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South Africa SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 22, 2024 | Africa , SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Visiting South Africa soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing a South Africa SIM card .

This guide will explain where to buy a SIM card in South Africa in person and online. We’ll also discuss prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs if your mobile supports them. 

Before you read this guide, you may wonder if you actually need a SIM card in South Africa. If you don’t mind not having Internet, you’ll likely find free Wifi in restaurants, shopping malls, and hotels.

That said, if you need data to get around, call a cab, or translate Afrikaans or any other South African language – you may want to get a SIM card for your travels in South Africa.

Best SIM Cards In South Africa

If you’re traveling in South Africa, we recommend using a SIM card from Vodacom, Telkom, MTN, or Airalo. (I’ll get back to Airalo later on, so keep reading to learn more!)

That said, if you’re planning on visiting other countries during your trip to Africa, you might want to make sure to pick an option that offers coverage in other African countries.

How To Buy A SIM Card In South Africa

You can either buy an Africa prepaid SIM card in person in some international airports, mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or online.

Usually, you can expect higher costs and low data offers at the airport, so we don’t recommend buying a SIM card at the airport.

That said, you won’t necessarily find SIM card shops in every airport, so it’s essential to keep this in mind. And, when you see a shop, you might also have limited options.

For this reason, I’d recommend buying a SIM card directly from the mobile provider store. Note that you may need your passport to buy one.

Although, this means you won’t get data right upon your arrival. So, if you prefer to be connected at all times, you could use an eSIM or purchase an African prepaid SIM card online.

Now, let’s take a look at the data plans offered by Vodacom, Telkom, and MTN.

Vodacom SIM Cards

Vodacom offers a SIM card for ZAR 10 ($0.59). You can then get the following plans:

• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for ZAR 149 ($8.72)
• 60 GB, valid for 30 days for ZAR 249 ($14.58)

Telkom SIM Cards

Telkom has several different prepaid plans available:

• 1.5 GB, valid for 31 days for ZAR 40 ($2.34)
• 2 GB, valid for 31 days for ZAR 70 ($4.10)
• 3 GB, valid for 31 days for ZAR 100 ($5.86)

MTN SIM Cards

MTN has several different prepaid plans available:

• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for ZAR 99 ($5.79)
• 7.5 GB, valid for 30 days for ZAR 129 ($7.55)
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for ZAR 149 ($8.72)

Overall, we think Vodacom is the best option if you plan to buy your SIM card in person. That said, any would do if you can’t find their store!

How To Buy A South Africa Prepaid SIM Card Online

If you wish to have your SIM card ready for your arrival, you could purchase it online or on websites like Amazon.

You’ll find different plans on Amazon. For example, Orange Holiday World SIM works in more than 100+ countries and gives you up to 10 GB of data for 14 days. South Africa is included.

But there are many other options worth considering, so have a look and make sure the countries you plan on visiting are listed.

Browse your options on Amazon

Another option is to purchase a prepaid tourist SIM card on SimOptions .

They currently offer one plan that covers South Africa:

• 10 GB, valid for 14 days for $49.90

Browse your options on SimOptions

Finally, the last option is to buy an eSIM card for South Africa or, if you’re traveling to multiple countries, an eSIM plan for Africa .

How To Buy An eSIM Card For South Africa

eSIM is a new concept that allows you to have a virtual SIM card inside your phone.

If your mobile phone supports eSIM cards – it’s definitely one of the best options to get data in South Africa.

Curious? Learn more about eSIM for travelers on esimroamers.com .

I started using eSIM as soon as my mobile phone supported it.

To buy eSIMs, I usually use Airalo . Keep reading to learn more about the best eSIMs in South Africa.

Airalo South Africa

If you want to buy an eSIM for South Africa, you could purchase one on Airalo . This website offers many eSIM cards worldwide and special plans for Africa and South Africa.

I’ve been using Airalo for several months, and it works fine.

Here are the options available :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $8
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $15.50
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $26

Here’s an overview of the options available in Africa :

• 1 GB, valid for 30 days for $27
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $59

The options mentioned above are part of their Hello Africa plan and offer coverage in 27 countries, including South Africa.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling in other countries that are not mentioned on the list, you can try Discover Global, which offers coverage in 124 countries, including South Africa.

Here’s an overview of the options available on Discover Global :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $17
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $24
• 5 GB, valid for 60 days for $35
• 10 GB, valid for 180 days for $59
• 20 GB, valid for 365 days for $69

Now, one important thing to note about Airalo is that you’ll need to keep an eye out for the provider in each country.

Suppose you ever have trouble connecting to the Internet during your trip. In that case, it might be because you’re connecting automatically to networks and need to select a network manually instead.

When you purchase the eSIM, you’ll get access to the list of networks supported in each country.

Go to Airalo

Holafly South Africa

Alternatively, you could look at your options on Holafly . You can read our Holafly review to learn more about this eSIM store.

Holafly offers the following plan for South Africa:

• Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for $29
• Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for $37
• Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for $44
• Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for $47
• Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for $59
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $79

Go to Holafly

Nomad South Africa

Finally, Nomad is also a great eSIM provider.

Here’s an overview of the plans available for South Africa:

• 1GB, valid for 7 days for $20
• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $48
• 5GB, valid for 30 days for $54

Nomad also has Global , an eSIM plan for 111 countries worldwide. This plan offers coverage in South Africa.

Here’s an overview:

Go to Nomad

Final Thoughts On SIM Cards In South Africa

As you can see, getting a prepaid SIM card in South Africa or even an eSIM for your travels in South Africa is pretty easy.

You’ll even be able to stay connected wherever you go in Africa without changing your SIM card, especially if you purchase an African SIM card.

I believe the eSIM card is the most convenient way to get data in South Africa if you wish to have data upon your arrival. This way, you won’t need to go to a store to buy a SIM card.

You need to make sure your mobile phone supports eSIM first.

Traveling soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Tanzania SIM cards
• Kenya SIM cards
• Egypt SIM cards
• Madagascar SIM cards

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Where to Find a SIM Card at Cape Town Airport, Map Included

To help travellers to Cape Town Airport figure out where to buy a SIM card and which one to buy, I put together this guide. I’m a frequent traveller to new cities, I understand how confusing it can be. Hopefully this guide will fix that confusion.

There is only one provider shop at Cape Town Airport that sells SIM cards:

Vodacom is the only shop at Cape Town Airport that sells SIM cards. The outlet is located on the far side of the arrivals area, if arriving from an international flight. I sketched out a map above.

SIM cards with Vodacom start at R105, however to get a decent a amount of data and calls, budget at least R220 1 .

Data is added by bundle and a comparison rate is offered between the cost of data purchased as a bundle and the cost of data if not purchased as a bundle. Bundles last for 30 days. Vodacom SIM cards do not have a fixed expiry if in use.

If looking for large amounts of data (more than 3GB), the provider MTN can offer a better deal; MTN is not available at Cape Town Airport.

More credit can be purchased at a Vodacom store, or at retailers such as Woolworths, Spar, Checkers, and most petrol stations.

