If you’re visiting Chile and need a mobile network connection, this guide provides information on Entel SIM card and eSIM plans. Entel SIM Card caters to both local residents and international visitors. This comprehensive guide will tell you all you need to know about using Entel SIM cards and eSIM as a visitor in Chile.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts About Entel
Entel is a leading Chilean telecommunications company providing mobile, broadband, and television services. Here are some key facts about Entel:
- Founded: 1970
- Full Name : Empresa Nacional de Telecomunicaciones SA
- Services: Mobile connectivity, fixed broadband, pay TV
- Subscribers: Over 5.7 million mobile subscribers (2022)
- Network Coverage: 99% 2G coverage, 99% 3G coverage, 97% 4G coverage national
- Stores and Agents: 130+ Entel retail stores, presence across 900+ agent locations
II. Chile Entel Coverage And Speed
1. Entel Coverage in Chile
Entel has extensive 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE mobile coverage spanning the length of Chile. Here are some key highlights of Entel’s coverage:
- 3G: Reaches 99% of Chile’s inhabitants with fast mobile data
- 4G/LTE: Covers 97% of people across Chile with LTE connectivity
With widely advanced network availability, you’ll be able to use mobile data through Entel across almost all major cities and towns in Chile. Some remote areas may still lack strong connectivity.
2. Entel Speed in Chile
Entel delivers the fastest 5G speeds. Entel emerged victorious in both the 5G Download Speed and 5G Upload Speed categories. Tests show Entel customers experienced average download speeds of 192.5 Mbps when connected to 5G networks, outpacing Movistar in second place by 38.9 Mbps or 25.3% higher than their mark of 153.6 Mbps. Entel also topped the rankings in 5G Upload Speed with a score of 25.7 Mbps, besting WOM by 5.8 Mbps which represents a 29.1% increase over their result of 19.9 Mbps.
III. Entel Connectivity Options For Travelers To Chile
As a tourist to Chile, you can stay connected in different ways, including using public wifi for free, renting a pocket wifi, roaming from my primary sim, and buying a SIM card for Chile.
Here is a table comparing the pros and cons of different Entel connectivity options for travelers to Chile:
Entel Connectivity Options for Travelers to Chile
Option | Buy Entel SIM | Use Pocket WiFi | Roaming with home carrier |
Pros | - Local phone number - Cheap data rates - Works anywhere in Chile | - Portable hotspot - Can share with others | - Keep home phone number - May have data included |
Cons | - Need to unlock phone - Extra cost to purchase SIM | - Limited data included - Extra device to carry | - Roaming rates can be expensive - Data limits may be low |
- Buy an Entel SIM card: This provides travelers with a local Chilean phone number and allows purchasing of affordable data plans directly from Entel. However, international phones may need to be unlocked and an extra cost is incurred to purchase the SIM.
- Use a pocket WiFi device rented/purchased from Entel: This allows travelers to connect multiple devices to the internet via a portable hotspot. However, the included data is usually limited and an extra device needs to be carried.
- Roam with their home carrier: Travelers can use their home phone number and data plan while roaming in Chile on Entel’s network. But roaming rates tend to be much more expensive compared to local plans. Data limits while roaming may also be relatively low.
In summary: Purchasing an Entel eSIM card provides the best value and coverage.
IV. Best Entel SIM Cards For Tourists & Cost
Here are the details of Entel tourist SIM packages in Chile based on the information from the source:
Entel offers a variety of SIM-only plans for tourists:
- 600 MB, valid for 2 days ($0.52)
- Unlimited data, valid for 1 day ($0.92)
- 1.5 GB + unlimited social media, valid for 3 days ($1.03)
- Unlimited data, valid for 3 days ($2.56)
- 4 GB + unlimited social media, valid for 7 days ($2.58)
- Unlimited data, valid for 7 days ($5.45)
The benefits of Entel SIM packages include:
- Flexible validity periods ranging from 1 day to 7 days
- Data packages from 600MB up to unlimited data
- Plans include additional benefits like unlimited social media
- Affordable pricing starting from just CLP 500 for 2 days valid plan
- Provides 4G/LTE mobile connectivity via Entel’s extensive network in Chile
- Allows travelers to stay online during their visit using a local Chilean number
So in summary, Entel offers very competitively priced tourist SIM packages in Chile with flexible data allowances and validity periods to choose from.
V. Does Entel Support eSIM?
Yes, Entel Chile does support eSIM technology. There are some advantages that eSIM profiles provide compared to traditional physical SIM cards. With an eSIM, the same mobile number and plan can facilitate seamless international roaming across different compatible networks without requiring a SIM swap. eSIM also enables the capacity for multi-SIM functionality on a single device by allowing simultaneous access to multiple numbers and subscriptions from different carriers.
Chile visitors have two options to procure Entel eSIM services. Profiles can either be obtained directly from Entel retail locations and online platforms. Alternatively, reputable eSIM providers globally may provide them.
Not only Entel eSIM, a top mobile operator in Chile – Movistar also be an alternative. Consider using a Movistar eSIM from #1 Chile eSIM provider – esimchile.net which offers diverse plans for any traveling goals. Here’s what makes esimchile.net stand out:
- Variety & Flexibility: Choose among a wide array of data packages best suited to your goals.
