Best eSIM South Africa – In our eSIM comparison for South Africa, we recommend the best providers of virtual SIM cards and share with you our experiences.
Here you will find all important information about data plans, prices, network coverage, connection and the respective advantages and disadvantages.
With a South Africa eSIM, you’re online right after landing and don’t have to worry about changing your physical SIM card.
Installing a virtual eSIM is usually quick and easy – and can be completed before you arrive in the destination country.
And now to our eSIM South Africa comparison – these are our experiences with the best providers!
Experience South Africa eSIM - Top 5 providers
Saily – Cheapest card
Airalo – Best eSIM Overall
Jetpac – Good additional services
Holafly – Recommendation for unlimited data
alosim – Best eSIM for calls and SMS
eSIM South Africa - Comparison of the Best Providers
Saily
- Mobile Network: C cell
- Network Coverage: Good
- Hotspot: No restriction
- Data Plans: Five data plans (1GB – 20GB)
SMS and Calls: Not available - Price: From 3,99 USD
Saily offers a total of five data packages, starting at $3.99 USD and according to the website, a reliable connection is promised. The Saily app is clear and easy to use. Saily also offers security services, such as “ad blocker” and “web protection”, plus you can choose a virtual location.
In addition you get 5% discount with the coupon code “Saily5” and you have the option to refer friends, whereby you and your friend can receive 5 euros.
Saily offers the following data plans for South Africa:
- 1 GB – Valid for 7 days, Price: USD 3.99
- 3 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: USD 9.99
- 5 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: USD 13.99 (best choice)
- 10 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: USD 24.99
- 20 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: USD 39.99
How does Saily work?
- First, you should check the website for compatibility with your phone
- Then choose the eSIM data package you want for South Africa
- Download the Saily eSIM and activate it according to the instructions
- Manage your data via the app
Pros and Cons Comparison Saily
Pros
✅ Easy and uncomplicated activation
✅ Additional security services
✅ Hotspot use possible (tethering for data sharing)
✅ 24/7 live chat customer support
✅ 5 different eSIM data plans for South Africa
Cons
❌ No support for calls and SMS
❌ No unlimited data plans available
Conclusion: Saily eSIM South Africa
In our experience, Saily is a very straightforward provider that is recommended for most countries. This is no different for South Africa as there is a reasonable choice of data packages and additional security services. Also the 5% discount on the first card is very pleasing.
Airalo - Best eSIM South Africa
- Mobile network: Vodacom
- Network coverage: very good
- Hotspot: No restriction
- Data plans: Six 1GB – 20GB
- SMS and calls: Not available
- Price: from 4,50 Euro
South Africa is just one of over 200 countries that Airalo covers with its cards.
For South Africa, there are a total of six tariffs from one to 20 GB. A plan that includes calls and SMS is only available for the Discovery+ worldwide plan.
The very well-developed mobile network of Vodacom is used.
The eSIM is easy to activate and the prices are on average in our comparison.
Here all data plans given on the website:
- 1 GB – Valid for 7 days, price: EUR 4,50
- 2 GB – Valid for 15 days, price: EUR 7,50
- 3 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: EUR 10,50
- 5 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: EUR 14,50
- 10 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: EUR 24,00
- 20 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: EUR 38,50
- 30 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: EUR 75,50
- 40 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: EUR 110,50
How does Airalo work?
The Airalo eSIM is very easy to activate and use, these are the steps:
- First you download the app
- Then you choose your destination and the corresponding data plan
- You activate the card via one of the different methods (manual, QR code, automatic)
- Activation is automatic upon arrival in South Africa
Pros and Cons of Airalo
Pros
✅ Quick and easy activation
✅ 24/7 live chat customer support available
✅ Uses the stable well-built Vodacom network
✅ Data sharing via hotspot possible (tethering)
✅ Calls and SMS with the Discover+ Global plan
Disadvantages
❌ No unlimited rate available
❌ Some countries require identity verification (KYC)
Conclusion: Airalo eSIM experience South Africa
The installation is easy and the administration via the app uncomplicated. A good mobile network is used, which should guarantee a stable connection. In addition, there is a good choice of rates, but an unlimited plan is missing.