200 South African Rand is equivalent to approximately 14 US Dollars at time of writing

Which SIM cards are available at Cape Town Airport?

There is only one SIM card provider available at Cape Town Airport, and that is Vodacom with cards starting from R105. Other options are available if leaving the airport.

Data, calls, and the SIM card itself are all priced separately with Vodacom. Buy a SIM card, top it up with credit, and then activate the bundle. Rates for bundle and “un-bundled” data are advertised side by side so you can see how much you’re “saving” when activating a bundle; this is called in-bundle rate and out-of-bundle rate .

• Data , starts at R10 for 15MB, I find the best value for travellers to be R 299 for 3GB.
• Local Calls, a voucher of R29 is suggested, this buys approximately 12 minutes of local calls.
• SIM itself, a fee of R105; it will need to be activated in store with a passport.

Data bundles mentioned above will last for 30 days from activation. Calls will be available as long as the SIM has credit (as making a call simply deducts from the credit).

Vodacom appears to offer decent coverage , particularly in Cape Town and along major surrounding roads (such as the roads to Port Elizabeth, Jacobs Bay, or Johannesburg). Outside of towns, even when driving along what feels like busy roads, coverage may be unavailable with any of the providers. Consider a satellite phone as well.

International calls start at R0.89 per minute 2 . To access this rate, an International Calling Plus bundle needs to be activated. It costs R5 per month. If making more than one international call, activating the bundle first is worth it: Bundle call to the USA is R0.99/minute, un-bundled call is R4.49/minute. Other bundled rates are:

• UK, for R1.79/minute
• Australia or Netherlands, for R0.99/minute
• Ireland, from R1.29/minute

What are the other options outside the airport?

Other options include MTN, Cell C, and Telkom. Overall it seems Vodacom is the best SIM card to get when visiting Cape Town for a short while. MTN offers comparable plans and coverage, but it is not as easy to buy as Vodacom.

To compare these SIM cards from the perspective of a short-term traveller, I looked at:

• Data (Vodacom for convenience, MTN for lots of data)
• Coverage (MTN is good, comparable to Vodacom)
• Calls (stick with Vodacom)

Vodacom is slightly cheaper, some of their options include:

• 500MB for R79
• 1GB for R115
• 3GB for R299

MTN, by comparison, offers:

• 300MB for R60
• 1GB for R149

If buying 10GB or more, MTN is the best value per gigabyte . With R499 for 10GB or R899 for 20GB 3 . Even when travelling for work, thanks to hotel Wi-Fi, I’d struggle to use this much data.

MTN and Vodacom offer similar coverage, including major roads and towns surrounding Cape Town. It seems that for the best coverage, stick with Vodacom or look for MTN.

Telkom also offers good coverage of larger towns and major roads. Cell C only offers coverage in cities and larger towns.

For international calls , I see Vodacom as better value. I haven’t had enough experience to comment on the quality of the phone calls however.

Vodacom offers another bundle for international calls for R5 per month. If making more than 1 international call, this bundle is worth it as it can reduce the price of calls by R3 per minute . Example prices include:

MTN, for comparison, charges R30 for their bundle with call rates such as:

• UK, from R1.49/minute
• Netherlands, from R6.99/minute
• Australia, from R1.99/minute
• Ireland, from R2.99/minute

For local calls , Vodacom starts at R1.25/minute and MTN starts at R0.79/minute. Cheaper options are available by purchasing a bundle .

Getting to the city centre to buy a SIM card

Cape Town Airport is connected to the city and surrounds by bus, Uber, and taxi. If taking a bus, I’ve included below some shops near the bus stop to purchase a SIM card. By taxi or Uber, SIM card shops may be available near the accommodation.

I’ve also looked at if it’s possible to get to the city centre while staying connected with Wi-Fi (it’s not).

Bus (with free Wi-Fi)

Airport bus services are provided by MyCiTi. The airport route does not appear to have free Wi-Fi, however some of their other routes do.

The bus stops at Civic Centre, the following stores are nearby:

• Vodacom: Picbel Parkade, open 9am-7pm generally; Golden Acre Shopping Mall, open with the mall.
• MTN: Thibault Square, Golden Acre, and St George Mall (open 9am - 5pm).

Uber and ride-share, using the airport Wi-Fi to book

Uber appears to be available at Cape Town Airport, though there is no pick up area at the terminal. This means it’s a walk to the carpark to find the Uber. The free airport Wi-Fi does not appear to include coverage of the carpark.

I don’t like to use Uber when it isn’t available at the terminal. Airport Wi-Fi often doesn’t stretch to remote Uber pick up locations (and I don’t like walking there with my luggage). If there is a problem finding the driver, it can be awkward walking back to the terminal to get Wi-Fi again.

I assume Wi-Fi is not available once in the car.

Alternatives to Uber in Cape Town include Talixo and Bolt.

Taxis in Cape Town do not have Wi-Fi.

Cape Town Airport has an official taxi provider and recommends pre-booking a taxi. There are booths available at the airport to book a taxi if unable to book one in advance. More information can be found here .

Is Wi-Fi available at Cape Town Airport?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available at Cape Town Airport. Connect to # AIRPORTS FREE Wi-Fi to use up to 1 gigabyte over 4 hours 4 . The service seems to work to book an Uber, though I don’t like to rely on airport Wi-Fi for this. I have never tried Cape Town’s myself.

If in need of more data or time after that, connect instead to # AIRPORTS PREMIUM Wi-Fi and enter payment details.

Do I need ID to buy a SIM card at Cape Town Airport?

Yes, identification is required to purchase a SIM card in Cape Town, and generally anywhere in South Africa 5 .

Identification information is required to activate the SIM card, and I’ve found it’s generally better to have the shop attendant complete this step for you. A record of your address may also be required, showing details of your accommodation seems to suffice.

Can I roam with my South African SIM card to another country

Bundles for roaming appear to only be available with Vodacom, where rates start from R99 per day for 50MB 6 . This price appears to be better than MTN (I haven’t tried either), but for most people is more expensive than buying a local SIM card.

United Kingdom

The UK is included in Vodacom’s Travel Data Bundle , meaning the following are available:

• R99 per day for 50MB
• R199 per day for 100MB

I feel it’s better value to purchase a SIM card upon arrival in the UK, especially if staying more than 2 days. SIM cards are available on arrival in the UK from £20 (about R375).

Netherlands

The Netherlands is also included in Vodacom’s Travel Data Bundle . Prices are as above, R99 for 50MB or R199 for 100MB.

Australia too is included in Vodacom’s Travel Data Bundle . Prices are the same as above, R99 for 50MB or R199 for 100MB.

SIM cards are available upon arrival at most of Australia’s major airports. These start from $10 AUD (R100). Guides to getting a SIM card on arrival at Australian airports can be found here:

References:

Vodacom prepaid data costs

Vodacom international call costs

MTN data bundles

Airport Wi-Fi

English text of South African law on requirements for identification

Vodacom Travel Data Bundle

Tags: sim-card cape-town south-africa

• ← Where to Find a SIM card at Gold Coast Airport, and Which One to Get
• Where to Find SIM Cards at Johannesburg Airport, Map Included →

Written by Chris who travels frequently for work and understands what it can be like to arrive somewhere new and unfamiliar.

