Peru – Internet

Who are the major internet service providers in Peru?

Peru’s telecoms market brings together large nationwide operators alongside newer specialist ISPs. The principal players span both fixed broadband — delivered via fibre, cable, and DSL — and mobile services, with several operators active across both segments. Competition has intensified notably in the fixed internet space, where emerging fibre companies are putting pressure on the long-established incumbent.

Movistar (Telefónica del Perú) — Originally the state-owned monopoly, Movistar continues to be the largest single operator in the country, providing fixed telephone lines, broadband, and mobile services. It has progressively replaced older DSL infrastructure with fibre broadband across most cities. With approximately 33.05% of the fixed internet market as of December 2024, Movistar retains its leading position, though rivals are steadily closing the gap. Current plans and coverage can be checked at movistar.com.pe.

Claro (América Móvil) — Holding roughly 25% of the fixed broadband market as of December 2024, Claro is part of the América Móvil group and delivers an integrated portfolio covering mobile, fixed-line telephony, internet, and cable TV. It performs particularly strongly in the mobile segment. Plan details are available at claro.com.pe.

Bitel — A relatively recent arrival in the Peruvian market, Bitel has built a substantial fibre optic network, though its mobile footprint is smaller than those of Movistar or Claro. The operator, which is owned by Vietnam’s Viettel Group, has earned a reputation for competitive pricing and a strong emphasis on data services. See current offers at bitel.com.pe.

WOM and WIN — Together these two operators command around 30% of the fixed fibre market — roughly 15% each as of December 2024 — making them a considerable force in the residential fibre segment, with their strongest presence in Lima and other major urban centres.

Entel — Formerly operating under the Nextel Peru brand, Entel is a major player in the Peruvian mobile market, offering a comprehensive range of mobile services and actively expanding its 4G LTE coverage. Entel focuses primarily on mobile rather than fixed broadband. Further details are available at entel.pe.

Starlink — Starlink launched in Peru in January 2023, and by late 2024 its residential plan was priced at around S/140 per month (approximately US$38) with unlimited data, with hardware occasionally available at a discount. By mid-2025, Starlink coverage extends across the whole country. The service is especially significant for users in rural and remote locations. Visit starlink.com for up-to-date pricing and equipment information.

Always consult provider websites directly and use the OSIPTEL comparison tool at checatuplan.pe to check current pricing and availability at your specific address, as promotional offers and coverage maps are updated regularly.

What types of internet connection are available in Peru?

Peru’s internet infrastructure has developed at a swift pace, with several different technologies operating side by side. Fixed broadband is now predominantly fibre-optic, displacing legacy DSL and coaxial cable across much of the country. Mobile broadband — chiefly 4G, with 5G beginning to emerge — provides widespread connectivity in areas without fixed lines. In the most remote corners of the country, satellite internet fills gaps that land-based networks cannot economically reach.

Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) — By the close of 2024, Peru had surpassed 4.06 million fixed internet connections in total, with fibre-optic accounts exceeding 3 million and representing approximately 73.8% of all fixed lines. Fibre is the standard technology in Lima and other large cities and is spreading rapidly into smaller urban centres. Unlike markets where fibre penetration is near-universal, Peru’s rollout remains largely concentrated in cities, though investment continues apace.

Cable (Coaxial/HFC) — Coaxial cable internet — provided mainly by Claro and a handful of local cable ISPs — still accounts for around 22.7% of fixed connections. Available in parts of Lima and larger cities, cable is gradually being superseded as providers transition their networks to fibre.

DSL — Legacy ADSL over copper, once widely marketed by Telefónica (Movistar) under the “Speedy” brand, has been largely retired in urban areas in favour of fibre. Residual DSL lines persist in older buildings or locations not yet reached by fibre infrastructure, but this technology’s share of total subscriptions continues to shrink each quarter.

4G/5G Mobile Broadband — By late 2024, 4G LTE reached 93.85% of Peru’s population, with service available across roughly 56,000 population centres. 5G deployment is still in its early phases, covering approximately 15.5% of the population across 273 localities as of Q3 2024, with spectrum fragmentation slowing further expansion. Using a 4G SIM in a home router is a practical solution in areas where fixed lines have not yet arrived — much as it is throughout Latin America, 4G functions as a genuine everyday alternative rather than a fallback option.

