Getting yourself a Ghanaian SIM card when visiting the country will save you a lot of money.
That is because Ghana is the 5th cheapest African nation to get mobile data.
That sounds intriguing, but how much do SIM cards cost in Ghana?
You can purchase a Ghanaian SIM card for 2 GHS (0.35 USD) in Vodafone, MTN, AirtelTigo, and Glo stores. You can get 1 GB valid for 7 days for as low as 10 GHS (1.70 USD).
There are not many nations in Africa or around the world, for that matter, that sell SIM cards for this cheap and offer 1 GB for this low price.
But there is a lot more to know about Ghanaian SIM cards.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Ghana. Let's do this.
Original publication: 8th of May 2020. Last updated: 19th of January 2021.
Table of Contents
Can I Buy a SIM Card in Ghana?
Everybody living in or visiting Ghana is allowed to buy Ghanaian SIM cards from the local operators (MTN, Vodafone, AirtelTigo & Glo), without restrictions.
However, have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.
Moreover, your phone has to support the frequencies used in Ghana.
Can I Use My Phone in Ghana?
Ghana uses GSM for its mobile telecommunications network. They use frequencies used in many regions around the world (Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania – ITU Regions 1 & 3).
However, these frequencies are not used in the Americas (North-, Central-, and South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2).
If you bought your phone in the Americas, if your device has not been unlocked, or your phone does not support the Ghanaian frequencies, then you cannot use your phone in Ghana.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Ghana
Ghana has four mobile operators:
- MTN Ghana
- Vodafone Ghana
- AirtelTigo
- Glo Ghana
The following frequencies are used by the Ghanaian operators:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3)
Note: only MTN Ghana and Vodafone Ghana have 4G/LTE networks at the time of writing.
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Ghana, check out this page by Will My Phone Work.
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
A Note About Busy Ghana
Busy Ghana is another option, but it will not be covered in this guide. Busy primarily focuses on residential users using Busy's routers and MIFI devices at home.
Although Busy boosts that they have the best 4G coverage, which they may have. However, they only cover Greater Accra. This makes Busy not a good operator for travelers or anyone else living outside of Accra.
Moreover, your device needs to support 2300 MHz (on Band 40) to use Busy's network. Mostly high-end phones support this frequency and Band.
When things improve with Busy, then I will add them to this guide.
The Best SIM Card in Ghana
If you want to buy a SIM card in Ghana, I would recommend going with MTN because they have the country's best coverage and speeds. But they are also the most expensive. If you prefer a lot of variety in packages, go with Vodafone. AirtelTigo is also a good candidate with its Big Time Data bundles with no expiry.
SIM Card Registration in Ghana
SIM card registration with your passport information is mandatory in Ghana. It will be done at the point of sale.
Speeds, Internet Prices & Insights in Ghana
Broadband internet speeds in Africa are, unfortunately, still slow compared to other regions in the world.
However, mobile internet speeds are, in most African nations, much faster than broadband speeds. Moreover, mobile internet is more accessible (setting up an antenna is easier than laying cables).
Mobile internet speeds in Ghana are decent. In fact, Ghana is in the top 15 countries in Africa with the fastest mobile internet speeds.
The average mobile download speed in Ghana is 15 Mbps.
That is according to the Speedtest Global Index.
For reference, the world average mobile download is around 36 Mbps. So yes, speeds in Africa are slow compared to the rest of the world, but the speeds are decent than other African nations.
But how expensive is mobile data in Ghana?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Ghana is 0.94 USD, which is far below the Sub-Saharan average of 6.91 USD. The world average is 5.03 USD.
In fact, Ghana is the 5th cheapest African country to get mobile data.
That is all according to Cable.co.uk.
Although Ghana still has a long way to go to provide nationwide coverage, mostly inland, speeds and prices are reasonable in the country.
Then again, you would have to be around the coast, Accra, or Kumasi to enjoy this reasonable service.
Currency in Ghana
Ghana uses the Ghanaian Cedi with the symbol GHS (which will be used throughout this guide). However, prices are often listed as just GH₵. For example, 25 GHS is GH₵25. For reference, below are some exchange rates between GHS and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 GHS = 0.15 USD
- 10 GHS = 1.70 USD
- 100 GHS = 17.20 USD
- 1000 GHS = 172.05 USD
For up-to-date GHS:USD exchange rates, search GHS to USD on Google, or replace USD with the currency you use.
