The 5 Best eSIM for Kenya in 2024

Planning a trip to Kenya? Absolutely! A trip to Kenya presents unique challenges when it comes to staying connected, particularly with the limited availability of reliable Wi-Fi, especially in remote areas. To address this, having consistent access to mobile data is crucial. That’s where the convenience of an eSIM card comes into play, eliminating the hassles associated with traditional SIM cards and ensuring you stay connected seamlessly.

In this comprehensive guide, my goal is to provide you with in-depth insights into the best eSIM for Kenya. Through rigorous testing and evaluation, I’ve scrutinized key factors such as data packages, network reliability, user-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness among the leading eSIM providers. Join me as we delve into the details and embark on a journey towards achieving uninterrupted connectivity in Kenya. Let’s get started!

The 5 best eSIM for Kenya: Review in 2024

Discover eSIM from Esimwise, SimOptions, Holafly, Maya Mobile and Airalo – these virtual SIM cards ensure seamless communication throughout your journey. Each offering a unique blend of features and benefits, these virtual SIM cards stand ready to elevate your upcoming trip to Kenya to new heights. Of course, consider and choose the perfect companion for your upcoming trip to Kenya!

1. Esimwise

After trying countless eSIMs from various providers, both well-known and obscure, Esimwise’s eSIM has won my heart as the best eSIM for Kenya. If you’re looking for a seamless and top-notch eSIM experience in Kenya, Esimwise’s eSIM is undoubtedly the first pick on my list of the best eSIM for Kenya. eSIM from Esimwise introduces a breath of innovation and novel solutions that captivate users seeking alternatives that resonate with the ever-evolving needs.

With the simplicity of a few taps, I snagged a Kenya eSIM plan at a bargain, starting from a mere $3 per day for a lavish 90-day span. Esimwise’s range of options, spanning from dynamic day passes to steadfast fixed data plans, granted me the liberty to sculpt my connectivity voyage according to my precise desires.

As I meandered through the bustling streets of Nairobi and explored the vast expanses of the Maasai Mara, Esimwise’s eSIM remained my steadfast companion, ensuring I remained connected with lightning-fast 4G data speeds no matter where my journey took me. Even in the remotest corners of the country, reliable connectivity of this eSIM kept me effortlessly linked, without skipping a beat.

Ah, I remember, when I was walking through the vibrant chaos of Nairobi’s markets, I was blown away by the seamless streaming experience provided by this eSIM. Despite the hustle and bustle around me, I found myself effortlessly sharing the excitement with my friends, reading their comments in real-time with remarkable clarity. Esimwise’s speed surpassed my expectations, ensuring that I remained connected even in the most remote corners of Kenya.

In a land where every corner holds a new adventure, Esimwise’s eSIM is more than just a means of staying connected – it’s the key to unlocking the full potential of my Kenyan experiences, enriching each moment with seamless connectivity and endless possibilities. With Esimwise’s eSIM by my side, my journey across Kenya became not just a road trip but a digital adventure unlike any other.

What I like:

• Transparent and adaptable pricing models
• Surprisingly smooth speed
• Reliable connection stability
• An array of data choices crafted to suit individual preferences
• Continuous round-the-clock technical support
• Multiple convenient payment methods available

What I don’t like:

• None

2. SimOptions

SimOptions’s eSIM is the second recommendation in my listing of the best eSIM for Kenya. Its global presence and the multitude of plans offered initially intrigued me. The allure of two available data plans for Kenya, offering durations of 14 and 15 days with data limits of 6GB or 10GB, priced at $39.9, captured my interest. However, the intricacies unfolded when delving into the diverse array of plans sourced from different brands.

Each plan introduced variations not only in terms of pricing but also in speed, duration, and additional features such as technical support and data-sharing capabilities. This intricate web of options added a layer of complexity to the decision-making process, requiring a substantial investment of time to thoroughly understand and compare each plan.

My personal interactions with SimOptions’s eSIM shed light on potential challenges. The lack of a solid guarantee regarding technical support and the exclusive payment in dollars added an element of uncertainty to the user experience. The relatively higher pricing further intensified the decision-making process, prompting careful consideration of the trade-offs involved.

While SimOptions’s eSIM undeniably offers an extensive range of eSIM plans, users should be prepared for a thorough evaluation of the available options. The lack of transparency in plan features and potential limitations in technical support may influence the overall satisfaction with their eSIM, prompting users to weigh the global coverage against the complexities encountered in the decision-making journey.

