South Africa eSIM — Travel Data Plan
Cape Town, Johannesburg and the safari routes, on Vodacom’s network.
- Networks: Cell C 4G, MTN 5G, Telkom 3G, Vodacom 5G
- 4G/LTE and 5G where the local network supports it
- Hotspot and tethering supported
- Validity starts on first connection in South Africa, 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
South Africa travel data eSIM
What is a South Africa eSIM?
A South Africa eSIM gives travelers a data‑only connection for exploring the country's diverse landscapes, from Cape Town’s waterfront to Johannesburg’s urban vibe and the iconic safari routes. After installing the eSIM before departure, you can stay online for maps, ride‑hailing, translation and booking apps without swapping physical SIMs, keeping your home number untouched.
In South Africa the eSIM links to Vodacom’s 5G network, allowing you to use data on your unlocked device. Your plan’s data allowance is drawn down as you browse, stream or use navigation, and the validity period begins when you first connect at your destination.
Local networks
Which networks you connect to in South Africa
When you arrive, the eSIM connects to Cell C 4G, MTN 5G, Telkom 3G, Vodacom 5G. Coverage and speed depend on your exact location and the operator available there.
5 plans are available for South Africa, from $3.90 up to $41.90. Every plan is data only, delivered by QR code, and starts counting when you connect on arrival.
Cape TownJohannesburgDurbanKrugerOne plan for all of South Africa, starting on first connection.
Good to know
Staying connected in South Africa: 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 South Africa eSIM use and what does that mean for a traveller?
The eSIM connects to Vodacom’s 5G network. For travellers, this means you will be on the same carrier throughout South Africa, using Vodacom’s infrastructure for data services such as maps, apps and online bookings.
Can the South Africa eSIM be used in a neighbouring country, for example Namibia?
No, this is a single‑country plan valid only within South Africa. Regional eSIM options are available for travelers who need connectivity across multiple Southern African nations.
Which plan size suits a trip to Cape Town and Johannesburg?
As a rough guide, a 5 GB or 10 GB 30‑day plan often fits a two‑city itinerary, offering enough data for navigation, ride‑hailing and occasional streaming while you move between Cape Town and Johannesburg.
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.