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Transferwise Borderless Account and Debit Card. Their fees are MUCH lower than banks, and credit card companies charge you (and Transferwise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks). I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Euros, my main currency, when using Transferwise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Transferwise account FREE!
Ghana Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through MTN Ghana, Vodafone Ghana, AirtelTigo, and Glo Ghana, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices, and availability
- Recharge/top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what Ghana has to offer to us.
MTN Ghana
MTN Ghana, just MTN, is the largest operator in Ghana, with a more than 67% market share.
MTN's dominant position has been noticed by the NCA (National Communications Authority), Ghana's telecom authority. The NCA decided to declare MTN of having significant market power.
One of the reasons MTN is such a large operator in Ghana is that they have the country's best speeds. MTN won the 2019 Ghana Speedtest Award for having the fastest mobile speeds in the country, having speeds more than triple to its competitors.
This is what you will learn about MTN:
* Coverage
* How to Get an MTN SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping-Up Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
MTN Ghana Coverage
MTN has the best coverage in Ghana.
They also won the Speedtest 2019 Best Mobile Coverage Award.
That study showed that MTN has the best general and 4G availability in Ghana.
As you can see, coverage can mostly be found around the coast (Greater Accra, Takoradi, and Kumasi). In Wa and Tamale, you can expect coverage as well.
Getting an MTN Ghana SIM Card & Price
MTN SIM cards can be bought for 2 GHS in MTN stores.
Topping-Up Your MTN Ghana SIM Card
If you have forgotten your MTN phone number, dial *156# to retrieve it.
MTN recharge cards are sold in denominations of 10 GHS to 200 GHS in MTN stores and other retailers in Ghana.
To redeem your MTN recharge card, dial *134*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, then you would dial *134*123456#.
Dial *124# to check your MTN balance.
MTN Ghana Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
MTN has several types of plans featuring data, such as:
- Super Savers (combo plans)
- Mashup – Pulse (combo bundles)
- Data Bundles (data-only bundles)
MTN plans can be bought by dialing *138# (or *567# for Pulse) and selecting the plan you want. Because of this, activation codes for each bundle will be listed as *138#-Option 1-Option 2-Option 3.
For example, the 5 GHS 300 MB for 7 days plan can be purchased by dialing *138#, selecting option 1, choosing option 2, and pressing option 4. The tables below will list an activation code as *138#-1-2-4 below, but it should not be dialed as a USSD code like that.
MTN Ghana Super Savers
The Super Savers are combo plans with data and minutes.
The following Super Savers are available:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 GHS | 100 MB | 50 minutes | 7 days | *138#-4-1 |
| 10 GHS | 300 MB | 100 minutes | 7 days | *138#-4-2 |
| 20 GHS | 700 MB | 300 minutes | 7 days | *138#-4-3 |
| 30 GHS | 1 GB | 500 minutes | 30 days | *138#-4-4 |
| 50 GHS | 1.5 GB | 700 minutes | 30 days | *138#-4-5 |
| 100 GHS | 4 GB | 1500 minutes | 30 days | *138#-4-6 |
You can manage your Super Savers bundle by dialing *175*1#.
MTN Ghana Mashup (Pulse)
The Mashup bundles, also known as Pulse, are combo bundles with data and minutes. You also get free access to select websites and apps.
The following Mashup bundles are available:
| Price | Data | Freebies | Local Minutes | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | 25 MB | WhatsApp & Wikipedia | 25 minutes | 1 day | *567#-1-1 |
| 1 GHS | 30 MB | WhatsApp & Wikipedia | 20 minutes | 1 day | *567#-1-2 |
| 1 GHS | 35 MB | WhatsApp & Wikipedia | 15 minutes | 1 day | *567#-1-3 |
| 1 GHS | 50 MB | WhatsApp & Wikipedia | N/A | 1 day | *567#-1-4 |
| 5 GHS | 125 MB | WhatsApp, Wikipedia, Facebook & Twitter | 125 minutes | 7 days | *567#-2-1 |
| 5 GHS | 150 MB | WhatsApp, Wikipedia, Facebook & Twitter | 100 minutes | 7 days | *567#-2-2 |
| 5 GHS | 200 MB | WhatsApp, Wikipedia, Facebook & Twitter | 50 minutes | 7 days | *567#-2-3 |
| 5 GHS | 250 MB | WhatsApp, Wikipedia, Facebook & Twitter | N/A | 7 days | *567#-2-4 |
| 10 GHS | 250 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & unlimited on-net calls on Mondays | 250 minutes | 30 days | *567#-3-1 |
| 10 GHS | 300 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & unlimited on-net calls on Mondays | 200 minutes | 30 days | *567#-3-2 |
| 10 GHS | 350 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & unlimited on-net calls on Mondays | 150 minutes | 30 days | *567#-3-3 |
| 10 GHS | 500 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & unlimited on-net calls on Mondays | N/A | 30 days | *567#-3-4 |
Mashup bundles auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text STOP to 567.