I wrote Landing Last Minute to help the hurried traveler get necessary information about any destination.

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Everything you need to know about calling internationally, chatting locally, buying a prepaid SIM card and cruising the Web

Staying in touch while on holiday or business in South Africa (SA) is far less complicated and expensive than it used to be, but, nonetheless, those unfamiliar with the local system and networks may still find keeping connected somewhat confusing.

While there’s a few different telecom options for travellers to SA, it’s important to understand the advantages and drawbacks of each. What’s best for one person may not necessarily be ideal for another.

To help you on your way, we’ve put together a guide to buying a prepaid SIM card (or just a data SIM), renting a local cell phone, putting your mobile on roam and more. At the bottom of this page, we’ve also answered some frequently asked questions about cell phone and Internet use in SA.

OPTIONS FOR USING A CELL PHONE OR INTERNET DEVICE IN SOUTH AFRICA

1. Buy a local SIM card

Buying a local prepaid SIM card, inserting it into your mobile or Internet device and operating on a top-up basis is one of the easiest and most convenient options (your phone must just be unlocked – check with your local service provider to make sure this is the case).

Especially ideal for those who return to SA multiple times per year (like business people), this alternative allows you to keep your number forever as well as use your OWN phone with all your crazy apps, annoying ringtones and important contacts.

Keep in mind, if you’ve been a contract phone user your whole life, you’ll have to familiarise yourself with the concepts of data and airtime, the idea of buying prepaid vouchers and the notion of monitoring your credit so you don’t get cut off mid-conversation or in the midst of sending an email. Not to mention, when purchasing the SIM card, you’ll need to make sure you have the correct information on hand to RICA (see FAQ 4).

Though, those who don’t want to deal with the above, but who still want to use a local SIM, can opt to purchase through B4IGO South Africa. This service allows you to purchase a SIM and airtime/data bundle of your choice before you even leave your home country. That way, you get your number beforehand to give to family and friends, and since you pick up your pre-ordered SIM at any international South African airport upon arrival, you don’t have to deal with the hassle of finding a place to purchase a SIM, RICAing, selecting a cellular network, loading airtime/data and being out of contact for a certain amount of time. Plus, you get free incoming calls and voicemail retrieval. Find out more about B4IGO South Africa website in the top right of this page.

Advantages:

• You get to use your own Internet device or cell phone (it needs to be unlocked)
• You can account for the exact amount of money you’ve spent on talk time and data usage (as it’s prepaid)
• You can keep your number forever to use every time you re-enter SA
• Costs are typically 300% to 400% less than those incurred making calls from a hotel or with a phone on roam

Disadvantages:

• You’ll need to go through the RICA process (unless you use B4IGO South Africa, which allows you to pre-RICA)
• You’ll need to locate a place that sells the SIM you need (micro and nano SIMs can be hard to find; though, Cellucity stocks these)
• You’ll need to deal with potentially long queues when buying airtime/data vouchers
• You’ll risk running out of credit at inopportune times
• Your personal phone is susceptible to theft or you may lose it

Phoning home:

The cost of this varies depending on the cellular network you choose. Using B4IGO South Africa, you can call home for as little as $0.06 per minute.

2. Rent a local cell phone/Internet device

This is also an incredibly easy and straightforward communication option for those travelling to SA; albeit, it tends to be a bit more expensive. You simply collect the phone or Internet device – it comes with a SIM card already installed – from your selected service provider and dial with a smile from the get-go. Typically, you leave a security deposit when you pick up the mobile and pay for charges incurred after drop-off.

While there are companies throughout the nation that provide phone rentals, one of the most trusted, reliable and convenient in the business is Cellucity. In partnership with the brand Vodacom (local Vodafone arm), this organisation gives travellers a whole spectrum of cell phone and Internet device rental options, from sleek iPhones and wireless routers to simple Nokias and mobile broadband dongles. Plus, incoming calls and voicemail retrieval are free, and if you pre-book, you get your number before you depart your home country (to give to loved ones or clients). 

• You avoid the time-consuming RICA process (see FAQ  4)
• You don’t have to worry about understanding the prepaid system or local cellular networks
• You never run out of credit
• You can leave your fancy smartphone at home, so you don’t have to worry about loss or theft
• It’s generally not possible to keep track of your usage when you rent a phone, which means that it’s easy to get carried away on a good gossip session or a lengthy conference call and rack up a sizeable bill
• You do not get to keep your number once you drop off the phone. Thus, if you travel to SA frequently, this is probably not the best option for you

The cost of this varies depending on your service provider and your cellular network. With Cellucity’s Vodacom Rentals devices, you can phone home for as little as $0.25.

3. Put your phone on roam/use a hotel phone and Internet

Perfect for those who can only turn off for a holiday once they power down their phone or Internet device, this option is best for travellers adopting a less-is-more strategy while in SA. Meaning, if you’re planning to only make two or three short calls or send a text message or four, or if you’re banking on just using the small amount of free bandwidth (Internet usage unit) allocated by your hotel, then this is a more than satisfactory way to go. Though, if you can’t go a day without checking Twitter or have a few local friends you’d like to make plans with, it’s best to either rent a phone or buy a local SIM.

• Great way to shut out the world and escape if you can get away with it
• Completely hassle free
• If your phone is on roam, you can still SMS those at home or in the vicinity if your alert your local service provider, so you’re not completely out of contact; though, you typically cannot make phone calls
• Exorbitant fees.
• Limited communication (especially dangerous in the case of emergencies)
• Your phone’s susceptible to theft or loss
• Pay to receive an incoming local AND international call
• Local service providers, like a car rental agency, can’t get in touch easily if there’s a problem with your reservation

This option often ends up being extremely expensive; specifically, it can be as much as 300% more than a local SIM rate.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT INTERNET DEVICES AND CELL PHONES IN SOUTH AFRICA

1. How do you use a mobile on a prepaid basis?

Mobiles that work on a prepaid, or pay-as-you-go, basis require users to load credit on a phone beforehand in order to receive service. Credit comes in the form of airtime or data, and is available in set increments for a certain fee. Once the credit expires or is used up, service is no longer available, until the user ‘tops up’ with more credit.

2. What’s the difference between data and airtime?

For those who’ve only ever used cell phone contracts, the concepts of airtime and data may initially be confusing. Though, keep in mind that you’ll only need to understand these ideas if you plan on using a local prepaid SIM card while in SA.

Loosely defined, airtime is the unit you use when you talk on your phone and send a text message, and data is the unit you use when you send an email, download a photo, view a web page or use any web-based apps (like WhatsApp or Facebook).

In SA, if you don’t have a smartphone, you’ll only ever need to use airtime; however, if you do have a smartphone, you’ll need to use both. Travellers using a local prepaid SIM card in a smartphone will need to either purchase airtime and convert a portion of this to data (consult the individual cell phone network website or helpline for instructions) or purchase separate airtime and data bundles.

Internet devices, like wireless routers and dongles, only use data.

