« Here Also It Has Signal »: Your Complete Guide to Traveling Connected in Mauritania with an eSIM

Introduction

Mauritania. That name alone conjures images of endless sand dunes, thousand-year-old caravanserais, and the almost surreal silence of the Sahara. But when someone says “Mauritania,” you might also think: “Will my phone actually work there?” Stay connected in Mauritania with our simpleSIM to ensure seamless communication during your travels.

Spoiler: Yes.

Our SimpleSim team spent several days crossing the Mauritanian desert. We’re here to tell you why an eSIM isn’t just convenient for this trip — it’s absolutely essential.

Why Mauritania in Winter? Africa’s Best-Kept Secret

While Europe shivers through rainy, snowy December, Mauritania basks in generous sunshine and perfect temperatures. We’re talking 25 to 30°C during the day, nearly perpetual clear skies, and crisp nights ideal for sleeping under the stars.

December and January are the perfect months to discover this country. Temperatures are pleasant, rainfall is nonexistent, and the golden desert light offers sunsets worthy of a postcard. It’s also the season when migratory birds stop over at Banc d’Arguin National Park, creating a unique natural spectacle.

In short, if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to escape the European winter, Mauritania checks every box.

« Here Also It Has Signal »: On-the-Ground Test in the Mauritanian Desert

Many travelers imagine that the desert means total disconnection. It’s romantic on paper, but in reality, having internet access in Mauritania dramatically changes the travel experience.

Our team tested a SimpleSim eSIM everywhere we went. Here’s the verdict, site by site.

In the Sahara Dunes: Connected in the Middle of Nowhere
Our first test, and arguably the most impressive: deep in the dunes of the Mauritanian Erg. We expected to lose signal as soon as we ventured away from the main road. Surprise: even several kilometers from the highways, 4G came through.

Being able to share photos of the sunset dunes live, check tomorrow’s weather, or simply reassure loved ones back home — all without interruption. Local operators Mattel and Mauritel provide excellent coverage in the desert areas frequented by travelers.

In Chinguetti: Between Ancient Manuscripts and Modern 4G
Chinguetti, this thousand-year-old city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a magical place. Its sand-paved streets, ancient libraries filled with Middle Ages manuscripts, its ochre stone houses… You feel transported to another era.

But here too, signal works great. We were able to consult historical information online while visiting the family libraries, translate Arabic passages with Google Lens, and even make a few video calls to show this architectural treasure to colleagues back in the office.

At Banc d’Arguin: Connected Between Sea and Desert
Banc d’Arguin National Park is one of Mauritania’s most spectacular natural sites. This vast ornithological reserve, a UNESCO site, is home to millions of migratory birds and the Imraguen people — legendary fishermen who work in symbiosis with dolphins.

Even in this remote area between the Atlantic Ocean and the desert, network coverage is surprisingly good. We were able to consult ornithological guides online, identify bird species in real time, and share our observations with nature enthusiasts back home.

On the Road to Richat Structure: Africa’s Eye Well Connected
The Richat Structure, also called “the Eye of Africa,” is a fascinating geological formation visible from space. This curious natural feature spans 50 kilometers in diameter and attracts adventurers from around the world.

Access requires a local guide and considerable preparation. Having reliable connectivity throughout the journey allows you to stay in contact with your guide, check your GPS position, and share this unique experience live.

Why an eSIM is Essential for Traveling in Mauritania

You might think: “Why not just buy a local SIM card upon arrival?” Good question. Here’s why SimpleSim’s eSIM wins hands down.

Time Savings from the Start
At Nouakchott airport, like many African airports, finding a SIM card vendor can be complicated. Lines are long, explanations often confusing, and you risk losing an hour while your guide already waits outside.

With an eSIM, you install it comfortably from your couch before you leave. The moment your plane lands and you disable airplane mode, you’re connected. No stress, no queues, no wasted time.

You Keep Your French Number
This is a huge advantage often underestimated. With an eSIM, your French SIM card remains active in your phone. You can receive calls and SMS on your usual number (useful for bank verification codes or family emergencies) while using your eSIM’s mobile data for internet.

WhatsApp, Signal, and other messaging apps continue working with your French number but use the eSIM’s local connection. It’s truly the best of both worlds.

Connection Sharing: One eSIM for the Whole Family
Traveling with family or friends? No need to buy an eSIM for each person. You can enable hotspot sharing from your phone and share your data with others. Handy for helping kids, a friend whose phone isn’t eSIM-compatible, or even your connected camera.

Price Transparency: Zero Surprises
With SimpleSim, what you see is what you pay. No hidden fees, no surprise overcharges when you get home. You choose your plan based on your trip duration and data needs, and that’s it. No more anxiety about getting a hefty international roaming bill from your French provider.

How to Install Your SimpleSim eSIM for Mauritania

It’s really simple, we promise. Even your grandmother could do it.

Step 1: Check Compatibility
Make sure your smartphone supports eSIM. Most recent iPhones (XS and newer), Samsung Galaxy phones (S20 and newer), and many other recent Android models are compatible.

Step 2: Choose Your Plan
Visit simplesim.fr and select the Africa or Mauritania plan that matches your trip duration and data needs.

Step 3: Receive Your QR Code
You receive a QR code immediately by email after purchase.

Step 4: Install Your eSIM
Scan the QR code from your phone’s settings (ideally before leaving, from your home Wi-Fi).

Step 5: Activate Upon Arrival
Once in Mauritania, enable data roaming on your eSIM. You’re connected in seconds.