Satellite — Peru has invested significantly in national fibre infrastructure, including the Red Dorsal Nacional de Fibra Óptica (National Fibre Optic Backbone), a countrywide trunk network linking major cities and many towns with high-capacity backhaul. As of 2025, the government through Pronatel continues working to maximise the backbone’s utility and extend fibre reach into underserved areas. For those beyond the reach of fixed or 4G networks — particularly in the Amazon basin or Andean highlands — Starlink offers a genuine and increasingly accessible alternative.

How fast and reliable is the internet in Peru?

Fixed broadband speeds in Peru have climbed sharply in recent years, cementing the country’s position as one of the region’s better-performing markets. According to Ookla Speedtest Global Index data, Peru belongs to a small group of countries that grew their fixed broadband download speeds by more than 1,000% between 2017 and 2024.

Peru achieved second place in South America for fixed broadband speed according to Ookla. In December 2024, the median download speed stood at 195.9 Mbps — a rise of over 90% compared to 101.6 Mbps recorded in January of the same year. This figure placed Peru 56.5 Mbps above the regional average and behind only Chile (273.3 Mbps) in South America. By global standards, this is a highly competitive result.

OECD analysis of Ookla Speedtest Intelligence data covering Q4 2024 found Peru’s mean fixed download speed to be 224.9 Mbps — ahead of numerous countries with longer-established digital economies. These figures reflect the rapid fibre buildout underway in Lima and other principal urban centres.

Mobile speeds show greater variation. OpenSignal data from February 2024 put national average 4G download speeds in the range of 14–22 Mbps. By 2025, the fastest mobile internet in Peru was being delivered by Claro, with an average download speed of around 39.8 Mbps.

Latency and the urban-rural divide remain worth noting. Ookla data for Q4 2024 identified Peru among a group of countries — alongside Argentina, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Togo — recording mean latency gaps of more than 20 ms between cities and rural areas. The contrast between urban and rural connectivity has been a persistent feature of Peru’s digital landscape. Lima and other cities have progressed rapidly, while outlying and remote zones continue to trail behind in access, speed, and consistency. That said, the divide has been narrowing thanks to mobile coverage expansion and targeted government programmes.

For current speed benchmarks, refer to Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index for Peru and the quality-of-service tools available through OSIPTEL at osiptel.gob.pe.

How do I get an internet connection set up in Peru?

Arranging residential broadband in Peru as a newcomer follows a recognisable sequence of steps, though the process is conducted almost entirely in Spanish. Preparing your documentation ahead of time will make things considerably smoother. Foreign nationals can generally sign up without a Peruvian bank account, but a local address and phone number are usually expected.

1. Check coverage at your address. Use the OSIPTEL comparison tool at checatuplan.pe or visit individual provider websites (Movistar, Claro, WOM, WIN, Bitel) to verify which services reach your specific address. In certain parts of Lima, fibre availability can differ from one street to the next.
2. Choose a provider and plan. Compare speeds, contract durations, and monthly costs across providers. Tiered plans based on download speed are standard, with fibre packages at 100–200 Mbps typically representing entry-level options. Take note of any promotional pricing and when it is scheduled to expire.
3. Prepare your documents. You will generally need a valid passport or national ID, evidence of your Peruvian address (such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill in your name), and a local mobile number for verification purposes and to allow the installer to reach you. Residents who hold a Carné de Extranjería (foreigner’s identity card) or RUC number (tax ID) may be asked to provide these, but a passport is ordinarily sufficient to begin the application.
4. Apply online or in-store. Most major providers accept online applications, but attending an official store in person tends to be more effective for foreign nationals navigating identity verification. Bring both originals and copies of all relevant documents.
5. Sign the contract. Review the terms thoroughly, paying particular attention to the contract length (12 or 24 months is standard), early termination penalties, and what happens to the introductory rate once the promotional period concludes.
6. Book a technician installation visit. The provider will arrange a visit to your home to fit the router or ONT (optical network terminal for fibre). Installation is frequently free or bundled into a promotional offer, though some operators charge a one-time connection fee — confirm this before committing.
7. Go live. Installation appointments are usually scheduled within 3–10 working days of contract signing, though this varies by area and the provider’s current workload. Installations in central Lima typically proceed faster than those in secondary cities.

Foreign nationals should note that some providers’ online portals are built around Peruvian nationals holding a DNI (national identity document) number. If you find you cannot complete an online application without a DNI, going to an official store in person is the most dependable route. Staff at major Lima branches regularly assist international customers with this process.

Can I get internet access before my permanent connection is installed in Peru?

You do not have to go without internet while your fixed connection is being arranged. Several practical options are available from the moment you set foot in the country.

Prepaid SIM cards with mobile data represent the most immediate and straightforward solution. Peru’s main mobile networks are Claro and Movistar, with Entel and Bitel also widely used. All offer reliable coverage in major urban areas including Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. SIM cards can be purchased from official carrier stores in major cities and at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. A passport is required for purchase.

As of 2025, mobile internet providers in Peru supply both physical prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs for newcomers and visitors. If your device supports eSIM, this is the most convenient route — you can set it up before departing for Peru and arrive already connected. Movistar, Claro, and Entel all support eSIMs, which are activated through an app without the need for a physical card, making them especially practical for business travellers and international visitors.

On the affordability front, prepaid mobile data is competitively priced — some offers provide 1 GB from as little as S/1, and many bundles deliver 20–40 GB for under S/30 per month, driven by healthy competition among the major operators.

Portable Wi-Fi (pocket Wi-Fi) devices can be rented or purchased from phone shops and some electronics retailers. Running on 4G SIM cards, these devices allow multiple gadgets to connect simultaneously — handy if you are settling in with family or using several devices while awaiting your fixed broadband installation.

Co-working spaces and cafés with public Wi-Fi are plentiful in Lima’s Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro neighbourhoods, as well as in Cusco and other cities popular among expats. Many co-working venues offer flexible daily or weekly membership — an appealing choice for remote workers who need dependable, fast connectivity while getting their home connection sorted.

What does internet service typically cost in Peru?

By international benchmarks, internet in Peru is genuinely good value — particularly for fixed fibre broadband. Market competition has pushed both quality and pricing in consumers’ favour, and Peru now ranks among the more affordable internet markets in the region. Always verify current pricing directly with providers, as promotional offers are updated frequently.

The figures above are approximate, based on publicly advertised plans as of 2025. Check provider websites and checatuplan.pe for current offers, since promotional pricing is widespread and can vary depending on your location.

Installation and equipment: Free installation and a complimentary router are common during promotional periods. Outside of these promotions, a one-time connection fee of S/50–S/100 is not unusual, and router rental is often wrapped into the monthly charge. Some providers sell routers outright, which can represent better value over the course of a longer contract.

Contract lengths: Standard residential plans run for 12 or 24 months. Shorter or rolling monthly plans are available but generally carry a higher per-month cost. Early termination fees apply, so review contract terms carefully before signing.

Mobile data costs: As of early 2025, a Claro prepaid SIM card costs around 5 soles (approximately US$1.35). Data packages include options such as 4 GB plus 500 minutes plus unlimited WhatsApp for 20 soles (approx. US$5.40), or 10.5 GB with unlimited calls and messaging for 30 soles (approx. US$8). Postpaid mobile plans with larger data allowances begin at around S/40–S/70 per month. Check current offers on provider websites, as pricing is reviewed regularly.

Are there any restrictions or censorship affecting internet use in Peru?

Peru maintains a broadly open internet environment, and those arriving from countries with free and unrestricted online access will find everyday usage largely familiar. The government does not block major platforms, social media sites, or news outlets, and there is no equivalent of the sweeping content-filtering regimes in place in countries such as China or Iran.

There are no known legal restrictions on the personal or commercial use of VPNs in Peru. VPN services are used freely and openly by both businesses and individuals. If you work remotely or need regular access to services based in your home country, using a VPN is entirely lawful.

Peru does have specific legislation governing online content, including anti-piracy rules and cybercrime law (Ley de Delitos Informáticos, Law 30096 and subsequent amendments). These statutes are directed at illegal activities such as hacking, online fraud, and the distribution of unlawful material, rather than restricting access to ordinary websites or services. Expats should be aware that standard internet-related laws apply — including those covering defamation and copyright — but everyday browsing and communication are not subject to restrictions.

Voice Over IP (VoIP) services are not expressly regulated in Peru, though certain types of commercial VoIP provision may require a concession or registration. In practice, consumer-facing VoIP applications such as WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype, and similar tools operate without restriction. Unlike regulatory frameworks in some countries where VoIP is partially curtailed to protect incumbent telcos, Peru takes a permissive approach at the consumer level.

For the latest information on Peru’s internet regulatory environment, consult OSIPTEL at osiptel.gob.pe.

What should I know about mobile data and SIM cards in Peru?

Peru’s mobile operators — Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel — each bring different coverage strengths, pricing structures, and network performance. Understanding what each network offers will help you select the right option based on where you are based and how widely you plan to travel.

Movistar and Claro provide the most extensive coverage across both urban and rural areas, making them the most reliable options for anyone who intends to venture beyond major cities. Entel and Bitel offer competitive pricing with strong urban network performance. Bitel in particular tends to have very economical data rates, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users who spend most of their time in cities.

SIM registration for foreign nationals: In recent years, OSIPTEL and the Peruvian government introduced a strict SIM card registration regime. Foreign nationals can only purchase a SIM card through officially operated carrier stores by presenting a passport. The process involves queuing for an agent, who will take a copy of your documents and complete the necessary paperwork; the SIM is then paid for at the cashier and activated by the agent. Set aside around 15–30 minutes for this in a busy store.

eSIMs: As of 2025, Peru’s mobile providers offer both physical prepaid SIM cards and eSIM options. Major operators including Movistar, Claro, and Entel support eSIM activation via an app, eliminating the need for a physical card. International eSIM providers such as Airalo, Holafly, and Jetpac also offer Peru-compatible plans running on local networks, which can be purchased and activated before you travel — a convenient solution for the period before you obtain a local SIM or establish a postpaid account.

International roaming: Using a SIM from your home country while in Peru is possible but typically expensive for anything beyond a brief stay. Entel has roaming agreements with more than 130 countries. Check your home provider’s specific rates for Peru before treating roaming as more than a temporary measure. Switching to a local prepaid plan is almost invariably more economical for stays exceeding a few days.

5G: Claro and Entel launched 5G on 3500 MHz (Band n78) in March 2021 in selected parts of Lima, with Movistar following later. As of November 2024, 5G is not available on prepaid plans and remains restricted to postpaid contracts across a relatively limited number of urban locations.

Use the OSIPTEL coverage checker at osiptel.gob.pe — including the “Señal OSIPTEL” tool — to compare network coverage by operator in your specific district or region.

Who regulates internet and telecoms services in Peru?

The body responsible for regulating communications in Peru is OSIPTEL — the Organismo Supervisor de la Inversión Privada en Telecomunicaciones (Supervisory Agency for Private Investment in Telecommunications). This is the principal authority you will interact with if you need to file a complaint against a provider or access impartial information about plans and network coverage.

OSIPTEL and the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) have pursued a range of initiatives and regulatory measures in recent years. Their chief priorities include broadening broadband coverage, facilitating 5G deployment, reinforcing data security, combating fraud linked to stolen mobile handsets, and protecting consumer rights.

The Ministry of Transport and Communications is responsible for granting concessions, authorisations, permits, and licences to telecoms operators. The Peruvian government also operates a Telecommunications Investment Fund (FITEL) aimed at extending universal service to the country’s most isolated communities, including rural zones and areas of social interest.

For expats, OSIPTEL’s most useful public-facing tools include:

• Checa tu Plan (checatuplan.pe) — A digital comparison tool covering all plans from every mobile internet operator, as well as fixed internet tariffs.
• Señal OSIPTEL — A tool that lets you check the network coverage of different operators in specific locations.
• Complaints portal — An online mechanism for registering disputes with your operator and reporting cases that your provider failed to resolve.

The OSIPTEL website is an authoritative and independent resource that every expat is encouraged to bookmark. It is particularly valuable when selecting a provider, verifying coverage at a new address, or escalating a complaint that your ISP has not dealt with satisfactorily. Visit osiptel.gob.pe for all services.

Frequently asked questions about internet access in Peru

Can I get a broadband contract in Peru as a foreign national without a Peruvian ID?

Yes. The majority of major providers — including Movistar, Claro, and WOM — will accept a valid passport as proof of identity when entering into a residential contract. Holding a Carné de Extranjería (foreigner’s identity card) makes the process more straightforward and may be required for postpaid plans. A local address (rental agreement or utility bill) and a Peruvian mobile phone number are also typically expected. Should you encounter difficulties completing an online application that demands a DNI number, visiting an official provider store in person is the most reliable course of action.

How long does it take to get fixed broadband installed in Peru?

In Lima and other major urban areas, installation appointments are generally scheduled within 3–10 working days of contract signing. In smaller cities or newly developed areas where fibre infrastructure is still being extended, it can take longer. Before committing, confirm availability and expected timescales with the provider — particularly if you are moving into a newly constructed building or a location outside the city centre.

Is Wi-Fi widely available in public places in Peru?

Public Wi-Fi is readily accessible in Lima and other principal cities, especially in cafés, restaurants, shopping centres, hotels, and co-working spaces. As part of digital inclusion initiatives, the Peruvian government has installed around 2,690 free Wi-Fi plazas in public spaces across the country. The quality and security of public Wi-Fi varies considerably — refrain from transmitting sensitive information over open networks, and consider using a VPN when connected to public hotspots.

Is internet access reliable enough to work from home in Lima?

For the overwhelming majority of remote working needs, yes. Fixed fibre broadband in Lima delivers median speeds well above 100 Mbps with solid upload performance, making video conferencing, cloud-based work, and VoIP applications fully practical. Outages do happen — heavy rain can affect infrastructure — but the overall reliability of broadband in Lima and other major cities is broadly comparable to urban standards in Western Europe. Keeping a mobile data plan as a backup connection is strongly recommended.

What is the best mobile network in Peru for coverage?

Movistar and Claro have the widest coverage across both urban and rural parts of the country. For those based in cities, all four main operators (Movistar, Claro, Entel, Bitel) deliver solid 4G connectivity. For anyone who travels regularly to rural areas, Andean communities, or the Amazon region, Movistar generally offers the broadest geographic reach — though coverage gaps are common in very remote locations regardless of which network you use. The OSIPTEL Señal tool is the best way to check coverage for a specific area before choosing an operator.

Are there data caps on internet plans in Peru?

Most fixed residential fibre plans in Peru are marketed as unlimited data services without hard usage caps. Mobile postpaid plans typically apply a high-speed data threshold beyond which speeds are reduced, rather than cutting off access entirely. Prepaid mobile plans are capped by the size of the package purchased. Always read the fair-use policy (política de uso justo) in your contract carefully, since some plans marketed as “unlimited” may impose speed throttling after a certain level of heavy use.

Can I use Starlink in Peru, and is it worth it?

Starlink launched in Peru in January 2023, and by late 2024 the residential plan was priced at around S/140 per month (approximately US$38) with unlimited data, with hardware periodically available at a reduced cost. The service offers the most compelling value proposition in rural areas, remote highland communities, and the Amazon basin, where fixed lines are absent and 4G coverage is intermittent. In cities where fibre broadband is available, a fixed connection will generally offer superior latency and better overall value. Check current pricing and hardware availability at starlink.com.

Who do I contact if I have a problem with my internet provider in Peru?

Your first port of call should be your provider’s official customer service channels. If the issue remains unresolved, you can escalate the matter to OSIPTEL — the national telecoms regulator. OSIPTEL provides an online complaints portal through which you can formally register a dispute with your operator and flag cases that the provider has not addressed. OSIPTEL’s rulings are binding on operators. Visit osiptel.gob.pe to access the complaints process.