3. Where can I buy airtime and data?

Generally, you can buy airtime in voucher form from any corner shop, supermarket or cellular network store in South Africa.  Simply ask the cashier for help if you have questions. Specific cellular networks also have allocated retail outlets where their airtime is sold. If you’re in a shop and you’re wondering if they sell airtime from a specific cellular network, it’s best just to ask a member of the staff.

Data bundles are usually only available from the cellular network stores. Alternatively, you can buy airtime or data online via the respective cellular networks’ websites. For B4IGO, you can purchase data online by visiting vodacom.prepaidstore.co.za.

4. Which cellular network is best?

The jury’s still officially out on this subject, and any South African you ask will have a different opinion. The primary networks in South Africa include Vodacom, Cell C, MTN and 8ta. For the most part, short-term travellers will find that any of the aforementioned will be fine for use while on holiday or a business trip here. Vodacom is however the largest and first mobile network in SA with the biggest subscriber base and coverage.

5. What is RICA?

The Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-related Information Act, or RICA as it’s more commonly known, is South African government legislation that requires that all SIM cards be registered. The law was passed in 2011 with the aim of better monitoring criminal activity.

RICA affects any travellers to SA who purchased a local SIM before July 2011 or who wish to purchase a local SIM upon arrival. SIMs purchased before July 2011 that have not been RICAed will have been deactivated.

Those who wish to purchase a local SIM will, at the time of purchase, need to supply their passport and proof of where they’re staying during their time in SA. This is relatively straightforward if you’re staying at a formal place of accommodation; simply print proof of your reservation on a letterhead. However, if staying with friends or in informal accommodation (like a house swap), you’ll need an affidavit from the local property owner or tenant stating that you’ll be residing temporarily at the said address.

Find out more about Cellucity’s B4iGO prepaid SIM card service programme in South Africa.  

Yoco are rocking it for small businesses around the country. Read more about their  credit card machines . 

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Step-by-Step Upon Arrival

From landing to on your way..., step 1: passport control (immigration).

Upon landing, when you enter the terminal, follow the signs (and the crowd) to Passport Control. When you reach the front of the line, an agent will direct you the a specific counter.  It’s OK to approach the counter with your whole family.  Present your passport and answer the agent’s questions.

There are no “landing cards” or other immigration forms that need to be presented to the immigration agent. If you need a visa (see our passports and visas page), have your passport open to the page with the visa on it for a speedier entry.

It’s frequently not necessary, but it’s always a good practice to have a printed copy of your airline reservations and accommodations, in order to quickly and easily satisfy any questions an immigration officer might have. Keep these handy in your carry-on bag in case you need to pull them out.

First Time Tips:

1. Try to use the toilet either on the plane before landing or after clearing passport control – the lines at passport control can be long (at any airport) and getting stuck at the back, because you stopped to use the toilet, can mean a long delay.

2. Immediately after leaving the immigration booth, take just a couple of steps away and check the stamp in your passport, and make sure the “valid until” date is correct. Immigration agents are people, and people can make mistakes. If the length of stay is incorrect, it’s much easier to have it fixed immediately, by the same person, than it would be to try to sort it out later.

Step 2: Baggage Claim

After passport control, you’ll walk directly into the baggage claim area. Grab a free cart, check the monitors for which carousel your flight’s baggage will be arriving on, and make your way over there. Depending on how long you spent in passport control, you may have to wait a while for your bags to come out, or they could already be there. 

The baggage claim area is a great place to use the toilets as well – if you use them before you get your bags, you’ll be (mostly) hands-free, and since you haven’t cleared customs yet, you’re still in an area of the airport that the general public doesn’t have access to. If you’re in a group, one person can wait for the suitcases to come out of the carousel while the other runs off to the toilet.

Once you’ve picked up your bags, follow the signs to Customs.

Step 3: Customs

Admittedly hard to see in the back of our photo here, there are two lanes for clearing customs: the green and the red channel (you can find them against the back wall behind the elephant’s back). Most travelers will have nothing to declare, and are able to use the GREEN channel. If you do have something to declare (firearms, plants, certain restricted medicines, etc.), proceed to the red channel.

Random spot checks are done in the green channel, so if you are selected for a random inspection, please cooperate with the customs officials. Most travelers just walk through without being stopped.

If you have any questions as to whether or not you need to make a customs declaration, check the official guide here.

When you exit the customs area, you’ll be entering the public area of the airport.

Step 4: Money, SIM card, Tourist Info

If you need to get cash, you can visit an ATM or currency exchange (we recommend using ATMs – see our Money & Expenses page). You can pick up a SIM card – quickly if you’ve arranged for one through our partner, b4i.travel – or through one of the telecom shops at the airport. Cape Town Airport also has a fantastic tourist information counter in the arrivals lobby, where you can pick up some maps and brochures, and have your questions answered.

Step 5: Leaving the Airport

Rental Car agencies are connected to the airports – there’s no shuttle you have to take – just follow the signs. (We highly recommend renting a car during your stay!)

Taxis can be found at the airport; be sure to use official metered taxis and ignore any touts who approach you. Uber and Bolt also operate out of CPT.

The MyCiTi Bus can connect you to the city center, and from there you can use their extensive network to make your way around town.

Private, pre-arranged transfers are always a good option for the first time traveler as well.

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How to get a local SIM card when travelling to South Africa

Be it, the regular, travel junkies or casual tourists, everyone wants comfort and security when travelling to other countries. Booking flights and  car hire in South Africa with seamless transitions from the airport to the hotel saves you energy and gives you peace of mind. Believe it or not, one of the most defining moments in your travel life is staying connected to your loved ones, friends and you’re carefully curated Instagram profile. While there are free Wi-Fi zones in some cities in South Africa, they aren’t always free or fast. Don’t plan on saving money for your SIM card because the local SIM cards are tourist-friendly, relatively fast and absolutely inexpensive.

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Best ESIM For South Africa

As of August 2024, aloSIM offers the best eSIM in South Africa. Its 30-day data plan includes 20 GB for only $48.00, or $2.40 per GB, which is highly affordable! This data plan is definitely the best deal compared to all the other options.

Cheapest ESIM For South Africa

As of August 2024, Manet offers the cheapest South Africa eSIM. Its 7-day data plan includes 1 GB for only $3.70. Remember: If you need more data, it may not be the best value. aloSIM offers an unbeatable rate of $2.40 per GB, making it an excellent choice. In comparison, Manet is more expensive.

Unlimited Data For South Africa

As of August 2024, Holafly offers the cheapest unlimited data plan in South Africa. Its 7-day data plan includes unlimited data for only $37.00, or $5.29 per day. Just a heads up: there might be speed limits or restrictions once you hit a certain usage threshold. For fast data access over a longer time, aloSIM's 30-day plan is the better option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get an esim for cape town.

You can purchase an eSIM for Cape Town online from one of the many eSIM providers listed on our website. We have tested and reviewed all the providers listed on Simpackers, so you can make an informed decision. Once you've purchased the eSIM plan, follow the instructions provided by your eSIM provider to activate it.

Which eSIM Provider Is The Best For Cape Town?

