Best eSIM for South Africa (2025)

eSIMs are quickly becoming the default choice for travelers to South Africa and other parts of the world. Embedded SIM cards (or eSIMs) are installed on your device like an app, so there’s no need to take out your regular SIM card to use one. You can purchase and set up an eSIM before traveling to South Africa and avoid the hassle of having to buy a SIM card at the airport.

Are you looking to cut costs? Well, using an eSIM is way cheaper than roaming. eSIMs are also much more convenient and safer than using a physical SIM. Plus, you can use the same eSIM in multiple countries.

There are dozens of eSIM providers today offering flexible data plans for South Africa. So, it can be confusing to figure out which one to pick. We tested several eSIMs to find the best eSIM for South Africa, and we’ll tell you all about our findings in this article.

Top 5 eSIM providers for South Africa - our shortlist

1. Saily – overall best eSIM for South Africa
2. Airalo – favorite South Africa eSIM for seasoned travelers
3. aloSIM – best South Africa eSIM for calling and texting
4. Nomad – user-friendly eSIM for South Africa
5. Instabridge – best pay-as-you-go eSIM for South Africa

What to consider when choosing an eSIM for travel in South Africa?

It’s essential to examine your needs carefully when selecting an eSIM for South Africa. Here are a few things to consider:

• Coverage: Not every eSIM service is available in South Africa. So, check and confirm that your preferred eSIM has network coverage in the country.
• Data plans: Estimate the amount of data you’ll need while in South Africa and select an appropriate data plan. Some eSIM services offer unlimited data, which is perfect if you can’t guess how much data you’ll need. If you opt for an eSIM that doesn’t offer unlimited data, make sure there’s an option to top-up when you run out of data.
• Cost: Ensure the data plans of your preferred eSIM fit your budget. The cost of eSIM plans varies, and some providers are more budget-friendly than others.
• Compatibility: Most new phones are eSIM-compatible, but it’s important to double-check and confirm that your smartphone is compatible with the eSIM you’ve chosen.
• Activation process: Activating an eSIM is usually a straightforward process. However, some eSIMs can be easier to activate than others. Check the activation process for the eSIM you’ve chosen and see if the eSIM provider has detailed activation guides to walk you through the process.
• Validity period: Consider the duration of your trip and the validity period of data plans from the eSIM you’ve chosen. Some eSIMs may be better suited to extended travel than others. For example, while the longest data plans from some eSIMs are valid for only 30 days, other eSIM services have plans valid for up to 365 days.

The best eSIMs for South Africa - our detailed list

We tested dozens of top-rated eSIMs to find the best ones for South Africa. We evaluated their coverage in the country and the data plans they offer. We also assessed their ease of use and price. Below are our top 5 eSIMs for South Africa.

1. Saily - overall best eSIM for South Africa

Coverage	150+
Plans in South Africa	5
Supports 5G	Yes
Regional plans	No

Visit Saily

Saily is a product of NordVPN, and it upholds the same level of excellence that we’ve come to expect from this company. This eSIM sits at the top of our rankings thanks to its competitively priced plans and ease of use.

Coverage: Saily’s network spans over 150 countries, including South Africa. The company doesn’t state which local network operators it works with but it supports 5G and 4G, and promises “reliable connection from South Africa’s best networks.”

Data plans: Saily has 5 different data plans for South Africa, offering 1 GB to 20 GB of data and valid for 7 to 30 days.

Activation process: You need to download the Saily app to activate the eSIM; the process is pretty straightforward. You can reach Saily through multiple customer support channels, including 24/7 live chat and email.

Price: The prices of Saily’s South Africa eSIM plans vary, starting from $3.99 for a 1 GB, 7-day plan.

Check out our Saily review to learn more about this eSIM service.

2. Airalo - favorite South Africa eSIM for seasoned travelers

Coverage	200+
Plans in South Africa	5
Supports 5G	Yes
Regional plans	Yes

Visit Airalo

Airalo is one of the most popular eSIMs around, and it’s a top choice for many seasoned travelers. This eSIM has an array of local plans for South Africa as well as regional plans that cover 36 African countries, including South Africa.

Coverage: Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries. In South Africa, it works with Vodacom to provide 5G, 4G, and 3G internet access. This eSIM only supports calling and texting on its Discover+ global plan.

Data plans: There are 5 different Airalo South Africa data plans to choose from. These plans give you 1 GB to 10 GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days.

Activation process: You can activate the Airalo eSIM by scanning the QR code the company provides. You can also activate this eSIM manually or via the Airalo app. Airalo is one of the few eSIMs that performs KYC verifications. However, you don’t need to verify your identity to use its South Africa eSIM.

Price: Airalo’s pricing is on par with other eSIM providers. Its South Africa data plans start from $4.50 for a 1 GB, 7-day plan.

3. aloSIM - best South Africa eSIM for calling and texting

Coverage	170+
Plans in South Africa	6
Supports 5G	Yes
Regional plans	Yes

Visit aloSIM

aloSIM is one of the best eSIMs to get if you’d like to make calls and send text messages while in South Africa. While it doesn’t have any regional plans covering South Africa, it has an array of flexible local plans for South Africa.

