Rwanda eSIM — Travel Data Plan
Kigali and Musanze — land with your phone already online. Install the eSIM at home before you fly; it only starts counting when you connect in Rwanda.
- Networks: Airtel 4G
- 4G/LTE and 5G where the local network supports it
- Hotspot and tethering supported
- Validity starts on first connection in Rwanda, not at purchase
- Data only — no phone number, no calls, no SMS
- Install now, travel later — usable for 180 days after purchase
Requires an eSIM-compatible, carrier-unlocked device. Check the Device Compatibility page before buying, and see the Fair Usage Policy for how the allowance is measured.
Delivered in minutes
QR code by email, right after payment
180-day refund
Full refund if you never install it
Keep your number
Your own SIM stays in the phone
Data only
No calls or SMS — apps work as usual
Rwanda travel data eSIM
What is a Rwanda eSIM?
A Rwanda eSIM gives travelers a quick way to stay online from the moment they step onto Rwandan soil. After installing the profile at home, the data plan activates the first time you connect in Kigali, Musanze or any other part of the country, letting you browse, navigate and share without swapping physical SIM cards.
The eSIM connects to Airtel 4G’s network, so your data usage is billed against the Airtel infrastructure while you are in Rwanda. Your chosen bundle—whether 1 GB for a week or up to 20 GB for a month—counts from the moment you first access the network, and you can manage it through the CometSIM app.
Local networks
Which networks you connect to in Rwanda
When you arrive in Rwanda, the eSIM links to Airtel 4G’s cellular network. The actual reach of service depends on Airtel’s own infrastructure in the area you are visiting, whether you are in the capital, a mountain town or near the border.
5 plans are available for Rwanda, from $9.90 up to $129.90. Every plan is data only, delivered by QR code, and starts counting when you connect on arrival.
KigaliMusanzeGisenyiButareOne plan for all of Rwanda, starting on first connection.
Good to know
Staying connected in Rwanda: practical tips
Four simple steps to use CometSIM
From checking your phone to landing online — the whole thing takes about two minutes, and you do most of it before you fly.
Compatibility
Make sure your phone works with eSIM. It takes ten seconds — just dial a code and check.
Check compatibilityDestination
Choose your country and the data plan that fits your trip. Prices are in USD, no surprises.
See all destinationsInstall your eSIM
Scan the QR code we email you. Install it at home on Wi-Fi — ready in a couple of minutes.
Setup guideLand & connect
Switch it on when you arrive. Your data starts on arrival, and your own number stays exactly where it is.
You’re onlineAdd CometSIM VPN to your trip
Stay safe on hotel and airport Wi-Fi and reach home content. Your eSIM carries the data, the VPN protects it.
Questions people actually ask
If yours is not here, write to us — we answer within 24 hours.
Which operator does the Rwanda eSIM use and what does that mean for a traveller?
The Rwanda eSIM runs on Airtel 4G. This gives you access to Airtel’s network throughout Rwanda, so you can use data‑dependent apps wherever Airtel’s service is available.
Does the eSIM also work in a neighbouring country of Rwanda?
No, this is a single‑country plan that works only inside Rwanda. For trips that include Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi or the DRC, regional multi‑country plans are offered.
Which plan size suits a trip to Kigali and Musanze?
As a rough guide, the 5 GB 30‑day bundle often fits a short stay covering both Kigali and Musanze, while heavier users might consider the 10 GB or 20 GB options.
Will I lose my own phone number?
No. Your physical SIM stays in the phone and keeps your number for calls and WhatsApp. The eSIM only carries data, so both work side by side.
When does my plan start counting down?
When the eSIM first connects to a network at your destination — not when you buy it. So you can install it days before you fly without losing any time.
Is my phone compatible?
Most phones from 2018 onwards are: iPhone XS and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later. Your phone also has to be carrier-unlocked. Dial *#06# — if an EID appears, you have eSIM. Full list on our Device Compatibility page.
How fast will I get my QR code?
Usually within a couple of minutes of payment, by email. If it has not arrived, check spam first, then write to us and we will resend it immediately.
Can I use hotspot or tethering?
Yes, on every plan we sell. Share the connection with a laptop, a tablet or the rest of your group.
What if I change my mind?
If you have not installed the eSIM, you get a full refund within 180 days. Once a profile is activated and data has been used it cannot be refunded — the allowance is consumed from the network. Full detail in our Refund Policy.
Do you sell plans for groups?
Yes. For Umrah and Hajj groups, student trips and tour operators we deliver the QR codes as a single batch before departure, at group rates. Email us with your group size and destination.