Where to Buy a Local SIM Card on Santiago Island, Cape Verde?
I'm heading to Praia on November 15th and wondering if I can buy a local SIM card at the airport or elsewhere. How much does it cost and is the network reliable?
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You can buy a local SIM card at Praia Airport and at several shops, including in Assomada or Tarrafal. Your prepaid plan will be activated immediately.
For better flexibility and lower costs, it's advisable to bring an unlocked phone and insert a SIM card from one of the two local operators, Alou (CV Movel) or Unitel.
For instance, Alou's "D'Kel Bom Mês 1" plan costs less than 10 euros (700 CVE), offering unlimited calls and SMS within the Alou Mobile network and 5 GB of internet for one month. You can check all other prepaid plans on Alou's website. The site is in Portuguese, but it's straightforward to understand the prices and details.
The network is very reliable, with 4G coverage almost everywhere on the island. Even though the signal might be weaker in more remote areas, this is rare, and you'll have a good connection near the cities. Make sure your SIM card is activated properly and test it on-site to avoid any issues.
To recharge, the easiest way is to do it on-site by going to any store of your service provider. It's safer this way, as you can also recharge at ATMs, supermarkets, cafes, or other shops, but these procedures can be complex if you're not familiar with them and are only staying briefly in Cape Verde.
Have a great trip! Be sure to find out about the best activities to do on Santiago Island before you arrive to make the most of your visit!