Complete Guide for Travelers 路 Updated 2026
Everything you need to know about buying a local SIM card in Kenya. Compare 2 providers, find prepaid plans starting from $2 USD, and learn exactly where to buy and what documents you need.
Cheapest Plan
$2
Providers
2
Network
Currency
KES
JKIA Airport (Nairobi) arrivals or any Safaricom store
Compare all 2 carriers offering prepaid SIM cards to tourists in Kenya. Side-by-side comparison of coverage, speed, and pricing.
| Carrier | Type | Coverage | Speed | Cheapest Plan | Plans | Buy At |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Safaricom Best Coverage | Major | Excellent | Good | $4USD 10 GB / 30 days | 2plans | AirportCarrier StoreConvenience Store |
Airtel Kenya | Major | Good | Fair | $2USD 5 GB / 30 days | 1plan | Carrier StoreConvenience Store |
Coverage and speed ratings per carrier
From
$4
10 GB / 30 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist 10GB | 10 GB | 500 KES | $4 | 30 days | 200 min local |
| Tourist 25GB | 25 GB | 1,000 KES | $8 | 30 days | 500 min local |
From
$2
5 GB / 30 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist 5GB | 5 GB | 300 KES | $2 | 30 days | 100 min local |
Select providers to compare their plans directly
Select up to 3 providers to compare. 2/3 selected.
Airtel Kenya
Tourist 5GB
300 KES KES
Safaricom
Tourist 10GB
500 KES KES
Safaricom
Tourist 25GB
1,000 KES KES
Visual comparison of carrier pricing in Kenya
Cheapest to most expensive plan (USD)
Cheapest available
$2
Find the best place to buy a prepaid SIM card in Kenya, with details on hours, ease of purchase, and what to expect at each location type.
This is the easiest option for tourists arriving in Kenya.
Carrier counters and kiosks in the arrivals hall. Staff speak English and handle registration on the spot.
Official brand stores with the widest plan selection. Staff can help with activation and troubleshooting.
Available at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and similar stores. Look near the checkout counter.
Bring your passport when buying a SIM card in Kenya. It is required for registration at all official points of sale. Airport counters handle the process quickly.
Kenya uses 4G LTE networks. Here is how each provider compares for coverage and speed across the country.
Coverage Map for Kenya
Visit each carrier's website for their interactive coverage map
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Strong
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Moderate
Kenya requires SIM card registration. Here is exactly what you need and step-by-step instructions for each provider.
Prepare these before buying a SIM in Kenya
Unlocked phoneRequired
Your phone must be SIM-unlocked to use a local SIM card
PassportRequired
Valid passport for SIM registration
SIM ejector toolRequired
Or use a paperclip to open the SIM tray
Cash in local currencyRequired
Some vendors do not accept credit cards
Photo ID (backup)Optional
A second form of ID in case your passport is needed elsewhere
Local addressRequired
Hotel address for SIM registration form
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
Get a printable PDF with provider comparisons, activation steps, and APN settings for Kenya.