Traveling to Brazil is an exciting adventure filled with diverse culture, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. However, staying connected with friends and family back home during your trip can be challenging without a local SIM. One of the most popular options is Claro, the largest provider in the country. This guide will outline the simple process for buying a Claro Brazil SIM card as a tourist. From choosing the right data package to activating your new number, these steps will have you connected and exploring Brazil in no time.
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about Claro Brazil
Claro Brazil is a leading telecommunications company and the largest mobile network provider in Brazil. Headquartered in São Paulo, it has a nationwide presence across the large South American country. Here are some quick facts about this brand.
- Founded year: 1998 (originally as a subsidiary of Telecom Italia Mobile)
- Full company name: Claro S.A.
- Types of services provided: Mobile phone services (3G/4G), fixed-line telephony, broadband internet, pay TV
- Number of subscribers: Over 100 million mobile subscribers as of 2022
- Coverage: Available across all 26 Brazilian states and Federal District, with 4G coverage to over 90% of the population.
- Estimated number of network of stores, agents: Over 15,000 points of sale across Brazil.
- Customer support: 24/7 support via call centers, online chat, social media. Languages supported include Portuguese and English. Customers can call 113 from Claro lines for assistance.
- Ownership: Claro Brazil is a subsidiary of América Móvil, a Mexican telecommunications conglomerate. It is Brazil’s largest telecom brand by number of subscribers.
II. Claro Brazil Coverage and Speed
1. Claro coverage in Brazil
Claro is one of the largest mobile network providers in Brazil, covering a wide swath of the massive South American country. As one of the leading telecom companies in Brazil, Claro has invested heavily in expanding its network infrastructure to reach both urban and rural areas. It boasts a 4G/LTE network that reaches over 92% of the Brazilian population, covering all major cities as well as smaller towns and remote villages scattered across the diverse regions of Brazil.
Claro maintains widespread 4G LTE coverage across Brazil delivering swift data access. It is making good progress expanding 5G networks, especially in major urban hubs. Claro subscribers continue enjoying a high-quality mobile experience on Brazil’s roads.
2. Claro speed
Claro is known for providing some of the fastest mobile internet speeds in Brazil. According to recent network testing data, Claro customers in Brazil experience average download speeds of 23.7 Mbps on the company’s 4G LTE network. This speed places Claro at the higher end compared to other major mobile carriers in the country.
The fast speeds allow subscribers to stream and share content seamlessly without delays or buffering. HD videos on streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube play smoothly even on multiple devices simultaneously.
III. Claro connectivity options for travelers to Brazil
There are several ways for international travelers to stay connected while visiting Brazil. One option is to purchase a local SIM card from Claro. Each choice has advantages and limitations depending on needs and budget. The table below outlines some key factors to consider for the different connectivity methods:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Local SIM Card (Claro) | • Most affordable for extended stays • Strong network coverage | • Upfront purchase cost • Need compatible device |
| Roaming | • Use regular phone number • No setup required | • Very expensive international rates • Data limits apply |
| Pocket Wi-Fi | • Connects all devices • Convenient to share | • Additional rental cost • Security/speed can be issues |
| Free Wi-Fi | • No direct costs | • Limited availability • Speed/reliability depend on location |
In summary, a local SIM provides the best value if staying more than a short trip. Roaming gets expensive fast. Rented Wi-Fi works for device sharing but has fees. And free Wi-Fi is good when accessible but can’t be fully relied on for connectivity needs.
IV. Best Claro SIM card for tourists & cost
Claro has some good options for prepaid Claro SIM card and tourist SIMs. Here are the best Claro SIM card for visitors to Brazil and their pricing:
| Plan | Price/Month (USD) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 23GB | $9.30 | – Unlimited WhatsApp – 3GB for YouTube – 15GB in plan – 5GB Valentine bonus |
| 30GB | $11.15 | – Unlimited WhatsApp – 5GB for social media & videos – 20GB in plan – 5GB Valentine bonus |
| 30GB Gaming | $12.95 | – Unlimited WhatsApp – 5GB for social media & videos – Monthly in-game items for Asphalt, Free Fire – 25GB in plan |
All plans from Claro include unlimited messages and sufficient data to navigate Brazil freely using maps and translation apps. The prices present excellent value compared to data-only roaming costs on a traveler’s home network. Claro’s reliable coverage across Brazil makes their prepaid SIM cards a safe choice for staying connected affordably while touring the vast and diverse country.
