With a population of over 270 million, Indonesia is a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia. As a tourist visiting Indonesia, having reliable connectivity is crucial for navigation, looking up information, and staying in touch with loved ones back home.
XL Axiata is one of the major telecommunications providers in Indonesia that offers prepaid SIM cards, eSIM, and data packages suitable for tourists. This article provides a comprehensive guide on using XL Axiata SIM cards and eSIM when traveling in Indonesia.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about XL Axiata
XL Axiata is a leading cellular provider in Indonesia that’s partly owned by Axiata Group Berhad of Malaysia. Here are some key facts about the company:
- Founded: in 1995
- Full name: PT Excelcomindo Pratama Tbk
- Services: 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE mobile network, prepaid and postpaid plans, SMS, calls, mobile data
- Subscribers: ~58.3 million (Q3 2022)
- Coverage: 94% population coverage across Indonesia
- Stores/outlets: XL has presence across 34 provinces in Indonesia with ~255,000 outlets, including XL Centers, dealers, modern retail outlets and online channels.
II. Why XL Axiata When You’re Exploring Indonesia – Coverage and Speed
1. XL Axiata Coverage in Indonesia
With over 169,000 4G LTE base stations spanning across Indonesia, XL offers reliable 4G coverage even in remote tourist destinations like Komodo National Park, Mount Bromo, Lake Toba etc.
Their network reaches 94% of the population in Indonesia, covering main islands like Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali, Lombok, Flores etc. This widespread coverage makes XL Axiata a dependable choice for tourists.
2. XL Axiata Speed
In cities like Jakarta and Bali, XL Axiata’s average 4G download speeds are around 17 Mbps, with peaks of up to 150 Mbps on 5G network. This is sufficient for regular tourist requirements like web browsing, using maps/transport apps, audio/video calling over VoIP etc.
In remote locations, network congestion can slow down speeds at times, but XL provides usable speeds for basics like messaging, social media, light web use.
III. XL Axiata Connectivity Options for Travelers in Indonesia
XL Axiata offers multiple connectivity options suitable for tourists in Indonesia:
- Prepaid SIM card – Most popular option. Available as regular SIM, micro SIM or nano SIM. Valid for 180 days.
- Tourist SIM card – Pre-activated SIM targeted at foreign tourists. Comes with bonus data/calling credits. Valid for 30 days.
- eSIM – Digital SIM profile that can be activated on eSIM-compatible smartphones. Launched in late 2022.
- Travel SIM card – Bundles prepaid SIM with a 4G WiFi router for multiple device connectivity.
IV. Best XL Axiata SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Below are some of the best-value XL SIM card options for tourists in Indonesia and their indicative pricing:
Plan Name | Price (USD) | Data Allowance | Other Benefits |
XL 4G SimPat 30 Days | $2.10 | 2GB | calls 30 minutes, SMS 30 messages |
XL 4G Flash 90 Days | $6.30 | 10GB | calls 90 minutes, SMS 90 messages |
XL 4G Super 120 Days | $8.40 | 15GB | calls 120 minutes, SMS 120 messages |
XL 4G Ultra 180 Days | $12.60 | 20GB | calls 180 minutes, SMS 180 messages |
XL 4G Extra 365 Days | $25.50 | 30GB | calls 365 minutes, SMS 365 messages |
Above prices are approximate; actual tariffs depend on prevailing plans and promotions.
V. Does XL Axiata Support eSIM in Indonesia?
Yes, XL Axiata launched eSIM support in Indonesia starting in October 2022. It allows activating a cellular plan digitally on eSIM capable smartphones like iPhone 14, Google Pixel 7 etc.
Travelers and tourists can purchase an eSIM plan from a third party provider that runs on the XL Axiata network like Indonesiaesim.com by GIGAGO. We offer various flexible data packages that run on all the major Indonesian networks, including XL Axiata. Purchasing an eSIM plan from Indonesiaesim.com allows you to easily connect to XL Axiata’s high-speed 4G/LTE network without having to purchase a physical SIM card.
The eSIM plans available from Indonesiaesim.com start from as little as $5 for packages ranging from 3GB to 50GB of data, suitable for short trips or extended stays in Indonesia. Best of all, the eSIM is activated instantly via email delivery – just scan the QR code on your eligible device and you’re connected to XL Axiata’s nationwide network right away without any hassle.