The best eSIM provider for Cape Town depends on your needs. We suggest exploring our top list and comparing the prices, data plans, and networks each provider offers before making your final decision.

Does eSIM Work In Cape Town, South Africa?

Yes, eSIM technology is supported in Cape Town. However, it’s important to check the networks offered by each provider to ensure you’ll have good coverage in the areas you plan to travel.

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Vodacom launches tourist SIM

South Africa joins the global trend towards providing foreign visitors with cost-effective SIM bundles on their arrival in the country

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Vodacom and B4i Travel have jointly launched a cost-effective Tourist Sim Bundle to give overseas visitors a viable option for staying connected while travelling in South Africa.

The base option costs R399 for 3GB data, 30 minutes of local calls, 30 SMSs and R30 airtime for international calls. This compares to similar options in Europe costing, for example, 20 Euro from Vodafone Spain (about R340 at airports) or 15 pounds from EE in the UK (about R300 at airports). Google Fi in the USA charges $30 (about R440 at the airport) for unlimited calls and texts, but only 1GB of data, and $10 increments per 1GB.

Many cheaper options are available if one shops around, but buying a SIM card at the airport adds a convenience factor that often far outweighs the savings.

The Vodacom Travel Bundles offer three options. Aside from the R399 bundle, travellers cam also purchase:

For  R549:   5GB  data, 50 minutes of local calls, 50 sms and R50 airtime;

For  R799:   10GB  data, 100 minutes of local calls, 100 sms and R100 airtime.

All the bundles include Vodacom’s International Calling Plan, which allows Tourist to call home at rates from 89 cents per minute. The International Calling Plan rates are country specific.

The bundles are all valid for 30 days, and are available from Vodacom Stores at OR Tambo International, Cape Town International and King Shaka International. Travellers who missed out on purchasing a SIM on arrival can still purchase it from Cellucity at the V&A Waterfront, or online at  www.b4i.travel  .

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8 Hidden Gems in Cape Town Only Locals Know About

From breathtaking wineries in Stellenbosch to buzzy local fare at the Oranjezicht Night Market, I explored Cape Town’s best hidden gems with the help of local friends.

Sophie Mendel/Travel + Leisure

Set against the backdrop of the breathtaking cliffs of Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak, and Lion’s Head, and renowned for its unique culture and exciting dining and nightlife scenes, Cape Town, South Africa, sits at the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian oceans. With iconic sites like the bustling V&A Waterfront, the colorful BoKaap neighborhood, and popular Boulders Beach, known for its African penguin population, I was overwhelmed with options for how to spend a week in this eclectic city. But this past February, I had the opportunity to experience it like a local with the help of a few of my friends who are native (and near-native) to Cape Town.

"As a tourist destination, Cape Town has it all: mountains, beach, and city," my friend Abbey Hudetz tells me. "It’s easy to fall in love with this place and, in my case, the people."

Abbey, who spends winters in Cape Town with her husband, Matt, who was born and raised there, is the founder of New York City-based marketing agency Oyster Creative . She likes to keep her finger on the pulse of local happenings both in Cape Town and New York, where she lives the rest of the year.

Sophie Mendel/Travel + Leisure

"I think Cape Town is honestly the most beautiful city in the world. I often describe it as turning life’s saturation and vibrancy on 'full' when you’re there," added my friend Michaela Abrahamse , who was born and raised in Cape Town before moving to New Zealand. "The sun is brighter, the sand is whiter, the water is more blue, the grass is greener, and the people are happier and friendlier."

"Everyone there is always [open] to creating new friends and [welcoming] new people into their lives. Often, my parents would go to the supermarket, meet new people, and we’d have them and their kids over for dinner that night," she added. "I genuinely think it’s the perfect place for solo travelers purely for this reason."

With all that in mind, Abbey and Michaela gave me the inside scoop on the essential tips and tricks for navigating the city, and took me to some of their favorite spots and local haunts to help me experience Cape Town from a local perspective. 

Know Before You Go

Beyond introducing me to the city’s best off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems, my Cape Town mavens demonstrated their expertise by sharing a few essential tips.

Be prepared for load-shedding.

South Africa experiences regular load-shedding , which means there are widespread blackouts throughout the country. Locals and visitors alike can expect daily power outages — think lights, electric appliances, heating and cooling, internet connectivity, and more — and unreliable cellular data for several hours. Cape Town is separated into different areas, ranging from 1 to 23, that each experience load-shedding during different hours of the day. Abbey suggested I download the ESP load-shedding app on my phone before my arrival so I could track which areas would be experiencing load-shedding and when. The app proved extremely helpful for me, especially as this was something I wasn’t familiar with before coming to South Africa.

Uber is the best way to get around.

While local buses are available to get from place to place, Ubers are far more convenient and tend to be inexpensive (when compared to prices in the U.S.). While taxis are also available in Cape Town, I didn’t see them as often as I expected and found calling an Uber more reliable and convenient. Note, too, that Ubers service the airport, even if you get approached by wayward taxi drivers on arrival telling you they don’t — they will likely charge you significantly more.

If you’re considering renting a car, remember that they drive on the left-hand side of the road, and note that gas stations can sometimes be affected by load-shedding, making it challenging to fill up your tank regularly.

Keep it low-key.

“Growing up in Cape Town, locals are low-key. Things are understated, and over-the-top displays are generally not well received. To fit in, avoid doing too much, whether it be drinking, wearing flashy labels, or being loud," Abbey’s husband and South African native, Matt Hearn , told me. "You have to be respectful of the wealth discrepancies. That being said, we do like to have a lekker jol ('nice party' in Afrikaans), and in the summer months (December to February), it’s pretty much nonstop.”

Safety can be an issue.

While letting your guard down in Cape Town is easy, it’s important to remain conscious of your personal safety. When walking around in public, you should keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid bringing flashy valuables.

"Many places are considered safe to locals that may be unsafe for tourists. Feeling a sense of safety and security in Cape Town comes down to [using] common sense and trusting your gut," explains Michaela. "Ensuring you’re not voluntarily welcoming unsafe vibes is key, like leaving your wallet on the table at a busy restaurant or holding your phone loosely in your hand in a crowded environment. These are common experiences you will have in Cape Town where a simple ‘better safe than sorry’ mentality is responsible for [keeping you safe].”

Check (and double check) passport and visa requirements before entry. 

While a tourist visa is not currently required for entry into South Africa (if traveling on a U.S. passport), South Africa does require you to have two consecutive empty visa pages per entry, not including endorsement pages. Be sure to double-check your passport well before you travel to ensure you’ll have the necessary empty pages and validity lasting at least 30 days beyond your intended exit date from South Africa. I personally hit a bit of a snag on my way into the country, which delayed my entry by several days, so I can attest to the importance of double-checking and fully understanding the requirements ahead of time.

The tap water is safe to drink.

Cape Town’s tap water is safe to drink, so be sure to bring a reusable water bottle you can refill for cost-efficient and environmentally friendly hydration.

The Best Hidden Gems in Cape Town

Safety tips addressed, these are Cape Town’s best hidden gems, according to locals.