V. Does Claro Brazil Support eSIM?
Yes, Claro Brazil now offers travelers the option to activate their cellular plans using eSIM technology instead of a physical nano-SIM card.
Here are the key details:
- eSIM works on devices supporting cellular eSIM activation. iPhone 11 series or newer required.
- eSIM can be purchased directly on Claro app or website. Create account using passport.
- Starting price around R$30 for 2GB 30-day pack. Auto-renewing packs available.
- Additional data packs can be added anytime through the Claro app.
- Same 4G speeds and coverage as physical SIM. Rates are also similar.
Using eSIM with Claro provides instant connectivity in Brazil, saving visitors the hassle of hunting for a SIM card at the airport. It’s also more convenient for short trips as there’s no risk of losing a tiny physical card.
VI. Where Can I Buy a Claro Brazil SIM Card and eSIM?
1. Where to buy Claro SIM card for Brazil?
There are a variety of convenient locations where tourists traveling to Brazil can obtain a Claro SIM card. Here are some options for where to buy a Claro SIM card for use in Brazil:
- Claro Stores – Claro has numerous standalone stores located in major airports and cities throughout Brazil where you can purchase a SIM card. Stores can activate the SIM on the spot.
- Drugstores – Major drugstore chains like Drogaria Araujo and Drogasil sell Claro prepaid SIM cards at locations across Brazil.
- Supermarkets – Larger supermarket chains like Carrefour and Extra sell Claro SIM cards near the front of stores.
- Mobile Shops – Specialty phone stores, especially in downtown commercial areas, stock all major Brazilian carriers including Claro.
No matter where tourists choose, obtaining a Claro SIM card is straightforward thanks to widespread availability across Brazil.
2. Where to buy Brazil Claro eSIM?
Here are a few options for where tourists can purchase a Claro eSIM for use in Brazil:
- Claro Website – Visitors can purchase eligible Claro eSIM data plans online at claro.com.br before their trip. They’ll receive activation details like a QR code.
- Claro App – Claro’s mobile app allows eSIM purchases and digital activation to be completed directly from a traveler’s phone.
For convenience, ordering directly from Claro’s website before arrival ensures travelers have their eSIM profile ready to enable internet connectivity upon reaching Brazil.
VII. How to Activate Claro Brazil SIM Card/eSIM?
1. How to use Brazil Claro SIM card
Activating a Claro SIM card is easy:
- Insert the Claro SIM card into your unlocked phone.
- Power on mobile data. The SIM will auto-configure APN settings.
- Open Claro website or app to register SIM. You may need to provide passport info.
- Recharge your SIM through the app, website, stores or ATMs.
- Choose your data pack (e.g. R$10 for 1GB valid 30 days). Activate pack.
You’ll now have working mobile data on your device along with a local Brazilian number. Top-up and renew your data pack as needed.
2. How to activate Claro Brazil eSIM?
For Claro eSIM activation:
- Purchase Claro eSIM plan on their app or website. Provide passport details.
- Make payment online to activate plan (need Brazilian card or PayPal).
- Scan QR code on the app using phone’s camera. Follow activation steps.
- Claro eSIM will be activated on your device over-the-air. May need phone restart.
- Open Claro app and check data balance. Add more data packs whenever needed.
That’s it! You can now use mobile data through the installed eSIM. Manage your account directly through the Claro app during your trip.