Jetpac - eSIM South Africa
- Mobile Network: Vodacom
- Network Coverage: very good
- Hotspot: No restriction
- Data Plans: Five data plans (1GB – 20GB)
- SMS and Calls: Not available
Price: from 4.00 USD
Jetpac offers five low-cost data plans, there are no SMS and call plans, but the well-built Vodacom network is also used here. A special feature of Jetpac is the option to subscribe and the additional services. Also at Jetpac a “Refer a friend” program is offered.
The app is on average slightly worse rated than most others in our comparison.
Here are the available data plans:
- 1 GB – Valid for 4 days, price: EUR 4
- 3 GB – Valid for 7 days, price: EUR 9
- 5 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: EUR 13,50
- 10 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: EUR 20 (instead of EUR 24 – 17% discount)
- 20 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: EUR 33,50
How does Jepac work?
- First you search for your destination
- Choose a suitable data package
- Download the Jetpac app and log in with the same account you used to make the purchase
- Follow the instructions and install the card
Pros and Cons Jetpac
Pros
✅ Jetflex and Jet Pro subscription Opion
✅ 24/7 live chat support available
✅ Hotspot use possible (data sharing via WLAN)
✅ 5 different rates available for South Africa
✅ Additional services (add-ons)
Cons
❌ Global plans do not include South Africa
❌ No phone number included
❌ No unlimited rate
Conclusion: Jetpac eSIM Comparison South Africa
Jetpac has a reasonable choice of data packages, but an unlimited rate is missing; SMS and calls are not available in any of the rates. However, the installation of the card is very easy to install and the network coverage is very good.
What is rather unusual from our experience but very gratifying are the additional services such as free access to airport lounges.
Holafly eSIM Experience South Africa
- Mobile Network: VCell C (Pty) Ltd / Mtn / Vodacom
- Network Coverage: very good
- Hotspot: limited to 500 MB per day
- Data Plans: Unlimited (1 – 90 days)
- SMS and Calls: Not available
- Price: from 8,90 Euro
Holafly, the unlimited data provider, offers terms from 1 to 90 days, using various mobile networks. The Spanish provider covers over 200 countries. Installing and using the eSIM is very easy. Holafly also offers a loyalty program for regular customers.
If you want a reliable mobile connection in South Africa, then Holafly is the right solution for you. From easy installation and activation to competent customer service, Holafly is at the top of the list of top providers.
By using multiple local mobile networks, excellent network coverage is virtually guaranteed. Whether in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban or on safaris with Holafly, you can always expect a good connection.
How does Holafly work?
- First check if your phone is compatible
- Search for South Africa and specify the number of days for your plan
- Select your plan
- Follow the instructions to install your card
Pros and Cons Holafly
Pros
✅ Unlimited data on all local and regional tariffs
✅ Partnerships with fast network operators such as MTN, Vodacom and Cell C
✅ 4G and 5G connections available (depending on network coverage)
✅ Quick setup via QR code activation
Cons
❌ Limited hotspot usage
❌ More expensive than some alternatives for longer trips
❌ No way to reduce data volume to save money
Conclusion: Holafly Best eSIM Unlimited data
We can recommend Holafly as one of the best eSIMs for unlimited data. Particularly impressed by the cooperation with various mobile network providers. Regarding a stable connection with good network coverage, you should not worry, but unfortunately the hotspot usage is limited. An option that includes calls and SMS is not available.
Maya Mobile
- Mobile network: Vodacom 5G
- Network coverage: Very good
- Hotspot: No restriction
- Data plans: Six plans available with different validity periods (5 – 180 days) 1 GB to unlimited
- SMS and calls: No
- Price: From USD 4.99
The experience with Maya Mobile is very positive and the provider is accordingly one of the best in our comparison. The eSIM profiles use the well-developed and stable Vodacom network, which means that good network coverage can be expected in large parts of South Africa.