MTN Ghana Data Bundles
The Data bundles are standard data-only bundles in daily, weekly, and monthly variants.
The following Data Bundles are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 GHS | 20 MB | 1 day | *138#-1-1-1 |
| 1 GHS | 50 MB | 1 day | *138#-1-1-2 |
| 1 GHS | 25 MB | 7 days | *138#-1-2-1 |
| 2 GHS | 120 MB | 1 day | *138#-1-1-3 |
| 2 GHS | 60 MB | 7 days | *138#-1-2-2 |
| 3 GHS | 500 MB | 1 day | *138#-1-1-4 |
| 3 GHS | 180 MB | 7 days | *138#-1-2-3 |
| 5 GHS | 300 MB | 7 days | *138#-1-2-4 |
| 10 GHS | 1 GB | 7 days | *138#-1-2-5 |
| 10 GHS | 400 MB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-1 |
| 20 GHS | 1 GB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-2 |
| 40 GHS | 2.5 GB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-3 |
| 60 GHS | 4 GB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-0-4 |
| 80 GHS | 6 GB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-0-5 |
| 120 GHS | 10 GB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-0-6 |
| 150 GHS | 15 GB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-0-7 |
| 199 GHS | 20 GB | 30 days | *138#-1-3-0-8 |
You can manage your Data Bundle by dialing *175*1#.
MTN Ghana APN Settings
- Name: MTN Ghana
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Vodafone Ghana
Vodafone Ghana, just Vodafone, used to be the second-largest operator in Ghana without a doubt. However, since Airtel Ghana and Tigo Ghana merged into AirtelTigo, the subscriber numbers between Vodafone and AirtelTigo have been so close that they switch positions almost every quarter.
Even then, Vodafone still has faster speeds than AirtelTigo (but significantly slower speeds than MTN Ghana).
This is what you will learn about Vodafone:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Vodafone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping-Up Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
Vodafone Ghana Coverage
Vodafone has the second-best coverage in Ghana.
If you are staying in Greater Accra, Takoradi, or Kumasi, you should expect coverage with Vodafone. The same counts for when you are in Tamale or Wa.
Getting a Vodafone Ghana SIM Card & Price
Vodafone SIM cards are sold for 2 GHS in Vodafone stores. The Starter Pack includes 50 MB and 1 GHS in credit.
If you have forgotten your Vodafone number, dial *127# to retrieve it.
Topping-Up Your Vodafone Ghana SIM Card
Vodafone recharge cards are sold in Vodafone Stores, Distributor Shops, and many other retailers in Ghana in denominations of 1 GHS to 50 GHS.
To top-up your Vodafone SIM card, dial *134*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, then you would dial *134*123456#.
Dial *124# to check your Vodafone balance.
Vodafone Ghana Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
Vodafone has many combo and data-only bundles, which are:
- Bossu Bundles (combo bundles)
- Red Bundles (combo bundles)
- VIM (combo bundle)
- Vodafone X (combo plans targeting the youth – 15-24)
- Vodafone Black (invite-only data plan)
- Data Bundles (standard data-only bundles)
- Jumbo Packages (standard data-only bundles with large allowances)
- No Expiry Bundles (data-only bundles with no expiry)
- 2 Moorch Data (data-only bundles with dedicated social media data allowances)
- Vodafone Cash Special (daily data-only bundles)
- Night King Bundles (nighttime data-only bundles)
- Freedom Offers (flexible plans with a unit system)
Those are a lot of options. Click on the links above to jump to the bundle you are interested in.
Vodafone Ghana Bossu Bundles
The Bossu Bundles are combo bundles with data and local minutes.