Coverage: aloSIM is available in over 170 countries. In South Africa, it works with Vodacom to provide internet access (5G and LTE). While aloSIM supports calling and texting, you need to download its sister app, Hushed, to access those features.

Data plans: Travelers to South Africa can choose from 6 different data plans from aloSIM. These plans offer 1 GB to 20 GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days.

Activation process: There are different ways to activate aloSIM — automatically, via a QR code, or manually. Regardless of the option you choose, it’s generally easy to set up this eSIM. aloSIM doesn’t perform KYC verification.

Price: aloSIM’s plans for South Africa start at $4.50 for a 1 GB, 7-day plan.

4. Nomad – ideal for high data users

Coverage	170+ countries
Plans in South Africa	4
Supports 5G	Yes
Regional plans	Yes

Visit Nomad

As its name implies, Nomad is an eSIM created for frequent travelers. Nomad has different eSIM plans for South Africa, and, like Airalo, it has regional eSIM plans for Africa that cover South Africa.

Coverage: Nomad has coverage in over 170 countries, including South Africa. It works with MTN and Vodacom in South Africa and supports 5G and 4G connectivity. Unfortunately, Nomad doesn’t allow calling or texting.

Data plans: Nomad has 4 data plans for South Africa, offering 1 GB to 10 GB of data and valid for 7 to 30 days.

Activation process: Activating Nomad is straightforward. All you need to do is scan a QR code and tweak a few settings on your device to set up the eSIM. Nomad doesn’t perform KYC checks.

Price: The price of Nomad eSIM plans for South Africa varies, starting from $11 for a 1 GB, 7-day plan.

5. Instabridge - best pay-as-you-go eSIM for South Africa

Coverage	170+ countries
Plans in South Africa	4
Supports 5G	Yes
Regional plans	Yes

Visit Nomad

Instabridge is not as popular as other eSIMs on this list, but it’s rated highly by many experts. It is one of the few eSIMs that offers a pay-as-you-go plan.

Coverage: Instabridge is available in 185 countries, including South Africa. While it doesn’t have a regional plan for Africa, its global plan covers South Africa and neighboring countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Data plans: There are four Instabridge South Africa data plans to choose from, offering 1 GB to 20 GB and valid for 7 to 30 days.

Activation process: Instabridge’s eSIM is primarily activated via the app. The process is simple and straightforward.

Price: Instabridge’s South Africa data plans start at €3.99 (approximately $4.32) for a 1 GB, 7-day plan. Instabridge also has pay-as-you-go plans.

Comparison of the best eSIM providers for South Africa

Brand	Plan duration	Data sharing	Unlimited data	App	GB per plan	Support	Price	Trustpilot	Score
Saily	7 days to 30 days	Yes	No	Yes	1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, and 20 GB	In English, via live chat and email	$2.99 to $69.99	4.0	4.9
Airalo	7, 15, 30, 60, 180, 365 days	Yes	Yes	Yes	1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, 50 GB, and 100 GB	In English, via live chat	$4.50 to $185	2.4	4.7
aloSIM	7, 15, 30, 90, and 180 days	Yes	No	Yes	1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 50 GB, and 100 GB	In English, via live chat and email	$4.5 to $185	4.0	4.5
Nomad	1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 30. 45 and 60 days	Yes	No	Yes	1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, and 30 GB	In English, via email support	$2.5 to $125	4.4	4.6
Instabridge	7, 15, and 30 days	Yes	Yes	Yes	1 GB, 3 GB, 10 GB, and 20 GB	In English, via live chat and email	€3.99 to €81.99	3.5	4.4

How we tested and ranked these eSIMs for South Africa

We assessed different eSIMs based on strict criteria to select the best eSIMs for South Africa. Here are some of the main things we looked out for:

• Coverage in South Africa: One of the first things we checked when selecting eSIMs was availability in South Africa. Some eSIMs, even popular services like Jetpac, aren’t available in South Africa. We only selected eSIMs with wide coverage across the country.
• Network: We checked the type of network each eSIM offers in South Africa and gave priority to those that support 4G and 5G. This guarantees they have the fastest speeds and are reliable.
• Data plans: We assessed the data plans different providers offer when selecting the best eSIMs for South Africa. The services that made our list offer a wide array of plans that are suitable for both short-term and long-term travels.
• User-friendliness: No one enjoys using a service that’s abstruse and difficult to figure out. So, we paid particular attention to the user-friendliness of different eSIM services, assessing how easy it is to navigate their apps and activate the eSIMs. The eSIMs we chose are some of the most user-friendly available on the market today.
• Customer support: We looked at the customer service channels each eSIM service offers and selected those with a wide array of customer support options, including live chat and email. We reached out to these eSIM services to gauge their response times and also read through user reviews to learn about the experiences of other customers with these eSIM services.
• Compatibility: eSIMs are compatible with most new phones, but some of them only work with a small number of devices. We checked which devices each eSIM is compatible with and only picked those that work with a wide array of devices.
• Price: Price is a key factor when choosing eSIMs because everyone loves a good deal. We assessed the prices of different eSIMs and picked those that offer the best price-to-service ratio.

