Best eSIMs for Kenya in 2025: Comparison, Prices, and Recommendations

Exploring Nairobi’s buzz, the wild beauty of the Maasai Mara, or Mombasa’s sunny shores, the right eSIM makes it simple to stay online throughout your trip.

In this guide, we’ll compare the best eSIMs for Kenya, including top providers like Holafly, Nomad, Airalo, Saily, GigSky, and Yesim, covering their prices, data plans, and features to help you choose the one that fits your travel style best.

Note *All pricing information in this article is accurate as of October 14, 2025. Prices are subject to change at any time, so we recommend checking directly with each eSIM provider for the most up-to-date details before making a purchase.*

Kenya eSIM Prices and Data Plans

Kenya offers a range of eSIM options for travelers, from budget-friendly short-term plans to unlimited data packages. Choosing the right plan depends on your stay, travel locations, and data needs. The table below compares the main providers to help you pick the best eSIM for your trip.

Best 6 eSIMs for Kenya

 Some eSIMs excel with unlimited data for streaming or work, while others focus on affordability or flexible short-term plans. Below, we break down six top providers, highlighting their strengths, features, and who they’re best suited for.

1. Holafly: Best for Unlimited Data

Holafly offers unlimited data plans perfect for heavy users who want to stay online throughout Kenya without worrying about limits.

Holafly uses local Safaricom and Airtel networks, providing strong coverage in Nairobi, major cities, and popular tourist areas. Activation is simple through their website or app, and speeds are suitable for streaming, maps, and video calls.

If you’re unhappy with the service or something hasn’t gone to plan, you can find guides on how to request a Holafly refund.

Key features:

• Unlimited 4G LTE data
• Easy QR code activation
• Works in major cities and tourist regions
• Supports hotspot sharing
• 24/7 customer support
  

Pros:

• True unlimited data
• Simple setup
• Reliable network coverage

Cons:

• Pricier than other providers
• Limited to Kenya only
• No multi-country plan
  

Verdict: Best for travelers who need unlimited data for streaming or remote work; the trade-off is a higher price.

2. Nomad: Best for Budget Travelers

Nomad provides flexible, low-cost eSIM options suitable for short stays or light data usage.

Nomad uses multiple local networks for coverage across Nairobi and other urban areas. Setup is fast via the app, and speeds are decent for messaging, browsing, and light streaming.

If you’re unhappy with the service or something hasn’t gone to plan, their help center explains how to refund your Nomad eSIM.

Key features:

• Affordable short-term plans
• App-based activation
• Multi-network coverage
• Supports top-ups
• Lightweight data suitable for messaging & maps
  

Pros:

• Very budget-friendly
• Flexible plan durations
• Easy app interface

Cons:

• Limited data for heavy users
• Slower speeds in rural areas
• Fewer features than premium options

Verdict: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers; trade-off is smaller data allowances.

3. Airalo: Best for Flexible Short-Term Plans

Airalo excels with versatile short-term plans at competitive prices, ideal for short trips in Kenya.

Airalo connects to Safaricom and Airtel networks, offering fast urban coverage. Activation is quick via the Airalo app, and plans range from daily to monthly options.

If you’re unhappy with the service or something hasn’t gone to plan, you can follow their instructions on how to get an Airalo eSIM refund.

Key features:

• Short-term and flexible plans
• App installation required
• Supports hotspot
• Multi-network coverage
• Easy top-ups
  

Pros:

• Affordable and flexible
• Quick setup
• Good urban coverage
  

 Cons:

• Limited data for streaming
• Speeds may vary in remote areas
• Fewer premium features

Verdict: Great for travelers on short trips who need light data; trade-off is limited heavy-use capacity.

4. Saily: Best for Flexible Short Trips 

Saily offers convenient eSIMs for travelers seeking flexible, short-duration plans.

Saily connects to Safaricom and Airtel, providing reliable coverage in cities and tourist spots. Activation is app-based and fast, with options suitable for browsing, navigation, and messaging.

