We compare tourist eSIMs, local SIM cards (Vivo, TIM, Claro) and roaming for your Rio trip, with reference prices, activation steps and must-have apps.
R$55
Vivo Tourist eSIM: 25 GB for 30 days
As of Sept. 2026
Passport
Enough for Vivo and TIM, no CPF needed
Everything runs on WhatsApp
In Rio your phone does a lot of work: ride-hailing, Pix payments, QR-code menus and WhatsApp with your guide. Aim to land with data already working. If your phone supports eSIM, that's the easiest route; US carrier roaming passes are convenient but usually pricier.
Your options compared
Vivo Tourist eSIM
R$55 · 25 GB · 30 days
A Brazilian number and plenty of data. Activate with a passport, no CPF.
- Cheap with lots of data
- Local number for apps
- Phone must support eSIM and be unlocked
TIM or Claro physical SIM
Budget prepaid plans
TIM sells SIMs with a passport; Claro offers the Flex Pass. Buy them at official stores.
- Works in any unlocked phone
- You need to visit a store
International eSIM apps
Apps like Airalo or Holafly: install before you fly and have data on landing.
- Ready on arrival
- Data only, no local number; pricier per GB
Your carrier's roaming
Convenient for short trips: turn on a travel pass. Compare the daily cost.
- Keep your number
- Usually the most expensive
How to activate your eSIM or SIM
- 1
Check your phone is unlocked
And for eSIM, that it's compatible (Settings › Cellular).
- 2
Choose where to buy
Official Vivo, TIM or Claro stores (e.g. at Rio Sul mall) or the carrier's website/app.
- 3
Bring your passport
It's the document used to register foreign customers.
- 4
Scan the QR or insert the SIM
For eSIM, scan the QR code; keep your home line for SMS only if you need bank codes.
- 5
Turn on data and test
Before leaving the store, open Google Maps and send a WhatsApp to confirm.
Before you leave home
Must-have apps
Uber & 99
Safe, cheap rides, especially at night. 99 is often a bit cheaper.
Restaurants, guides and tour operators all use it.
Google Maps
Download the offline Rio map just in case.
Moovit
Real-time subway, bus, BRT and light-rail info.
iFood
Food and grocery delivery; often accepts foreign cards.
A Pix-capable app
Nomad, WanderWallet or similar to pay by scanning QR codes.
Google Translate
Camera mode for menus and signs.
Frequently asked questions
For value, the Vivo Tourist eSIM (R$55 for 25 GB, 30 days, as of Sept. 2026). For convenience before departure, an international eSIM app.
Your tour, coordinated on WhatsApp
As soon as you're connected, message us: we'll confirm your pickup time and answer in English.
Tours worth the photos
Recommended tours for this guide
Book online with a local guide, a fixed price and payment by international card or Pix.
1 Full Day in Rio
Full-day tour of Rio's must-sees: Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain with both cable cars, Historic Center and Selarón Steps. Includes buffet lunch, all entrance fees and private transportation.
Historic Center Rio Tour
Discover the historic side of Rio de Janeiro on a guided walking tour through its most iconic landmarks. From the Arches of Lapa to the Uruguaiana Fair, accompanied by a bilingual guide (Portuguese–Spanish) who will tell you the history and curiosities of each place.
