- Basics: Mobile Networks in Burundi
- Official Websites
- Where to Buy a SIM Card in Burundi
- Frequencies Used in Burundi
- Coverage & Speed in Burundi
- At a Glance Comparison
- Biometric SIM Registration
- Device Registration in Burundi
- Mobile Apps for Prepaid Management
- SIM Card Price in Burundi
- Prepaid Plans & Internet Packages
- Lumitel Prepaid Plans (2025)
- Econet Leo Prepaid Plans
- Data Add-Ons
- Tourist SIM Cards in Burundi
- Activation Process
- How to Check Remaining Balance
- Conclusion: Best Prepaid SIM in Burundi?
If you’re planning to travel to Burundi, staying connected is essential — whether for navigation, translation, booking services, or staying in touch with family. The best and most cost-effective way to do so is by purchasing a prepaid SIM card. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about SIM cards in Burundi, including where to buy, available networks, coverage quality, and how to activate your plan.
Basics: Mobile Networks in Burundi
Burundi has three main mobile network providers:
- Econet Leo
- Lumitel
- Smart Burundi (service may be limited)
Each operator offers prepaid SIM cards with competitive prices on data, local calls, and international packages. Among these, Lumitel is currently the largest and most reliable provider in terms of coverage and speed.
Official Websites
- Lumitel Burundi: https://lumitel.bi
- Econet Leo: https://econet.bi
- Smart Burundi: (No active website – limited or ceased operations)
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Burundi
You can buy a prepaid SIM card in:
- Official carrier shops (Lumitel, Econet Leo)
- Mobile kiosks in Bujumbura, Gitega, and other major cities
- Bujumbura International Airport (limited availability)
- Small electronics stores or supermarkets
Note: Always bring your passport or ID for registration.
Frequencies Used in Burundi
| Network | 2G | 3G | 4G/LTE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lumitel | 900, 1800 MHz | 2100 MHz | 1800 MHz |
| Econet Leo | 900, 1800 MHz | 2100 MHz | 1800 MHz |
| Smart Burundi | 900 MHz | 2100 MHz | Limited or none |
Tip: Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with GSM bands used in Burundi.
Coverage & Speed in Burundi
Lumitel
- Widest 4G coverage
- Best data speeds
- Strong rural reach
Econet Leo
- Reliable in urban areas
- Good for calls and SMS
- Limited 4G outside cities
Smart Burundi
- Unreliable coverage
- May be phasing out
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | Lumitel | Econet Leo | Smart Burundi |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4G Coverage | Excellent | Good | Poor |
| SIM Availability | Wide | Moderate | Limited |
| Data Speeds | Fast | Average | Slow |
| Tourist SIM | Available | Not clear | Not offered |
| App Support | Yes | Yes | Unknown |
Biometric SIM Registration
Burundi enforces mandatory biometric registration. You’ll need:
- A valid passport or national ID
- Fingerprint scan (in-store)
- Photo capture at point of purchase
This applies to all prepaid SIM card buyers, including tourists.
Device Registration in Burundi
As of now, Burundi does not enforce strict IMEI-based device registration. However, customs may inspect high-end smartphones, especially when importing new ones. Always keep proof of purchase.
Mobile Apps for Prepaid Management
Lumitel App
Manage data plans, buy bundles, and check your balance.
📥 Download: Android | iOS (Not available)
Econet Leo App
Offers airtime recharge, balance inquiry, and bundle activation.
📥 Download: Android | iOS (Limited)
SIM Card Price in Burundi
| Network | SIM Card Price (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Lumitel | 2,000 BIF (~$0.70 USD) |
| Econet Leo | 1,500 BIF (~$0.50 USD) |
Prices may include starter credit.
Prepaid Plans & Internet Packages
Lumitel Prepaid Plans (2025)
| Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price (BIF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Daily | 250 MB | 24 hrs | 500 BIF |
| Data Weekly | 2 GB | 7 days | 3,000 BIF |
| Monthly Surf | 5 GB | 30 days | 8,000 BIF |
Econet Leo Prepaid Plans
| Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price (BIF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leo Data 1 | 100 MB | 24 hrs | 300 BIF |
| Leo Surf Weekly | 1.5 GB | 7 days | 2,500 BIF |
| Leo Monthly Max | 4 GB | 30 days | 7,000 BIF |
Data Add-Ons
You can buy data top-ups via:
- Scratch cards
- Mobile app
- USSD codes (e.g.,
*123#) - Mobile money platforms (Lumicash for Lumitel, EcoCash for Econet)
Tourist SIM Cards in Burundi
Lumitel offers a tourist SIM package, generally including:
- Pre-activated SIM
- 2 GB of data
- 1000 BIF credit
- Valid for 7 days
Available at airport kiosks and major hotel receptions. Expect to pay around 5,000 BIF (~$1.75 USD).
Activation Process
- Insert the SIM card.
- Follow the on-screen prompts or dial the activation code.
- Register your SIM using your ID/passport.
- Buy credit or a data bundle via app or USSD.
Typical USSD code format:*123# – Main menu*456*amount# – Recharge
How to Check Remaining Balance
Lumitel:
- USSD:
*123# - App: Lumitel App → Dashboard
Econet Leo:
- USSD:
*100# - App: Econet Leo App → My Balance
Conclusion: Best Prepaid SIM in Burundi?
For most travelers and locals, Lumitel is the best overall option thanks to:
- Superior 4G coverage
- Affordable data bundles
- Tourist-friendly SIM options
- A user-friendly mobile app
Econet Leo is a solid secondary choice for local calls and SMS. Avoid Smart Burundi unless you know it’s active in your area.
To enjoy your stay in Burundi without connectivity issues, pick up a Lumitel SIM on arrival, register your line, and stay online with cheap, reliable data plans.