The following Bossu Bundles are available:
| Price | Bundle | Data | On-Net Minutes | Local Minutes | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.50 GHS | Bossu Deewa | N/A | Unlimited | 2 local minutes | 24 hours | *5050# |
| 2.15 GHS | Bossu Daily Offer | 104 MB | N/A | 104 local minutes | 24 hours | *5588# |
| 5.40 GHS | Bossu Weekend | 5.17 GB | N/A | 310 local minutes | Saturday & Sunday | *5588# |
| 10.75 GHS | Bossu Data Weekly | 3.62 GB | N/A | N/A | 5 days | *5588# |
| 13 GHS | Bossu Data Weekly Extra | 4.66 GB | N/A | N/A | 5 days | *5588# |
| 43.50 GHS | Bossu Data Weekly Plus | 10.35 GB | N/A | N/A | 15 days | *5588# |
Vodafone Ghana Red Bundles
The Red Bundles are combo bundles with data, minutes, and SMS.
The following Red Bundles are available, which can be activated by dialing *200#:
| Price | Bundle | Data | On-Net Minutes | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | Red 1 | 52 MB | Unlimited | 10 local minutes | N/A | 24 hours |
| 2 GHS | Red 2 Plus | 52 MB | N/A | 52 local minutes | N/A | No expiry |
| 2 GHS | Red 2 | 104 MB | 414 on-net minutes | 31 local miunutes | N/A | 3 days |
| 5 GHS | Red 5 Plus | 155 MB | N/A | 155 local minutes | N/A | No expiry |
| 5.40 GHS | Red 5 | 259 MB | 129 on-net minutes | 129 local minutes | 10 SMS | 7 days |
| 10 GHS | Red 10 | 331 MB | N/A | 331 local minutes | 20 SMS | No expiry |
| 20 GHS | Red 20 | 776 MB | 1242 on-net minutes | 311 local minutes | 21 SMS | 30 days |
| 27 GHS | Red 25 | 1.55 GB | N/A | 518 local minutes | 21 SMS | 30 days |
| 30 GHS | Red 30 | 1.55 GB | Unlimited | 518 local minutes | 21 SMS | 30 days |
| 50 GHS | Red 50 | 2 GB | Unlimited | 900 local minutes | 20 SMS | 30 days |
| 100 GHS | Red 100 | 3 GB | Unlimited | 2000 local minutes | 20 SMS | 30 days |
Do note that unused data will roll over when you renew your Red Bundle. Unused minutes will not roll over.
Vodafone Ghana VIM
The VIM bundle is a weekly combo bundle with data and minutes.
| Price | Data | On-Net Call Credit | Off-Net Minutes | Validity | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 GHS | 311 MB | 8 GHS | 10 off-net minutes | 7 days | *556# |
Vodafone Ghana X Bundles
The Vodafone X Bundles are combo bundles targeted at the youth (15-24) with data, dedicated social media allowances (WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram), community minutes, and community SMS.
Even though the Vodafone X Bundles are aimed at the youth, there are no restrictions on who can purchase these bundles.
The following Vodafone X Bundles can be purchased by dialing *5888#:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Social Media Data | Social Media Apps | Community Calls | Community SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.60 GHS | Vodafone Quick Fix | 52 MB | 26 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 day | |
| 2.15 GHS | Vodafone Quick Fix Plus | 104 MB | 52 MB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 day | |
| 3.20 GHS | Vodafone X Social | 207 MB | 52 MB | WhatsApp & Facebook | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 4.30 GHS | Vodafone X Social Plus | 311 MB | 104 MB | WhatsApp & Facebook | Unlimited | Unlimited | 3 days |
| 7 GHS | Vodafone X Weekly | 518 MB | 155 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook & Twitter | Unlimited | 5 SMS | 7 days |
| 8.60 GHS | Vodafone X Weekly Plus | 673 MB | 259 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook & Twitter | Unlimited | 5 SMS | 7 days |
| 10.75 GHS | Icons | 828 MB | 828 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram | Unlimited | N/A | 7 days |
| 19.25 GHS | Vodafone X Monthly | 1.24 GB | 518 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram | Unlimited | 21 SMS | 30 days |
| 21.50 GHS | Vodafone X Monthly Plus | 2.07 GB | 725 MB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram | Unlimited | 21 SMS | 30 days |
| 32.50 GHS | Vodafone Xtreme Monthly | 3.11 GB | 1.55 GB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram | Unlimited | 21 SMS | 30 days |
| 43 GHS | Vodafone Xtreme Monthly Plus | 4.14 GB | 2.59 GB | WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter & Instagram | Unlimited | 21 SMS | 30 days |
Vodafone Ghana Black
Vodafone Black is an invite-only premium plan with large allowances.