Key features:

• Short-term and flexible validity
• App activation
• Good coverage in urban areas
• Supports light streaming and messaging
  

Pros:

• Affordable for short trips
• Easy activation
• Reliable coverage in cities

Cons:

• Limited data for heavy use
• Slower rural speeds
• Not ideal for long trips

Verdict: Best for travelers on short trips who need light-to-moderate data; trade-off is limited data for heavier usage.

5. GigSky: Best for Multi-Network Coverage

GigSky provides reliable coverage across multiple networks in Kenya and East Africa, making it ideal for multi-region travelers.

GigSky supports both Safaricom and Airtel, ensuring connectivity in major cities and popular tourist areas. Activation is done via the app or website, and speeds are sufficient for messaging, maps, and moderate streaming.

Additionally, new customers can test the service with a free 100 MB trial. Save on your plan using a GigSky discount code at checkout.

Key features:

• Multi-network coverage
• App or web activation
• Supports hotspot
• Regional roaming available
• Moderate data for streaming
  

Pros:

• Works in multiple regions
• Reliable urban coverage
• Moderate data allowances
  

 Cons:

• More expensive than budget options
• Speeds vary in rural areas
• Setup requires app or web login

Verdict: Best for travelers who need coverage across regions; trade-off is slightly higher cost than single-network providers.

6. Yesim: Best for Reliable Regional Service

Yesim offers dependable connectivity with strong regional coverage, ideal for travelers exploring Kenya and nearby countries.

Yesim uses Safaricom and Airtel networks, with strong signals in cities and popular destinations. Activation is straightforward via the app, and speeds support browsing, messaging, and moderate streaming.

Key features:

• Reliable regional coverage
• App-based activation
• Moderate data for browsing and messaging
• Supports hotspot
• Easy top-ups
  

Pros:

• Strong urban and regional coverage
• Simple setup
• Flexible plan durations

Cons:

• Data limited for heavy streaming
• Speeds vary in remote areas
• Slightly more expensive than basic budget options

Verdict: Best for travelers needing consistent coverage across Kenya and nearby countries; trade-off is moderate data limits for heavier users.

Why you need an eSIM in Kenya

• Local internet realities: While most cities and tourist areas have reliable 4G coverage, some remote regions have weak signals. Public Wi-Fi can be limited, slow, or insecure, and certain websites or apps may face regional restrictions.
  
• Why roaming/Wi-Fi fall short: International roaming is expensive, and relying on hotel or café Wi-Fi can be unreliable and unsafe. Connections may drop in rural areas, and you risk high fees for heavy data usage.
  
• How eSIM solves these pain points: An eSIM lets you access local mobile networks directly, providing fast, reliable data almost anywhere. Many eSIMs support top-ups, hotspot sharing, and even VPN use, ensuring secure and consistent connectivity throughout Kenya.

Where and how to buy an eSIM for Kenya

Online before your trip 

Buying an eSIM in advance ensures instant connection on arrival. Top global providers include Holafly (unlimited data, easy QR setup), Airalo (affordable short-term plans), Nomad (budget-friendly global coverage), Saily (quick setup, short validity), GigSky (multi-network regional plans), and Yesim (reliable coverage in Kenya and nearby countries).

On arrival (local carriers)

You can also buy eSIMs locally. Safaricom offers the widest coverage but requires ID for activation. Airtel Kenya performs well in cities and tourist areas, though registration may involve local language steps. Telkom Kenya has smaller but steady urban coverage, with limited English support.

Pro tip

Buying online is often the simplest option. It allows you to activate your eSIM instantly and avoid queues at airports or stores. Be sure to save your QR code or activation details offline in case you need them without internet access.

How to activate an eSIM for Kenya

Activating your eSIM for Kenya takes just a few minutes and can be done before or after you arrive. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Buy your eSIM plan: Choose a provider such as Holafly, Airalo, Nomad, Saily, GigSky, or Yesim and complete your purchase online or at a local carrier. You’ll receive a QR code or installation link via email or through the provider’s app.
   
2. Install the eSIM: Scan the QR code or follow the in-app setup instructions. This adds your new data plan to your phone.
   
