If you are wondering which Kyrgyzstan mobile operator is the best for travelers, Megacom SIM card and eSIM is the ideal option for you. They will ensure you stay connected throughout your trip with fast mobile data and affordable rates. Find everything you need to know about buying and using a Megacom SIM card and eSIM as a tourist in Kyrgyzstan with this detailed guide.
Table of Contents
1. Quick facts about Megacom
Megacom is one of the leading telecommunication companies in Kyrgyzstan. It provides a wide range of services including mobile, fixed-line, and internet services. Here is some information about MegaCom:
- Founded in 2006
- The largest mobile operator in Kyrgyzstan
- Over 5 million subscribers
- Has the best coverage reaching over 98% of the population
- Offers 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE networks
- Popular prepaid SIM card options for tourists
- eSIM is available
- Affordable data bundles, calls and SMS rates
- Wide network of stores and sales outlets across Kyrgyzstan
In general, Megacom is a favorable option mobile services in Kyrgyzstan. It presents a diverse selection of mobile packages at reasonable rates and boasts strong network coverage.
2. Kyrgyzstan Megacom Coverage and Speed
It’s important to know Megacom’s network coverage and speeds across Kyrgyzstan, before make a decisions.
2.1. Megacom Coverage in Kyrgyzstan
Megacom has the most extensive network in Kyrgyzstan covering over 98% of the population. Its network reaches all major cities and towns across the country including Bishkek, Osh, Jalal-Abad, Karakol, Naryn, Talas, Batken, Tokmok, Kara-Balta etc.
Megacom uses the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for 2G coverage, 2100 MHz for 3G and 800 MHz and 2600 MHz bands for its 4G/LTE network.
As a tourist, you can expect seamless connectivity with Megacom wherever you travel in Kyrgyzstan whether trekking in remote mountains or exploring bustling city streets.
2.2. Megacom Speed
MegaCom offers varying internet speeds in Kyrgyzstan, depending on your location, network technology used (2G, 3G, 4G), and specific tariff plan. Here’s a breakdown following SpeedChecker Insights:
- Average Download Speed: 29 Mbps
- Average Upload Speed: 13.80 Mbps
Speeds vary based on location, network congestion, device etc. But in general, Megacom’s 4G network offers high-speed connectivity suitable for HD video streaming, video calls etc. 3G is good enough for social media, web browsing etc.
3. Megacom connectivity options for travelers to Kyrgyzstan
It offers both Megacom SIM card and eSIM for tourists visiting Kyrgyzstan. Let’s look at the differences:
| Connectivity Option | Description |
| Prepaid SIM Card | Provide access to voice calls, SMS, and mobile data services. |
| Tourist Packages | Offer a combination of voice, SMS, and data services at discounted rates for a specific duration. |
| Convenient for short-term stays and can be activated on prepaid SIM cards. | |
| eSIM | Allow to activate Megacom's services directly on your compatible device without the need for a physical SIM card. |
| Provides the same voice, SMS, and data services as traditional SIM cards. | |
| Mobile Wi-Fi Rental | Provide internet connectivity on the go. |
| Albe to onnect multiple devices | |
| Roaming Services | For travelers who want to use their existing mobile numbers while visiting Kyrgyzstan. Enables visitors to connect to their home networks and use voice, SMS, and data services. |
As a tourist, you can choose whichever connectivity option works best for you and your devices. The coverage and rates are the same.
4. Best Megacom SIM cards for tourists & cost
MegaCom Kyrgyzstan does not offer any tourist-specific plans. A MegaCom SIM card costs around 10 som (~$0.11 USD). Here are some of the best prepaid plan options from Megacom for tourists, along with indicative pricing:
| MegaCom Prepaid Plans | Price (USD) | Data | Local Calls | Messages | Validity | Activation | Total Cost with SIM (USD) |
| Popular (Элдик) plan 50 | ~$0.5 | 1GB | 300 mins | 500 | 7 days | *303*50*1# | ~$0.6 |
| Popular (Элдик) plan 80 | ~$0.9 | 2.1GB | 500 mins | 1000 | 7 days | *303*80*1# | ~$0.9 |
| Popular (Элдик) plan 120 | ~$1.3 | 3.5GB | 950 mins | 1500 | 7 days | *303*120*1# | ~$1.4 |
| Popular (Элдик) plan 160 | ~$1.7 | 5.25GB | 1300 mins | 2000 | 7 days | *303*160*1# | ~$1.9 |
| Popular (Элдик) plan 210 | ~$2.3 | 7.35GB | 1500 mins | 2500 | 7 days | *303*210*1# | ~$2.4 |
| Popular Internet (Элдик Интернет) 90 | ~$1 | 6GB | 100 mins | 100 | 7 days | *303*90*1# | ~$1.1 |
| Popular Internet (Элдик Интернет) 130 | ~$1.4 | 8GB | 200 mins | 200 | 7 days | *303*130*1# | ~$1.5 |
| Popular Internet (Элдик Интернет) 170 | ~$3 | 12GB | 300 mins | 300 | 7 days | *303*170*1# | ~$3 |
All voice calls and SMS included in this plan are for on-net usage only. An activation charge of 60 som (~$0.6 USD) applies for switching to this plan using the given activation code.
5. Does Megacom Kyrgyzstan support eSIM?
Yes, Megacom does provide eSIM support but it is currently limited. eSIM activation for existing and new subscribers is FREE.
eSIM works on the latest phone. Check detailed in Kyrgyzstan eSIM Compatible Device List.
