In Uganda, there are about 170 travel eSIM providers and around 5300 prepaid data plans available. The vast selection gives travelers a wide range of options, making it easy to find an eSIM that fits their needs.

Are there any unlimited data eSIM plans available for Uganda?

Unlimited data e‑SIM plans are available for travelers heading to Uganda, offered by providers such as Truely, Roamify, Yesim and abesteSIM. All of these plans allow unlimited data usage for a validity period spanning 1 to 30 days, with abesteSIM specifically providing up to 20 days. Feeds to the network are 5G, and each plan permits tethering, though the speed may be throttled under certain conditions. Prices vary considerably: the most economical option starts around $8.72, while the premium plans can reach up to approximately $324.18.

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?

Yes, travel eSIMs that include a phone number and SMS functionality are available for Uganda. Providers such as Airhub, EtravelSIM, Esimtofly, ESIM.DOG, GlobaleSIM, and JamboSim offer plans that combine data, calling and texting, with pricing starting around $6 for a 7‑day 1GB package and rising to about $35 for longer, higher‑capacity options. These plans typically run for 7 to 180 days and cover anywhere from 1GB up to 20GB of data.

The phone numbers supplied by most of these plans use foreign dialing codes, most commonly +1 (United States) or +33 (France); the plans from RedEx eSIM are the only ones that use Uganda’s domestic code, +256. Voice capabilities generally allow inbound and outbound calls, although JamboSim plans provide only outbound calling or texting. SMS is usually available both inbound and outbound, with a few plans limiting it to inbound only. Travelers who require a local Ugandan number should therefore consider the RedEx eSIM or verify that a foreign‑number plan meets their needs.

Summarized by AI, Last updated: Aug 12, 2026