Whether you’re visiting Rwanda for gorilla trekking, vibrant culture, or stunning landscapes, staying connected is a must. From navigating Kigali to sharing your safari moments, a reliable internet connection makes your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to stay online in Rwanda, including local SIM cards and the increasingly popular eSIM options.
Before You Land: What to Know
Rwanda has excellent mobile network coverage in major towns and tourist destinations. The two main providers are:
- MTN Rwanda
- Airtel Rwanda
Both offer great 4G coverage, affordable data plans, and are widely available across the country.
Option 1: Buying a Local SIM Card
If your phone is unlocked, you can buy a SIM card at the airport or in major towns like Kigali, Musanze, or Huye.
What You Need:
- Your passport (for registration)
- An unlocked phone
- Around 1,000 RWF ($0.80 USD) for the SIM
Recommended Plans:
| Provider | Plan | Data | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTN | Super Pack | 5 GB | 7 Days | 3,000 RWF |
| Airtel | Unlimited Social | 2.5 GB + WhatsApp | 7 Days | 2,500 RWF |
📝 Tip: Go to official service centers to avoid unofficial sellers.
Option 2: Using an eSIM (Digital SIM)
If you want to skip the hassle of buying a SIM in person, go digital with an eSIM. This is a virtual SIM you install on your phone before your trip, and it activates automatically upon arrival.
We recommend Airalo for fast, affordable eSIMs for Rwanda.
This is an affiliate recommendation, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase via our link at no extra cost to you.
Benefits of Airalo eSIM:
- No physical SIM card needed
- Buy and install online in minutes
- Preloaded data plans
- Works instantly when you land
Sample Airalo Plan for Rwanda:
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rwanda eSIM | 1 GB | 7 Days | $5 USD |
| Africa Regional eSIM | 3 GB | 30 Days | $20 USD |
📝 Tip: Airalo also offers regional plans that cover Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and more perfect if you’re traveling around East Africa.
Local SIM vs eSIM: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Local SIM | eSIM (Airalo) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ✅ Cheaper | 💵 Slightly more expensive |
| Convenience | ❌ Must buy in person | ✅ Fully online |
| Setup Time | ❌ 30+ minutes | ✅ 5 minutes |
| Long-Term Use | ✅ Great for stays over 1 week | ✅ Great for short trips |
| Roaming Support | ❌ No | ✅ Some regional eSIMs support multi-country travel |
Our Recommendation
- For short-term travelers or digital nomads: Use Airalo eSIM for quick and hassle-free internet.
- For longer stays or budget travelers: Buy an MTN or Airtel SIM for cheaper data rates.
Either way, Rwanda makes it easy to stay connected, whether you’re trekking with gorillas, exploring Kigali’s cafes, or posting your safari shots online.