Traveling or relocating to Cameroon and need mobile data and local calls? Buying a prepaid SIM card in Cameroon is a cost-effective way to stay connected. This guide provides everything you need to know available operators, coverage, prices, registration requirements, where to buy, and more.
Basics: Mobile Operators in Cameroon
Cameroon has three major mobile network operators offering prepaid SIM cards:
- MTN Cameroon – Largest network, great data coverage
Website: https://www.mtn.cm - Orange Cameroon – Reliable data and international calling
Website: https://www.orange.cm - Nexttel Cameroon – Known for good prices and competitive offers
Website: https://www.nexttel.cm
Availability & Where to Buy
You can buy prepaid SIM cards at:
- Official stores and kiosks (MTN, Orange, or Nextel branded shops)
- Airport kiosks (e.g., Douala International Airport and Yaoundé Nsimalen Airport)
- Supermarkets, local markets, and mobile phone shops
✅ A passport and sometimes a photo are required for purchase due to strict biometric SIM registration laws.
Frequencies in Cameroon
| Network | 2G | 3G | 4G/LTE |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTN | 900 MHz | 2100 MHz | 1800 MHz |
| Orange | 900 MHz | 2100 MHz | 1800 MHz |
| Nexttel | 900 MHz | 2100 MHz | N/A or limited |
Note: 5G is currently under testing but not commercially available as of 2025.
Coverage & Speed
| Operator | Coverage | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| MTN | Excellent nationwide | Fastest 4G in cities |
| Orange | Excellent in cities and towns | Stable and fast |
| Nexttel | Limited rural coverage | 3G mostly, slower speeds |
🏙️ MTN and Orange dominate the urban market with better 4G coverage in Douala, Yaoundé, Buea, and Bamenda.
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | MTN | Orange | Nexttel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Data + coverage | Calls + balance | Budget |
| 4G Support | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Tourist SIM | Yes | Yes | No |
| App | MyMTN | My Orange | Nexttel+ |
| eSIM | No | No | No |
Biometric SIM Registration
Cameroonian law requires all SIM cards to be biometrically registered using:
- A passport or national ID
- Fingerprint scanning at the store
SIMs cannot be activated without biometric registration.
Device Registration (IMEI)
While IMEI registration is not mandatory for tourists, local residents may be asked to register devices. For long stays, consider registering your phone with your provider to avoid service disruption.
Operator Apps with Links
| Operator | App | Android Link | iOS Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTN | MyMTN Cameroon | Play Store | App Store |
| Orange | My Orange | Play Store | App Store |
| Nexttel | Nexttel+ | Play Store | Not available |
SIM Card Price (2025)
| Operator | SIM Price |
|---|---|
| MTN | 500–1000 XAF (~$0.80–$1.60) |
| Orange | 500 XAF |
| Nexttel | 200–500 XAF |
Some shops offer free SIM cards with initial bundle purchases.
SIM Card Price (2025)
| Operator | SIM Price |
|---|---|
| MTN | 500–1000 XAF (~$0.80–$1.60) |
| Orange | 500 XAF |
| Nexttel | 200–500 XAF |
Some shops offer free SIM cards with initial bundle purchases.
Prepaid Plans Overview
| Operator | Plan | Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTN | Go Surf | 2000 XAF | 2 GB | 7 Days |
| Orange | Internet Max | 3000 XAF | 4 GB | 15 Days |
| Nexttel | Basic Data | 1000 XAF | 1 GB | 7 Days |
All providers offer daily, weekly, and monthly bundles for data, SMS, and voice.
Data Add-Ons
You can top up data using:
- USSD codes: e.g.,
*123#for MTN - Mobile apps
- Online portals and scratch cards
Packages are flexible, starting as low as 100 XAF for 100MB.
Tourist SIM Options
Tourist SIM cards are available from:
- MTN Welcome Pack – Data + local/international minutes
- Orange Holiday Cameroon – Tailored for tourists (limited availability)
💡 These can be found at airport kiosks, official stores, or pre-booked via some travel agencies.
SIM Activation Process
Activation usually happens on-site during purchase. Steps:
- Present your passport
- Register biometrically
- Insert SIM & restart phone
- Dial USSD code (e.g.,
*155#for balance) - Choose a data plan via USSD or app
How to Check Remaining Balance
| Operator | USSD Code | App Option |
|---|---|---|
| MTN | *155# | MyMTN App |
| Orange | #123# | My Orange App |
| Nexttel | *802# | Nexttel+ App |
Conclusion
Getting a prepaid SIM card in Cameroon is cheap, easy, and gives you access to solid mobile data networks. Whether you’re exploring Mount Cameroon, relaxing at Kribi Beach, or navigating the streets of Douala, staying connected is hassle-free.
Best overall? Go for MTN if you’re a heavy data user or Orange for better call rates. For budget-conscious users, Nexttel works well within cities.
📌 Don’t forget:
- Bring your passport
- Register your SIM biometrically
- Download your provider’s mobile app for the best experience