What is an eSIM, and how does it work in the Canary Islands?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a small chip built directly into your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Unlike a traditional SIM card, it isn’t removable. Instead, it can be digitally programmed to connect to different mobile networks using downloadable profiles.
When you purchase an eSIM plan, the provider sends you a QR code or an in-app installation link. Scanning it securely loads the network profile onto your device. Once installed, the eSIM behaves exactly like a physical SIM. It connects your phone to local mobile networks for calls, messages, and data.
Most eSIMs for the Canary Islands connect to Spanish carriers such as Orange and Yoigo, providing 4G and 5G coverage across all major islands. The connection works through the same cellular infrastructure as local SIM cards, but setup is fully digital and can be completed in just a few minutes.
You can store multiple eSIM profiles on your device, though only one can be active at a time. This makes it easy to switch between providers or countries without changing cards or losing your number.
What’s better for the Canary Islands: an eSIM or a Spanish SIM card?
For most travellers, an eSIM is the easier and more flexible option when visiting the Canary Islands. It can be installed before departure, activated instantly on arrival, and used across all major islands without switching physical cards or showing ID.
A Spanish SIM card, on the other hand, requires an in-person purchase and registration with a valid ID or passport. While local SIMs from operators like Orange, Movistar, and Vodafone may sometimes offer slightly lower rates for long-term residents, the difference is minimal for short stays.
Choose an eSIM if you want:
✅ Instant setup before you fly
✅ Coverage across all Canary Islands
✅ No paperwork or in-store registration
✅ Easy plan management directly on your phone
Choose a local SIM card if you need:
✅ A physical number for local calls or SMS
✅ A long-term plan for several months or more
✅ Access to store support for troubleshooting
For digital nomads, remote workers, and short-term visitors, eSIMs like Ubigi and Saily provide the best mix of flexibility, reliability, and cost-efficiency in the Canary Islands.
Best eSIMs for the Canary Islands in 2025
The best eSIM for the Canary Islands depends on your data needs and how you travel. Below is a comparison of two trusted providers, Ubigi and Saily, both offering reliable coverage across Spain, easy online setup, and flexible plans for every type of traveller.
Ubigi: Best for affordable data and full island coverage
Ubigi is ideal for travellers who want reliable connectivity at a low cost. It connects to Spain’s top networks: Orange and Yoigo, ensuring fast 4G and 5G speeds across all major islands including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura.
Why Ubigi is good for the Canary Islands:
- Affordable plans from 3 GB to unlimited data
- Instant activation before departure
- Strong coverage across all islands
- Works with dual SIM (keep your home number active)
- App available for real-time data tracking and top-ups
- Ubigi discount code for your first purchase
Saily: Best for privacy, security, and flexible data options
Saily is ideal for travellers who value security and control over their connection. It combines reliable 4G and 5G coverage in Spain with built-in privacy tools that go beyond standard eSIM features. Saily protects your data, blocks malicious websites, and even offers virtual locations in 115+ countries for safer browsing on public Wi-Fi.
Why travellers choose Saily:
- Advanced security features for safe browsing
- Blocks malicious URLs and trackers automatically
- Ad-blocking and data-saving mode to reduce bandwidth use
- Virtual locations (115+) for extra online privacy
- 24/7 live chat support and easy refunds
- Flexible data plans from 1 GB to unlimited (5 GB/day at full speed)
- Works seamlessly across all Spanish regions, including the Canary Islands
- Earn 3% in Saily credits with every purchase
Both providers are reliable, easy to install, and designed for travellers. The best eSIM for your Canary Islands trip depends on whether you value low-cost data (Ubigi) or enhanced privacy and flexibility (Saily).
If you’d like to explore more options, check our full Spain eSIM provider directory for additional plans and network details.
How to choose the right eSIM for the Canary Islands
Choosing the best eSIM for the Canary Islands depends on your travel plans, data usage, and how long you’ll stay. Here are a few key points to consider before buying:
- Check your data needs: If you mostly use maps, messaging apps, and browsing, a smaller data plan is usually enough. For video calls, remote work, or streaming, look for larger or unlimited plans.
- Consider your trip length: Short holidays or weekend getaways work well with smaller one-off data packages. For longer stays, monthly or flexible plans often offer better value.
- Verify device compatibility: Most newer iPhones, Google Pixels, and Samsung Galaxy models support eSIM. You can check in your settings under Mobile Network → Add eSIM.
- Review coverage by island: The Canary Islands have excellent 4G and 5G coverage overall, but signal strength can vary in rural areas or mountain regions. Make sure your eSIM connects to major Spanish networks like Orange or Yoigo for the best performance.
- Look for support and setup help: Choose an eSIM provider with a clear installation guide, live chat, or refund option. This can be especially useful if you’re switching phones or travelling between multiple islands.
Spending a few minutes comparing plans before your trip can help you avoid roaming fees, save on data, and stay connected wherever you go in the Canary Islands.
How to set up your eSIM in the Canary Islands
Setting up your eSIM for the Canary Islands only takes a few minutes. Here’s how to make sure everything works smoothly before and after you arrive:
1. Check device compatibility:
Make sure your phone supports eSIM. Most recent iPhones (XR and newer), Google Pixels, and Samsung Galaxy models do. You can confirm this in your settings under Mobile Network → Add eSIM.
2. Choose your data plan:
Pick a plan that matches your trip length and data needs. Short trips work well with small data bundles, while long stays are better suited to monthly or unlimited options.
3. Install the eSIM:
After purchase, you’ll receive a QR code or an in-app installation option. Scan or follow the link to download the eSIM profile onto your device.
4. Activate on arrival:
Turn on your eSIM line and enable data roaming once you land in the Canary Islands. Activation usually starts automatically when you connect to a local network.
5. Test your connection:
Open a map or browser to check that mobile data is working properly. If it doesn’t connect right away, restart your phone or toggle airplane mode.
💡 Tip: Before installing a new eSIM, delete any old or expired eSIM profiles from your phone. This helps prevent setup errors and ensures a smoother activation process.
Final Recommendation: Best eSIM for the Canary Islands in 2025
Staying connected in the Canary Islands is effortless with international eSIMs. They give you instant access to Spain’s top mobile networks without the need for paperwork, queues, or a local SIM card. From remote work sessions in Las Palmas to surfing days in Fuerteventura or hikes through the volcanic trails of Lanzarote, an eSIM keeps you online wherever you go.
- Choose Ubigi if you want affordable data plans, strong 4G and 5G coverage, and quick activation before departure. It’s ideal for longer stays or travellers who rely on steady internet for work
- Choose Saily if you prefer extra privacy and built-in security features such as ad blocking and malicious URL protection, perfect for those working from cafés, coworking spaces, or public Wi-Fi networks.
Both options make staying connected across the Canary Islands easy, secure, and completely hassle-free.
💡 Staying connected is just one part of a smooth trip. If you’re planning a longer stay, make sure you’re protected with reliable travel insurance too. See our guides to the Best Digital Nomad Insurance for Spain for coverage details and our Spain visa tips.