- Multiple Network Coverage: They take care of the technical aspects by collaborating with major Chile mobile operators so that visitors can get a fast and reliable connection during their travel.
- Top-notch Customer Service: They offer 24/7 customer help so that you can get assistance if needed.
- Competitive Prices: Their eSIMs are affordably priced, offering excellent value for money
Esimchile.net’s goal is to ensure quality global mobility solutions for customers until native options satisfy requisite standards. Find the best option for your trip below:
Plan that may interest you
VI. Where Can You Buy An Entel SIM Card And eSIM?
Obtaining an Entel SIM card or eSIM makes staying connected very convenient when you arrive in Chile. This quick guide explains where and how you can purchase one:
1. Where to Buy Entel SIM Card for Chile
As a tourist, you can buy an Entel Chile prepaid SIM card from one of their 130+ Entel stores across cities in the country. Locations include Santiago, Viña del Mar, Antofagasta, Concepción, and more.
You can also purchase Entel SIM cards from Chile airport kiosks on arrival. Avenida Vitacura Mobile shops in malls are another option located.
Bring your passport as you’ll need to show documentation for activating your prepaid SIM.
2. Where to Buy Entel Chile eSIM
Entel eSIM for prepaid plans can be purchased online without visiting a physical store. You’ll complete digital verification using your passport.
To buy an Entel Chile eSIM, visit the Entel eSIM store through your phone or any device browser. Select your prepaid plan, enter details, complete verification, make payment, and you’ll get eSIM activation.
Another option is buying eSIM through esimchile.net which provides several interesting eSIM plans for tourists. The main benefits of using esimchile.net are the convenience of digital delivery and instant activation. After purchase, you will receive the eSIM profile via email within minutes.
VII. How To Activate Entel SIM Card/eSIM
It’s time to set up and use your newly purchased Entel SIM or eSIM. Here’s a quick guide for travelers:
1. How to Activate Entel Chile SIM Card
Follow these steps when you activate your Entel Chile physical prepaid SIM card:
- Insert the SIM card into your unlocked phone
- Select Entel as your mobile network operator
- Open mobile data and wait as automatic configuration begins
- You may need to enter SIM card details or restart device
- Check for data connectivity and Entel network on your phone
If you face any activation issues, contact Entel support or visit an Entel store for assistance. Carry your passport for verification.
2. How to Activate Entel Chile eSIM
To activate your downloaded Entel eSIM profile, you’ll need an eSIM compatible phone:
- Go to eSIM/Dual SIM settings on your phone
- Select add/download a new profile
- Scan the QR code provided when you purchase the eSIM plan
- Follow device prompts to install the Entel eSIM
- Choosing the Entel profile should connect you to their network
Check our guide How to Install Chile eSIM to get more useful tips
VIII. Chile Entel Call & SMS Rates
When using an Entel Prepaid SIM card without a special tourist package, here are the standard voice call and SMS rates:
Entel Outgoing Call Rates:
- Calls to Entel Chile mobiles – $0.054 per minute
- Calls to other Chilean mobiles – $0.054 per minute
- Calls to Chile landlines – 0.054 per minute
- International calls: From $0.14 per minute
Entel SMS Rates:
- National SMS – $0.054 per message
- International SMS – From $0.11 per message
Incoming calls and texts are generally free on Entel prepaid. Rates get lower with Entel tourist data packs allowing 100 local call minutes. Calls also cost less on special tourist SIM cards.
IX. Useful USSD Codes For Entel SIM Card/eSIM
Here are some useful USSD codes to check your account balance and more on Entel network:
- *111#: Check Entel Prepaid balance
- *610#: Check data balance
- *555*0#: Check minutes used from voice packs
- *555*4#: Check SMS used from text bundles
- *555*23#: Check expiry date for plans or packs
Just dial the codes above on your Entel mobile and hit call/send. You’ll instantly get balance information via text message.
X. How To Top-up Entel SIM Card/eSIM
To add more credits to your Entel mobile connection you can use the following prepaid recharge options:
- Vouchers from stores and agents Online via credit/debit card by visiting Entel prepaid portal Mobile apps like Entel Pay and PayGol using cash, card, or bank transfer Over the counter at Entel stores and banking partners
- When topping up, choose the amount per pack suitable for your usage. Also, redeem any free data or other rewards if available.
XI. FAQs About Entel In Chile
Do you have burning questions about using an Entel SIM or eSIM card in Chile as a tourist or tourist? Here are some quick answers:
Does Entel offer 5G in Chile?
Not yet. As of 2023, Entel provides 2G, 3G, and 4G connectivity across Chile. 5G mobile service is currently not launched by Entel.
Can I use Entel SIM in other South American countries?
Entel SIM cards will only provide service within Chile on local rates. Outside Chile, international roaming charges will apply and can be very expensive.
How to contact Entel support in Chile?
You can contact Entel Chile customer support by calling 1212 from your Entel mobile. Other options are visiting their website support portal or using Entel Chat messaging.
XII. Final Words
We hope this guide gives you all the necessary details to get connected conveniently and cost-effectively on Entel when visiting Chile as a tourist. Using a data-packed prepaid SIM card or eSIM plan enables the benefits of mobile connectivity across this scenic South American country.