Safaricom is a Kenyan mobile network operator that provides telecommunication services to over 40 million customers.
The company offers a wide range of products and services, including voice calls, messaging, internet access, and mobile money transfer through its M-PESA platform.
When it comes to roaming, Safaricom allows its customers to use their mobile phones and data services while travelling abroad.
However, to access data services while roaming, customers need to buy roaming data bundles that are valid in the countries they are travelling to.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to purchase roaming data bundles from Safaricom.
We will discuss the various options available, the costs involved, and the steps required to activate the data bundle.
Safaricom Data Roaming Bundles
The Safaricom Data Roaming Bundles enables Safaricom PrePay and PostPay subscribers roaming in specific countries to browse the internet at an affordable rate.
The countries, otherwise identified as Zone 1 countries are Ghana, South Africa, Netherlands and China.
The service which was launched in September 2017 is open to all Safaricom PrePay and PostPay subscribers roaming in Zone 1 countries.
How to buy roaming Safaricom Data
Step 1: Dial *100*50# (Prepay) or *200*50# (Postpay) when roaming in any of the countries in zone 1 and select ‘Data roaming bundles’.
Your country will be automatically picked by the network. Alternatively, you can enter the name of your country name in full.
Step 2: The following bundle options will be displayed: Daily, Weekly and Monthly bundles. You will be required to select your preferred bundle and confirm purchase of the bundle.
Step 3: Upon successful purchase, you will receive a notification message confirming purchase of the bundle as well as the validity period.
Validity of Safaricom Data Roaming Bundles
The validity of the bundles will be as follows;
- Daily bundle is valid for twenty (24) hours from the time of purchase.
- Weekly bundle is valid for seven (7) days from the date of purchase.
- Monthly bundle is valid for thirty (30) days from the date of purchase.
If you purchase a new bundle when you still have a valid bundle, the new bundle purchased will be added to the old balance and the validity of the total balance will be extended based on the validity of the new bundle.
Upon depletion of the purchased data roaming bundle, should you continue to browse the internet, you will be charged the published data roaming rates from the airtime on your mobile or any airtime topped up.
Please note that MyDataManager will not be available when roaming in the zone 1 countries.
Safaricom will send to you periodic notifications informing you of the balance on your bundle so that you can prepare to purchase another bundle should you still require resources.
You can purchase the Bundle as many times in the day as you wish, and you can check your bundle balance by dialing *100*50# or *200*50# and selecting the ‘check balance’ option.
The Safaricom Data Roaming Bundle resources will have priority over EA Roaming Bundle and Vodafone Roaming Bundle resources if you have subscribed to both services.
How to buy international Safaricom bundles
Dial *444# then select International. You can also dial *100# or *200# and select Products and Services or *456# and select Buy.
How to activate mobile data while roaming
- Go to the Settings app.
- Tap on Connections.
- Tap on Mobile Networks.
- Tap on the switch to activate Data Roaming.
How to use Safaricom bundles outside Kenya
- Dial *200# and select “Products and Services”.
- Select “Safaricom Roaming”.
- Select “Activate roaming service” and either:
- Data, Voice and SMS.
- Voice and SMS Only.
- Accept the terms and conditions, “Ts&Cs” as published on www.safaricom.co.ke.
- Enter your M-PESA PIN for authentication.
Safaricom Data Roaming Bundles FAQs
What is data roaming?
Data roaming is the use of mobile data services, such as internet browsing, email, and multimedia messaging, while traveling outside your home country.
How does data roaming work?
When you travel to another country, your mobile device connects to a foreign network. To access data services, your device needs to authenticate with the foreign network and use its infrastructure to transmit and receive data.
How much does data roaming cost?
The cost of data roaming varies depending on your mobile carrier and the country you are visiting. Data roaming charges can be expensive, so it’s important to check with your carrier before you travel to understand their rates and options.
Can I use data roaming without paying extra charges?
No, data roaming always incurs extra charges. However, some mobile carriers offer roaming packages that allow you to use data services at a reduced rate.
How can I avoid data roaming charges?
One way to avoid data roaming charges is to turn off data roaming on your device before you travel. Another way is to use Wi-Fi whenever possible to access the internet and other data services.
Is it possible to buy a local SIM card in the country I am visiting?
Yes, buying a local SIM card is a good option if you plan to use a lot of data services while abroad. It’s important to check if your device is compatible with the local network and if you need to unlock your device before buying a local SIM card.
How can I monitor my data usage while roaming?
You can monitor your data usage by checking your mobile carrier’s app or website, or by setting up alerts for data usage on your device. Some mobile carriers also offer data usage notifications and caps to help you avoid unexpected charges.
Can I use data roaming in all countries?
No, data roaming is not available in all countries. Your mobile carrier should be able to advise you on the countries where data roaming is available and the rates for using it.
Is data roaming safe?
Data roaming is generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with using public Wi-Fi and to take appropriate security measures, such as using a virtual private network (VPN).
What should I do if I have issues with data roaming?
If you have issues with data roaming, such as poor signal or unexpected charges, contact your mobile carrier’s customer service. They should be able to help you resolve any issues and provide advice on how to avoid similar issues in the future.