Can I buy a cell phone in Bolivia and use it?

Bolivia Travel Guide
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Can I buy a cell phone in Bolivia and use it?

Can I buy a Tigo phone there and buy prepaid time? I have done that in Guatemala. I know some countries require that you are a citizen to buy cell phones? How is it there?

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Can I buy a cell phone in Bolivia and use it?

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Sep 02, 2009

Mobile Phones in Bolivia
by: Pete

Yes, you can buy a mobile phone in Bolivia and they do not require you to be a citizen of Bolivia.

Another option is if you have an existing phone that uses a SIM card, you may be able to purchase a compatible SIM card in Bolivia and use one of Bolivia's cell phone companies, Entel, Viva or Telecel (Tigo). Entel usually has the best coverage in Bolivia. Before leaving home make sure your phone is unlocked so that it works. Contact your service provider to find out if it is unlocked.

SIM card chips can be bought at Entel offices or at many cell phone shops. Depending on the size you need the chips will cost around 60 bolivianos.

When on the Entel network you have to buy a pre-paid card and then you can make calls. Pre-paid cards come in denominations of 10, 20 and 50 bolivianos. These are available at Entel offices or from kiosks and some street vendors.

Mobile phones are widely used in the major cities and towns in Bolivia. Coverage is good in the larger cities, but can be poor to non-existent in rural areas.