3. Set your data line: Go to your phone’s settings and select the eSIM as your preferred mobile data line.
   
4. Enable data roaming: Turn on data roaming to ensure full coverage while in Kenya.
   
5. Test your connection: Once active, open a browser or app to confirm your eSIM is working properly.
   

Country-specific note: If you plan to use a VPN for secure browsing or to access restricted services, install and test it before entering Kenya.

Dual-SIM tip: Keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS while using the eSIM primarily for mobile data. This way, you stay reachable without incurring roaming charges.

How do I know if your device is eSIM-compatible

Before purchasing an eSIM for Kenya, confirm that your device supports eSIM functionality. Follow these checklists based on your platform:

iPhone eSIM Checklist:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
   
2. Check for “Available” or “Digital SIM” — if either appears, your iPhone supports eSIM.
   
3. Locate your IMEI number under Settings > General > About, as some carriers may require it.
   

Android eSIM Checklist:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager or Mobile network > Add/Download SIM.
   
2. Look for an option to add a new eSIM or download a SIM profile. If present, your device is eSIM-compatible.

Tip for Android devices: Manage your mobile data effectively after eSIM setup by using the guide How to Use Data Saver on Android to Cut Down Mobile Data Usage.

If you’d like a more detailed walkthrough, you can check out our handy guide that shows exactly how to check if your phone is eSIM compatible on both iPhone and Android devices.

Insider tips for your Kenya eSIM

• Install at home: Set up your eSIM before leaving to avoid delays and ensure it works properly.
  
• Use the provider’s app: Many eSIM providers have apps to monitor data usage, manage top-ups, and access customer support easily.
  
• Delayed activation if offered: Some eSIMs allow you to schedule activation, so you can start your plan exactly when you land.
  
• Enable data-saving toggles: Adjust your phone settings to reduce background data and extend your plan’s usage.
  
• VPN before arrival: Install and test any VPN apps before your trip to ensure secure and unrestricted access.
  
• Check device compatibility: Confirm your phone supports eSIM and dual-SIM use to avoid surprises.
  
• Be mindful of hotspot limits: Some eSIMs restrict hotspot sharing, so check the plan details if you need to connect other devices.
  
• Watch for common pitfalls: Avoid accidentally using your home SIM for data, ensure data roaming is enabled, and keep your QR code saved offline.

eSIM vs. physical SIM card in Kenya

Using an eSIM in Kenya offers convenience and flexibility compared to traditional physical SIM cards. While physical SIMs work well, eSIMs let you get connected instantly, manage plans digitally, and avoid many on-the-ground hassles. The table below summarizes the main advantages of eSIMs versus the drawbacks of physical SIM cards.

How we chose the best eSIMs for Kenya

To determine the top eSIM options for Kenya, we evaluated each provider based on the following criteria:

• Coverage and reliability: Tested network reach and signal strength across major cities, tourist areas, and rural regions.
  
• Plans and pricing / cost per GB: Compared data allowances, plan durations, and overall value for money.
  
• Firewall and VPN access: Checked whether the eSIM allows secure browsing and access to blocked services.
  
• Setup ease: Assessed the simplicity of installation, activation, and app-based management.
  
• Device compatibility: Confirmed support for a wide range of iPhones and Android devices, including dual-SIM functionality.
  
• Support and refunds: Evaluated responsiveness of customer service and refund policies.
  
• Real-world reviews and tests: Considered user feedback and in-field performance from travelers in Kenya.

Verdict: What is the best eSIM for Kenya?

Choosing the right eSIM in Kenya depends on your travel style, data needs, and convenience. Some travelers need unlimited data for streaming and work, while others prioritize affordability, multi-network coverage, or privacy. The providers we reviewed excel in different areas, making it easy to pick the best fit for your trip.

• Unlimited / heavy users → Holafly for seamless unlimited data across Kenya
  
• Budget / short trips → Airalo or Nomad for cost-effective, short-term plans
  
• Multi-network / flexibility → Nomad for travelers visiting multiple East African countries
  
• Privacy / VPN-first → Saily for secure browsing and extra privacy features

For additional information on local SIM cards, you can check Kenya SIM card: How much does it cost and where to buy it.