Data bundle issues between South Africa and Namibia

L

Leftfoot

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Hi all,

I am wanting to purchase a SIM card that can have Data loaded for use between South Africa and Namibia.

I have an IPad app called AirNav PRo and it requires a data link for weather data while we fly privately between the two countries.

If I purchase a SIM in Johannesburg does it have to be specifically enabled for data roaming. Does anyone know what the difference is in data costs between these countries.

Who would be the best service provider for this (mtn, vodacom.....or other)

Thanks in advance!
 
Satelite data link - not sure - just trying to be clever... :)

Just thinking about uploading wheather data just before leaving airport and on arrival buy Namibian SIM card and use local data. The cheapest way.
 
The iPad should have Wi-Fi and you might be better to see if you airports that you use, use the same provider for Wi-Fi internet access or hotspots as they seem to be called now.

Data roaming is painfully overpriced as are all data services in Africa! :(
 
Thanks for your replies so guys. I think the idea that the app can fetch data (NOTAMs and weather) live while flying around the desert sounds great. The trick is to get the data connectivity in the first place.
As it stands I think that SAJunkie's option is what we may be forced to do unless there are better roaming options from SA providers.
We have a satellite phone but I'm sure the data is extremely slow and probably very expensive.
 
Just check if there are data services on the plane. Some airlines allow WiFi and supply relevant services during the trip. Cellphone data is definitely no go.
 
Understand... Then you must be aware of maximum speed. If recall correctly, you can't connect to GSM network if your speed (relative to the tower) exceed something like +/-250km/h. It had been improved on 3G network, but didn't follow how much.
 
WE have used it successfully from JHB to Upington (hotspot using a MTN cellhone on 3G/EDGE), A little patchy with 3G but usable. Added bonus is that with the iPad we can be tracked in the air by family and friends using "find my friends" APP. :-)
So now just to figure out how to continue the coverage over Namibia, even if we have to circle a cell tower there for a while. :-)
 
Hi Leftfoot,

Difficult to achieve with one sim and not pay silly roaming rates.
All relative, but if your consumption is more than a few MB, it's going to bite.
Best bet is to use a Mifi and swap the sims when you go cross-border.
MTC for Nam, Vod or MTN for SA.
Load up with prepaid credit before you go.

If you want to use just one device, try www.execmobile.co.za they've got a router that takes up to 9 sims and works almost anywhere.
 
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