VIII. Brazil Claro Call & SMS Rates
Here are the prepaid call and text rates on Claro Brazil:
| Type of Call/SMS | Rate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Calls within Claro Network | $0.02/minute |
| Calls to other networks in Brazil – Mobile | $0.12/minute |
| Calls to other networks in Brazil – Landline | $0.08/minute |
| Calls to international numbers – US/Canada | $0.30/minute |
| Calls to international numbers – Other countries | $0.60/minute |
| SMS within Brazil | $0.03/SMS |
| SMS to international numbers – US/Canada | $0.08/SMS |
| SMS to international numbers – Other countries | $0.12/SMS |
Additional Notes:
- Calls are charged by the second, with a minimum charge of one minute
- Consider using WhatsApp/VoIP to lower call costs
- Check Claro-to-Claro bundle rates before making calls
IX. Useful USSD Codes for Claro Brazil SIM/eSIM
Claro offers USSD codes to check balance and other info without using mobile data:
- *724# – Check SIM card status and validity
- *725# – Check data balance remaining
- *123# – Check prepaid balance
- *1058# – Check bonus balance
No need to have an active data pack for these USSD codes to work. Dial the code and get info without deducting money.
X. How to Top-up Claro Brazil SIM Card/eSIM
You can recharge or top-up a Claro SIM card/ eSIM in multiple ways:
- Claro App or Website – Top-up directly through your Claro account using credit/debit card.
- Stores – Visit any Claro store or authorized retailer. Pay cash.
- ATMs – Select bank ATMs allow Claro recharge with cash.
- Vouchers – Purchase top-up vouchers from stores, enter code on app/site.
For eSIM, you can only use online top-up methods like app, website or recharge codes as its digital. Minimum top-up amount is R$5. Data packs start from R$10 for 1GB valid 30 days with renewals. You can also get unlimited data and minute packs.
XI. Alternatives to Claro Brazil
Some alternatives to Claro you can consider in Brazil are:
- Vivo – Vivo is the second largest mobile operator in Brazil by subscriber base. They have extensive 4G/LTE coverage across major cities and regions. Vivo also offers prepaid SIM cards that can easily be purchased by travelers.
- TIM – TIM participates in about 30% of the Brazilian mobile market. They are known for having reliable connectivity in metropolitan areas and along major highways/transportation routes. TIM SIM cards can be bought at stores in airports and tourist areas.
Travelers to Brazil now have an innovative new option for staying connected with the introduction of eSIM from esimbrazil.net. It provides enormous convenience for tourists who no longer have to track down a SIM vendor within the airport or city upon arrival. With eSIM from esimbrazil.net, you can simply order your Brazilian mobile plan online before departure. Then, once in the country, just activate the eSIM profile through the eSIM app to instantly start using data on the Vivo network.
XII. FAQs about Claro in Brazil
Does Claro have 5G in Brazil?
Claro launched 5G networks in Brazil in 2021 and is expanding coverage. However, 5G is limited to some areas of major cities like São Paulo and Rio currently. Tourists won’t get much 5G access right now.
Can I use Wifi Calling on Claro?
Yes, Claro supports Wifi Calling which allows using Wifi for calls and texts instead of mobile data. Enable the feature on iPhone or Android settings. This can help in poor signal areas.
How long is Claro SIM card valid for?
Claro prepaid SIM validity depends on your recharge – data packs expire in 30 days if not renewed. For dormant SIMs, incoming calls stay active for 180 days. After expiry, do a small top-up to reuse.
Does Claro SIM card work in other South American countries?
Claro SIMs will have roaming access in some South American countries like Argentina, Chile, Peru etc. But roaming rates are very expensive. Better to buy local SIM card.
XIII. Final Words
In conclusion, purchasing and activating a Claro SIM card is straightforward for international visitors traveling to Brazil. A Claro SIM ensures seamless connectivity to stay in touch with plans, look up information on the go, and use navigation apps while exploring Brazil’s scenic landscapes and vibrant cities. For the utmost ease and convenience, eSIM from industry leaders eSIMBrazil.net is recommended to have hassle-free cellular access during your trip to Brazil.
