Staying connected with loved ones or business contacts in Africa has never been easier, thanks to modern technology and services tailored for international communication. No matter if you’re catching up with family or sealing a business deal, these options are designed to make international calling simple, affordable, and reliable. Below, we outline the five best ways to call Africa from abroad, their benefits, and how to get started.
Use Talk360 for Hassle-Free International Calls
One of the most reliable ways to call Africa is through Talk360, an app that allows you to make affordable and high-quality calls to both mobile phones and landlines.
Why Talk360 is a top choice:
- No internet required for the recipient: The person you're calling doesn’t need an internet connection or even the app.
- Ease of use: Simply download the app, add credit, and start calling instantly.
- Affordable rates: Competitive pricing helps you save on international call costs while ensuring stellar call quality.
How to get started:
- Download Talk360 from your app store.
- Create an account and purchase calling credits.
- Use the app to call any number in Africa directly.
Pros:
- Clear audio quality and a simple interface.
- Works across various devices like smartphones and tablets.
- Perfect for calling areas with limited internet access.
Cons:
- Requires credits to make calls, which may add extra steps for frequent users.
Dial Directly Using Country Codes
Calling Africa directly via landlines or mobile phones is a traditional and effective method. To do this, you’ll need to know the specific country’s international dialing code. For example:
- Nigeria has a code of +234.
- South Africa uses +27.
- Kenya is reachable with +254.
Follow these steps to dial Africa directly:
- Dial your country’s exit code (e.g., 011 for the US or 00 for the UK).
- Add the African country’s code (e.g., +44 for UK-based lines calling Africa).
- Enter the recipient’s phone number without leading zeros.
Pros:
- Familiar method for many users.
- Can connect to both mobile and landline numbers.
Cons:
- Typically more expensive compared to online apps or VoIP services.
- Call quality may vary depending on the service provider.
Leverage Internet-Based Apps for Free Calling
Apps such as WhatsApp, Signal, and Viber offer free internet-based calling options, provided both parties have a stable internet connection.
How these apps work:
- Both you and the recipient need the same app installed.
- Conversations happen over Wi-Fi or mobile data, eliminating costly international charges.
Pros:
- Free or very low cost, as apps only use data.
- Suitable for both audio and video calls.
Cons:
- Relies entirely on the strength of both parties' internet connections.
- Not ideal for areas with limited or no Wi-Fi.
Use VoIP Services for Cost-Effective Communication
VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) services like Dialpad and Boss Revolution are excellent options for businesses or individuals making frequent calls to Africa.
Key benefits of VoIP:
- VoIP services use the internet to make calls, offering competitive rates for international destinations.
- Features like call recording, voicemail-to-email transcription, and team connectivity make them a top choice for organizations.
Pros:
- Offers advanced features like call analytics for business use.
- Adapted for both mobile and desktop use.
Cons:
- Business-focused platforms may require subscriptions.
- Calls are dependent on the quality of your internet connection.
Purchase an International Calling Plan from Your Provider
Many telecom providers offer international calling plans with affordable rates specifically for calling Africa. Plans can be tailored to suit your needs, whether it’s unlimited calls or pay-as-you-go options.
Steps to activate:
- Contact your service provider to inquire about international packages.
- Choose a plan best suited to your calling frequency.
- Dial your recipient using the standard international format.
Pros:
- Convenient for users who prefer to keep everything under one provider.
- No need to download extra apps or buy credits.
Cons:
- Some plans can still be expensive depending on the provider.
- Additional fees may apply for certain destinations or networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to call Africa?
The most cost-effective option is using apps like Talk360 or internet-based calling platforms like WhatsApp, as these eliminate or drastically reduce international call charges.
How do I find the correct country code for Africa?
You can easily look up international dialing codes for African countries online. For instance, Nigeria’s code is +234, Kenya’s is +254, and South Africa’s is +27.
What if the person I’m calling doesn’t have internet?
Services like Talk360 or direct dialing through calling plans are better suited for reaching individuals without internet access.
Can I use a landline to call Africa?
Yes, you can use a landline to call Africa by dialing your country’s exit code, followed by the African country’s code, and then the recipient’s phone number.
Are international calling apps secure?
Most international calling apps like Talk360 and WhatsApp use encryption to keep your conversations private, ensuring secure and reliable communication.