The speeds are more than solid, as Vodacom already uses the 5 G network. Setting up the virtual cards is straightforward and requires little time. The experiences on Trustpilot show that customer service is quick to respond and competent.
Maya offers the following data plans:
- 1 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: USD 8.99
- 5 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: USD 15.99
- 10 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: USD 25.99
- 20 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: USD 46.99
- 50 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: 76.99 USD
- Unlimited Data – Valid for 30 days, Price: USD 99.99
How does Maya Mobile work?
- Select the country and the corresponding data package
- Receive a QR code by email and scan it for setup
- Enable mobile data and roaming
- Enjoy your mobile internet connection right after arrival
Pros and Cons
Pros
✅ Good selection of data plans
✅ Validity period of data volumes can be flexibly adjusted
✅ 5G network coverage via Vodacom
✅ Auto-Renew function for automatic renewal
Cons
❌ No SMS and no phone calls
❌ Uses only a single local mobile provider (Vodacom)
❌ Website, app and support available only in English
Conclusion: Maya Mobile
Maya Mobile is a fast and easy solution for anyone who wants to be online immediately after arrival without any hassle. The selection of plans is excellent, and if you run out of data, it will be automatically topped up as long as you have enabled the very useful “Auto-Renew” feature. The network is fast and stable, and despite a few missing options such as translations into other languages, Maya remains one of the best eSIM choices for South Africa.
eSIM.sm
- Mobile network: Vodacom & Telekom SA
- Network coverage: Very good
- Hotspot: No restriction
- Data plans: Six data plans (1 GB – 20 GB)
- SMS and calls: Yes
- Price: From 8.40 USD
Get 5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
eSIM.sm may be a relatively new provider, but it is already one of the best options for South Africa. It impresses with a stable connection and very good network coverage. Unlike many other providers, eSIM.sm uses several local mobile networks, which means you can expect a good connection even in more rural areas.
Activation is also very simple via QR code. With fair prices, a good range of plans, 5G support and an easy-to-use interface, eSIM.sm is an attractive alternative for travelers.
eSIM.sm offers the following data packages:
- 1 GB – valid for 7 days, price: $8.40
- 3 GB – valid for 10 days, price: $20.60
- 3 GB – valid for 15 days, price: $21.40
- 5 GB – valid for 15 days, price: $31.30
- 10 GB – valid for 30 days, price: $58.50
- 20 GB – valid for 30 days, price: $112.50
How does eSIM.sm work?
- Choose the country and data plan
- Set up the eSIM profile by scanning the QR code
- Enable mobile data and roaming
- Manage your data in the app
Pro and Cons
Pros
✅ Very good network coverage
✅ Increased reliability thanks to the use of two local mobile networks
✅ Easy installation
✅ Good selection of data plans
Cons
❌ No SMS and no phone calls
❌ No unlimited data plan
❌ No special additional features
Conclusion: eSIM.sm
eSIM.sm is a very good and reliable choice for South Africa. You can expect a stable mobile internet connection and strong network coverage. Installation works smoothly, and if any issues arise, the helpful customer support is there to assist you. There is a good selection of data plans, although an unlimited plan and a package with call minutes and SMS are unfortunately missing. Despite these two drawbacks, eSIM.sm remains one of the best eSIM options for South Africa.
aloSIM
- Mobile Network: Vodacom
- Network Coverage: Very Good
- Hotspot: No restriction
- Data Plans: Seven data plans (1GB – unlimited GB)
- SMS and Calls: Yes
- Price: From 4.50 USD
The eSIM from aloSIM is a convenient solution for anyone who wants to stay online in South Africa flexibly and affordably. You can easily purchase your data plan online, install it via QR code, and avoid searching for a store or swapping SIM cards after arriving in South Africa.
