What is an eSIM, and how does it work in Medellin?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your phone, tablet, or laptop. Instead of slotting in a physical card, you download a network profile from a provider, which connects you to a local mobile network. For Medellin, that means you can buy a plan at home, install it in minutes, and arrive already online.
When you buy an eSIM plan the provider sends a QR code or an in-app install link. Scanning it loads the profile onto your device, and from then on the eSIM behaves just like a normal SIM for data. You can keep your usual SIM active at the same time, so your home number still works for calls and texts.
Is an eSIM better than a local SIM card in Medellin?
For most travellers, yes. A local Colombian SIM means finding a Claro or Movistar shop, showing your passport, and registering the card, which can take time. A travel eSIM installs before you fly and activates the moment you land. You keep your home number on your normal SIM for calls and codes, and use the eSIM for data. For a long weekend or a month of remote work in El Poblado, an eSIM is usually the faster and simpler option.
Mobile networks and coverage in Medellin
Colombia's main mobile networks are Claro, Movistar, and Tigo, with WOM as a newer challenger. Claro has the widest reach and the strongest coverage across Medellin and rural Antioquia, while Movistar and Tigo are dependable across the city. All offer solid 4G and growing 5G across El Poblado, Laureles, El Centro, and the metro line. Travel eSIMs connect through these local networks, so you get the same everyday coverage as a Colombian SIM.
Ubigi connects to Colombia's networks for fast, steady data across Medellin and beyond, while Saily runs on the same local infrastructure with simple, affordable plans. Coverage is excellent across the city and the Aburra Valley, and reliable on day trips to Guatape and the coffee region, though signal can dip in remote mountain stretches.
Best eSIMs for Medellin in 2026
The best eSIM for Medellin depends on how much data you need and how you like to manage it. Below are our two recommended providers, both offering reliable coverage across the city, quick online setup, and flexible plans.
Ubigi: Best for flexible value
Ubigi is a popular choice for travellers and digital nomads who want reliable data without overpaying. It connects to Colombia's networks and offers one-off plans that scale from small bundles up to unlimited data, all managed from a clean app, which suits a longer remote-work stay in Medellin.
Why Ubigi works well for Medellin:
- One-off plans from small bundles up to unlimited data
- Instant activation before you depart
- Strong 4G and 5G coverage across El Poblado and Laureles
- Works with dual SIM, so you keep your home number active
- App for real-time data tracking and easy top-ups
- Ubigi discount code: 10% off with NOMADWISE
Saily: Best for simple, affordable plans
Saily works well for travellers who want straightforward pricing and an easy app, especially first-time eSIM users. It combines reliable coverage across Medellin with clear, affordable plans and a smooth setup.
Why Saily works well for Medellin:
- Affordable plans with clear, simple pricing
- Easy-to-use app for setup and top-ups
- Reliable coverage across the city and main tourist areas
- Instant QR-code activation before departure
- In-app support if you need help getting connected
- Saily discount code: 10% off with NOMADWISE10
Both providers are reliable and easy to install. The best pick for your Medellin trip comes down to whether you value Ubigi's flexible per-GB and unlimited plans or Saily's simple app and affordable pricing. If you would like to compare more options, see our Colombia eSIM directory for a full list of providers.
How to choose the right eSIM for Medellin
A few quick checks make it easy to pick the right plan before you travel:
Check your data needs: For maps, messaging, and browsing a small plan is usually enough. For video calls, remote work, or streaming, choose a larger plan or Ubigi's unlimited data.
Match your trip length: Short city breaks suit small bundles, while a month of remote work in El Poblado is better with a bigger plan or unlimited data.
Travelling elsewhere in Colombia? If you are also visiting Cartagena, Bogota, or the coffee region, these plans work country-wide, so one eSIM covers the whole trip.
Verify device compatibility: Most recent iPhones, Google Pixels, and Samsung Galaxy phones support eSIM. Check under Settings, then Mobile Network, then Add eSIM.
Customer support and setup help
Both providers offer support to get you online quickly. Ubigi has an in-app help centre and email support, plus clear install guides for iOS and Android. Saily offers in-app support and a simple interface that is friendly for first-time users. Whichever you choose, install and test the eSIM before you fly so you land already connected.
How to set up your eSIM in Medellin
Setting up your eSIM for Medellin takes just a few minutes:
1. Check compatibility: Confirm your phone supports eSIM (most recent models do). Ubigi and Saily both list supported devices on their sites.
2. Choose your plan: Pick a data size and validity that matches your trip.
3. Install the eSIM: After purchase you receive a QR code or in-app link. Scan or tap to load the profile onto your device.
4. Activate on arrival: Turn on your eSIM line and enable data roaming when you land in Medellin. Activation usually starts automatically.
5. Test your connection: Open a map or browser to confirm data is working. If not, restart your phone or toggle airplane mode.
Final thoughts: best eSIM for Medellin in 2026
Staying connected in Medellin is effortless with a travel eSIM. You get instant access to local networks without paperwork, queues, or a physical SIM. From working in an El Poblado cafe to riding the metrocable or taking a day trip to Guatape, an eSIM keeps you online wherever you go.
Choose Ubigi if you want flexible plans, an unlimited option, and strong coverage across the city. Use code NOMADWISE for 10% off.
Choose Saily if you prefer a simple app and clear, affordable pricing. Use code NOMADWISE10 for 10% off.
Either way, an eSIM makes staying connected across Medellin easy, reliable, and hassle-free.
