Prepaid Central African Republic SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide

Central African Republic SIM cards offer an easy way of staying connected during your journey to the Central African Republic.

This thorough guide will take you through every detail regarding Central African Republic SIM cards for travelers. The best SIM options, where to acquire them, their prices, and what to expect when making a purchase will all be covered. We’ll also go over other options, such as eSIM, SIM activation instructions, and other important details to guarantee seamless connectivity when traveling.

I. What are the Best Central African Republic SIM cards for Tourists?

There are 3 main Central African Republic SIM card operator: Telecel, Moov and Orange

1. Telecel SIM cards

Telecel, a leading mobile operator in the Central African Republic, offers a variety of prepaid SIM card packages tailored to different user needs.

Telecel provides various data packages, such as:

Data Volume	Validity	Price (CFA)	Activation Code
50 MB	1 day	500 CFA	885500#OK
200 MB	7 days	1,000 CFA	8851000#OK
1 GB	7 days	3,000 CFA	8853000#OK
3 GB	30 days	10,000 CFA	88510000#OK
7 GB	30 days	15,000 CFA	88515000#OK
15 GB	30 days	25,000 CFA	88525000#OK

For more packages and updates, visit: https://www.telecel-rca.com/internet *(or dial 885# on your phone)

2. Moov SIM cards

A Moov prepaid sim card has the following data plans available:

Data	Validity	Price (CFA)	USSD Code
1H Unlimited	1 hour	125 CFA	3125#
300 MB	24 hours	500 CFA	3500#
1 GB	24 hours	1,000 CFA	31000#
2 GB	7 days	3,000 CFA	33000#
4 GB	7 days	5,000 CFA	35000#
7 GB	30 days	10,000 CFA	310000#
14 GB	30 days	16,000 CFA	316000#
Unlimited	30 days	40,000 CFA	340000#

Note: Prices and availability may vary.
For full package list and updates, visit: https://moovafrica.td/

3. Orange SIM cards 

Orange offers a range of prepaid SIM card data plans for tourists traveling to the Central African Republic. Below are the available Orange SIM card data plans for tourists and visitors.

Package	Call Time (to Orange)	SMS	Validity	Notes
Matanga	2 minutes	5 SMS (to all CAR)	1 day	Unlimited per day
Kete Songo	7 minutes	20 SMS (to all CAR)	1 day	Unlimited per day
Ndoye	11 minutes	20 SMS (to all CAR)	1 day	Unlimited per day
Kota Songo	18 minutes	50 SMS (to all CAR)	1 day	Unlimited per day
Songo 500	37 minutes	100 SMS (to all CAR)	3 days	Unlimited per day
Songo 1000	74 minutes	200 SMS (to all CAR)	5 days	Unlimited per day
Songo 2000	148 minutes	500 SMS (to all CAR)	10 days	Unlimited per day

For full package list and updates, visit: Orange website

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Central African Republic for Tourists?

There are several options for buying a Central African Republic SIM card. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping, the quick access of airport kiosks, or the selection available in the city, you can find the best option for your needs. Below are the 3 main ways to buy a SIM card in the Central African Republic.

1. Buy Central African Republic SIM Card Online 

Travelers visiting the Central African Republic may find it easy to purchase a prepaid travel SIM card online. These Central African Republic SIM cards may provide text and call features in addition to data bundles. Before your travel, they might be delivered to your house. 

Ideal For: 

Pros: 

• Save time when looking for a SIM card in the Central African Republic.
• As soon as you get to the Central African Republic, start using your phone.
• To get the greatest bargain, compare pricing and plans.

Cons: 

• When placing an online order, you will have to wait for delivery. Prior to your journey, make sure your SIM card from the Central African Republic arrives.
• There is a slight possibility that the travel SIM card from the Central African Republic won’t function correctly when you get there. It could be difficult and time-consuming to troubleshoot. 

2. Buy SIM card at Central African Republic airports

SIM cards are available at kiosks, carrier stores, or booths in the arrival halls or after customs at Bangui M’Poko Airport (BGF). Typically requires presenting a passport or providing a photo for registration. This process can be complicated.

Suitable For: Tourists looking for quick access to mobile service upon arrival.

Pros:

• Convenient location at the airport.
• Immediate access to communication upon arrival.

Cons:

• Complicated registration process with ID or photo required.
• Limited selection compared to city stores.

3. Buy SIM Card in Central African Republic City

Buying a Central African Republic SIM card in the city center gives you access to the best variety and prices, making it a great choice for tourists looking for flexibility.

Suitable For: Budget-conscious travelers looking for the best deals and a wider selection.

Pros: City shops generally offer a broader variety of SIM cards and plans, giving you more options compared to what is available at the airport. 

Cons: It may take longer to find a shop. Some areas may have fewer shops or limited operating hours.

