Prepaid SIM Cards in Kenya: Complete Guide

Kenya has one of the most advanced mobile networks in East Africa, offering fast 4G/LTE coverage and expanding 5G in major cities. Whether you are visiting Nairobi, Mombasa, Maasai Mara, or traveling across the country, a Kenya prepaid SIM card is the most affordable and reliable way to stay connected.

This guide covers Safaricom, Airtel Kenya, Faiba, and Telkom, including prices, data plans, coverage, registration rules, and eSIM options.

Basics Information

• SIM Type: Prepaid SIM & eSIM

• SIM Validity: Typically 7–90 days (extendable with top-ups)

• Internet Speeds: 4G/LTE nationwide, limited 5G in Nairobi

• Registration Required: Yes (biometric ID or passport)

• Best Network Overall: Safaricom

• Best Budget Network: Airtel Kenya

Availability

Prepaid SIM cards in Kenya are widely available for both locals and tourists.

You can buy a SIM:

• Immediately on arrival at the airport

• In cities and towns

• From official operator shops or authorized agents

Where to Buy Prepaid SIM Cards in Kenya

• Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)

• Moi International Airport (Mombasa)

• Official Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom shops

• Shopping malls

• Supermarkets

• Street vendors (authorized only)

💡 Always ensure the SIM is registered in your presence.

Mobile Network Frequencies in Kenya

 

Coverage & Speed Comparison

 

At a Glance Comparison

 

Biometric User Registration

Kenya requires mandatory SIM registration:

• Passport (tourists)

• Biometric photo

• Fingerprint scan (some outlets)

Unregistered SIMs are automatically blocked.

Device Registration

• IMEI registration is automatic

• Non-compliant devices may be blocked

• Ensure your phone is unlocked

SIM Card Price in Kenya

(SIM often includes starter airtime or data)

Top-Up Methods in Kenya

• Scratch cards

• Mobile apps

• M-Pesa / Airtel Money

• USSD codes

• Supermarkets & kiosks

Safaricom Kenya

Safaricom is Kenya’s largest and most reliable network, covering over 95% of the population.

Prepaid Plans – Data Add-Ons

 

Safaricom Unlimited Data Plans

 

Safaricom Feature Packages

 

Social Media Offers Safaricom

 

Safaricom Data-Only SIM

• Ideal for tablets & routers

• Same data prices

• No voice/SMS

Airtel Kenya

Airtel Kenya offers cheaper data with good urban coverage.

Prepaid Data Add-Ons

 

Airtel Kenya Unlimited Data

 

Feature Packages Airtel

 

Airtel Social Media Bundles

 

Airtel Data-Only SIM

• Available

• Router-friendly

• Cheaper than Safaricom

Faiba & Telkom Kenya

Best suited for budget users and urban travelers.

Faiba & Telkom Data Add-Ons

 

Faiba & Telkom Unlimited Data

 

Social Media Bundles

 

Data-Only SIM

• Strong in cities

• Weak rural coverage

How to Check the Remaining Balance

Safaricom:

• Dial *544#

Airtel Kenya:

• Dial *544#

Telkom:

• Dial *131#

How to Check SIM Number

 

Tourist SIM Cards in Kenya

• Available at airports

• Passport required

• Usually bundled with data

• Valid for short stays

Digital eSIM Providers for Kenya

• Airalo

• Nomad

• Holafly

• Ubigi

💡 eSIMs are data-only and do not support M-Pesa.

Other Internet Options

• Pocket Wi-Fi rental

• Hotel Wi-Fi

• Cafés & co-working spaces

Activation Process

1. Insert SIM

2. Provide passport

3. Biometric capture

4. SIM activated within minutes

Customer Care & Helpline Numbers

 

Official Websites

• Safaricom: https://www.safaricom.co.ke

• Airtel Kenya: https://www.airtelkenya.com

• Telkom Kenya: https://www.telkom.co.ke

• Faiba: https://www.faiba.co.ke

Mobile Apps

• MySafaricom App

• MyAirtel App

• Telkom App

• Faiba App

Conclusion

Prepaid SIM cards in Kenya are affordable, easy to buy, and tourist-friendly.

• Choose Safaricom for the best coverage and M-Pesa access

• Choose Airtel Kenya for cheaper data

• Choose Telkom or Faiba for city-based budget usage

• Choose eSIMs for short, data-only stays

For travelers, bloggers, and digital nomads, Kenya offers one of the best mobile connectivity experiences in Africa.