I know travelers will not get this plan (neither will many regular Vodafone users because the plan is invite-only), I still wanted to show you what Vodafone Black is in case you get lucky one day.
| Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | International Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 250 GHS | 20 GB | 5000 on-net minutes | 1500 off-net minutes | 200 IDD minutes | 1000 local SMS | 30 days |
Vodafone Ghana Data Bundles
The Data Bundles are standard data-only bundles.
The following Data Bundles are available, which can be bought by dialing *700#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1.08 GHS | 518 MB | 1 hour |
| 2.15 GHS | 2.07 GB | 1 hour |
| 3.25 GHS | 569 MB | 24 hours |
| 5.40 GHS | 1.04 GB | 2 days |
| 21.50 GHS | 4.14 GB | 7 days |
| 100 GHS | 20 GB | 30 days |
Vodafone Ghana Jumbo Packages
The Jumbo Packages are standard data-only packages with large data volumes.
The following Jumbo Packages are available, which can be activated by dialing *700#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 100 GHS | 20 GB | 30 days |
| 200 GHS | 40 GB | 30 days |
| 300 GHS | 100 GB | 30 days |
| 400 GHS | 200 GB | 30 days |
Vodafone Ghana No Expiry Bundles
The No Expiry Bundles are data bundles with no validity. They also come with a nighttime data allowance to be used between 0:00 – 4:00 (12 AM – 4 AM).
The following No Expiry Bundles are available, which can be purchased by dialing *700#:
| Price | Data | Nighttime Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.50 GHS | 26 MB | 26 MB | No expiry |
| 1 GHS | 62 MB | 62 MB | No expiry |
| 2 GHS | 155 MB | 155 MB | No expiry |
| 5 GHS | 621 MB | 621 MB | No expiry |
Vodafone Ghana 2 Moorch Data
The 2 Moorch Data Bundles are data add-ons for the Bossu Bundles and Vodafone X Bundles with dedicated social media allowances (WhatsApp, Facebook & Instagram). They cannot be purchased as standalone bundles.
The following 2 Moorch Data Bundles are available, which can be bought by dialing *700#:
| Price | Bundle | Data | Nighttime Data | Social Media Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 GHS | Streamer Max Weekly | 1.55 GB | 1.55 GB | 100 MB | 15 days |
| 20 GHS | Chat Monthly | 4.14 GB | 4.14 GB | 500 MB | 30 days |
| 50 GHS | Downloader Monthly | 10.35 GB | 10.35 GB | 500 MB | 30 days |
Unused 2 Moorch Data roll over to the next period.
Vodafone Ghana Cash Special
The Vodafone Cash Special bundles are daily data-only bundles with can only be purchased with Vodafone Cash.
The following Vodafone Cash Special bundles are available, which can be activated by dialing *110#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1.60 GHS | 550 MB | 1 day |
| 2.15 GHS | 600 MB | 1 day |
| 3.25 GHS | 1.5 GB | 1 day |
Vodafone Ghana Night King Bundles
The Night King Bundles are data bundles that can be used at night between 0:00 and 4:00 (12 AM – 4 AM).
The following Night King Bundles are available, which can be activated by dialing *700#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 2.15 GHS | 2.07 GB | 1 night |
| 5.40 GHS | 7.7 GB | 1 night |
Vodafone Ghana Freedom Offers
The Freedom Offers are packages that use a unit system for each action you take (data, calls, and SMS).
The following rates are charged with the Freedom Units:
- 1 MB = 1 Freedom Unit
- 1 On-Net Minute = 1 Freedom Unit
- 1 Off-Net Minute = 5 Freedom Units
- 1 International Minute = 5 Freedom Units
- 1 Local SMS = 1 Freedom Unit
The following Freedom Offers are available, which can be purchased by dialing *151#:
| Price | Bundle | Freedom Units | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | Freedom Offer 1 | 40 units | 1 day |
| 2 GHS | Freedom Offer 2 | 80 unites | 3 days |
| 5 GHS | Freedom Offer 3 | 200 units | 7 days |
| 10 GHS | Freedom Offer 4 | 400 units | 28 days |
| 20 GHS | Freedom Offer 5 | 800 units | 28 days |
| 50 GHS | Freedom Offer 6 | 2000 units | 28 days |
Vodafone Ghana APN Settings
- Name: Ghana Vodafone
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
AirtelTigo
AirtelTigo is an operator that came from a merger between Airtel Ghana and Tigo Ghana. Both companies wanted to compete with MTN and Vodafone more, so they decided that a merger was the best course of action.
