Why an eSIM is Recommended for Zambia?
No EU roaming
Zambia is not in the European Union, so free roaming doesn't automatically apply. European plans typically charge roaming in Zambia, which can quickly become expensive. An eSIM is therefore strongly recommended to avoid bill surprises.
When an eSIM is recommended
- Extended stay: if your home plan charges roaming in Zambia
- Heavy usage: streaming, video calls, hotspot
- Budget plan: plans with no Zambia coverage
- Simplicity: no need to check conditions, immediate activation upon arrival
- Major cities: good 4G coverage guaranteed with local carriers
Network Coverage in Zambia
Zambia has good 4G coverage in major cities thanks to three major carriers:
| Carrier |
Coverage |
5G |
Used by |
| MTN Zambia |
85%+ (major cities) |
Yes |
Airalo, GoMoWorld |
| Airtel Zambia |
80%+ (major cities) |
Yes |
Saily |
| Zamtel |
75%+ (major cities) |
Limited |
Ubigi |
Coverage by destination
- Lusaka: excellent 4G coverage in the capital
- Livingstone: good 4G coverage around Victoria Falls
- Victoria Falls (Zambian side): good coverage in tourist areas
- South Luangwa National Park: limited coverage, camp WiFi only
- Lower Zambezi: limited coverage, camp WiFi only
- Rural areas: variable coverage, often limited to 3G or 2G
How to Install Your Zambia eSIM
- Purchase your plan (QR code received by email in 2 min)
- Install 24-48h before departure from your WiFi
- Activate upon arrival in Zambia (timer starts)
- Keep your home SIM for calls and texts
Compatibility: iPhone XS+, Samsung S20+, Pixel 3+, Xiaomi 12+, OnePlus 8+
Best Zambia eSIM 2026
<BlogSummaryTable
title="Top 5 Zambia eSIM 2026"
countryCode="ZM"
countrySlug="zambia"
plans={[
{
rank: 1,
providerId: "airalo",
data: "5 GB",
duration: "30 days",
price: "$8.50",
highlight: "Global leader + MTN Zambia network",
promoCode: "ESIMP15",
},
{
rank: 2,
providerId: "gomoworld",
data: "5 GB",
duration: "30 days",
price: "$10.70",
highlight: "MTN Zambia network (best coverage)",
promoCode: "ESIMP",
},
{
rank: 3,
providerId: "holafly",
data: "Unlimited",
duration: "5 days",
price: "$19",
highlight: "Unlimited data + hotspot",
},
{
rank: 4,
providerId: "saily",
data: "1 GB",
duration: "30 days",
price: "$6.20",
highlight: "NordVPN included",
promoCode: "ESIMP",
},
{
rank: 5,
providerId: "ubigi",
data: "3 GB",
duration: "30 days",
price: "$9.70",
highlight: "Zamtel network",
},
]}
/>
Why these providers?
- Airalo: global leader (8M+ users), MTN Zambia network, code ESIMP15 (-15%)
- GoMoWorld: MTN Zambia network (best national coverage), code ESIMP (-10%)
- Holafly: unlimited + hotspot, ideal for heavy users
- Saily: built-in NordVPN for secure public WiFi, code ESIMP (-5%)
- Ubigi: Zamtel network, good urban alternative
Conclusion
Zambia is not in the EU, so no free roaming. An eSIM is strongly recommended to avoid high roaming charges.
If you choose an eSIM: Airalo 5 GB at $8.50 with code ESIMP15 offers the best value on the MTN Zambia network.
For heavy users: Holafly unlimited eliminates any stress.
Zambia eSIM FAQ