Vika LakiIn this article we will tell you about the popular SIM cards on Aruba and consider the best offers for tourists. We will clarify whether eSIM data plans work in Aruba and what are the main advantages.
Aruba: SIM cards with mobile Internet
In the Caribbean resort of Aruba, you can use 2 types of SIM cards:
- Physical: Physical SIM cards in Aruba are offered by 2 mobile operators — Digicel and Setar. Digicel SIM cards are a bit more expensive than Setar, but Digicel offers faster data speeds and much better 4G coverage. You’ll have excellent coverage in Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, St. Nicholas, Savaneta as well as on and the beaches. But in remote parts of the island of Aruba, mobile Internet can slow down.
- Virtual or eSIM: To make sure you stay connected anywhere on the island, many tourists choose an alternative — a virtual eSIM card, such as the one of the international provider Yesim, which supports 3G/4G/5G/LTE.
Advantages of using eSIM technology in Aruba
- high speed — access to the new generation 5G network;
- no dependency on Wi-Fi — you can use the Internet not only in the hotel or establishments;
- financial benefit — no expensive roaming and hidden fees;
- ease of purchase — no documents required, online service connection;
- convenient control — activate your eSIM cell phone plans via mobile application;
- versatility — suitable for smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart watches.
Read also: What is eSIM and how does it work
Where to buy a prepaid SIM card in Aruba
The most convenient place to buy a physical SIM card in Aruba is at the Queen Beatrix International Airport (Aruba Airport AUA), upon arrival. Both Digicel and Setar have official stores here. They are easy to find — they are located right in the arrivals hall.
As of January 2024, Digicel also offers tourists electronic SIM cards, which can only be bought at Aruba International Airport. A tourist only has to choose what they want: a physical prepaid SIM card or an e-SIM card with an Aruba phone number starting with +297.
Other places:
- official mobile operator stores;
- superfoods supermarkets;
- citgo Gas Stations.
Buying a card at official Setar and Digicel stores takes very little time. But the prepaid SIM card plans they sell at stores away from the airport are much cheaper.
Please note: only physical Digicel prepaid SIM cards are available from resellers, such as the Superfood chain supermarkets. You can buy an electronic SIM card instead of a physical one at the airport only.
How to buy a prepaid SIM card in Aruba
There are several ways to buy a physical SIM card in Aruba:
- online — on Amazon or eBay;
- offline — upon arrival, in Oranjestad, Sint Nicolas, Santa Cruz and any other city in Aruba.
Unlike in many other countries, you won’t need a passport to buy a prepaid data SIM card in Aruba.
If you find buying a SIM card when you arrive in Aruba too much of a hassle, order one in advance online and wait for it to arrive at your mailing address.
It’s even easier to pre-order a virtual eSIM card for Aruba. It’s easy to do in just a few clicks:
- choose a provider and data plan;
- pay for the package;
- activate the service according to the instructions.
You can buy an eSIM plan while you are still at home and activate it immediately upon arrival in Aruba. Check if your gadget supports eSIM technology on this page.
Read also: TOP 8 Best eSIM Providers for Travelers in 2024: Review of Services
Aruba prepaid SIM cards: the best offers from operators
We have prepared an overview of the best prepaid mobile SIM cards in Aruba from popular international providers and local operators.
1. Yesim
International eSIM provider for Aruba is popular among travelers because of its simple registration and service activation procedure, user-friendly Android and iOS app.
Favorable data plans:
- 1 GB for 7 days — $13.2;
- 3 GB for 7 days — 29.7
- 5 GB for 15 days — 44 $;
- 10 GB for 30 days — 66 $.
Yesim’s virtual SIM cards for Aruba offer international internet calls (online only), browsing, audio/video broadcasting, texting (SMS/messages), voicemail, downloading / uploading files and data. Whenever you are, Yesim will back your up and help you stay connected.
2. Digicel
The largest mobile operator in Aruba. The choice of Mega Data Plans of prepaid unlimited cards is suitable for tourists.
You can check out their data plans:
- 1 day — 5.49 Afl;
- 3 days — 14.49 Afl;
- 7 days — 27.49 Afl;
- 15 GB for 30 days — 55.99 Afl.
3. Setar
The second largest operator in Aruba offers a choice of Hybrid Plans with a fixed monthly fee. It is suitable for those who plan to make a lot of calls and surf the Internet.
The data plans are:
- Start — 15 GB for 55 Afl;
- Basic — 25 GB for 75 Afl;
- Lite — 35 GB for 109 Afl;
- Comfort — 45 GB for 139 Afl.
Use eSIM technology on the island of Aruba and you will no longer have to search for WI-FI or understand the intricacies of SIM cards in a foreign country. Set a virtual connection in a few minutes, activate it with the help of QR code and convenient instructions. Install Yesim.app and stay connected 24/7.