AirtelTigo is significantly smaller in terms of market share and subscribers, but on par with Vodafone Ghana. However, AirtelTigo has much slower speeds than MTN Ghana and just slower speeds than Vodafone Ghana.
This is what you will learn about AirtelTigo:
* Coverage
* How to Get an AirtelTigo SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping-Up Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
AirtelTigo Coverage
AirtelTigo has decent coverage in populated areas, such as Greater Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi.
Unfortunately, no reliable coverage map of AirtelTigo could be found. But I can say that their coverage is worse than MTN‘s and Vodafone‘s, but better than Glo‘s.
Getting an AirtelTigo SIM Card & Price
AirtelTigo SIM cards are sold for 2 GHS in AirtelTigo stores.
If you have forgotten your AirtelTigo phone number, dial *703# to retrieve it.
Topping-Up Your AirtelTigo SIM Card
AirtelTigo recharge cards are sold in values of 0.5 GHS to 50 GHS. They can be purchased in AirtelTigo stores and many other retailers.
To top-up your AirtelTigo scratch card, dial *134*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, then you would dial *134*123456#.
Dial *124# to check your AirtelTigo balance.
AirtelTigo Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
AirtelTigo has several bundles with data, which are:
- Fuse Xtra (combo bundles)
- Big Time Xtra (data-only bundles)
- Sika Kokoo (data-only bundles)
- Family Packs – XXL (data-only bundles)
- Night Bundles (nighttime data-only bundles)
Click on the links above to jump to the bundle you are interested in.
AirtelTigo Fuse Xtra Bundles
Fuse Xtra Bundles are combo bundles with data, nighttime data (0:00 – 4:00/12 AM – 4 AM), and local minutes. The validity of the standard data allowance and minutes do not expire.
The following Fuse Xtra bundles are available, which can be purchased by dialing *111*2#:
| Price | Data | Nighttime Data (7-night validity) | Local Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 GHS | 52 MB | 52 MB | 52 minutes | Unlimited |
| 5 GHS | 155 MB | 155 MB | 155 minutes | Unlimited |
| 10 GHS | 330 MB | 330 MB | 330 minutes | Unlimited |
| 15 GHS | 415 MB | 415 MB | 415 minutes | Unlimited |
AirtelTigo Big Time Data Bundles
The Big Time Xtra Bundles are data-only bundles with a dedicated nighttime data allowance (0:00 – 4:00/12 AM – 4 AM).
If you purchase a Big Time Data Bundle through AirtelTigo Money, you will get more data than activating a bundle through USSD (*111# and option 2) or with a scratch card.
The following Big Time Data Bundles are available if you activate them through *111# and choosing option 2:
| Price | Data | Nighttime Data (7-night validity) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.50 GHS | 25 MB | 25 MB | Unlimited |
| 1 GHS | 65 MB | 65 MB | Unlimited |
| 2 GHS | 155 MB | 155 MB | Unlimited |
| 5 GHS | 625 MB | 625 MB | Unlimited |
| 10 GHS | 1.6 GB | 1.6 GB | Unlimited |
| 20 GHS | 4.3 GB | 4.3 GB | Unlimited |
| 50 GHS | 10.4 GB | 10.4 GB | Unlimited |
If you purchase a Big Time Xtra Bundle with AirtelTigo Money, then you get the following allowances:
| Price | Data | Nighttime Data (7-night validity) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | 80 MB | 80 MB | Unlimited |
| 2 GHS | 200 MB | 200 MB | Unlimited |
| 5 GHS | 650 MB | 650 MB | Unlimited |
| 10 GHS | 2 GB | 2 GB | Unlimited |
| 20 GHS | 5 GB | 5 GB | Unlimited |
| 50 GHS | 11 GB | 11 GB | Unlimited |
AirtelTigo Sika Kokoo Bundles
The Sika Kokoo bundles are data-only bundles with large data allowances, aimed at downloading large files.
The following Sika Kokoo Bundles are available, which can be activated by dialing *111*4#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 5 GHS | 1.1 GB | 5 days |
| 10 GHS | 3 GB | 5 days |
AirtelTigo Family Packs (XXL)
The Family Packs, also known as XXL Data Packs, are data-only bundles with large data allowances that can be shared between three family members (or AirtelTigo numbers).