Thanks to the simple activation through the app and its clear user interface, aloSIM is particularly appealing to travelers who prefer a straightforward and budget-friendly eSIM option.
aloSIM offers seven data plans ranging from 1 GB to unlimited data. It uses the well-covered Vodacom network. Compared to other providers, aloSIM also allows you to obtain a local phone number. This works via the additional “Hushed” app.
alosim offers the following data packages for South Africa:
- 1 GB – Valid for 7 days, price: $4.50
- 2 GB – Valid for 15 days, Price: $8.00 (Most popular)
- 3 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: $11.00
- 5 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: $15.50
- 10 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: $26.00
- Unlimited GB* – Valid for 10 days, Price: $35.00 (Unlimited)
- 20 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: $48.00 (Value)
How does alosim work?
- Download the alosim and Hushed app
- Choose your data package
- Install your eSIM manually, automatically or via the QR code
- Manage your plan via the app
Pros and Cons alosim eSIM South Africa
Pros
✅ 7 different eSIM rates available for South Africa
✅ Supports SMS and phone calls
✅ Hotspot use possible (tethering)
✅ Customer support available around the clock (24/7)
Cons
❌ Calling and SMS require a separate app
❌ No regional plans available for the African continent
Conclusion: Why is alosim an eSIM recommendation for South Africa?
alosim offers easy to install eSIM sat reasonable prices. The selection is extensive and offers, among other things, unlimited rates.
In addition, you get a local phone number and can make calls and SMS via the additional Hushed app.
Nomad
- Mobile Network: Vodacom
Network Coverage: Very Good - Hotspot: No restriction
- Data Plans: 5 data plans (1GB – 20GB)
- SMS and Calls: Not available
- Price: from 4,44 EUR
Nomad is an easy-to-use provider with a user-friendly app and affordable data plans. Nomad’s eSIMs use the renowned Vodacom network for a stable connection across much of South Africa. The card is installed quickly and you can keep track of your data consumption in the app.
Nomad offers various data plans from 1 GB to 20 GB. Prices range from 4.44 euros to 47.09 euros.
The following tariffs are available to customers:
- 1 GB – Valid for 7 days, price: EUR 4,44
- 3 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: EUR 11,55
- 5 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: EUR 15,99
- 10 GB – Valid for 30 days, price: EUR 23,99
- 20 GB – Valid for 30 days, Price: EUR 47,09
How does Nomad work?
- Enter country and select plan
- Install eSIM (QR code, Mauell)
- The activation takes place automatically in the country of arrival, if you have activated mobile data and roaming
Pros and Cons Nomad
Pros
✅ Fast and competent customer support
✅ Easy setup – ideal for first-time users
✅ User friendly and modern app
✅ Hotspot use possible (tethering)
✅ 5 data plans available for South Africa
Cons
❌ No unlimited rate
❌ No support for calls or SMS
Conclusion: Nomad one of the best eSIM South Africa
Nomad offers cheap flexible rates, but unfortunately they lack an unlimited data plan and a rate that includes calls. The app is easy to use and the installation and activation of the card is simple.
In our comparison, the providers were rated as follows
We have evaluated the providers according to certain criteria in order to guarantee you the best eSIM experience:
Network coverage: Probably the most important point when choosing an eSIM is the network coverage, you want to have a stable network on your trip. Most providers in our comparison use at least one mobile network in South Africa and they often use Vodacom, which is the best network in terms of coverage in South Africa.
Network: Providers should be at least 4G capable, but if possible also offer 5G speeds.
Ease of use: Selecting, purchasing, installing, activating and using the app to update your data should be straightforward in order to provide a good customer experience.
Customer service: All providers should have a good solid 24/7 customer service, preferably with live chat function. A big plus is when you can communicate with real people in customer service.
Compatibility: It is important that many mobile phones are compatible with the eSIM of the provider. Many older models cannot be used with the new technology. You can check the compatibility on the respective provider websites or under the settings of your smartphone.
