East Africa Power Plugs, SIM Cards and Mobile Phones: What Travellers Need

East African electricity is 230 volts at 50 hertz, so most phones and laptops work without a converter. Sockets differ, and lodges in remote areas may have limited charging hours.

This page lists plug types and explains local SIM cards and mobile data.

This guide is part of our Uganda facts and travel information guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Plug Types

A universal adaptor with USB ports covers all four countries.

Charging on Safari

Many camps run on solar or generator power and may charge devices only at certain times. Bring a power bank and ask the lodge about charging. Vehicles often have USB sockets or inverters for cameras.

SIM Cards and Mobile Data

Local SIM cards are cheap and easy to buy at the airport or in town, and registration needs a passport. eSIMs also work on many phones. Coverage is good in towns and weaker in parks. See Uganda SIM cards, electricity and connectivity.

Roaming and Wi-Fi

Check roaming charges from your home provider, and use lodge Wi-Fi where available.

Plug Types and Voltage

East African countries mostly use type G, with some type D and type C sockets, at about 230 volts. A universal adapter is safest. Check that your devices accept the voltage, which most phone and camera chargers do.

Getting Connected

Local SIM cards are cheap and easy to buy with a passport. eSIMs work in many phones. Data coverage is good in towns and weaker in remote parks. Lodge Wi-Fi may be slow or limited.

Charging in the Bush

Camps often run on solar and may charge devices only at set times. Bring a power bank and spare batteries, and keep devices in a dust-proof bag.

Staying Safe Online

Use secure networks, keep your phone updated and avoid public Wi-Fi for banking. Back up photos while travelling. Mobile money scams exist, so verify requests before sending money.

Phone Etiquette on Safari

Silence your phone in vehicles, avoid loud calls and respect other guests. Use airplane mode in forests where signals disturb little. Put cameras above calls.

Offline Tools

Download offline maps, translation apps, bird guides and boarding passes before departure. Save emergency numbers and lodge contacts. Use airplane mode in forests to preserve battery and protect wildlife from distractions. A small paper notebook is a reliable backup when batteries die.

Charging Etiquette

Charge devices when power is available and share outlets politely. Use a multi-port charger to reduce plugs. Avoid leaving devices charging unattended in tents. Save battery by lowering brightness and closing apps. A small solar charger can help on long treks.

Related Guides

See packing list and luggage.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team