Description
Travel to the Central African Republic from the UK is mostly for humanitarian work, mission, research or business, and some people travel to see family. Most stays are based in the capital, Bangui, often with an organisation that arranges transport and accommodation.
A travel eSIM gives you mobile data for email, WhatsApp and maps without needing to source a local SIM after you land. It is installed beside your UK SIM, so your normal number stays in the phone for bank codes while the eSIM provides data where signal is available.
Choose your Central African Republic data plan
There are 4 plans for Central African Republic. Pick the one that matches the length of your stay and how much you stream, video call or share photos.
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| 1GB – 7 days | £6.75 |
| 2GB – 15 days | £12.75 |
| 3GB – 30 days | £18.38 |
| 5GB – 30 days | £28.50 |
- Short work trip: 1GB for 7 days covers email and messaging.
- Two-week assignment: 2GB for 15 days or 3GB for 30 days suits regular contact with home.
- Month-long stay: 5GB for 30 days gives more room for video calls and file sharing.
How ordering works
- Choose a plan and place your order. Pay by UK bank transfer or PayPal.
- Once your payment is confirmed, we prepare your eSIM and send you the QR code by email or live chat. Orders are handled by hand, so we suggest ordering at least a day before you fly.
- Scan the QR code at home over Wi-Fi, then switch the eSIM on when you arrive in Central African Republic.
Installing your eSIM
- iPhone: Settings, Mobile Service (or Mobile Data), Add eSIM, then Use QR Code.
- Samsung Galaxy: Settings, Connections, SIM manager, Add eSIM, then Scan QR code.
- Google Pixel: Settings, Network and internet, SIMs, Add SIM, then Download a SIM instead.
Install it before you travel, while you have a steady Wi-Fi connection. A QR code can usually be installed only once, so do not delete the eSIM from your phone until your trip is over. When you land, turn on the eSIM line, set it as the line for mobile data and switch on data roaming for that eSIM.
Using mobile data in the Central African Republic
International flights arrive at Bangui M’Poko International Airport, on the edge of the capital. In Bangui, data is useful for staying in touch with colleagues and family, sharing your location and checking maps. A translation app can help with French and Sango.
Outside the capital, signal is often limited or unavailable, and many areas have no coverage at all. If you travel beyond Bangui, agree with your organisation how you will stay in contact. The plan covers the Central African Republic only and does not work in neighbouring countries.
Check your phone first
Your phone must be unlocked and support eSIM. Most iPhones from the XS and XR onwards, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 3 and later can use one. Some models sold in certain countries have no eSIM, so look for an Add eSIM option in your settings. If you are not sure, ask us before you order.
Good to know
- Data only: these plans give you mobile data, not a local phone number. Use WhatsApp, FaceTime or other apps for calls and messages.
- For travel only: the plans work in Central African Republic and are not meant for use in the UK.
- Your UK SIM: keep it in the phone to receive texts such as bank codes, but turn off data roaming on it so it does not use data abroad.
- Travel advice: the FCDO advises against travel to the Central African Republic. Read the latest FCDO travel advice before planning any trip.
Questions
Will it work outside Bangui?
Coverage outside the capital is limited and many areas have no signal, so do not rely on mobile data for contact in the provinces.
Can I use it to send work files and email?
Yes, where there is signal. For larger files, 5GB for 30 days gives the most room.
When should I buy my Central African Republic eSIM?
A day or more before you travel is best. That leaves time to receive the QR code and install it at home.
When do the days start counting?
The number of days is how long the plan lasts once it is active. Install it before you go and switch it on when you arrive.
Can I cancel after the QR code is sent?
No. Like our other codes, an eSIM cannot be returned once the QR code has been sent. See our refunds and cancellations page.