The following XXL Family Packs are available, which can be purchased by dialing *111# and selecting option 4:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 99 GHS | 25 GB | 30 days |
| 220 GHS | 55 GB | 30 days |
| 350 GHS | 175 GB | 30 days |
AirtelTigo Night Bundles
The Night Bundles are data bundles to be used between 0:00 and 4:00 (12 AM – 4 AM).
The following Night Bundles are available, which can be activated by dialing *553#, option 3, and option 1:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 3 GHS | 4.5 GB | 1 night |
| 5 GHS | 7.5 GB | 1 night |
AirtelTigo APN Settings
- Name: AirtelTigo
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Glo Ghana
Glo Ghana, just Glo, is the smallest operator in Ghana. However, they are the cheapest.
With a market share of less than 1%, it is surprising they have still been in business after all these years. Globacom, Glo's parent company from Nigeria, even laid a submarine cable with a landing point in Ghana, meaning that the operator has no plan on abandoning the Ghanaian market anytime soon.
Moreover, the Ghanaian Minister of Communications has warned Glo about their poor performance numerous times and has even threatened to suspend Glo’s operator license back in 2018.
Although that has not happened yet (and hopefully will not happen), Expresso Ghana, a suspended Ghanaian operator, was warned about the same thing, and the National Communication Authority (NCA) did not renew Expresso Ghana’s license when it was due for renewal.
This is what you will learn about Glo:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Glo SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping-Up Options & Methods
* Internet Packages
* APN Settings
Glo Ghana Coverage
Glo has the worst coverage in Ghana. Coverage can mostly be found in urban regions.
No reliable coverage maps of Glo could be found. If you are staying in the big cities and towns, you will be fine. Anywhere else and your connectivity will suffer.
Getting a Glo Ghana SIM Card & Price
Glo SIM cards can be bought for 2 GHS in Glo stores, which are called Gloworld Locations.
If you have forgotten your Glo phone number, dial *193# to retrieve it.
Topping-Up Your Glo Ghana SIM Card
Glo Refill cards are sold in Gloworld and other establishments in many places throughout Ghana in amounts of 1 GHS to 50 GHS. Online top-up is available too.
To redeem your Glo recharge card, dial *134*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *134*123456#.
Dial *127*VoucherCode# if you directly want to purchase a data bundle with your Glo recharge card.
Dial *124# to check your Glo balance.
Glo Ghana Internet Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers
Glo has several types of packages that include data, such as:
- Awesome Voice Pack (combo bundles)
- Yakata Plus (combo bundles)
- High Speed Internet (data-only bundles)
- Twin Bash (combo bundles
- Facebook on USSD (data for Facebook)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Glo Ghana Awesome Voice Pack
The Awesome Voice Pack is a bundle with data, nighttime data (0:00 – 5:00/12 AM – 5 AM), and local minutes.
The following Awesome Voice Packs are available, which can be purchased by dialing *555#:
| Price | Data | Nighttime Data | Local Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | 50 MB | 50 MB | 25 minutes | 2 days |
| 5 GHS | 250 MB | 250 MB | 125 minutes | 10 days |
Glo Ghana Yakata Plus
Yakata Plus is a plan that includes data, data to gift to other Glo users, and unlimited on-net calls.
The following Yakata Plus Plans are available, which can be activated by dialing *555#:
| Price | Data | Data to Gift | On-Net Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | 300 MB | 100 MB | Unlimted | 2 days |
| 2 GHS | 600 MB | 200 MB | Unlimted | 4 days |
| 5 GHS | 1.5 GB | 500 MB | Unlimted | 10 days |
| 10 GHS | 3 GB | 1 GB | Unlimted | 20 days |
| 20 GHS | 6 GB | 2 GB | Unlimted | 40 days |
| 50 GHS | 15 GB | 5 GB | Unlimted | 100 days |
Glo Ghana High Speed Internet Bundles
The High Speed Internet Bundles are standard data-only bundles.
