Stay Connected in Somalia
Network coverage, costs, and options
Connectivity Overview
Somalia's telecommunications infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years, with mobile networks providing the primary means of connectivity across the country. However, coverage remains uneven, with urban areas like Mogadishu, Hargeisa, and Bosaso offering reliable service while rural regions may have limited or no coverage. Internet speeds are generally slower than Western standards, typically ranging from 2G to 4G depending on location. The security situation means travelers should prioritize staying connected for safety reasons. Three main operators dominate the market: Hormuud Telecom, Somtel, and Telesom, each with varying coverage areas. WiFi is available in major hotels and some cafes in cities, but mobile data remains the most reliable connectivity option for travelers.
Get Connected Before You Land
We recommend Airalo for peace of mind. Buy your eSIM now and activate it when you arrive—no hunting for SIM card shops, no language barriers, no connection problems. Just turn it on and you're immediately connected in Somalia.
Network Coverage & Speed
Somalia's mobile network landscape is dominated by three primary carriers. Hormuud Telecom offers the widest coverage across south-central Somalia, including Mogadishu, with 3G and 4G services in urban areas. Telesom primarily serves Somaliland (northwest region) with decent 3G coverage in Hargeisa and surrounding areas. Somtel operates nationwide but with more limited coverage. Network speeds vary dramatically by location - expect 3G to 4G in major cities with speeds of 5-20 Mbps, dropping to 2G or Edge in rural areas. Coverage gaps exist between cities and in remote regions. The infrastructure relies heavily on satellite backhaul, which can cause latency issues. Network reliability can be affected by power outages, which are common. In Mogadishu and Hargeisa, you'll generally have usable data speeds for messaging, email, and basic browsing, but video calls and streaming may be challenging outside prime urban areas.
How to Stay Connected
eSIM
eSIM technology is gradually becoming available in Somalia, though it's not as widely supported as in more developed markets. The main advantage is avoiding the hassle of finding reliable SIM vendors and dealing with potentially complicated registration processes. Providers like Airalo offer regional Africa plans that may work in Somalia, giving you immediate connectivity upon arrival. This is particularly valuable given Somalia's security considerations - you want to be connected as soon as you land. However, eSIM options may be more expensive than local alternatives and coverage might rely on roaming agreements that don't always provide the best network priority. Data speeds on eSIM can be slower than direct local carrier connections. For short visits or business trips, the convenience and immediate connectivity of eSIM outweighs the cost difference, especially when factoring in the time and potential complications of purchasing local SIMs.
Local SIM Card
Local SIM cards are available from the three main carriers through official shops, authorized dealers, and some hotels in major cities. Hormuud has outlets in Mogadishu, Telesom in Hargeisa, and Somtel has scattered locations. You'll need your passport for registration, and the process can take 30 minutes to several hours depending on the location and current procedures. Prices are generally affordable - expect to pay $5-15 for a SIM with initial data package. Top-ups are available through scratch cards or mobile money systems like EVC Plus. The main challenges include finding legitimate vendors (avoid street sellers), language barriers, and varying registration requirements. Some locations may require local sponsor information. Data packages typically offer 1-5GB for $5-10, which is competitively priced. However, the activation process can be unreliable, and customer service is limited, making troubleshooting difficult for foreign visitors.
Comparison
Local SIMs offer the cheapest data rates and potentially better network priority, but come with significant hassles including uncertain activation processes, language barriers, and time investment. eSIM provides immediate connectivity and convenience but at higher cost and potentially slower speeds. International roaming from your home carrier is the most expensive option but offers the most predictable service. For Somalia specifically, the security situation makes immediate connectivity crucial, giving eSIM a significant advantage despite higher costs.
Our Recommendations
First-time visitors: Go with eSIM through Airalo. The immediate connectivity is invaluable in Somalia's challenging environment, and you avoid potential scams or complications at SIM shops. The peace of mind is worth the extra cost. Budget travelers: While local SIMs are cheaper, unless you're on an extremely tight budget, eSIM saves significant time and hassle. Consider it an essential safety expense rather than a luxury. Long-term stays (1+ months): After settling in, consider switching to a local SIM for better rates and data allowances, but start with eSIM for your first week while you get oriented. Business travelers: eSIM is your only practical option. You need reliable connectivity from touchdown, and the time saved avoiding SIM card hunting is worth far more than the cost difference. The ability to maintain your connection easyly is essential for business continuity.
Our Top Pick: Airalo
For convenience, price, and safety, we recommend Airalo. Purchase your eSIM before your trip and activate it upon arrival—you'll have instant connectivity without the hassle of finding a local shop, dealing with language barriers, or risking being offline when you first arrive. It's the smart, safe choice for staying connected in Somalia.
Exclusive discounts: 15% off for new customers • 10% off for return customers