6. Where can you buy a Megacom SIM card and eSIM?
These are a few choices for purchasing a Megacom SIM card and eSIM in Kyrgyzstan.
6.1. Where to buy Megacom SIM Card for Kyrgyzstan
You can buy a Megacom SIM Card for Kyrgyzstan in several places, both before you arrive and after you land:
- Megacom Stores: Offer a range of telecommunication services, including SIM cards. Simply visit the nearest Megacom store and inquire about their tourist SIM card options.
- Airports: Upon arrival at the international airports in Kyrgyzstan, you can find kiosks or authorized resellers where you can purchase a Megacom SIM card.
- Authorized Resellers: Megacom has authorized resellers spread across various cities and towns in Kyrgyzstan.
- Online: Megacom SIM cards may also be available for purchase through online platforms or e-commerce websites.
6.2. Where to buy Megacom eSIM
You need to come to MEGA service centers around the country and receive a unique QR code to activate the eSIM in the device settings, which you will need to scan with your device.
7. How to activate Megacom Kyrgyzstan SIM/eSIM
After buying a Megacom SIM card and eSIM, it needs to be activated before use on the network.
7.1. For physical SIM cards:
- Insert SIM in an unlocked phone
- Select Megacom network and restart if prompted
- Dial *105# for prepaid balance
- Top-up as required online or at stores
7.2. How to activate MegaCom Kyrgyzstan eSIM
Getting started with a Megacom eSIM for Kyrgyzstan is quite easy as follows:
- Install the eSIM
- Activate the eSIM
- Set up the eSIM
- Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.
That’s all! You will now be able to use your mobile device with a Megacom SIM Card and eSIM in Kyrgyzstan.
Please check your detailed instructions below to activate your eSIM correctly:
8. Kyrgyzstan Megacom Call & SMS rates
Here are the standard rates for calls and SMS on Megacom SIM Card and eSIM in Kyrgyzstan:
| Service | Rate per Minute/SMS (USD) |
| Local Calls (Megacom to Megacom) | $0.05 |
| Local Calls (Megacom to Other Networks) | $0.06 |
| International Calls | Starting from $0.10 |
| Incoming Calls (Roaming) | $0.10 |
| Outgoing Calls (Roaming) | Starting from $0.30 |
| Local SMS (Megacom to Megacom) | $0.03 |
| Local SMS (Megacom to Other Networks) | $0.04 |
| International SMS | $0.10 |
Please note that the call and SMS rates mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the specific plan, promotion, and destination. It is recommended to check with Megacom directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information.
9. Useful USSD codes for Kyrgyzstan Megacom SIM card and eSIM
Here are some useful USSD codes to activate services or check Megacom prepaid account balance:
- *500# – Check credit balance
- *678*2# – Check data and minus balance
- *105# – Check total balance
- *555*<PIN code># – To top-up by scratch card type.
Simply dial these codes directly on your Megacom SIM to use. No internet is required.
10. How to top-up Megacom SIM card and eSIM
You can recharge or top-up your Megacom prepaid credit through multiple convenient channels:
- Online: Use Megacom’s website or mobile app to recharge your number via credit/debit card. You can also pay through mobile wallets like Apple Pay.
- Megacom Stores: Walk into any branded Megacom store or dealer outlet across Kyrgyzstan for instant top-up.
- Vouchers: Purchase top-up vouchers from stores, kiosks, and sales outlets. Dial 122# to redeem.
- ATMs: Select ATMs from banks like OptimaBank that allow recharging Megacom via a connected debit card.
- International Transfer: International top-up services like www.worldremit.com can recharge Kyrgyzstan numbers via bank transfer for a small fee. Useful if traveling abroad.
Automated and online top-ups are the most convenient.
11. Alternatives to Kyrgyzstan Megacom
Some alternative mobile operators in Kyrgyzstan include:
- Beeline Kyrgyzstan – Second largest operator with good coverage.
- O! – Competitively priced data packs and calls.
- esimkyrgyzstan.com – provides eSIM data plans that allow you to stay connected in Kyrgyzstan without changing your physical SIM card. Plans start from around $ 8.
esimkyrgyzstan.com lets you use their eSIM data plans as a pay-as-you-go roaming solution without switching physical SIMs when traveling to Kyrgyzstan.
You can buy eSIM online from esimkyrgyzstan.com. Buy Kyrgyzstan eSIM plans online now with no paperwork. Choose from various affordable options starting from just $8 for 7 days of fast 4G data. Install in minutes for stress-free connectivity wherever you are. Go explore with an eSIM from esimkyrgyzstan.com.
12. FAQs about Megacom Kyrgyzstan
Does Megacom Kyrgyzstan offer 5G service?
Not yet. Currently, only 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE are available. 5G is expected to launch in 2024.
Can I use Megacom SIM in neighboring countries?
Roaming is possible in Kazakhstan but expensive. Other countries will not work. Buy a local SIM instead when traveling beyond Kyrgyzstan.
How long is a Megacom SIM card valid?
Validity is 1 month from the last top-up. To extend, simply recharge again before expiry.
What documentation do I need to buy a Megacom SIM?
Your original passport or a color copy of your passport is required while purchasing any SIM card in Kyrgyzstan.
13. Final words
Getting a Megacom SIM card or eSIM is highly recommended to stay conveniently connected across Kyrgyzstan during your travels. Their wide high-speed network, competitive rates, and ease of activation make them an ideal choice over other local operators for tourists. You can use this guide to find the right Megacom package, get it activated swiftly, and make the most of your connectivity. Safe travels!
