Phone Plans in South Africa
Compare 4 mobile plans from 4 carriers
Mobile Network Overview in South Africa
Major Carriers
- Vodacom5G/4G/3G/2G • 99% urban coverage
- MTN South Africa5G/4G/3G/2G • 98% urban coverage
- Cell C4G/3G/2G • 95% urban coverage
- Telkom Mobile4G/3G/2G • 93% urban coverage
Network Information
- ✓ 4G/LTE coverage in major cities
- ✓ 5G available with select carriers
- ✓ Good coverage in tourist areas
- ✓ Free WiFi widely available
Compare All Phone Plans
| Plan Name | Carrier | Data | Minutes | Price | Tourist Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Red Core postpaid | Vodacom | 50GB per month | Local: 600 Int'l: None | ZAR 599.00 per month | |
Tourist SIM tourist | MTN | 20GB per month | Local: 120 Int'l: 30 | ZAR 399.00 per month | |
Giga Prepaid prepaid | Cell C | 30GB per month | Local: 200 Int'l: None | ZAR 299.00 per month | |
FreeMe Tourist tourist | Telkom | 25GB per month | Local: Unlimited Int'l: 50 | ZAR 349.00 per month |
Best Tourist SIM Cards
Tourist SIM
MTN
- • Airport stores
- • WhatsApp bundle
- • Easy RICA
Giga Prepaid
Cell C
- • Affordable data
- • Home connect bundles
- • WiFi calling
FreeMe Tourist
Telkom
- • All networks minutes
- • WhatsApp free
- • LTE coverage
Prepaid vs Postpaid: Which is Right for You?
Prepaid Plans
- No credit check required
- Perfect for tourists and short stays
- No contracts or commitments
- Control your spending
Best for: Tourists, students, temporary residents, budget-conscious users
Postpaid Plans
- Better data rates and allowances
- International roaming options
- Device financing available
- Requires credit check and ID
Best for: Long-term residents, business users, heavy data users
Where to Buy SIM Cards in South Africa
Airport Kiosks
Most convenient option for tourists. Available immediately upon arrival.
- ✓ Open 24/7 at major airports
- ✓ English-speaking staff
- ✓ Tourist plans available
- ✗ Slightly higher prices
Carrier Stores
Best selection and support. Located in shopping centers and city centers.
- ✓ Full range of plans
- ✓ Professional setup help
- ✓ Device options available
- ✗ May require queuing
Convenience Stores
Quick and easy for prepaid SIMs. Found everywhere in South Africa.
- ✓ No waiting times
- ✓ Basic prepaid options
- ✓ Extended hours
- ✗ Limited plan selection
Airport SIM Card Availability
Major International Airports
SIM cards are readily available at South Africa's main international airports. Look for carrier kiosks in the arrivals hall after clearing customs.
- Multiple carrier options available
- Tourist-specific packages
- Instant activation service
What You'll Need
- 1.Passport for registration
- 2.Unlocked phone (check before travel)
- 3.Cash or credit card
- 4.Address in South Africa (hotel is fine)
SIM Card Activation Guide
Step-by-Step Activation
- 1Purchase Your SIMChoose a plan that fits your needs and budget
- 2Register Your DetailsProvide passport and local address for registration
- 3Insert the SIM CardPower off your phone, insert SIM, then restart
- 4Configure SettingsFollow carrier instructions for APN settings if needed
Troubleshooting Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep my phone number when visiting South Africa?
You cannot transfer your home country number to a South Africa SIM card. However, you can use apps like WhatsApp, which are linked to your original number, over data. Consider using call forwarding to a VoIP service if you need to receive calls on your regular number.
Do I need to unlock my phone before traveling?
Yes, your phone must be unlocked to use a South Africa SIM card. Contact your home carrier before traveling to unlock your device. Most carriers will unlock phones that are fully paid off. You can test if your phone is unlocked by trying a different carrier's SIM card.
How long does SIM card registration take?
Registration typically takes 5-15 minutes at the point of purchase. Some carriers activate instantly, while others may take up to 2 hours. Tourist SIMs at airports are usually activated immediately to ensure you have service right away.
Can I top up my prepaid SIM online?
Yes, most South Africa carriers offer online top-up services through their websites or mobile apps. You can also top up at convenience stores, carrier shops, or through ATMs. International credit cards are usually accepted for online top-ups.
What's the difference between tourist SIMs and regular prepaid SIMs?
Tourist SIMs are designed for short-term visitors with simplified registration, more data, shorter validity periods (7-30 days), and sometimes include international calling minutes. Regular prepaid SIMs require more documentation, have longer validity, and are better for extended stays.