eSIM for Reunion: Prepaid Mobile Data for Your Trip
A travel eSIM gives you mobile data in Reunion without hunting for a local SIM card or paying roaming fees. Install before you fly, connect on arrival.
Prepaid eSIM for Reunion
- Install by QR code before departure, activates on arrival
- Keep your own number for calls and WhatsApp
- Hotspot sharing allowed, top up from the app
Scan with your phone camera to open the app
How an eSIM works in Reunion
An eSIM is a digital SIM profile you install on your phone through a QR code. You purchase a data plan through the eSIM app, scan the code over Wi-Fi at home, then switch it on when you land in Reunion. Your original SIM stays in the phone for calls and texts, while the eSIM handles mobile data.
- Download the eSIM app and buy a Reunion data plan before your trip.
- Install the eSIM profile by scanning the QR code over Wi-Fi - do this before you leave home.
- Once in Reunion, turn on data roaming for the eSIM line and select it as your primary data source in settings.
- Top up from the app if you need more data during your stay.
Coverage and networks in Reunion
The provider's plan connects to the TELCO network across Reunion. Coverage is reliable along the coastal road, in Saint-Denis, Saint-Pierre, and most built-up areas. The volcanic interior and higher slopes of Piton de la Fournaise can see weaker or patchy signal.
| Operator | Technology | Where It Is Strongest |
|---|---|---|
| TELCO | 3G / LTE | Saint-Denis, Saint-Pierre, coastal towns, main highways |
5G is not yet deployed on the network supported by this plan. LTE speeds are adequate for navigation, messaging, and video calls. Remote hiking trails and the Cirques may drop to 3G or lose service entirely, so download offline maps if you plan to explore the backcountry.
Which plan for which trip
Match your data allowance to how long you'll be on the island and what you'll use it for. Streaming and social media uploads consume more than map lookups and messaging.
| Trip Type | Days | Typical Usage | Suggested Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekend beach and city break | 3-4 | Maps, messaging, photo uploads | 2-3 GB |
| One week exploring coast and volcano | 7 | Navigation, video calls, social media | 5-7 GB |
| Two weeks hiking and beaches | 14 | Regular streaming, cloud photo backup | 10-15 GB |
| One month digital nomad | 30 | Daily video calls, file uploads, streaming | 20-30 GB or unlimited |
Plans start from $1.03 per GB. If you prefer not to track usage, the provider also offers unlimited daily plans from $1.63 per day - details on the unlimited data eSIM page.
eSIM vs a local SIM card in Reunion
You can buy a local prepaid SIM at Roland Garros Airport in Saint-Denis or in mobile shops in town. Expect to show your passport and fill in a registration form. Shop staff usually speak French; English is less common outside tourist areas.
Local SIM
Queue at airport kiosk or find a shop in town, navigate activation in French, surrender your passport for registration.
eSIM
Install at home in two minutes, no paperwork, data ready the moment you land.
Time
Local SIM setup takes 20-40 minutes including travel to a shop. eSIM is active on arrival.
Cost
Local SIM prices are comparable, but you lose time and need to manage a physical card.
More comparison details on the eSIM vs local SIM page.
Phone compatibility and setup before you fly
Not every phone supports eSIM. Check the list and prepare your device before departure.
Pre-flight checklist:
- Your phone must be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-capable - check compatible models.
- Install the eSIM profile over Wi-Fi at home; do not wait until you land.
- Save a screenshot of the QR code in case you need to reinstall.
- Label the eSIM line 'Reunion Data' in your phone settings so you don't confuse it with your primary SIM.
- Check that data roaming is enabled for the eSIM line once you arrive.
Staying connected in Reunion: practical tips
Reunion has no national firewall, so WhatsApp, Instagram, and Google services work without restrictions. Download offline maps for Piton de la Fournaise and the Cirques before you set out - signal is unreliable in the interior.
European Type E plugs are standard. Bring an adapter or a portable battery pack if you plan long hikes. Coastal resorts and Saint-Denis have reliable power, but charging points are scarce on mountain trails.
If your eSIM won't connect, restart your phone and confirm data roaming is on for the correct line. More fixes on the eSIM troubleshooting page.
Other destinations in Africa
Reunion is part of our Africa eSIM coverage. If you're island-hopping to Mauritius or travelling onward to the mainland, single-country plans are available for Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Algeria. Multi-country regional plans cover several destinations in one package if your itinerary spans more than one border.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to pay a deposit or sign a contract to activate an eSIM for Reunion?
No deposit or contract is required. You pay for the data plan upfront in the app, install the profile via QR code, and the eSIM is ready to use when you land.
When does the validity period of my Reunion eSIM plan start counting down?
The plan timer starts the first time your phone connects to the network in Reunion, not when you install the QR code. Check the plan page for any exceptions.
Can I share my Reunion eSIM data with another device using a personal hotspot?
Hotspot availability depends on the specific plan. Check the plan page in the app for details on tethering and Fair Use Policy limits.
Will I have a local Reunion phone number for making calls with this eSIM?
This eSIM is data-only; it does not provide a phone number or traditional voice minutes. Use WhatsApp, Telegram, or FaceTime over the data connection for calls. Your original SIM remains active for your home number.
Is 5G available on the Reunion eSIM network?
5G is not currently available on the TELCO network supported by this plan. You will connect via LTE or 3G depending on location.
What should I do if my eSIM does not connect when I arrive in Reunion?
Restart your phone, confirm data roaming is turned on for the eSIM line, and manually select TELCO in network settings if automatic search fails. The troubleshooting guide has step-by-step fixes for common issues.
Get your Reunion eSIM now
Install your data plan at home, land connected, and spend your time exploring the island instead of looking for a SIM card shop. Plans start from $1.03 per GB.
Get Reunion eSIM→