Stellenbosch Wineries

Just a quick 45-minute Uber ride from the city lies one of Cape Town’s absolute finest hidden gems: the breathtaking Stellenbosch wine country. Imagine rows upon rows of lush green vineyards and charming white Cape Dutch-style buildings set against the dazzling backdrop of soaring mountain ranges; now picture yourself, wine in hand, strolling around the property without a care. That’s Stellenbosch. An easy day trip from the city, it really is as magical as it sounds, especially when you visit Babylonstoren , a pristine wine estate and favorite local hangout of Abbey and Matt.

“Babylonstoren is an agro-tourism amusement park. [Home to] a garden cafe, butchery, cheesemonger, pastures, wine tasting, vineyards, and labyrinths garden, it’s an onion of a destination. My favorite spot is the garden cafe, though the main restaurant, Babel , is also quite a show. When we have been in the past, you order a color and they bring everything from the most recent harvest in that hue in a sculptural display," says Abbey. "I still love the Greenhouse cafe and recently had breakfast there with friends. While Babel is a must-book, the Greenhouse and tasting room accommodate walk-ins.”

While Babylonstoren is an excellent option for those who would rather spend the day at a single winery than feel like you need to visit multiple during your trip, “there are dozens of farms in the area. Some other favorites are Boschendal and Leeu Estates ,” Abbey adds.

Hidden Coves and Off-The-Beaten-Track Beaches

Cape Town’s multitude of beaches are not to be missed. But why fight through crowds at more touristy coastlines when you can visit secluded, off-the-beaten-track shores instead? Michaela prefers the hidden coves of Cosy Bay, a secret beach characterized by crystal clear (albeit cold) waters alongside massive boulders and rock formations that are tucked into the shoreline not far from the more popular Clifton and Camps Bay beaches. “My favorite hidden beach would probably be Cosy Bay. It’s such a hidden gem, and I love its exclusivity. It still offers the serene white sands and rock formations that Clifton has while minimizing the crowds. It’s like a mini Clifton hidden from overpopulation,” she says.

While I was also a fan of the privacy of Cosy Bay, the Clifton 1st through 4th beaches are still worth a visit. The Clifton beaches are each tucked into pretty, mountainous coves with Malibu-style cliffside homes dotting the landscape. Each has its own personality, and you can easily walk between the beaches to experience them all. According to Matt, Clifton 4th is best for family fun, Clifton 3rd has great vibes and is known for being very LGBTQ-friendly, Clifton 2nd is quiet and private, and as for Clifton 1st, visitors can “give it a miss.”

"Lately, Clifton has become a hotspot for sunset gatherings, with live music and organized social activities such as volleyball, allowing for opportunities to make connections and build community among the younger generations, which has been a positive outcome of its popularity," Michaela says.

Oranjezicht City Farm Night Market

One of my favorite local experiences in Cape Town was the Wednesday Oranjezicht City Farm night market . Michaela, Abbey, and I donned our trendiest outfits and made our way out to the V&A Waterfront neighborhood, where we were greeted by various local vendors, from bakeries and eateries to fashionable clothing and homewares stalls. The bohemian market runs Wednesday nights from September to April from 5 to 9 p.m., and on Saturdays from 8:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and features extraordinary ocean views.

Filled with Cape Town’s most beautiful people, Oranjezicht is the place to see and be seen, with overhanging string lights that cast a romantic glow throughout the market and set the tone for a night out on the town. “The vibe is definitely trendy and aimed at a younger audience than your usual farmers markets. There are lots of beer and wine bars with incredible food. It is more on the high end of a Cape Town local’s budget. However, it’s a very good time, and many people use it as a stepping stone on their road to going out for the night,” Michaela says.

But Oranjezicht isn’t Cape Town’s only noteworthy market. "While I enjoy the mix of food stalls, produce, and artisan vendors, I prefer to hit The Old Biscuit Mill market, which is in Woodstock, open on Saturdays and Sundays," says Abbey. "Don’t sleep on the vintage clothes at Old Biscuit Mill. I’ve found some of my favorite pieces there.”

Amazing Local Dining and Nightlife Scene

While Cape Town’s buzzy dining and nightlife scenes are no big secret, there are a few spots that our local experts love to frequent.

One of Abbey’s favorite local haunts is The Stranger’s Club cafe, located in the fashionable Green Point neighborhood. This sceney cafe has a bohemian energy perfect for meeting friends for a lengthy brunch, working remotely, or just enjoying the afternoon with delicious food in an aesthetically-pleasing atmosphere. Be prepared to see much of the same crowd dining at The Stranger’s Club as you will at the Oranjezicht Night Market — the overall vibes are very similar.

Another must-visit dining establishment is Ouzeri , an upscale Mediterranean restaurant in the heart of the city. According to Abbey, “Strangers Club and Ouzeri are [both] aesthetic spaces, but they are much more than Instagram destinations. Both are uncompromising on food. The Strangers Club is a daytime lunch spot and concept store, while Ouzeri is the current hot reservation just off Bree Street, where trendy restaurants and art galleries tend to cluster.” Nearby, The Gin Bar is another charming spot for a night out with friends. Not immune to the city’s load-shedding phenomenon, this bar comes prepared with candlelight illuminating the space when the power inevitably goes out, creating a dreamy nightcap environment.

A final destination worth visiting is The Bungalow , a popular beachfront restaurant in the luxe Camps Bay neighborhood. Another lively local spot to see and be seen, it’s a great place to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the sparkling ocean.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Just outside the city center lie the majestic Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens . Perfect for a morning stroll or late-afternoon picnic (I recommend avoiding a visit in the middle of the day, particularly in the summer months, as it can get extremely hot), these gardens offer a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city. Past visitors include Nelson Mandela, and in modern times, locals enjoy sunset concerts and many hiking paths, gift shops, and patio restaurants. Don’t miss the serene Tree Canopy Walkway , which features views of iconic Table Mountain and Cape Town’s verdant landscape.

District Six Museum

Visitors to Cape Town would be remiss if they did not take some time out of their trip to understand the role that apartheid has played in South African society. The District Six Museum is located inside an old Methodist church near the city center, in a neighborhood once home to Cape Town’s vast multi-racial population. In the 1960s and ‘70s, during apartheid, more than 60,000 people were forcibly removed from their homes and placed into townships far from the city center, where many of them and their descendants still reside today. While it’s undoubtedly one of the more sobering stops on a Cape Town itinerary, the museum works to give visitors insight into the history of apartheid and offer a more well-rounded understanding of the city and South Africa as a whole.

Langa Township Tour

Langa is Cape Town’s oldest township, established in the 1920s as a result of apartheid, and is still home to members of the city’s Xhosa community today. While I wasn’t able to personally take a tour of Langa during my visit, I would certainly recommend it to others who are looking to support the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Cape Town, which is especially meaningful with added context from the District Six Museum.

As travelers, it’s essential to recognize that while this city has so much to offer, as with any place, it’s not without flaws. We must seek out cultural and social context when visiting a new destination to get the complete picture and gain genuine insight into a place beyond simply what we see through the often-gilded tourist lens.