Advantages of using an eSIM
Here are a few reasons why you should consider getting a virtual SIM card for your trip:
Instant internet access: You have active mobile data immediately after landing and don’t have to find a shop and change your card first. This avoids a lot of stress, as you may not speak the language or the nearest shop may not be directly at the airport. It also avoids activation or cumbersome verifications and a jungle of fees.
No card change: There is no need for a complicated card change, during which the card could be damaged or lost.
Flexible data packages: You can choose exactly the data package that suits your needs. If you are a frequent surfer, you can choose a plan from Holafly, for example. If you are travelling to more remote regions, you should make sure you choose a tariff with very good network coverage.
Avoid expensive roaming charges: Avoid expensive roaming surprises. With an eSIM plan, you have a clear overview of your costs and data usage.
Important factors to consider before buying an eSIM
1. Device compatibility
Since not every phone supports eSIM, it’s important to check in advance whether your smartphone is compatible. Newer models usually support eSIM technology, but with older devices you should check the settings or look at the provider’s list of supported devices.
2. Network coverage in the destination country
Which local mobile network offers good coverage, and which eSIM provider uses that network? Make sure that the best eSIM for South Africa works with a strong local mobile operator.
3. Data volume
How much data do you need? Are you traveling only for a short time and browsing occasionally, or are you on a longer trip and streaming regularly?
4. Speed & 5G availability
How important is 5G to you? Some providers only offer speeds up to 4G.
5. Hotspot/Tethering
Do you want to share your hotspot or use your mobile data on a laptop? Then you should choose the best South Africa eSIM from our comparison that supports hotspot usage.
6. Plan duration
How long will you be traveling? Choose your plan according to the length of your stay.
7. Calls & SMS
If you need a local phone number for calling and texting, you need a provider like aloSIM that offers this option. With most other providers, calls are typically made through apps such as WhatsApp or Zoom.
8. Installation & activation
Is the installation process simple? Or do you prefer a specific activation method, such as in-app activation?
9. Customer support
Which support channels are available, and is customer service reachable 24/7 in case you need help? You can also check reviews from other customers, for example on Trustpilot.
10. Price-performance ratio
An important factor is what you get for your money. Is it more important to you to pay less and forgo certain extra features, or would you rather pay more for a premium experience? What matters is that the product you get for your money is of good quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting an eSIM for South Africa?
Yes, definitely! If you want to save yourself the hassle of changing a physical SIM card and use mobile data immediately after arrival, you should definitely get an eSIM. With a virtual card, you can avoid high roaming charges and benefit from a stable connection, both in major cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg and in more remote regions.
Which is the cheapest eSIM for South Africa?
The cheapest eSIMs for South Africa are Saily and Jetpac. Both providers offer a good selection of tariffs at attractive prices. Saily comes out on top in our comparison as the best provider, as it offers solid network coverage, flexible tariffs and very good customer service.
Can I make calls with an eSIM?
Some providers, such as Alosim or Airalo, offer eSIMs with their own phone number and call and SMS options. Otherwise, you can of course make calls without any problems using apps such as WhatsApp or Microsoft Teams.
Is my mobile phone eSIM-compatible?
Most newer smartphone models are already equipped with eSIM technology. You can check this either in your phone’s settings or directly on the provider’s website. There you will usually find a list of all compatible devices.
You might also like:
- eSIM Dubai | Provider Review
- eSIM Comparison Australia | Experience & Recommandation
- Best eSIM Egypt | Provider Review
"In diesem Beitrag verwenden wir sogenannte „Affiliate Links“ (Werbelinks). Diese leiten dich zu Produkten und Dienstleistungen, welche wir dir zu 100% empfehlen können. Solltest du über diese Links etwas buchen/kaufen, erhalten wir als Dankeschön eine kleine Provision. Dir entstehen dadurch aber keine weiteren Kosten. So können wir auch weiterhin all unsere Inhalte, Bilder und Videos völlig kostenfrei für dich anbieten."