VI. Where can You Buy a XL Axiata SIM cards and eSIM?
1. Where to Buy XL Axiata SIM Cards for Indonesia?
As a tourist, you can easily procure a XL Axiata prepaid SIM at the following places across Indonesia:
- Airports – Selected counters at major airports like Jakarta and Bali.
- XL Center – XL’s official stores in malls and city centers.
- Hotels – Many hotels sell XL Axiata SIM cards at reception.
- Supermarkets – Can find XL SIMs at major chains like Alfamart, Indomaret etc.
- Online – XL’s official website and prominent third-party sellers on ecommerce sites.
2. How to Buy XL Axiata eSIM in Indonesia?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to buy and activate an eSIM using XL Axiata network from indonesiaesim.com:
- Choose your eSIM plan
Visit indonesiaesim.com and select the plan that suits your travel duration and data needs. Plans start from as little as $5 for 3GB valid for 5 days. - Make payment
Securely pay for your chosen eSIM plan via credit/debit card, PayPal or Bitcoin. Indonesiaesim.com accepts various payment options for your convenience. - Receive confirmation
Once payment is successful, you will immediately receive an email confirming your purchase. This will include the eSIM QR code and activation instructions. - Install eSIM on your device
Ensure your device is eSIM compatible and has an internet connection. Open the QR code email on your device and scan the code to add the eSIM profile. - Activate eSIM plan
Your data plan will automatically activate once you arrive in Indonesia. Turn on cellular data and check that you are connected to the local provider’s network.
Indonesiaesim.com makes using eSIM on XL Axiata’s network simple and affordable. Our customer support is also available 24/7 via WhatsApp to help with any activation or technical issues. For travelers looking for fast, reliable internet access via XL Axiata without roaming charges or SIM delays, an eSIM from Indonesiaesim.com is definitely the most convenient option. It allows you to focus on exploring Indonesia without having to worry about mobile connectivity.
VII. How to Activate XL Axiata SIM Card in Indonesia?
Activating a XL physical SIM card is straightforward:
- Purchase right sized SIM (regular, micro or nano)
- Insert SIM in smartphone
- It auto-activates within 15-20 minutes. A text message confirms activation.
- By default, basic data and calling is enabled. Dial *123# to check balance.
- Purchase a data/call pack from store, XL app or dial *123# to add credits.
VIII. XL Axiata Call & SMS Rates in Indonesia
Below are indicative XL Axiata calling and messaging rates from a tourist SIM card:
- Calls to other XL numbers – IDR 299/minute (~USD 0.02)
- Calls to other local networks – IDR 699/minute (~USD 0.05)
- International calls – Starts from IDR 3,000 (~USD 0.20)/minute
- SMS to any local number – IDR 150 (~USD 0.01) per text
Lower call rates apply on certain combo packs. International calling is expensive, so better to use VoIP services.
IX. Useful USSD Codes for XL Axiata SIM Card/eSIM
XL Axiata supports various USSD commands you can dial from phone dialer to manage account:
- *123# – Check SIM balance and validity
- *888# – Activate 3G/4G data
- *858# – Check data balance
- *889# – Deactivate data
X. How to Top-up XL Axiata SIM Card/eSIM
To add more credits on XL SIM/eSIM, you can use:
- Vouchers – Sold at stores. Dial *123*# to redeem.
- XL App/Website – Login to app/site to make payments and recharge.
- ATM/Bank Transfer – XL provides bank details to transfer money from account.
- Online wallets – Top up via payment apps like GoPay, OVO etc. supported by XL.
XI. FAQs about XL Axiata SIM Card
Does XL Axiata offer 5G in Indonesia?
Yes, XL has launched 5G coverage in select areas of Jakarta and will expand network in 2023. But 4G LTE remains prevalent.
Can I use XL Axiata SIM Card in West Papua region?
XL has limited coverage in West Papua. Recommended to get Telkomsel SIM which has wider reach.
How to check XL Axiata SIM Card number?
Dial *123*10# to find your assigned XL phone number and account details.
Does XL Axiata SIM Card work in Bali?
Yes, XL has excellent 4G coverage across Bali islands and is a good option for your Bali trip.
XII. Final Words
XL Axiata provides an easy and convenient connectivity option for foreigners visiting Indonesia with its wide availability, coverage across tourist spots, and value prepaid packages. Their prepaid SIM cards allow availing local number, calls and mobile internet at low rates during your trip.
XL’s recent eSIM launch also makes it easier for eSIM-compatible phone users to stay connected in Indonesia without physical SIM hassles. Just activate and use XL’s network seamlessly during your travels across Indonesia’s islands.