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.
Questions fréquentes
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
Excursions recommandées
Réservez en ligne avec un guide local, prix fixe et paiement par carte internationale ou Pix.
1 Journée complète à Rio
Tour complet d'une journée entière des principales attractions touristiques de Rio : Pain de Sucre, Centre Historique, Selarón, São Bento et Christ Rédempteur.
Visite du Centre Historique de Rio
Découvrez le côté historique de Rio de Janeiro lors d'une visite guidée à pied par ses sites les plus emblématiques. Des Arches de Lapa à la Foire d'Uruguaiana, accompagné par un guide bilingue (portugais–espagnol) qui vous racontera l'histoire et les curiosités de chaque lieu.
