a car through Suzi Santiago / Drive Patagonia, the Maya eSIM makes your entire journey easier. Perfect for maps, border crossings, bookings, and staying in touch.
Digital Nomads
Consistent regional connectivity without interrupting your work.
Backpackers and short-term travelers
No need to find a local SIM the moment you land.
Anyone who wants internet instantly upon arrival
Ideal for calling your pickup, checking accommodation details, or navigating out of the airport.
How to Activate Your Maya eSIM (Step-by-Step)
Visit the official page:https://maya.net/plans/latin-america/?pid=CVkG4aKvhFfI
Choose your preferred Latin America plan
Complete the purchase
Scan the QR code you receive by email
Turn on data roaming for the new eSIM
You're online—no physical SIM, no waiting, no complications
It works on most newer iPhones, Samsung, Google Pixel, and other eSIM-enabled devices.
Final Recommendation
For anyone traveling in South America—whether you're exploring Chile for a few weeks or driving across the continent—the Maya eSIM is one of the simplest, most reliable, and most affordable ways to stay connected.
We recommend purchasing and installing it before you fly, so your phone connects the moment you land.
You can view all the available Latin America plans here:https://maya.net/plans/latin-america/?pid=CVkG4aKvhFfI
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