How to Buy a SIM Card at Ghana Kotoka Airport (ACC) for Tourists: Where and Price?

Discover everything you need to know about buying a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka airport – from where to buy and what to bring to picking the best plans and prices.

where to buy sim at kotoka ghana airport

For travelers landing at Ghana Kotoka Airport, a SIM card is essential for staying connected right away. In this guide, you’ll learn where to find SIM card shops at the airport, the prices and registration process, and whether they stay open after midnight. Plus, we’ll show you why an eSIM might be a great alternative. Get ready for a smooth arrival with our complete SIM card at Ghana Kotoka airport guide.

I. How to get a SIM Card at Ghana Kotoka Airport (ACC)?

To get a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka airport, you have several convenient options:

  • Order online before and collect at the airport – Reserve your SIM ahead, pick it up when you land, and start using it instantly.
  • Buy upon arrival – Head to one of the local telecom shops at the airport to buy a SIM right after landing.
  • Buy eSIM (if phone compatible with eSIM) – Skip the physical card entirely with an eSIM, ideal for those with compatible devices.

Each option offers quick setup so you can stay connected during your trip.

II. Where to buy a SIM Card at Ghana Kotoka Airport? 

smice digital store at ghana airport

Tourists can buy a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka airport (ACC) from the Smice Digital SIM card store located to the left of the exit as you walk out of the arrival hall. Unfortunately, there are no official MTN or Vodafone stores at the airport, but you can still purchase Vodafone SIM cards here, though prices may be higher compared to city locations.

  • Location: Left-hand side after exiting the arrival hall
  • Opening hours: Standard operating hours align with flight schedules
  • Price: Around double the cost of what you would pay at official stores in Accra (approximately $4–$8)

III. Do SIM card shops at ACC Airport open after midnight?

NO. SIM card shops at Ghana Kotoka Airport (ACC) do not typically open after midnight. Most counters and kiosks, such as those offering Vodafone SIM cards, tend to close earlier in the evening, usually around 9 PM or 10 PM

If you arrive late at night, consider alternatives like purchasing an eSIM before your trip or waiting until morning when the shops reopen.

IV.  Accra Ghana Kotoka Airport SIM Card Plans & Price

Here is the information about the SIM card plans and prices available at Ghana Kotoka Airport for 2024:

Vodafone SIM Card Plans 

Data BundlePrice (GHS)Price (USD)
2 GB20 GHS$1.24
4.5 GB50 GHS$3.11
10 GB100 GHS$6.22
30 GB200 GHS$12.44
90 GB300 GHS$18.66
190 GB400 GHS$24.88

MTN SIM Card Plans

Data AmountPrice (GHS)Price (USD)Data AmountPrice (GHS)Price (USD)
718.91 MB10 GHS$0.629.44 GB120 GHS$7.47
915.75 MB15 GHS$0.9310.77 GB130 GHS$8.09
1.19 GB20 GHS$1.2411.02 GB140 GHS$8.70
2.38 GB40 GHS$2.4914.16 GB180 GHS$11.20
5.07 GB85 GHS$5.2979.61 GB300 GHS$18.66
90.23 GB340 GHS$21.14

Notes:

  • SIM Cards can be purchased for about GHS 30 ($1.87 USD), but may cost more at the airport.
  • Bring your passport as it's required for SIM card registration.
  • Vodafone and MTN are the two main networks available at the airport, offering various data bundles.
  • Prices at the airport may be higher than in the city, so buying a SIM in Accra city could save you money if you’re not in a rush.

V. Registration Process on Buying a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka Airport

To register for a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka Airport, you will need a few important documents and steps:

  • Passport: Required for all tourists. A copy will be taken during the registration process.
  • Unlocked phone: Your phone must be unlocked to work with local Ghanaian SIM cards.
  • Payment method: Cash (GHS) is the most widely accepted method, but depending on the shop, some counters may accept card payments.
  • Travel duration: If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you may need a Non-Citizen Ghana Card to extend the use of your SIM card.

Note: To skip the registration trouble, use an eSIM. It's digital, so you just download it to your phone. However, there are some notes when using it:

  • Make sure your phone works with eSIM.
  • Your phone must be unlocked to use an eSIM from another carrier.
  • You need internet to activate the eSIM, so set it up before you arrive or use airport Wi-Fi.

VI. eSIM at Ghana Kotoka Airport – Alternative to Ghana SIM Cards

It’s great that you can easily get an eSIM for Ghana before you land or while at Ghana Kotoka Airport. There is no need to hunt for physical SIM cards anymore! While local mobile operators offer eSIMs for tourists, the easiest option is to buy from an eSIM provider online. It’s quick and simple; you’ll be connected when you arrive.

One awesome option is Gigago! We’re a reliable eSIM provider that makes connectivity easy for travelers. With Gigago, you can grab your Ghana eSIM in just minutes – simply buy online, get a QR code, and you’re all set!

For Ghana, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB/day for 7 days with $5.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Ghana eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.00$31.90 .

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you have or how long your trip to Ghana is. Gigago always has an option for you.

ghana esim gigago

VII. FAQs about SIM cards at Ghana Kotoka Airport

Where can I buy a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka airport?

You can buy a SIM card at the Smice Digital Store near the arrivals hall at Kotoka airport. Vodafone SIM cards are available but can be more expensive than those in the city.

How much does a SIM card cost at Ghana Kotoka airport?

SIM card prices vary, but Vodafone SIM cards can cost around GHS 30. Data plans start from GHS 20 for 2 GB.

Can I buy a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka airport after midnight?

No, SIM card counters generally close by late evening, so it’s best to plan accordingly​.

Do I need to unlock my phone to use a SIM card from Ghana?

Yes, make sure your phone is unlocked to use a local SIM card without issues. 

VIII. Conclusion

I hope you find this post helpful in understanding how to buy a SIM card at Ghana Kotoka airport. Whether you’re looking for convenience, price details, or registration tips, this guide has covered everything you need to know. If you want to avoid the hassle of physical SIM cards, I highly recommend trying Gigago’s eSIM for a smooth travel experience. Get connected the moment you land with just a few clicks!