What I like:

• Their eSIM cards offer a user-friendly installation process.
• A diverse selection of eSIM cards with different durations and gigabyte allowances.
• Some plans include calls and SMS services.

What I don’t like:

• Short-duration plans come with minimal gigabyte allocations
• Certain options lack data top-up features
• The quality of support and speed is contingent on the specific brand
• Moreover, there is no dedicated application for monitoring data usage

3. Holafly

As I delved into exploring the best eSIM for Kenya, Holafly’s eSIM emerged as a prominent player in the market, positioned as a leading eSIM card. The allure of their offerings lies in the provision of unlimited data plans, a feature that immediately caught my attention, considering the dynamic connectivity needs during my travels.

Exploring their website, I unearthed a treasure trove of six unlimited data plans meticulously crafted for Kenya, each starting at a modest price of $29.4. However, I couldn’t ignore the undeniable truth: Holafly’s eSIM cards leaned towards the higher end of the price spectrum, a detail that became apparent during my hands-on testing.

On the flip side, eSIM from Holafly sweetens the deal with the priceless feature of unlimited data included in all their plans. This means waving goodbye to the hassle of constant top-ups during my journey, ensuring a seamless and stress-free connectivity experience. Certainly, it’s important to underscore that the price may pose a challenge for travelers with tighter purse strings.

It’s worth noting that Holafly’s eSIM plans may come with a relatively higher price tag, savvy travelers seeking to maximize value without compromising on connectivity may find it worthwhile to compare their offerings with other providers, such as Esimwise’s eSIM, known for their competitive pricing structures and quality service.

What I like:

• The eSIM provider offers a broad range of cards with varied prices and durations, featuring mostly unlimited data plans.
• They prioritize customer support, offering 24/7 assistance in Spanish, English, German, French, Italian, and Japanese.

What I don’t like:

• Holafly’s Kenya eSIM doesn’t support data sharing
• The installation can’t be completed through their app
• Calls and SMS are not covered by their eSIM cards
• They stand out as one of the more expensive options

4. Maya Mobile

In my list of the best eSIM for Kenya, Maya Mobile’s eSIM emerged as a notable contender, offering a range of four distinct eSIM packages tailored for durations of 5, 10, 15, and 30 days. The pricing structure, influenced by the allocated gigabytes, provided me with the flexibility to select from packages spanning 1GB to 10GB, with prices ranging from $42.5 to $360.7.

As can be seen, Maya Mobile’s eSIM has 4 data packages of 5, 10, 15, and 30 days; this variety may present a disadvantage in certain scenarios. For instance, you require a duration falling outside these specified periods may be found in a predicament, as the options provided may not perfectly align with your route. This limitation could potentially hinder the flexibility and convenience that travelers seek when choosing an eSIM.

Nevertheless, it’s imperative to recognize that its pricing stands out as relatively higher when juxtaposed with other contenders in the market, such as Esimwise’s eSIM. While the brand prides itself on offering speed, simplicity, and a robust refund policy, budget-conscious travelers may find themselves weighing the cost aspect heavily in the decision-making journey.

If you are a budget-constrained traveler like me, the decision-making process should go beyond the positive attributes of the brand and include a comprehensive evaluation of the pricing structure between brands. offers different eSIMs. The goal was to find an option that was not only affordable but also met essential connectivity needs during your stay in Kenya. Now you can weigh the pros and cons to make your decision.

What I like:

• Maya Mobile’s eSIM works in 194 destinations, offering flexible pricing.
• The service allows data sharing with other devices, enhancing connectivity options for users.

What I don’t like:

• Maya Mobile’s offerings include eSIM cards without a dedicated app, excluding calls and SMS
• The absence of unlimited data plans is notable
• Additionally, their technical support is exclusively available in English, facilitated through a bot

5. Airalo

Airalo’s eSIM is the final suggestion in my exploration of the best eSIM for Kenya. In my quest for an international travel eSIM, Airalo’s eSIM has undeniably emerged as a significant contender. Established in 2019 by Turkish entrepreneurs Abraham Burak and Ahmet Bahadir Özdemir, eSIM from Airalo holds a distinguished position in the industry as a pioneer providing eSIM services with extensive coverage across numerous countries.

For my upcoming trip to Kenya, Airalo’s eSIM offers a range of eSIM data plans spanning 7, 15, and 30 days, with prices ranging from $9 to $36.5. The allure of affordability positions this eSIM as one of the more economical choices in the market. However, this cost-effectiveness comes with notable considerations, particularly in terms of their technical service, which has faced criticism for delayed response times and limited support.

