Ethiopian Best SIM Cards Tourists can use for calling and Data

As a vibrant and culturally diverse destination, Ethiopia attracts a growing number of tourists from around the world. When visiting Ethiopia, having a reliable and convenient SIM card is essential for tourists to stay connected with loved ones, access the internet, and make the most of their travel experience. Fortunately, Ethiopia offers several telecom operators that provide SIM cards tailored to meet the communication and data needs of tourists.

• Let's discover the best SIM cards for calling and data services that Ethiopia has to offer!

When visiting Ethiopia, tourists have several reliable options for SIM cards that provide excellent calling and data services. Here are some of the best SIM cards tourists can consider:

• Ethio Telecom

Ethio Telecom is the main and largest telecom operator in Ethiopia. They offer SIM cards with good network coverage across the country, including major cities and popular tourist destinations. Ethio Telecom provides a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans with affordable calling rates and data packages suitable for tourists' needs.

• Ethio Telecom's network coverage:

Ethio Telecom is the main and largest telecom operator in Ethiopia, providing mobile, fixed-line, and internet services. It has the most extensive network coverage in the country, covering major cities, towns, and some rural areas. However, in some remote and rural regions, network coverage may be limited.

• Benefits and Features of Ethio Telecom Sim Cards

As the main and largest operator in the country, Ethio Telecom offers the most extensive network coverage, ensuring connectivity in major cities and popular tourist destinations. Here are the key features and benefits of Ethio Telecom SIM cards for tourists:

Network Coverage

Ethio Telecom provides reliable network coverage across Ethiopia, making it a suitable choice for tourists travelling to various regions.

Prepaid Plans

Ethio Telecom offers a variety of prepaid plans with affordable calling rates, allowing tourists to make local and international calls without incurring high charges.

Data Packages

Ethio Telecom provides diverse data packages to cater to different data usage needs. Tourists can choose from various data allowances suitable for browsing the internet, using social media, and staying connected throughout their trip.

Tourist Packages

Ethio Telecom often offers special tourist packages with data and calling benefits, tailored to meet the communication needs of travellers during their stay in Ethiopia.

SIM Card Availability

Ethio Telecom SIM cards are readily available at various sales points, including airport kiosks, mobile operator stores, and authorised retailers, making it convenient for tourists to acquire one upon arrival.

While other operators may also be present in Ethiopia, Ethio Telecom remains the top choice for tourists due to its extensive coverage, competitive plans, and reliable services. Travellers can enjoy seamless communication and internet access throughout their journey, making their Ethiopian experience even more enjoyable.

• Telecom Operators

Apart from Ethio Telecom, Ethiopia has introduced new operators, such as Ethio Telecom's competition. These operators, like Ethio Telecom, offer prepaid SIM cards with competitive data plans and calling rates.

These Telecom Operators include:

Etisalat

Etisalat is a multinational telecommunications company headquartered in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is one of the largest telecommunications providers in the Middle East and Africa, offering a wide range of services including mobile and fixed-line telephony, internet services, and digital television.

Etisalat operates in several countries, and its services are well-known for their reliability and quality. The company has been at the forefront of introducing advanced technologies and innovations in the telecommunications industry.

Orange Ethiopia

Orange Ethiopia is a telecommunications company operating in Ethiopia. It is a subsidiary of the French multinational telecommunications group, Orange S.A. (formerly known as France Télécom).

In 2020, Orange won a licence to operate in Ethiopia, becoming the newest entrant in the country's telecommunications market. The company aims to expand its services and bring its expertise in mobile and internet connectivity to the Ethiopian market.

When purchasing a SIM card, tourists should consider factors such as network coverage, data plans, calling rates, and the availability of tourist-specific packages. It's essential to check the latest offerings and services from these operators to find the best SIM card that aligns with your communication requirements during your travel in Ethiopia.

A table comparing the prepaid and postpaid plans of Ethio Telecom vs other telecom operators in Ethiopia:

Ethiopian Network Coverage

Ethiopia has not yet launched the 5G network. The country was in the process of liberalising its telecom sector, and the introduction of 5G services was expected to be part of the telecom operators' future plans.

As the main telecom operator in Ethiopia, Ethio Telecom has historically provided 2G, 3G, and 4G services, offering mobile and internet connectivity across major urban centres and some rural areas. However, the availability of 4G coverage might have been limited in certain remote regions.