Traditional South African Braai 

On my last night in Cape Town, I was treated to a traditional South African braai in Matt and Abbey’s nearby Rondebosch suburb. A braai is a barbeque cooked over an open flame, and typically, guests bring their own meat to be grilled by the Braai Master.

“The Braai Master is responsible for the quality of the food and takes ownership over the braai, cooking meat and timing dishes. The Braai Master will assemble the fire (often lighting it with a Lion match)," Matt tells me.

"A traditional South African braai [happens on] quite a wide range of occasions. It’s loved ones getting together to cook food over a fire. It generally involves boerewors (sausage) and kebabs. We like going to Woolworth’s (our version of Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s) to get meat, dessert, and braai supplies," adds Abbey.

Michaela explains that a traditional braai looks similar to an American barbecue, save for different spices and wood fire use. "This also gives the meat a more authentic smoky flavor, which South Africans crave," she adds. "And many of our spices, salads, and desserts descend from the Cape Malay population.”

Abbey took on the role of Braai Master, so she, Michaela, and I spent the evening relaxing by firelight, listening to music, gossiping, and eating traditional malva pudding with vanilla ice cream. It was the perfect way to end a superb stay in Cape Town. (If you don’t have any local friends (yet) who will invite you over for a braai, you can always sign up for a tour to experience this local tradition that way instead.)

Cape Town has become one of my all-time favorite cities, distinctly African but with European energy. It’s a unique and interesting place with so much to offer, from gorgeous natural landscapes and lush wine country to rich culture, fabulous beaches, and gorgeous people. It’s an excellent place for taking a more off-the-beaten-path approach for an unforgettable, well-rounded local experience.

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Buying a Sim Card at Cape Town Airport in 2024

Planning a trip to Cape Town and wondering if you can buy a sim card at the airport on arrival? Avoid high roaming charges! This is a complete guide for buying a sim card at Cape Town Airport in 2024.

In this guide you will find everything you need to know about buying a sim card in Cape Town. Where to get a sim card, up to date prices as per August 2024, my recommendation, the best eSIMs for South Africa, my own experiences, a vlog about my arrival at Cape Town Airport, information about international sim cards and more.

If you are looking for the best way to stay connected in South Africa then get yourself a prepaid sim card on arrival or an eSIM for traveling to South Africa.

Make it yourself easy on your trip to Cape Town with a working data connection on your phone you can easily order an Uber, call a restaurant via WhatsApp, get directions from Google Maps, check your banking apps, etc. These are just some of the reasons why having data on your phone when traveling to Cape Town makes life much easier and your trip to Cape Town much more fun.

Being an avid world traveler one of my first travel tips is always to stay connected when traveling abroad. Whether you use an eSIM or buy a sim card on arrival.

As Traveltomtom is aiming to visit every country in the world and I also like to document all my travel tips you can already find more than 200 sim card guides on Traveltomtom from all over the world: Europe , UK , London , Italy , Rome , Portugal ,  New York , USA , Toronto , Canada , Istanbul , Dubai , Germany , Frankfurt , Mexico , Brazil , Australia and many more.

Traveltomtom also wrote a complete guide for  buying a tourist sim card for South Africa in 2024  as well as a specific  sim card guide for Johannesburg Airport .

So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid and eSIM advice for your next holiday destination. Bookmark me!

Some links in this article about buying a sim card in Cape Town are affiliate links. If you buy any of the products after using an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at no extra cost to you.

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends buying an MTN prepaid sim card at Cape Town Airport. Vodacom has slightly better 4G/5G network coverage in South Africa, but are much more expensive than MTN.

Traveltomtom definitely recommends eSIMs for traveling to Cape Town and there are some great eSIM deals for example 10 GB data for $26 USD. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for South Africa via either Nomad , SimOptions or Airalo .

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Another great alternative is a world travel sim card. These pre-activated physical sim cards will be delivered to your home address before your trip. Check out Traveltomtom's  comparison of the best international sim cards for traveling overseas in 2024  and pick the one that suits your trip the best.

Best eSIMs for South Africa

The easiest ways to stay connected when traveling to South Africa in 2024 is an eSIM. You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. No more swapping physical sim cards or visiting a phone store.

You order an eSIM for South Africa on the internet, you receive a QR code, scan it, follow the simple steps and within less than 2 minutes you have a South Africa eSIM installed on your phone.

Upon arrival in South Africa it automatically connects you to an available network and you enjoy data on your phone pretty much when the plane lands.

Make sure your phone is e-sim compatible before ordering an eSIM for South Africa.

Airalo is a reliable e-sim provider that Traveltomtom has used in more than 50 countries around the world and never had an issue. Check out the Airalo South Africa eSIM plans for 2024:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $8 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $15.5 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $26 USD

Click here to  order a South Africa eSIM directly online via Airalo .

The above data-only eSIMs you can order via Airalo are from CellSA and are valid in South Africa only. They operate on the 4G/LTE network of Vodacom, the best 4G/5G mobile network in South Africa.

SimOptions is another trusted and reviewed e-sim provider. Traveltomtom has been recommending SimOptions sim cards for more than 5 years now.

SimOptions sells international eSIMs that are valid in up to 141 countries, including South Africa.

The above international eSIMs are from Three HK and valid in 93 countries:

• 3 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD

They come with a phone number from Hong Kong that starts with +852. Technically you are able to receive phone calls, but since you lack credit that is not possible. However, this eSIMs supports receiving sms.

Unfortunately because of regulations in Hong Kong on these sim cards it is not possible to use TikTok as TikTok is blocked in Hong Kong.

SimOptions has 2 other international eSIMs for South Africa:

• 6 GB data for 15 days = $39.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 14 days = $39.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an international eSIM for South Africa via SimOptions .

A third trusted e-sim provider is Nomad. Nomad has often amazing eSIM deals, but when comparing the Nomad eSIM plans for South Africa with SimOptions and Airalo it turns out Nomad is more expensive.

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $11 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $20 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $28 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD

Click here for more info or to order an eSIM for South Africa via Nomad .

With an eSIM you keep your phone number from home, but make sure your phone is eSIM compatible. How to find out? Ask Google and find your answer instantly.

You can also buy a physical prepaid sim card for your trip to Cape Town on the internet For$49.90 USD you get 10 GB data. Click here to order this international sim card for South Africa via SimOptions  or find more info.

Cape Town International Airport

Don’t worry you won’t get lost at CPT. Cape Town Airport is a pretty small and easy to navigate airport. There are only 5 luggage belts and only one exit door into the arrival hall for international arrivals. People are very friendly and helpful and there is free WiFi at Cape Town International Airport.

Where to buy a sim card at Cape Town Airport

As soon as you arrive in the luggage hall you will see a Vodacom kiosk with big signs saying FREE SIM VODACOM. First off the kiosk is probably not operational, second a Vodacom sim card at Cape Town Airport is NOT free. The Vodacom kiosk is located at Luggage Belt 3.

However finding where to buy a South African sim card for your trip is very easy at Cape Town Airport. As soon as you pass customs and enter the arrival hall you will see a Vodacom and an MTN store on your right hand side.

