Uganda offers around 170 travel eSIM providers and more than 5, 000 prepaid data plans, giving travelers a wide variety of options to choose from that match their needs.

Are there any unlimited data eSIM plans available for Uganda?

Yes, there are several eSIM providers that offer unlimited data plans for travelers heading to Uganda. These plans typically run for anywhere between 1 and 30 days and use the country’s 5G network. The providers with unlimited data options include Truely, Roamify, Yesim and abesteSIM. Speed for these plans can be throttled after certain thresholds, so it is worth confirming the details for each option. Prices for the unlimited data plans span from roughly $8.70 to $336.20 USD, with most plans falling between the mid‑tens and low three‑hundreds of dollars.

What are the major mobile networks available for a travel eSIM in Uganda?

MTN Uganda: The largest telecom company in Uganda, offering extensive network coverage and a wide range of services, including voice, data, and mobile money.
Airtel Uganda: A major telecommunications provider known for its comprehensive mobile services, including voice, data, and financial solutions, with significant market presence.
Uganda Telecom Limited (UTL): A state-owned enterprise providing various telecommunications services, including mobile voice and data, with a focus on national coverage.
Africell Uganda: A telecommunications operator offering mobile voice and data services, recognized for competitive pricing and growing network coverage.
Smile Communications Uganda: Specializes in 4G LTE services, focusing on high-speed internet and data solutions for consumers and businesses.

In Uganda, Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) provide mobile services by leasing access from major carriers. One such MVNO is Lycamobile, which operates in partnership with Tangerine Limited. It's important to note that most travel eSIMs rely on the infrastructure of primary Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) rather than MVNOs.

Can I get a travel eSIM with a phone number and SMS for Uganda?

Travel eSIMs that include a phone number and SMS functionality are available for visitors to Uganda. Providers such as RedEx eSIM, GlobaleSIM, ESIM.DOG, JamboSim, Roamify and RoameSIM offer plans that supply a number and enable text messaging. RedEx eSIM uses a local Ugandan dialing code (+256) for its number, while the others use a foreign dialing code (+1), meaning the provided numbers are not locally registered in Uganda. The plans span a variety of data capacities from 1 GB to 20 GB, validity periods from 7 days to 365 days, and prices starting around $6 USD for small data bundles up to more than $100 USD for larger monthly packages.

For a travel experience that requires a local number, the RedEx eSIM is the sole option with a Uganda‑based dialing code. All other listed plans provide international numbers that can receive SMS and make calls, but callers in Uganda may need to manage roaming charges and consider that local numbers are not offered by those providers.

Summarized by AI, Last updated: Jul 26, 2026