Prices of the prepaid and Postpaid SIM Cards

Table of the prices of the prepaid and postpaid SIM cards in Ethiopia:

Most Purchased Ethiopian SIM Card by Tourists

The most purchased Ethiopian SIM card by tourists is Ethio Telecom. It is the largest mobile operator in Ethiopia and has the widest network coverage. They offer a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, including some that are specifically designed for tourists. 

Wide network coverage: Ethio Telecom has the widest network coverage in Ethiopia, so you can be sure that you will have good reception no matter where you go.

Variety of plans: Ethio Telecom offers a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget.

Tourist-friendly plans: Ethio Telecom offers a number of tourist-friendly plans, including plans with unlimited data and calls to selected countries.

Easy to purchase: Ethio Telecom SIM cards are available at most mobile phone stores in Ethiopia, so you can easily purchase one when you arrive.

How to Activate Ethiopian SIM Card

Here are the steps on how to activate an Ethiopian SIM card:

Purchase a SIM card: You can purchase a SIM card at most mobile phone stores in Ethiopia. You will need to provide your passport and a small amount of cash (in Ethiopian birr).

Insert the SIM card into your phone: Once you have purchased a SIM card, you will need to insert it into your phone.

Make a call: To activate the SIM card, you will need to make a call. You can call any number, but it is best to call a local number.

Receive a confirmation SMS: Once you have made a call, you will receive a confirmation SMS. This SMS will contain a code that you will need to enter to activate the SIM card.

Enter the activation code: Once you have received the activation code, you will need to enter it into your phone.

Your SIM card is now activated: Once you have entered the activation code, your SIM card will be activated. You will be able to use it to make calls, send text messages, and use the internet.

Tips of using the Ethiopian SIM Card

• Here are some tips for using an Ethiopian SIM card:

Choose the right plan: There are a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans available, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget.

Keep your SIM card safe: Your SIM card contains your phone number and other personal information, so it is important to keep it safe.

Top up your airtime regularly: If you run out of airtime, you will not be able to make calls, send text messages, or use the internet.

Be aware of roaming charges: If you use your SIM card outside of Ethiopia, you may be charged roaming charges.

Report lost or stolen SIM cards: If you lose or have your SIM card stolen, you should report it to your mobile operator immediately.

• Some additional tips:

Check the coverage map: Before you purchase a SIM card, check the coverage map to make sure that the network will work in the areas you will be visiting.

Ask about international roaming: If you plan on using your SIM card outside of Ethiopia, ask your mobile operator about international roaming charges.

Be aware of the local calling rates: The local calling rates in Ethiopia can vary depending on the mobile operator.

Use a local SIM card: If you are staying in Ethiopia for an extended period of time, it may be more economical to purchase a local SIM card.

FAQS

• What are the best SIM cards for tourists in Ethiopia?

There are a few SIM cards that are popular with tourists in Ethiopia. These include:

Ethio Telecom: Ethio Telecom is the largest mobile operator in Ethiopia and has the widest network coverage. They offer a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, including some that are specifically designed for tourists.

Etisalat: Etisalat is the second largest mobile operator in Ethiopia and has a good network coverage. They offer a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, including some that are specifically designed for tourists.

Orange Ethiopia: Orange Ethiopia is the third largest mobile operator in Ethiopia and has a good network coverage. They offer a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, including some that are specifically designed for tourists.

• What are the pros and cons of using a SIM card in Ethiopia?

There are a few pros and cons to using a SIM card in Ethiopia.

Pros:

• SIM cards offer a convenient way to stay connected while you are in Ethiopia.
• You can use your SIM card to make calls, send text messages, and use the internet.
• SIM cards are relatively affordable.

Cons:

• You may have to pay a one-time fee to purchase a SIM card.
• You may have to pay for international roaming if you use your SIM card outside of Ethiopia.
• You may have to pay for a data plan if you want to use the internet on your SIM card.

• Where can I buy a SIM card in Ethiopia?

You can buy a SIM card in Ethiopia at most mobile phone stores. You can also buy SIM cards at the airport and at some hotels.

• How do I activate a SIM card in Ethiopia?

To activate a SIM card in Ethiopia, you will need to provide your passport and a small amount of cash (in Ethiopian birr). You will also need to choose a plan.

• What are some tips for using a SIM card in Ethiopia?

Here are a few tips for using a SIM card in Ethiopia:

• Make sure you buy a SIM card from a reputable dealer.
• Choose a plan that fits your needs.
• Be aware of the roaming charges if you use your SIM card outside of Ethiopia.
• Keep your SIM card safe.