How to activate an eSIM in South Africa

There are different ways to install and activate an eSIM, but the process is quite simple. Depending on the eSIM service you’ve chosen, you may have one or multiple ways to set up your eSIM. Here are a few ways you can activate an eSIM:

• Using the provider’s app: This is one of the most common eSIM activation methods. It involves downloading the eSIM app and scanning a QR code or clicking a button to initiate the installation and eSIM activation. You may be directed to change some settings on your device to activate the eSIM.
• Using a QR code: This is another common way to activate an eSIM. Scanning a QR code usually kicks off the installation process, and you simply need to follow some on-screen instructions to finish activating your eSIM.
• Manual activation: This method is a bit more technical than the others. It involves going into your phone settings and entering your SM-DM+ address and other installation details.
• Using the provider’s website: eSIM providers usually have detailed guides on their site explaining how to install and activate their eSIM. This is a valuable resource when setting up your eSIM.
• Activating in a store: eSIM providers don’t have physical stores, but attendants at phone retail stores may be able to help you install and activate your eSIM.

Benefits of using an eSIM in South Africa

There are several advantages of using an eSIM in South Africa. Here are a few reasons you should opt for an eSIM on your trip:

• Cost-effective: eSIMs providers have plans tailored for particular countries or regions. While the prices of eSIM plans vary, they’re usually much cheaper than roaming.
• Flexibility: Since eSIMs are embedded in your device, you don’t have to fiddle with changing your SIM card to use one. You can also use the same eSIM in multiple countries and install different eSIM profiles on the same device. And, it gets better: If you’re getting a weak signal, some eSIM providers allow you to change network carriers.
• Convenience: eSIMs offer a lot of convenience. For example, you can install and activate your eSIM before setting off on your trip to South Africa. And, if you’re running out of data, you can top up right on your phone without visiting any physical store.
• Security: Stolen SIM cards can be used for identity theft and other fraudulent schemes. But, since eSIMs are embedded in your device, they’re less prone to loss or theft. If you lose your phone, you can easily log into the website of your eSIM provider and suspend your account. Using an eSIM also reduces your reliance on public Wi-Fi, thus shielding you from online threats.
• Local number: Some eSIMs come with a local number, which you can use to make or receive calls and text messages at local rates. You can also share this local number with acquaintances you don’t want to give your regular phone number.
• Environmentally friendly: SIM cards are made of plastic and end up in the trash after being disposed of. In comparison, eSIMs are completely virtual, so they barely have any carbon footprint.

How to make calls with an eSIM in South Africa

Many providers offer data-only eSIMs, but some of them support calling and texting. Here are a few options to make calls and send texts, even if you’re using a data-only SIM.

• Voice-over-IP (VoIP) with data: One way to make calls and send messages with a data-only eSIM is by using VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Google Meet. These apps depend on an internet connection to work and allow you to contact other users.
• eSIMs with airtime: Some eSIMs, like aloSIM, come with a phone number and support calling and texting. If you’d like to make calls at local rates, you’re better off picking an eSIM that allows calls and text.
• International calling apps: You can also use international calling apps with low rates to make calls. These apps are much cheaper than using your home number to make calls.

Compatibility of devices with eSIM in South Africa

Most new phones support eSIMs. If you’re unsure whether your phone supports eSIMs, there are a few ways to check. We have an in-depth article listing which phones work with eSIMs and explaining how to check eSIM compatibility on different phones. Here’s how to determine if your iPhone or Samsung device supports eSIMs.

eSIM compatibility with iPhone

If you’re using Apple iPhone XR or a later model, your device supports eSIMs — unless it’s carrier-locked. If the new iPhone 15 (US version) is anything to go by, Apple may eventually ditch the SIM card slot altogether in favor of eSIMs.

Older iPhone models, such as the iPhone 6S, iPhone 7, or iPhone 8, don’t work with eSIMs. Refer to our guide to activating eSIMs on iPhones for a comprehensive list of Apple smartphones that are eSIM-compatible.

eSIM compatibility with Samsung

All new Samsung phones are eSIM-compatible. You can check if your Samsung phone works with eSIMs by going to settings on your phone and typing “IMEI.” If you see “IMEI (eSIM),” your phone supports eSIMs. Another way to check is by going to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager and checking for an option to add an eSIM. For more information, read our guide to checking if your Samsung device is eSIM-compatible.

Final thoughts on the best eSIMs for South Africa

Traveling to South Africa can be a fun experience, and with an eSIM, you don’t have to worry about getting a local SIM card or visiting shops to top up when you run out of data. However, not every eSIM is suitable for use in South Africa. We recommend checking the availability of the eSIM service in the country as well as the data plans they offer. It’s important to also consider the price, customer support channels, and ease of use of any eSIM you pick.

Saily is our favorite eSIM for South Africa. It offers an array of competitively priced data plans and a user-friendly app. Plus, if you ever run into issues, you can get help 24/7 via live chat.

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