With SimpleSim, you can easily top up your plan if you run out of data during your trip.

Local Operators in Mauritania: Who Covers What?

In Mauritania, three main operators share the market: Mauritel, Mattel, and Chinguitel. SimpleSim eSIMs automatically connect to the best available network based on your location, typically Mattel or Mauritel, which offer the best 4G LTE coverage in tourist areas.

4G coverage reaches about 12% of Mauritania’s population, concentrated in urban areas and main tourist routes. 3G covers about 72% of the population. In very remote areas, you’ll sometimes drop to 3G, but the connection remains more than sufficient for essential uses.

Practical Tips for Your Connected Mauritania Trip

Disable automatic app updates : Apps updating automatically in the background can consume lots of data. Disable this in your settings.

Download offline maps : Even with data, download Google Maps for Mauritania in offline mode before leaving. It uses less battery and data.

Bring an external battery : The desert is magnificent, but electrical outlets are rare. A large external battery is essential.

Protect your phone from sand : Sahara’s fine sand gets everywhere. A waterproof pouch will protect your phone.

Conclusion: Connected Mauritania is Serene Mauritania

Mauritania is an extraordinary destination deserving to be fully experienced, without logistical stress. Having reliable connectivity through a SimpleSim eSIM lets you enjoy the adventure while keeping a connection to the outside world when you need it.

Whether you’re coming to photograph the golden dunes, discover Chinguetti’s thousand-year history, observe migratory birds at Banc d’Arguin, or simply escape the European winter, an eSIM is your best ally.

Ready to explore the Mauritanian desert?
👉 Discover our eSIM plans for Africa and stay connected everywhere, even in the heart of the Sahara.
Visit simplesim.fr

Introduction

Egypt is a dream destination: the sheer size of the Pyramids of Giza, the calm of a Dahabiyat on the Nile, the vibrant colors of Luxor’s temples… But let’s be honest, as soon as you land in Cairo, a practical worry often pops up: “How am I going to get internet without racking up a huge phone bill?”

Between the endless lines at airport kiosks to buy a local SIM card and the panic of turning on mobile data (and getting a hefty bill from your home carrier), there is now a much simpler solution: the eSIM.

Our simpleSIM team just returned from a trip to Egypt. Here is why it’s the essential accessory for your trip, whether you are traveling with family, friends, or for business.

Why Egypt Requires Constant Connection

Egypt isn’t a destination where you want to be offline. And it’s not just because we can’t resist posting Instagram stories (even though that’s important!). Having data in Egypt is primarily a matter of comfort and safety.

During our trip, our eSIM saved the day more than once:

Getting around Cairo: Traffic is dense and chaotic. Accessing Uber or Careem is vital for safe travel at a fixed price.
Instant Translation: Signs and menus aren’t always in English. A quick use of Google Lens, and hieroglyphs (or modern Arabic) become understandable.
Guides in Your Pocket: Standing in front of the Sphinx or in the Valley of the Kings, having access to Wikipedia or online audio guides significantly enriches the visit.

“It Works Here Too”: The Real-Life Team Test

Many travelers worry that network coverage might be spotty in the desert or on the river. We wanted to find out for sure.

We activated our simpleSIM Egypt profiles right before departure. Here is our verdict from the field:

1. At the Foot of the Pyramids (Giza)

This is the ultimate crash test. In the middle of the Giza Plateau, facing 4,500 years of history, the 5G signal was perfect. Sharing this moment via FaceTime with family back home? No problem at all.

*Facing eternity… with full 5G bars. Photo taken by the simpleSIM team at the Giza Plateau.*

2. Cruising the Nile

We often assume that signal disappears on the water. Wrong. Between Luxor and Aswan, the Nile is very well covered. It’s the perfect time to sort through your photos, answer a few work emails, or check the next day’s itinerary, comfortably settled on the cushions of the upper deck.

*Office of the day: a felucca on the Nile. Flawless network coverage between Luxor and Aswan.*

3. In the Temples (Philae, Karnak)

Even in more remote sites like the magnificent Temple of Philae (accessible only by boat), the connection remains stable.

*Deep into history at Philae Temple. Even on the island, the eSIM stays active for your online guide.*

eSIM vs. Local SIM: The Showdown

Still hesitating to buy a local card at the airport? Here is why the eSIM wins for modern travelers:

Time Saver: No need to queue at the Vodafone or Orange counter upon arrival (when you’re already tired from the flight). You install your eSIM from your couch before leaving, and you know you’ll be connected the moment you switch off Airplane Mode upon landing.
Convenience: Your domestic SIM (or eSIM) stays in your phone. No need for a paperclip to take it out or worry about losing it. You keep your home number and remain reachable in case of emergency. WhatsApp works with your usual number while using the eSIM data.
Hotspot Sharing: Traveling in a group or as a couple? Our eSIMs allow tethering (hotspot). A single eSIM can get the kids or friends online.

How to Install Your eSIM for Egypt?

It’s easier than assembling IKEA furniture.

Choose your plan on our Egypt page.
Receive your QR code by email immediately.
Scan it (ideally before boarding your flight).
Once you land on Egyptian soil, turn on “Data Roaming” for the eSIM line. That’s it!

Conclusion

Egypt is an unforgettable adventure, a deep dive into human history. Don’t let technical issues spoil the experience. With an eSIM, you enjoy the best of both worlds: total escape and the security of being connected whenever you need to be.

Ready to go? 👉 Discover our eSIM offers for Egypt starting at just a few euros.

Category: Africa