Mobile Phone Plans Ecuador
Ecuador has three mobile networks: Claro, Tigo (the old Movistar) and state-owned CNT. All sell prepaid and postpaid plans. For coverage, 5G in Salinas, SIM cards and CNT's satellite SatPower plans, see Mobile Data Ecuador.
Prepaid (recarga)
No contract: buy a SIM and load credit when you need it.
- Recharge cards from corner shops, pharmacies and network stores
- The network's app (Mi Claro, Mi Tigo, Mi CNT)
- Online banking
You then buy a bundle — daily, weekly or monthly data, usually with unlimited WhatsApp. Prices and bundles change often; check the app before you top up.
Postpaid (plan)
Postpaid plans give more data and can include a new phone. You usually need:
- A cédula (residents with a cédula qualify)
- Proof of address
- Sometimes a credit check
Contracts often run 12–24 months, especially with a phone. Networks offer discounts for the first months if you switch from another network ("portabilidad") — you keep your number.
Calls and messaging
WhatsApp is used for almost everything in Ecuador — friends, businesses and customer service. Most bundles include unlimited or cheap WhatsApp. For calls from abroad, see Calling Ecuador from Abroad.
Buying a phone
Phones are sold in network stores and electronics shops in La Libertad. Unlocked phones work on any network. Phones brought from abroad may have to be registered and can pay import duties — see Customs/Aduana.
Stores on the peninsula
Claro, Tigo and CNT all have stores in La Libertad — Paseo Shopping has several under one roof. Claro also has a store in Salinas, and Tigo one in Santa Elena.