A critical concern lies in the relatively restricted gigabytes included in data plans. The potential risk of exhausting data mid-journey raises the likelihood of needing additional top-ups, potentially resulting in escalated costs. This prompts a reflective consideration of the adage that “cheap can be expensive” in the long run.

As a traveler, navigating the decision-making process entails a meticulous balancing act, weighing the financial benefits offered by Airalo’s eSIM against potential drawbacks, including limited customer support and the prospect of incurring additional expenses for data top-ups throughout the journey. My reviews aim to provide a comprehensive perspective, empowering fellow travelers to make informed decisions based on the specific needs and considerations.

What I like:

• Airalo is recognized as the most affordable brand
• They offer data sharing between devices and convenient eSIM top-ups

What I don’t like:

• The majority of plans from this provider have durations exceeding a month.
• Calls and SMS are not part of their eSIM cards.
• Additionally, services and technical support are exclusively offered in English, and users may experience delayed response times.

How to choose an eSIM for Kenya?

When selecting an eSIM for use in Kenya, it’s crucial to consider a range of factors to ensure optimal compatibility and functionality throughout your journey. These are some considerations for you to keep in mind:

1. Network coverage

Assessing the eSIM provider’s network coverage is vital for making an exact decision. For instance, consider a traveler’s review detailing the experience using the eSIM in a rural area. If the eSIM consistently provides a stable connection despite the challenging condition, it reflects positively on the provider’s coverage reliability. Besides, instances where users report frequent signal drops in remote places would be indicative of potential network issues.

2. Data usage

Evaluate the data plans and pricing options offered by eSIM providers with a keen eye on your data usage patterns. Examples of effective flexibility include providers that allow top-ups, enabling you to adjust your data allowance on the go. If unexpected situations arise, such as increased data usage or extended travel, having the option to easily add more data ensures a seamless and uninterrupted connectivity experience.

3. Data speed

Emphasize the importance of data speed to ensure a satisfactory e experience when choosing an eSIM provider.  If you enjoy streaming content, choosing a provider with plans specifically designed for such purposes is crucial. This could involve selecting a plan that offers higher data speeds and allowances tailored for smooth video streaming or downloading large files without compromising on speed.

4. Customer support

The choice of best eSIM provider should not only consider technical aspects but also place significant emphasis on the quality of customer support. Examples of positive customer feedback regarding efficient and responsive support services can guide your decision, ensuring that you have reliable assistance whenever technical issues arise during your travel experience.

FAQs

1. Can I get an eSIM in Kenya?

Yes, you can get an eSIM in Kenya. However, the availability of eSIMs can change rapidly, so it’s best to check with the eSIM provider. Some providers like Esimwise’s eSIM offer services at this location. You can visit Esimwise’s website for the most up-to-date information on eSIM availability in Kenya.

2. Which phones are eSIM enabled in Kenya?

Many modern smartphones support eSIM functionality. However, specific availability of eSIM-enabled phones in Kenya may vary depending on local retailers and mobile network operators. Generally, popular smartphone brands such as Apple (iPhone), Google (Pixel), Samsung, and others offer eSIM support in some of their models.

To find out which phones with eSIM capabilities are available in Kenya, you can check with local retailers, visit official brand websites, or check here for information on compatible devices and eSIM activation procedures.

3. How to get an eSIM for Kenya?

Here are five simple steps to get an eSIM in Kenya:

Step 1: Check if your device is eSIM compatible in this link.

Step 2: Choose an eSIM plan for Kenya from Esimwise that suits your needs. Look for factors such as data allowances, validity periods, and pricing.

Step 3: Purchase the selected eSIM plan.

Step 4: Follow the activation instructions provided by Esimwise. These instructions will typically be sent to you via email after your purchase.

Step 5: Once the eSIM is activated, ensure your device is properly configured to use the eSIM. You can now start enjoying seamless connectivity in Kenya using your eSIM.

Wrap up

Securing a traditional SIM card in Kenya can often be a cumbersome process, especially for foreigners, as various regulations may pose challenges or even make it nearly impossible. To sidestep these potential inconveniences, opting for the best SIM for Kenya, as recommended above, emerges as a practical solution. Whether for business or leisure, the right eSIM choice ensures reliable connectivity, allowing you to focus on the enriching aspects of your travel without unnecessary disruptions. As you embark on your journey, the decision to choose the best-suited eSIM, such as Esimwise’s eSIM, holds the promise of safe and seamless travels..