The best eSIM for Kenya depends on how much data you need, but for a typical trip eSIM Ahora offers plans from $2.65, activated by QR code in about 30 seconds with no roaming from your home carrier. A 3 GB, 30-day plan costs $10.41. You connect, with top-ups available and nationwide coverage. Compatible with iPhone XS or newer, Samsung Galaxy S21+ and Google Pixel 3+.
Full-speed data every day; after the daily cap the speed is reduced.
Full speed up to 500 MB/day, then 512 Kbps.
Every eSIM can be installed within 180 days of purchase. Plan validity starts when you first connect.
Your eSIM picks between these networks on its own. If you see bars and nothing loads, you can pick one by hand.
Your Kenya eSIM runs on one network: Safaricom. Other local networks won't carry your data: if you see signal bars and nothing loads, turn off automatic network selection (iPhone: Settings → Cellular → your eSIM → Network Selection; Android: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → your eSIM) and pick Safaricom by hand.
Safaricom (dominant leader with ~65% market share) and Airtel Kenya are the main operators. Excellent 4G+ across Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret. 5G rollout since 2022 across Nairobi and Mombasa with continued expansion. Safaris in Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo and Samburu have reasonable coverage at lodges and main tourist zones — deep reserve interiors have intermittent signal. Swahili coast (Diani, Malindi, Lamu) well covered. Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro climb (Tanzanian side) have signal at bases and weak at summits. Note: Safaricom's M-Pesa is essential for Kenyan payments — but requires a local SIM with registration. Type G British plugs, 240V/50Hz.
Fly into Nairobi-Jomo Kenyatta (NBO) or Mombasa (MBA); taxi to Nairobi center ~25-35 USD (Bolt or Uber cheaper). Currency Kenyan shilling (KES), ~130 KES per USD. Mid-range dinner 8-20 USD, safari lodge 100-500 USD/night. Classic safari Maasai Mara + Amboseli + Nakuru 7-10 days. Coast: Diani, Watamu, Lamu Island. Nairobi has a national park within city limits (only capital with this). Uber, Bolt and Little Cab work in cities. M-Pesa is ubiquitous for payments — you'll need local SIM or cash. eVisa online.