Buying a SIM Card in Curaçao – Internet Plans
BUYING A SIM CARD IN CURACAO
If your cell phone is unlocked or has open bands, you can insert either SIM card and start making calls or using the internet right away.
If your phone isn't unlocked, you won't be able to use any SIM card other than the one from your original carrier (which means you'll have to use international roaming or buy another unlocked phone that is compatible with the frequencies listed above).
In short, the two options for making calls at local rates or activating a data plan are to get a SIM card from Digicel or Chippie.
Below, I will break down the most relevant information about these two telecommunications providers:
DIGICEL:
This carrier offers a 4G/LTE network for its customers on Band 3 (1800 MHz). It operates in both Curaçao and Bonaire. The network quality is generally quite good. Some beaches in the northwestern part of Curaçao are largely not covered by the 4G/LTE network. On clear days, the network can even be received on Klein Curaçao (which is about 11 km off the coast of Curaçao).
You can purchase a Digicel SIM card for 25 ANG, which includes 250 MB of data, 25 on-net minutes, and 25 on-net text messages, at Digicel stores or from resellers, including electronics stores. They are also available at Curaçao/Willemstad (Hato) International Airport (CUR), right as you exit the arrivals hall.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also purchase Digicel Paradise SIM cards, Digicel's special offer for tourists.
There are 2 Digicel Paradise SIM cards:
Seven (7) Days in Paradise: ANG 53.40 ($30)
Fourteen (14) days in Paradise: ANG 89.00 ($50)
For more information about Digicel's tourist SIM card, click here.
To learn about other local prepaid internet + calling plans, click here.
Dial *123# to access the Digicel menu.
Dial *129# to view your Digicel phone number.
CHIPPIE/FLOW:
Chippie has extensive coverage in Curaçao. It's better than Digicel Curaçao's coverage in some areas, especially in the northern part of the island.
The FLOW Tourist SIM card can be purchased at all FLOW stores and is available with a data allowance of 1 GB or 3 GB.
If you'd like more information, here are the most popular Chippie/Flow plans in the area that you can activate when you buy a prepaid SIM card:
Frequently Asked Questions - SIM Card in Curaçao
Can I buy a SIM card at the airport?
After clearing immigration, you'll need to pick up your luggage. Right there, you'll see a Digicel counter that sells SIM cards. You can purchase one there right away.
After clearing customs, in the arrivals hall, you'll also see a counter where you can buy a Chippie SIM card.
The SIM card will cost 25 florins (approx. US$14).
Can I use free roaming in Curaçao if I'm traveling from Europe?
Curaçao is a country that is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Local residents hold Dutch citizenship. However, Curaçao is not part of the European Union or the European Economic Area. Therefore, the option for free roaming within Europe does not apply in Curaçao.
Do you have any further questions? Send me your question here:
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