Can I Use My Cell Phone in Ecuador?
You can use your cell phone in Ecuador if it’s a GSM (Global Systems for Mobiles) phone. In the U.S., AT&T Wireless and T-Mobile use this system. If your phone is on a GSM system and your phone is a world-capable multiband phone (including many Motorola, Samsung, Sony, and Ericsson models), you can use it in Ecuador. You will, however, need to call your operator and ask for international roaming to be activated. Do note that the charges for international roaming are typically quite high (around $1 to $4 per-minute).
If you don't own a GSM phone, you can buy one locally in Ecuador. There are several companies, all of which have dealers around the country. Stores sell pre-activated phones with a few dollars of calling time loaded. You can buy additional prepaid minutes at other stores throughout the country. The cheapest of these phones usually costs around $40. Ecuador's main cell phone companies are Movistar, Alegro, and Porta.
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