The following High Speed Internet Bundles are available:
| Price | Data | Validity | Sharing | Gifting | Rollover | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | 100 MB | 1 day | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*1 |
| 1 GHS | 50 MB | 7 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*10# |
| 2 GHS | 300 MB | 1 day | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*12# |
| 2 GHS | 200 MB | 7 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*11# |
| 2 GHS | 1.5 GB | 1 Saturday | Yes | Yes | No | *555# |
| 2 GHS | 1.8 GB | 1 Sunday/Public Holiday | Yes | Yes | No | *555# |
| 3 GHS | 750 MB | 1 day | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*18# |
| 3 GHS | 350 MB | 7 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*13# |
| 5 GHS | 700 MB | 7 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*2# |
| 10 GHS | 4 GB | 7 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*46# |
| 10 GHS | 1.7 GB | 30 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*14# |
| 20 GHS | 4.2 GB | 30 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*22# |
| 40 GHS | 10 GB | 30 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*5# |
| 50 GHS | 15 GB | 30 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*3# |
| 60 GHS | 20 GB | 30 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*6# |
| 80 GHS | 30 GB | 60 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*33# |
| 100 GHS | 60 GB | 90 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*36# |
| 150 GHS | 100 GB | 90 days | Yes | Yes | Yes | *127*37# |
| 300 GHS | Unlimited | 30 days | Yes | Yes | No | *127*30# |
To check your High Speed Data Bundle balance, text STATUS to 127.
To share data, dial *127*00*PhoneNumber#.
To gift data, dial *127*ActivationCode*PhoneNumber#.
Glo Ghana Twin Bash
Twin Bash is a recharge method featuring data, data to gift, and airtime.
The following Twin Bash bundles are available, which can be activated by recharging through *127*VoucherCode#:
| Price | Data | Data to Gift | Airtime | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GHS | 80 MB | 40 MB | 6 GHS | 4 days |
| 2 GHS | 160 MB | 80 MB | 12 GHS | 10 days |
| 5 GHS | 400 MB | 200 MB | 30 GHS | 30 days |
| 10 GHS | 1000 MB | 500 MB | 60 GHS | 30 days |
| 20 GHS | 2400 MB | 1200 MB | 120 GHS | 30 days |
| 50 GHS | 8000 MB | 4000 MB | 400 GHS | 30 days |
To check your balance, text STATUS to 127. Checking your bonus can be done by dialing *124*4#.
To gift data, dial *127*ActivationCode*PhoneNumber#.
Glo Ghana Facebook on USSD
Facebook on USSD are data bundles for Facebook use.
The following Facebook on USSD bundles are available, which can be activated by dialing *909#:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 0.005 GHS | Unlimited Facebook | 1 day |
| 0.01 GHS | Unlimited Facebook | 30 days |
Facebook on USSD auto-renews. To disable auto-renewal, dial *909*22#
Glo Ghana APN Settings
in most cases, your phone will automatically download the correct APN settings for your Glo Ghana SIM card. If that does not happen, text settings to 4777.
Otherwise, you will have to enter the settings manually (do not enter anything not mentioned below:
- Name: Glo
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Ghana
Getting a Ghanaian SIM card is the best way to stay connected in the country.
However, for some, getting local SIM cards is not an option. For example, if you havea SIM-locked device.
Luckily, there are other ways to get online when in Ghana.
However, these methods may be more expensive than getting a SIM card from the local operators.
International Roaming
International roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected when traveling in other countries because you do not have to buy a new SIM card, have to deal with SIM card registration regulations, nor have multiple phone numbers to deal with.
However, international roaming has proven to be expensive in many cases, especially compared to buying local SIM cards. That is why many travelers are not fond of international roaming.
International roaming has its pros and cons. However, it is important to know how it works. This in-depth guide explains it all.
Find out whether your mobile operator has attractive roaming rates for Ghana here.
Using an International SIM Card or Travel SIM Card
International SIM cards are SIM cards made for the traveler in mind. Using them is often cheaper than international roaming. However, they are almost always more expensive than using a local SIM card.
There are many other advantages and disadvantages of getting international SIM cards, which you can learn about here.
Using a Mobile Hotspot (Pocket WIFI)
Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local operators of the country you are visiting. Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.
You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.
Using Free WIFI Networks
Using free WIFI connections is the cheapest way to stay connected because they are free. The major downside of trying to use WIFI hotspots is that you will have to locate them, and they are not available on every corner in Trinidad and Tobago.
Make sure to protect your internet traffic with a VPN so that hackers cannot steal your personal data.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Ghana
Getting a SIM card from either MTN or Vodafone would do you well when considering a Ghanaian SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Card in Other African Countries
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
Support Phone Travel Wiz
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Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful)
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Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises, and accommodation.
Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?
In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services, and products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.
If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
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