The operating hours for the shops are:

• Vodacom: 7.00 am - 8.00 pm
• MTN: 7.00 am - 6.00 pm

These are the only two sim card stores at CPT Airport. Although there is also an MTN and a Vodacom store at the Domestic Arrival Hall, but the prices are the exact same.

Buying a sim card in Cape Town City Center

If you missed the opportunity to buy a sim card at Cape Town Airport then don’t worry. All the popular tourist destinations in Cape Town have mobile phone shops that sell prepaid sim cards for South Africa. The best places to buy a sim card in Cape Town are:

• V&A Waterfront - Victoria Wharf Shopping Center
• Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village
• Downtown Cape Town

Locating the nearest shop? Go to Google Maps and type in the by you preferred mobile operator: MTN, Vodacom, Cell C or Telkom. For more info and up to date prices check out my article about buying a sim card in South Africa!

When buying a prepaid sim card in South Africa you need to register with your passport. You can buy up to 5 sim cards per passport.

Check out Traveltomtom's complete guide for more detailed info about buying a prepaid tourist sim card in South Africa in 2024 .

Prices South Africa sim cards at CPT

Mind you that prices for prepaid sim cards and data packages constantly change. Traveltomtom tries to keep this article as up to date as possible. Your help is appreciated, so please let me know in the comment section below if things have changed.

The below info and prices are update per August 2024 and prices are in South African Rand: $1 USD = 18.7 South African Rand and 10 South African Rand = $0.53 USD.

Vodacom Cape Town Airport

At Vodacom they keep it simple and offer 3 tourist packages:

• 3 GB data + 30 min + R30 Airtime + 30 sms = R499 - $27 USD
• 5 GB data + 50 min + R50 Airtime + 50 sms = R649 - $35 USD
• 10 GB data + 100 min + R100 Airtime + 100 sms = R899 - $49 USD

The 30 Rand Airtime is like credit and the packages are valid for 30 days.

You can also make your own bundles, but then a Vodacom sim card costs R100. The most common available packages valid for 30 days are:

• 3 GB = R229
• 25 minutes = R55
• 60 minutes = R110

The Vodacom sim card prices at Cape Town Airport are pretty expensive.

Keep in mind that an Airalo eSIM with 10 GB data only cost $26 USD, but you arrange everything online and don't need to visit a Vodacom store in South Africa. 

MTN South Africa

At the MTN store there is whole lot more options available and an MTN sim card at Cape Town Airport is also FREE! MTN offers multiple packages with more flexibility. Tourists can opt for a sim card with a package valid for 1 week also.

Another great thing about buying an MTN sim card is that you can easily compose your own packages with data + voice. I like that!

Airtime/voice cost 1 SAR per minute, so 60 minutes = 60 SAR ($3.5 USD).

The most common prepaid MTN sim card data packages at Cape Town Airport are:

For 7 days:

• 2 GB = R149
• 5 GB = R199 - $11.5 USD

For 30 days:

• 5 GB = R299 - $16 USD
• 10 GB = R469 - $26 USD
• 100 GB = R999 - $58 USD

Then MTN offers also packages that give you 1 or 2 GB data per day, with a renewal every day at 00.00.

• 2 GB every day for 7 days = R149 - $8 USD
• 3 GB every day for 7 days = R199
• 1 GB every day for 30 days = R299 - $16 USD
• 2 GB every day for 30 days = R399
• 3 GB every day for 30 days = R599 - $33 USD

MTN claims to have the best mobile data network in Cape Town. But both Vodacom and MTN have a very good 5G network in Cape Town. Also based on my own experience as I always enjoyed a 5G signal in Cape Town and so did my friend with a Vodacom sim card.

Best sim card at Cape Town Airport

Comparing MTN and Vodacom as the best prepaid sim card for Cape Town is quite difficult. What is remarkable is that Vodacom prepaid sim cards are fairly expensive. A Vodacom sim card with 10 GB data cost $26 USD and eSIM for South Africa from Airalo with 10 GB data also cost $26 USD.

It would be an easy choice for me as I would always go for the eSIM. You simply order online and as the plane lands you enjoy data on your phone already.

MTN prepaid sim cards are much cheaper than Vodacom sim cards and MTN also offers much more flexible plans for tourists. Since MTN also has a great 4G/5G mobile data network Traveltomtom rates MTN as the best sim card at Cape Town Airport.

A local prepaid sim card is not the cheapest way to stay connected, because when you need just 1 GB data to stay in touch with friends, check your email and get directions from Google Maps then you should go for an Airalo eSIM with 1 GB data for just $4.5 USD.

In general Traveltomtom recommends eSIMs for a trip to Cape Town since they are so convenient. You order online and within a couple clicks you have an eSIM for South Africa installed on your phone.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for South Africa via either Nomad , SimOptions or Airalo . However, Airalo is the best value eSIMs for traveling to South Africa in 2024.

Order a prepaid sim card for South Africa online

If your phone is not e-sim compatible but you would like to order a sim card for traveling to South Africa online before your trip then check out the following.

Arrive prepared in South Africa with an international prepaid sim card. You order them online and a physical prepaid sim card will be delivered to your home address. You put this sim card in your phone and it automatically connects to an available network upon arrival in South Africa, basically when the plane lands you are instantly online.

SimOptions is the only sim card provider that sells physical prepaid sim cards for South Africa:

• 10 GB data for 14 days = $49.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an international prepaid sim card for South Africa via SimOptions .

Last reminder that if your phone is e-sim compatible you can arrange everything directly online without visiting a phone store. Get yourself an eSIM for South Africa in just a couple clicks.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for South Africa via either Nomad , SimOptions or Airalo .

My experiences buying a sim card at Cape Town Airport

As you can see in the video above I checked out both mobile operators first and then came to the conclusion that MTN had better deals. So I decided to buy an MTN prepaid sim card for my trip to Cape Town. Everywhere I went in Cape Town I had a good 4G connection, even when hiking off the beaten path.

I chose the R149 packages and got 1 GB data daily for 7 days. My trip to Cape Town was only 5 days, so that was perfect. This MTN packages is perfect for tourists staying less than 1 week in Cape Town. Just $10 USD.

Every night at 00.00 you get a text saying that they renewed your 1 GB daily allowance. Also when you use 50% of the daily allowance you get a message from MTN.

After a couple days I needed to make some phone calls and I went to the supermarket to add airtime/voice. I added just R20. It was fixed within seconds. All my experiences using my MTN sim card in Cape Town were good!

To make it even easier you can also watch this short 2 minute vlog about my arrival at Cape Town Airport and buying a sim card for my trip to Cape Town.

How to get from Cape Town Airport to the city

The airport is located not far from the city and within less than 30 minutes you will be at your hotel by taxi. I recommend taking a taxi as they are only about $15 - $20 USD one way. The most trusted way is to order an Uber or Bolt, however normal taxis offer rides for the same price.

I hope these tips for buying a sim card in Cape Town were helpful! In case you still have question please leave me a comment below and I am happy to assist.

Interested what it looks like visiting every country in the world? Then check out my Instagram @traveltomtom . As of August 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries around the world.

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Enjoy your trip to Cape Town!

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