Major Cities in the Central African Republic like Bangui, Bimbo or Berbérati can sell SIM card for tourists. You can walk around or use google maps to find the nearest store. Here are some places in the Central African Republic city center:

• Telecel: 9H6H+XHX, Rue Monseigneur Grandin, Bangui, Central African Republic
• Moov Africa Centrafrique: Immeuble ex Air Afrique Rue de l’ambassadeur Guerillaut, Bangui, Central African Republic
• ORANGE CENTRAFRIQUE SA: 9HV5+V7G, Av. Barthelemy Boganda, Bangui, Central African Republic

III. How Much is a Tourist Central African Republic SIM Card? 

A tourist SIM card in the Central African Republic typically costs around XOF 2,000 to XOF 5,000 (approximately $3 to $9 USD) for the SIM card itself. Data packages or prepaid plans can range from XOF 1,000 to XOF 10,000 depending on the data volume and validity.

IV. What types of Central African Republic SIM cards are available for tourists? 

There are 2 types of Central African Republic SIM cards:

• Prepaid SIM card (Central African Republic)
• Tourist eSIM for Central African Republic

Criteria	Prepaid SIM Card	Tourist eSIM
Convenience	Easy to buy at the airport or city stores. Requires physical SIM.	Convenient for eSIM-compatible phones, no physical SIM needed.
Compatibility	Compatible with most phones, requires SIM slot.	Works only with eSIM-enabled phones (e.g., newer iPhones and Androids).
How to Use	Insert SIM into the phone, activate via SMS or USSD code.	Scan QR code or input activation code in phone settings.
Plan Example	Offers voice, SMS, and data packages (e.g., 1GB for XOF 2,500).	Offers data-only plans (e.g., 1GB for XOF 3,000).
Price	SIM card typically costs XOF 2,000 to XOF 5,000.	eSIM activation and data plans vary, starting around XOF 3,000 for basic data.

V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Central African Republic travel? 

Yes. In order to stay connected when visiting the Central African Republic without going over budget, you do need a Central African Republic SIM card. Compared to pricey international roaming, a SIM card offers more inexpensive prices for both internet and calls, and it delivers greater coverage, particularly in isolated places. Additionally, it’s a versatile choice that lets you add more as needed.

An even more practical choice, though, is if your phone is eSIM compatible. With an eSIM, you can avoid purchasing a physical SIM card and take advantage of improved security, as well as instant access to mobile networks upon arrival.

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in the Central African Republic? 

Here are some preparations to make when purchasing a SIM card in the Central African Republic:

• A passport: is required in order to register a SIM card.
• Visa: may be needed for extended stays.
• Local currency: Keep cash on hand because many smaller stores do not take credit or debit cards.
• Proof of accommodation: When registering, certain stores might want a local address.
• Be patient: It may take some time to complete the registration and verification process. 

VII. Central African Republic eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards 

For travelers heading to the Central African Republic, an eSIM offers a great alternative to traditional Central African Republic SIM cards. Instead of dealing with physical SIM cards, you can activate your Central African Republic eSIM digitally and gain instant access to mobile data. This option is ideal for those seeking simplicity and convenience, ensuring you stay connected during your trip without the need to visit a local store.

Check out Gigago’s eSIM plans for the Central African Republic. Gigago provides budget-friendly eSIM plans for the Central African Republic, with prices starting at $25.40 . This minimum Gigago Central African Republic eSIM option includes 1GB of data valid for 3 days, along with other flexible plans between $25.40 – $80.00 tailored to your travel requirements.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in the Central African Republic?

Tourist SIM cards in the Central African Republic are designed to suit both short-term and long-term travelers from 3 to 30 days. Typical validity periods include 3 to 7  days for smaller data plans, perfect for brief trips or minimal data usage. 14 to 30 days for larger plans, catering to visitors staying longer.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Central African Republic 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to activate a prepaid tourist SIM card in the Central African Republic:

1. Using Prepaid Central African Republic tourist SIM Cards

• Buy SIM Card: Purchase at Bangui M’Poko Airport or local stores with a valid ID.
• Insert SIM: Place the SIM card into your phone’s SIM slot.
• Activate SIM: Dial the provided USSD code or follow SMS instructions.
• Register (if required): Some carriers may ask for passport details.
• Top Up: Add credit using recharge cards or mobile banking.
• Test: Check for network signal and test calling/data functionality.

2. Setting up and activating Central African Republic eSIM

• Check eSIM Compatibility: Ensure your smartphone supports eSIM (common in newer Apple, Google, and Samsung models). Confirm compatibility by reviewing your device’s specs or checking with the manufacturer.
• Choose a Plan: Pick a data plan based on your needs, considering your stay duration and expected data use.
• Purchase the eSIM: Buy the plan, ensuring you provide a valid email for the activation details.
• Install and Activate eSIM: Activate the eSIM by turning on cellular data.
• Test Connectivity: After activation, test your connection by browsing, messaging, and calling to ensure everything works.

X. FAQs about Central African Republic SIM card

XI. Conclusion 

In summary, buying a prepaid Central African Republic SIM card requires research and planning.  By understanding the available options, activation processes, and considering your own data needs and budget, you can stay connected affordably and conveniently, enhancing your overall travel experience in this unique country.