If you're planning a trip to Colombia, you're in for a treat. Before you pack your bags, let's talk about something that can put a damper on your travel experience if you're not prepared: roaming charges. We're here to help you navigate this tech challenge and ensure your connectivity doesn't come with a side of bill shock.

Are There Roaming Charges in Colombia?

Yes, roaming charges do exist in Colombia, and they can catch you off guard if you're not careful. When you use your home network's SIM card in Colombia, you're essentially borrowing service from a local Colombian network. This convenience comes at a price, and that's where roaming charges come into play. These fees can add up quickly, especially if you're streaming videos, using maps, or staying connected on social media.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Colombia?

Roaming charges typically kick in as soon as your phone connects to a Colombian network. This usually happens when you turn on your phone after landing or cross the border into Colombia. The charges apply to various services, including making calls, sending texts, and using mobile data. Even if you're not actively using your phone, some apps might run in the background, potentially racking up charges without you realizing it.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Colombia

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for Colombia:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday Colombia package limited to 14 days for €34.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• Internet: €6.05 per GB per day (limited offer until 17/10), normally €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €1 per minute

• Receiving a call: €0.50 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

These figures give you a ballpark idea of what to expect, but remember, they're approximate and can fluctuate. It's always a good idea to check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Colombia

You can read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more detailed information.

• eSIM can have more flexibility and control over your usage.

• Turn off data roaming in your phone settings before you leave home.

• Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible and use Wi-Fi calling features.

• Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival in Colombia.

• Use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Skype for communication.

• Download offline maps and travel guides before your trip.

• If you must use data, set usage alerts to monitor your consumption.

Roamless eSIM for Colombia

Here's why Roamless eSIM is an excellent choice for your Colombian adventure:

• No Speed Throttling: Enjoy consistently fast speeds throughout your trip, perfect for sharing those stunning Colombian landscapes on Instagram.

• Pay-as-You-Go Flexibility: Only pay for what you use, ideal for spontaneous trips or varying data needs.

• Funds Never Expire: Your balance stays valid, so you can use it on your next adventure without worrying about losing unused data.

• No Country-Specific Plans: Perfect for multi-country travelers exploring South America beyond Colombia.

• Local Network Speeds: Experience the same speeds as local users, ensuring smooth navigation and communication.

• Easy Activation: Get connected quickly without the hassle of finding a physical SIM card shop.

You can check our guide on the best eSIM for Colombia for more information. With Roamless eSIM, you can focus on enjoying Colombia's rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality without worrying about surprise charges on your phone bill. Check our eSIM Colombia page before planning your trip.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/colombia

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/colombia

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Colombia

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass