Cozumel Connectivity: A Guide to SIM Cards and Cell Phone Service
Heading to Cozumel and wondering how to stay connected? Don’t worry! I’m here to walk you through getting a SIM card and using your cell phone on this beautiful island.
Many Options, Seamless Connectivity
Cozumel has many SIM card options and prepaid plans (for your cell phones) to fit your needs and length of stay. Whether you’re here for a week, a month, or more, they have providers all over the Centro area, so you have options.

Easy Recharge: A Must
One of the things we found out is the ease of recharging. While online top-ups are an option, they usually only work for Mexican cards. So I recommend choosing a provider with physical stores, like OXXO, small tiendas, or pharmacies. You can walk in, select your package, and top up quickly.
The Big Three: Mobile Internet Providers
Three big players dominate Cozumel’s internet and cell service: Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T. AT&T plans are particularly beneficial for those traveling to Mexico and Canada, as they allow phone use without additional charges. All claim coverage all over Mexico, but in our experience, Telcel was the best. While tourist areas have good coverage, Telcel’s coverage across the island is impressive. In our experience, both Telcel and AT&T worked well during our stay in Cozumel.

Movistar’s Deals
Movistar has attractive plans and good value for your money. Most prepaid plans have unlimited access to major social media apps like WhatsApp and Messenger. The beauty is that you can choose less data and save while still being connected. Movistar plans to cover Canada, the USA, and Mexico, so it’s a good option.
AT&T: Longer for Less
AT&T has competitive pricing like Movistar. AT&T offers services in Mexico without incurring any additional cost to the customer. The bonus here is that you can extend your plan for a lower price, which is perfect for longer stays. You can use AT&T services in Mexico and Canada for free, similar to the service within the USA. Like Movistar, AT&T plans cover multiple countries, including Canada and the USA, so you’re covered across borders.
Telcel’s Offers
Telcel has plans with unlimited social media, especially for 30 days or more. Even in smaller plans, WhatsApp is unlimited for those who use messaging apps only during short visits. Like the others, Telcel plans to cover the USA and Canada, so you’re connected across borders.
Buying a SIM: A Strategic Approach
When buying your SIM card, you have many options. While 7/11 and OXXO carry them, I recommend going directly to the provider’s store. This way, you can get precisely what you want and get help from the salesperson.
Wise Spending: SIM Card Price
The cost of living in Cozumel includes SIM cards, which are a reasonable investment. Depending on the provider and promotions, you’ll pay around $40 to 150 pesos (roughly $5-10 USD).
Recharging Ritual: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Recharging your SIM card is easy in Mexico. Return to the store where you bought it for a simple top-up, or do an online top-up through the provider’s website. For a fast and easy experience, OXXO is a trusted recharge option.
Stay Connected: US Phones in Mexico
Remember, your USA phone keeps its identity in Mexico, so you must dial internationally for local calls. There were no issues with connectivity or unexpected charges during our stay. Carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile have roaming agreements with Mexican carriers, but each has its own quirks. You can view a network coverage map to understand the availability of 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G services in Cozumel. T-Mobile is more budget-friendly, but AT&T can be more expensive. Make sure to update your phone’s software to ensure optimal performance. Carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile have roaming agreements with Mexican carriers, providing a seamless experience similar to the USA. For the best experience, update your browser to view the carrier’s website properly. Check the details on your carrier’s website before you jump. AT&T works effectively in Mexico, providing reliable service without extra charges.
In summary, staying connected in Cozumel is easy with the correct SIM card and a thoughtful approach. Happy stay!
Why Book With Us?
Book through this website; we guarantee you’ll get the lowest price online. You’ll be dealing with us, the owners, and we never charge booking fees so that you will save up to 30% of the cost over sites like Airbnb. Book our Cozumel Vacation Rental here.