South Africa eSIM

Plans: 34
From: $1.05 USD
Data: 100 MB – 20 GB
Valid for: 1–365 days

Plans for South Africa

100 MB
for 7 days
Cheapest
$1.05 USD
South Africa 100MB 7Days
South Africa
3G/4GTop-up availableStarts on install
Choose this plan — South Africa 100MB 7Days for $1.05 USD
500 MB
for 7 days
$1.25 USD
South Africa 500MB 7Days

What a South Africa eSIM gets you

Coverage and speed

Plans for South Africa run on 3G, 4G and 5G where the local network supports it. Depending on the plan you pick, you connect through 3, 7acht, A1 and AIS and 136 other networks.

18 of these also work in other countries, so one eSIM can cover a multi-stop trip rather than needing a new one at each border.

Data and validity

Allowances range from 100 MB to 20 GB, valid for 1, 7, 15, 30, 90 and 365 days. Prices start at $1.05 USD and the largest plan is $86.50 USD.

33 of the 34 can be topped up without buying a new eSIM — worth knowing if you are unsure how much data you need.

When the clock starts

Most South Africa plans start counting on first connection abroad, so you can install on Wi-Fi before you travel. 1 of the 34 start on install instead — those are labelled “Starts on install” wherever they appear, including before you pay.

South Africa eSIM questions

How much does an eSIM for South Africa cost?

Plans start at $1.05 USD and go up to $86.50 USD, depending on how much data you need and for how long. That is the full price — there is no activation fee and nothing is added at checkout.

How much data do I need for South Africa?

Allowances run from 100 MB to 20 GB. Maps and messaging use very little; streaming and hotspotting a laptop use a lot. 33 of our 34 South Africa plans can be topped up later, so starting small is a reasonable way to find out.

When does a South Africa eSIM start counting?

Most start on first connection in South Africa, so you can install before you fly. 1 start on install instead, and those are labelled before you pay.

Can I keep my own number in South Africa?

Yes. The eSIM is data only and sits alongside your normal SIM, so calls and texts keep working on your usual number. Turn mobile data off for your home SIM to avoid roaming charges from your own carrier.

Which networks does it use in South Africa?

Depending on the plan, 3, 7acht, A1, AIS and AirTel and others. Speeds are 3G/4G and 3G/4G/5G where the local network supports it.

Will it work on my phone?

Your phone needs to support eSIM and be carrier-unlocked. Most iPhones from the XR onwards and most recent Android flagships do. A phone locked to a carrier cannot install an eSIM however new it is.

Plans for South Africa

What a South Africa eSIM gets you

South Africa eSIM questions

Other destinations