In Equatorial Guinea, the mobile market in February 2026 remains one of the most expensive in the world for data, though recent government efforts have focused on reducing rates and expanding 4G/LTE coverage. The market is primarily a duopoly between the state-majority owned Getesa and the private challenger Muni.
Major Carrier Offers
Operators in Equatorial Guinea have recently moved toward "Pacotes Internet Móvel" which bundle data with specific time validities.
* Muni (The Data Competitor):
Muni is often viewed as the more aggressive competitor for data-heavy users.
* Daily Packs: Range from 250MB for 250 XAF to 1.5GB for 1,250 XAF.
* Weekly Packs: A mid-tier 5GB (+3GB night bonus) costs approx. 7,500 XAF.
* Monthly Packs: Their top-tier plans include 15GB for 17,500 XAF and 30GB for 25,000 XAF.
* Activation: Dial *123# (Option 3) and check balance via *555#.
* Getesa (The Coverage Leader):
Getesa (formerly Orange) provides the most extensive network, especially in rural Bioko and Rio Muni.
* Standard Data: Pricing is generally higher than Muni, with 1GB monthly packs starting around 10,000 XAF and 10GB reaching 60,000 XAF.
* 4G Expansion: Getesa is currently promoting its 4G network in Malabo and Bata as the "most stable" for professional use.
* Bundle Purchase: Typically managed through the Getesa portal or via USSD menus.
Smartphone & Flagship Deals
High-end smartphones are available in Malabo and Bata, primarily through official carrier boutiques and specialized importers.
* Samsung Galaxy S26 & S25:
* Galaxy S26: Launched globally this week (February 25, 2026). Local pre-orders are starting at high-end tech shops in Malabo, though prices are steep due to import duties.
* Galaxy S25 Ultra: Seeing price drops, currently retailing for approximately 650,000–750,000 XAF.
* iPhone 17 Series:
* The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the trending status symbol, available at specialized retailers for upwards of 1,100,000 XAF.
* Budget 5G: Brands like Tecno and Infinix dominate the volume market. The Tecno Spark 30 series is a popular budget choice this month, often bundled with a starter SIM and small data bonuses.
Visitor & Tourist Information
* Local SIM: A SIM card costs between USD 5 and USD 10 (approx. 3,000–6,000 XAF). Registration with a passport is strictly required at the point of sale (airport or official boutique).
* Travel eSIMs (2026 Picks):
* GigSky: Offers unique Unlimited Data plans for Equatorial Guinea (speeds reduced after 2.5GB/day), which is a rare find in this market.
* SimOptions: Provides a 1GB / 31-day plan for approx. $39.90.
* MobilityPass: Offers QR-code based instant activation with credits valid for 365 days.
Important Notes for 2026
* World's Most Expensive Data: Historically, Equatorial Guinea has ranked as the most expensive country for 1GB of data (averaging near $40-$50 in past years). While prices have decreased in 2026, it remains significantly costlier than neighboring Gabon or Cameroon.
* Network Reliability: 4G is reliable in the main cities (Malabo, Bata, Ebebiyin). If traveling to remote areas of the continental region, expect 3G or 2G speeds.
* Mobile Money: Getesa Money and Muni Money are becoming standard for recharging accounts, often providing a small discount over physical scratch cards.
Major Carrier Offers
Operators in Equatorial Guinea have recently moved toward "Pacotes Internet Móvel" which bundle data with specific time validities.
* Muni (The Data Competitor):
Muni is often viewed as the more aggressive competitor for data-heavy users.
* Daily Packs: Range from 250MB for 250 XAF to 1.5GB for 1,250 XAF.
* Weekly Packs: A mid-tier 5GB (+3GB night bonus) costs approx. 7,500 XAF.
* Monthly Packs: Their top-tier plans include 15GB for 17,500 XAF and 30GB for 25,000 XAF.
* Activation: Dial *123# (Option 3) and check balance via *555#.
* Getesa (The Coverage Leader):
Getesa (formerly Orange) provides the most extensive network, especially in rural Bioko and Rio Muni.
* Standard Data: Pricing is generally higher than Muni, with 1GB monthly packs starting around 10,000 XAF and 10GB reaching 60,000 XAF.
* 4G Expansion: Getesa is currently promoting its 4G network in Malabo and Bata as the "most stable" for professional use.
* Bundle Purchase: Typically managed through the Getesa portal or via USSD menus.
Smartphone & Flagship Deals
High-end smartphones are available in Malabo and Bata, primarily through official carrier boutiques and specialized importers.
* Samsung Galaxy S26 & S25:
* Galaxy S26: Launched globally this week (February 25, 2026). Local pre-orders are starting at high-end tech shops in Malabo, though prices are steep due to import duties.
* Galaxy S25 Ultra: Seeing price drops, currently retailing for approximately 650,000–750,000 XAF.
* iPhone 17 Series:
* The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the trending status symbol, available at specialized retailers for upwards of 1,100,000 XAF.
* Budget 5G: Brands like Tecno and Infinix dominate the volume market. The Tecno Spark 30 series is a popular budget choice this month, often bundled with a starter SIM and small data bonuses.
Visitor & Tourist Information
* Local SIM: A SIM card costs between USD 5 and USD 10 (approx. 3,000–6,000 XAF). Registration with a passport is strictly required at the point of sale (airport or official boutique).
* Travel eSIMs (2026 Picks):
* GigSky: Offers unique Unlimited Data plans for Equatorial Guinea (speeds reduced after 2.5GB/day), which is a rare find in this market.
* SimOptions: Provides a 1GB / 31-day plan for approx. $39.90.
* MobilityPass: Offers QR-code based instant activation with credits valid for 365 days.
Important Notes for 2026
* World's Most Expensive Data: Historically, Equatorial Guinea has ranked as the most expensive country for 1GB of data (averaging near $40-$50 in past years). While prices have decreased in 2026, it remains significantly costlier than neighboring Gabon or Cameroon.
* Network Reliability: 4G is reliable in the main cities (Malabo, Bata, Ebebiyin). If traveling to remote areas of the continental region, expect 3G or 2G speeds.
* Mobile Money: Getesa Money and Muni Money are becoming standard for recharging accounts, often providing a small discount over physical scratch cards.
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