Are you planning to visit Mozambique soon? Hence if this is then we may have to think of purchasing a Movitel sim or esim for our mobiles. This includes Movitel, which is arguably one of the major telecoms firms in Mozambique that provides cheap yet quality products for people dwelling in the country as well as visitors. The focus of this blog is on everything you should consider to have at Movitel SIM card as well as eSIMs for tourists.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Movitel
- Founded year: 2007
- Full company name: Movitel S.A.
- Types of services provided: Mobile network operators, provide 3G and 4G LTE mobile networks and mobile internet services.
- Number of subscribers: Over 5 million subscribers (as of 2020)
- Coverage: Nationwide coverage across Mozambique. Claims to cover over 90% of the population.
- Estimated number of network of stores, and agents: Over 1000 Movitel branded stores and dealer outlets across Mozambique.
II. Mozambique Movitel Coverage and Speed
1. Movitel Coverage in Mozambique
The coverage map from Movitel’s website shows nationwide 2G connectivity across Mozambique, including most populated areas across all provinces. Extensive 3G coverage is depicted along major cities, towns, and highways connecting them. 4G/LTE networks have a focus on larger cities like Maputo, Beira and Nampula as the rollout continues. Coverage extends to rural areas and along coastlines due to road/rail infrastructure. Only deep forests and isolated locations lack signals otherwise.
2. Movitel Speed
The average mobile internet speed in Mozambique is around 7 Mbps. The largest network, Movitel, scores around that point or a little bit more. This network reaches 8 Mbps on average, according to Open Signal, and can reach about 3 Mbps using its 3G. These speeds rival competitors like Vodacom (4G: TMc-LTE (4G: 7 Mbps) and Tmcel (4G: 7.5 Mbps).
Although Movitel’s connection is below international standards, it is comparable to the norm in Mozambique. Hopefully, data speeds will increase across all carriers as infrastructure expands in the coming years.
III. Movitel Connectivity Options for Travelers to Mozambique
As a tourist, you have two options when it comes to connectivity with Movitel: SIM cards and eSIMs. Let’s take a closer look at each option.
| Connectivity Option | Pros | Cons |
| Buy Movitel SIM | - Enables mobile access at affordable pay-as-you-go rates. SIM cards are widely available and easy to purchase. - Fastest connection speeds | - Traveler needs an unlocked phone compatible with Mozambican networks. |
| Use Pocket WiFi | - Can connect multiple devices simultaneously without needing local SIM cards. - Higher daily/weekly rental fees compared to local SIM. - Speed may be slower than SIM connection. | - Higher daily/weekly rental fees compared to local SIM. - Speed may be slower than SIM connection. |
| Roam with International Plan | - Uses existing mobile number abroad. - No need to unlock phone. - Roaming rates are much more expensive than local plans. - Data may be severely limited or speeds slowed. | - Roaming rates are much more expensive than local plans. - Data may be severely limited or speeds slowed. |
The most convenient and cost-effective option for travelers to Mozambique is to purchase a local Movitel SIM card. SIMs are readily available throughout the country and allow for the full speed mobile access at affordable pay-as-you-go rates.
IV. Best Movitel SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Movitel offers several SIM card options for tourists, each with its own benefits and costs. Let’s take a look at the most popular options:
| SIM Package | Price | Data | Minutes | Texts | Validity |
| Starter SIM | $3 | 500MB | 100 | - | 30 days |
| Traveler SIM | $10 | 1.5GB | 300 | 300 | 45 days |
| Explorer SIM | $20 | 3GB | 500 | 500 | 60 days |
| Works SIM | $30 | 6GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 90 days |
All SIMs are widely available at Movitel service centers and partner retail shops throughout Mozambique. Top-ups can be easily done with cash. Data speeds on Movitel’s nationwide 3G/4G networks average 5-10Mbps in major cities and towns.
The Traveler and Explorer SIM packages strike the best balance of in-country validity periods and data allowances for most tourists visiting Mozambique. They offer affordable connectivity for leisure activities, social media, navigation, and light work functions throughout stays ranging from 2-4 weeks.
V. Does Movitel Support eSIM?
Yes, Movitel supports eSIM.
eSIM has some advantages compared to a physical SIM card:
- No need to insert/remove SIM card when traveling - easy profile switching
- Supports multiple profiles on a single device
- More convenient for IoT/M2M use cases
There are many Movitel travel eSIM providers on the market. With this type of eSIM, customers do not need to go to the network operator to register.
One of the top suppliers is Mozambique eSIM from GIGAGO which offers diverse plans for any traveling purposes.
Plan that may interest you
VI. Where Can You Buy a Movitel SIM Card and eSIM?
1. Where to Buy Movitel SIM
Upon Arrival – Movitel SIM cards can be purchased directly after arriving at airports in Maputo, Beira and Nampula. Starter SIMs are usually available at counters near baggage claim.
Movitel Stores – You can find and purchase Movitel SIM cards at their full service carrier stores. Stores offer SIM starter kits and data packages. It’s a good option to ask staff any questions.
Authorized Retailers – Major retailers like telemaro, Kolá, Shoprite and LSM also sell Movitel SIM cards at convenient locations across the country. Go to a high traffic store to save time.
2. Where to Buy Movitel eSIM
Movitel eSIM profiles can be purchased online from authorized provider. Consider getting an eSIM from a top eSIM provider in Mozambique – esimmozambique.com which offers diverse plans for any goals.
