Complete Guide for Travelers 路 Updated 2026
Everything you need to know about buying a local SIM card in Tanzania. 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
TZS
Kilimanjaro Airport or Dar es Salaam Airport arrivals
Compare all 2 carriers offering prepaid SIM cards to tourists in Tanzania. Side-by-side comparison of coverage, speed, and pricing.
| Carrier | Type | Coverage | Speed | Cheapest Plan | Plans | Buy At |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vodacom Tanzania Best Coverage | Major | Excellent | Good | $4USD 10 GB / 30 days | 2plans | AirportCarrier StoreConvenience Store |
Airtel Tanzania | 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 | 10,000 TZS | $4 | 30 days | 100 min local |
| Tourist 20GB | 20 GB | 20,000 TZS | $8 | 30 days | 200 min local |
From
$2
5 GB / 30 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist 5GB | 5 GB | 5,000 TZS | $2 | 30 days | 50 min local |
Select providers to compare their plans directly
Select up to 3 providers to compare. 2/3 selected.
Airtel Tanzania
Tourist 5GB
5,000 TZS TZS
Vodacom Tanzania
Tourist 10GB
10,000 TZS TZS
Vodacom Tanzania
Tourist 20GB
20,000 TZS TZS
Visual comparison of carrier pricing in Tanzania
Cheapest to most expensive plan (USD)
Cheapest available
$2
Find the best place to buy a prepaid SIM card in Tanzania, with details on hours, ease of purchase, and what to expect at each location type.
This is the easiest option for tourists arriving in Tanzania.
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 Tanzania. It is required for registration at all official points of sale. Airport counters handle the process quickly.
Tanzania uses 4G LTE networks. Here is how each provider compares for coverage and speed across the country.
Coverage Map for Tanzania
Visit each carrier's website for their interactive coverage map
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Strong
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Moderate
Tanzania 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 Tanzania
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
Step 2
Fingerprint scan
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
Get a printable PDF with provider comparisons, activation steps, and APN settings for Tanzania.