Description
Eswatini is often added to a South African safari, sitting between Kruger and the KwaZulu-Natal coast. UK visitors come for game reserves such as Hlane and Mkhaya, walks and cycling in Mlilwane, craft markets around the Ezulwini Valley and cultural festivals. Some are visiting family or working with local charities.
A travel eSIM means you have mobile data once you cross into the country, with no need to buy a local SIM at the border. It is added as a second line beside your UK SIM, so your UK number stays in the phone, while the eSIM handles maps, messaging and lodge bookings during your stay.
Choose your Eswatini data plan
There are 3 plans for Eswatini. 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 | £6.00 |
| 2GB – 15 days | £10.88 |
| 3GB – 30 days | £15.00 |
- Few days on a southern Africa tour: 1GB for 7 days covers maps and messages while you pass through.
- Longer stay or volunteering: 2GB for 15 days or 3GB for 30 days suits regular messaging and video calls home.
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 Eswatini.
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 Eswatini
King Mswati III International Airport serves the country, though many visitors arrive by road from South Africa or Mozambique through border posts such as Ngwenya and Lomahasha. Data is useful for navigation on rural roads, keeping in touch with your lodge and sharing your location with travel companions.
Coverage is generally better around Mbabane, Manzini and the Ezulwini Valley. Inside game reserves and in hilly rural areas it can be patchy, so download maps and booking confirmations before heading out on a game drive or long walk.
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 Eswatini 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.
- Eswatini only: this plan does not cover South Africa or Mozambique. If your trip includes Kruger or the coast, ask us about a plan for each country.
Questions
Will it work as soon as I cross the border from South Africa?
Once you are in Eswatini and in range of signal, switch the eSIM on for data. Coverage right at some border posts can be weak.
Will I have signal in the game reserves?
Sometimes near rest camps, but not reliably out on drives. Lodges often have Wi-Fi for staying in touch.
When should I buy my Eswatini 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.