Tips when Buying Movitel SIM/eSIM
- Have your passport ready for ID verification
- Know approximate travel dates for correct package
- Consult store staff if unsure which plan suits your needs
- Consider buying a backup SIM for extended trips
- For eSIM, test the profile before travel
- Always keep your SIM or eSIM receipt as proof of purchase
Purchasing from official sources ensures seamless Movitel network access during visits to Mozambique.
VII. How to Activate Movitel SIM Card/eSIM
1. How to use Movitel Mozambique SIM card
- Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
- Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card
- Activate the SIM card: In most cases, the Unitel Laos SIM card will be pre-activated
- Set up APN settings if you can not use the eSIM.
- Check your services.
2. How to activate Movitel Mozambique SIM
- Install the eSIM
- Activate the eSIM
- Set up the eSIM
- Start using the eSIM: After the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.
VIII. Mozambique Movitel Call & SMS Rates
Movitel offers competitive rates for both local and international calls and texts. Here are some of the standard rates for calls and texts:
| Package | Monthly Fee | Data Allowance |
| Start | $2.50 | 500MB |
| Smart | $5 | 1.5GB |
| Pro | $10 | 3GB |
| Max | $15 | 5GB |
Notes 🤳
- Monthly fee applies regardless of full data usage
- Additional data can be purchased in bundles if required
- Data rollover up to 3 months if balance not expired
- Usage tracked by 1kB increments
All packages include access to social network zero-rating and unlimited access to Movitel WiFi hotspots. Speeds average 5-10Mbps depending on location.
Internet access is affordable with generous data allowances. The Smart and Pro packages provide good value for regular internet and social media usage during a month or for long trips.
IX. Useful USSD Codes for Movitel SIM Card/eSIM
Movitel has several USSD codes that can be used to manage your account, check your balance, and purchase data packages. Here are some of the most useful codes for tourists:
| USSD Code | Description |
| *131# | Check prepaid airtime balance |
| 1312*Data Volume# | Add data top up of selected size in MB/GB |
| 1313# | Check payment status of last transaction |
| 1314*NewPIN# | Change SIM PIN lock securely |
| 13111*eSIMProfileNumber# | Activate downloaded eSIM profile |
| 13171*PhoneNumber# | Divert all calls to alternative number |
| 13170# | Deactivate call divert |
| 1315*ServiceCode# | Activate value-added services |
| 1001# | Call Movitel call center for assistance |
These USSD codes allow convenient management of SIM accounts, data bundles and network services directly from the user’s phone. Helpful especially for travelers relying on Movitel eSIM connectivity.
X. How to Top-up Movitel SIM Card/eSIM
To top-up your Movitel SIM card or eSIM, you can purchase recharge cards from any Movitel store or authorized reseller. These cards come in different denominations, and you can use them to top-up your account with credit. You can also top-up online using your credit card or through the MyMovitel app.
XI. Alternatives to Movitel
1. Other Main Local Mobile Operators
Here are the main alternative mobile operators in Mozambique compared to Movitel:
Vodacom
- The second largest operator behind Movitel
- Wide 3G/4G coverage in major cities and towns
- Competitive prepaid plans similar to Movitel
- One of the popular choices among business/corporate users
MTN Mozambique
- Third largest national operator
- Strong footprint across the country including rural areas
- Affordable prepaid packages for calls/data
- Good coverage for exploring remote tourist destinations
Celtel (Zantel)
- Only operator using CDMA network, phasing to 3G/4G
- The smallest footprint focused compared to major cities
- Basic prepaid voice/SMS packages
- Limited data offerings compared to others
So in summary, while Movitel has the largest network coverage nationally, Vodacom or MTN Mozambique SIM cards provide strong alternatives depending on the specific travel routes and needs. Celtel is best avoided due to outdated technology and limited services.
2. Buy an eSIM from esimmozambique.com
A more convenient option is to buy an eSIM plan from esimmozambique.com, which is Mozambique’s leading eSIM provider powered by GIGAGO. They offer affordable data packages on reliable networks without any contracts or deposits.
XII. FAQs about Movitel in Mozambique
Is Movitel the only mobile network operator in Mozambique?
No, there are other operators such as Vodacom and mCel, but Movitel is the only one that offers 4G coverage.
Can I use my Movitel SIM card or eSIM in other countries?
Yes, Movitel has international roaming services available in several countries. However, rates may vary, so it’s best to check with Movitel before traveling.
Can I keep my Movitel SIM card or eSIM for future trips to Mozambique?
Yes, you can keep your SIM card or eSIM and top-up your account with credit when you return to Mozambique.
Are there any data packages specifically designed for tourists?
Yes, Movitel offers a Tourist Pack that includes 1 GB of data, 30 minutes of local calls, and 30 local texts for $5 USD. This package is valid for 7 days.
Can I use my Movitel SIM card or eSIM in a dual-SIM phone?
Yes, you can use both physical SIM cards and eSIMs in a dual-SIM phone.
XIII. Final Words
In conclusion, Movitel is a reliable and affordable option for tourists looking to stay connected during their trip to Mozambique. With its extensive coverage, decent speed, and various connectivity options, it’s no wonder that Movitel is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. We hope this blog post has provided you with all the information you need to know about Movitel SIM cards and eSIMs for tourists. Happy travels!
