Ghana SIM cards are a traveler’s best friend when it comes to staying connected while exploring this vibrant country.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the essential details about Ghana SIM cards. From picking the best SIM for tourists and finding out where to buy them to understanding costs and the available types, we’ve got you covered. You’ll also learn about eSIM options and how to get everything set up so you can enjoy hassle-free communication throughout your trip. Let’s get started!
In this article
Good to know: 1.000 GHS = 62.58 USD (October 2024)
There are four mobile carriers in Ghana:
Here are the best SIM card options for tourists in Ghana:
MTN offers the best coverage and speed in Ghana, making it ideal for most travelers.
Vodafone has solid coverage in urban areas and is popular for its affordable data packages.
Glo is known for its affordable packages, though its coverage is more limited compared to MTN and Vodafone.
AirtelTigo is budget-friendly but has weaker coverage, making it better suited for travelers staying in major cities.
These options cater to different needs, with MTN offering the best overall network coverage. Vodafone and Glo are also great options, especially for those staying in urban areas or looking for budget-friendly plans
You have 3 choices for buying Ghana SIM Cards: online, at the airport, and in the cities.
You can buy a SIM card online through official websites or from providers to avoid complicated buying processes.
You can buy SIM cards at Accra Kotoka International Airport.
MTN store in Accra, Ghana
Major cities like Accra and Kumasi have multiple stores where you can buy SIM cards.
A tourist SIM card in Ghana is generally affordable, starting at around 2 GHS (less than $1 USD). Data packages are available in various sizes, with short-term options providing around 1 GB for 7 days and extended plans offering up to 6 GB or more for 30 days.
Pricing can range from about 10 GHS to 50 GHS, depending on the provider and the data allowance. MTN and Vodafone are the most popular networks, and they are known for their good coverage, while AirtelTigo offers budget-friendly plans. Buying a SIM in the city is usually cheaper than at the airport.
There are 2 main types of Ghana SIM cards we must focus on: physical SIM and eSIM.
This is the traditional SIM card that you insert into your phone. It gives you access to local mobile networks with a Ghanaian number. All four main providers (MTN, Vodafone, AirtelTigo, and Glo) offer physical SIM cards.
eSIM is a digital alternative to physical SIM cards and allows you to activate your plan without needing a physical card. Various platforms like Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad currently offer eSIMs for Ghana, though local providers in Ghana are not yet offering them directly.
YES, SIM card is certainly the best solution people can consider when traveling. SIM cards provide access to local networks, offering cheaper data and call services than international roaming. Public WiFi is often unreliable, and portable WiFi devices can be expensive.
A SIM lets you control your data usage and stay connected throughout your trip. For those with eSIM-compatible phones, eSIMs offer an even more convenient and secure option, allowing you to activate your plan digitally without needing a physical SIM card.
When buying a SIM card in Ghana, there are several key things to prepare:
Ghana eSIM is a fantastic alternative to traditional tourist SIM cards because of its convenience and ease of use. With no need to swap physical SIM cards, eSIMs can be activated instantly, making it perfect for travelers who want to stay connected without the hassle. You can activate it in just a few clicks, and it’s compatible with a wide range of modern devices, making it a hassle-free solution.
One of the most reliable and widely trusted eSIM providers is Gigago, known for offering very smooth eSIM services to tourists. Gigago stands out as a leader in the market, providing tourists with reliable and affordable data plans tailored to their travel needs.
If you choose Gigago’s eSIM Ghana, you’ll enjoy a range of key features such as:
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.
A tourist SIM card in Ghana typically lasts 7 to 30 days, depending on your chosen data plan. For example, you can get a plan with 1 GB of data valid for 7 days or larger plans like 6 GB or 10 GB that last 30 days.
Most tourists opt for 30-day plans, especially if staying longer, as they offer more data and better value. SIM cards from popular providers like MTN and Vodafone are affordable and widely available nationwide.
Step 1: Insert SIM Card: Place the SIM into your phone’s slot. Ensure the phone is unlocked.
Step 2: Complete SIM Registration: Visit a provider store. Bring your passport and possibly proof of address for registration.
Step 3: Activate SIM: Follow the provider’s instructions. This often involves dialing a USSD code or using the provider’s app.
Step 4: Top-Up & Choose a Plan: Add credit at a local shop or via the app. Then, select the plan that meets your data or call needs.
Tourists can choose between physical SIM cards, available from major providers like MTN, Vodafone, Glo, and AirtelTigo, or opt for eSIMs if their phones support it. Physical SIMs require in-store registration, while eSIMs can be activated online.
Yes, you can make international calls with your Ghana SIM card. Just ensure your plan includes enough credit or minutes for international dialing. Rates vary depending on the carrier.
Yes, you can make international calls with your Ghana SIM card. Just ensure your plan includes enough credit or minutes for international dialing. Rates vary depending on the carrier.
You can easily recharge your Ghana SIM card by purchasing a top-up voucher from local stores or using mobile apps like ExpressPay. Simply enter the voucher code to add credit to your account.
In summary, getting a Ghana SIM card is an easy and affordable way for tourists to stay connected while exploring the country. Whether you choose a physical SIM or an eSIM, you’ll benefit from local rates and reliable coverage across major cities and beyond. With flexible data plans and instant activation options, there’s a SIM solution to fit every traveler’s needs.
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.
