Why Every Hiker in South Africa Should Carry a Satellite Phone for hiking – And Why the IsatPhone 2 Is the One You Can Actually Rely On
- GMagid
- 2 days ago
- 10 min read
If you’ve spent enough time on South African trails—whether it’s the Drakensberg, the Cederberg, the Otter Trail, or even the quieter forests of Mpumalanga—you already know one uncomfortable truth: cell phone signal disappears exactly when you need it most. It’s almost predictable. The moment you think, “Let me quickly message someone to say we’re running late,” the network vanishes.
For most hikers, this is just an annoyance. But for anyone who has faced an emergency in the mountains—an injury, weather turning suddenly, a wrong turn that becomes a full-on detour—lack of communication can escalate a simple problem into a dangerous situation.
And that’s why more hikers across South Africa are starting to invest in satellite communication—not just as a luxury, but as essential safety gear. Think of it as your backup parachute: you hope you’ll never need it, but if you do, it becomes the most important piece of equipment you own.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the options—satellite phones, satellite messengers, emergency-only beacons—and explain why the IsatPhone 2 consistently stands out as the best all-round communication device for hikers who want true peace of mind. Spoiler: cheaper alternatives exist, but they come with limitations you should know about before heading into the mountains.
The Problem: The Outdoors Doesn’t Care About Your Cell Signal
South Africa is known for open landscapes, deep valleys, and rugged mountains. Beautiful, yes. But also extremely patchy for cellular coverage. Vodacom, MTN, Telkom—none of them are going to build a tower halfway up Giant’s Castle or deep in the Baviaanskloof.
Which means that in many parts of the country, you are entirely on your own.
Satellite communication fills that gap.
Unlike cellphones, satellite devices connect directly to satellites orbiting Earth, giving you the ability to:
Call or message anyone
Receive weather alerts
Share your live location with family
Push SOS signals that reach global emergency teams
Keep communication going even when hundreds of kilometres from the nearest tower
But different devices offer different capabilities—and this is where hikers often make the wrong choice. Many go straight for the cheapest unit, or the lightest one, only to discover in a real emergency that they can’t do actual voice calls.
And when something serious happens in the mountains, sometimes a voice-to-voice call is the difference between clarity and confusion.
Option 1: The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 – The Best Satellite Phone for Hiking in SA
If there is one device South African hikers trust, it’s the IsatPhone 2. It’s rugged, reliable, affordable to run, and most importantly—it gives you full voice calling, SOS, and SMS, anywhere you are.
Why It Works So Well in South Africa
Inmarsat’s I-4 satellites cover most of Africa with incredibly strong, stable signal. The device locks onto the network quickly, and once connected, the voice quality is genuinely impressive for a satellite phone.
On South African trails, it just performs. Period.
Key Features That Matter to Hikers
Voice Calls – This is huge. In a panic situation, messaging isn’t always enough.
SMS Messaging – For simple check-ins.
Built-in SOS Button
Long Battery Life – Up to 8 hours talk / 160 hours standby.
Operates in extreme weather
Easy prepaid airtime (offered locally at SatComms online)
Durable & impact-resistant
Round the clock Support from SatComms
Why Voice Calls Matter More Than People Realise and why a satellite phone for hiking is a must
Imagine this scenario:
You’re in the Drakensberg and a member of your group slips on wet rock and can’t walk. Messaging emergency services with limited characters isn’t ideal. They need details—exact position, condition of the person, weather on the mountain, any nearby hazards.
When rescue teams can actually speak to you and hear your tone, your breathing, your certainty (or uncertainty), the response is faster and far more accurate.
Text messages simply cannot replace a two-way voice conversation when real-time information is critical.
This is where the IsatPhone 2 becomes a genuinely life-saving tool.
Option 2: Garmin inReach Mini 2 – Brilliant for Tracking, But Not a Phone
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 has become extremely popular amongst hikers, trail runners, and overlanders. And for good reason: it’s tiny, reliable, has incredible battery optimisation, and connects to the Iridium satellite network for global coverage.
What It Does Well
Live tracking
Two-way text messaging
SOS to IERCC
Weather reports
Map route integration via Garmin Explore
Lightweight and easy to clip onto your pack
InReach devices are excellent for non-emergency check-ins, breadcrumb navigation, and staying in touch when cell signal drops.
The Limitation: No Voice Calling
This is the big one.
You cannot talk to emergency services or a rescue team. Every communication must be typed.
In real emergencies, this slows things down dramatically.
Typing with cold hands, shaking hands, or during moments of panic is not efficient, and responses from rescue teams may come with delays because everything needs to be interpreted via text.
For many hikers, the Mini 2 is a great secondary tool—but not a full replacement for a proper satellite phone.
Option 3: Garmin inReach Messenger Plus – Messaging, Audio Clips & Smart Safety (But Still Not Full Voice Calling)
The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus is one of the most versatile compact satellite messengers available today. Garmin took what hikers love about the original Messenger and added something genuinely useful: the ability to send and receive short voice messages — think of it like WhatsApp voice notes, but over satellite.
This makes it far more capable than traditional text-only messengers and genuinely helpful in moments when typing is slow, unsafe, or impractical.
What the inReach Messenger Plus Does Extremely Well
Two-way satellite text messaging
Short voice message recording & playback (like satellite “voice notes”)
Check-ins with your live location
SOS emergency function with Garmin IERCC
Works with the Garmin Messenger app for easy typing
Smartphone pairing for bigger keyboard + quicker replies
Multi-network routing (uses cell/WiFi first, satellite only when needed)
Strong battery life for long hikes
These new audio features are a big step up from the older inReach Mini 2, which only supports typed communication.
You can speak your message, send it as a short audio clip, and the other side can listen instantly — making communication much more “human”.
But Here’s the Key Distinction: It’s Not Real-Time Voice Calling
The Messenger Plus does not allow an actual phone call, meaning:
You cannot talk live with rescue teams
You cannot hear someone’s voice in real time
You cannot use it like a phone to coordinate fast-changing emergencies
Instead, voice messages work like short record-and-send audio clips, which are brilliant for clarity but still not instantaneous, two-way conversation.
Why This Matters in the Mountains
In many emergencies, this is perfectly fine — explaining an injury, sending your coordinates, giving a quick summary of the situation. It's faster than typing and far clearer.
But in a severe or time-sensitive emergency where rescuers need:
live back-and-forth
rapid decision-making
tone-of-voice to assess panic or medical risk
real-time instructions
detailed situational questions
…you still need a device that offers true phone calls, which only a satellite phone like the IsatPhone 2 can provide.
Who the Messenger Plus Is Perfect For
Hikers who want a modern, lightweight, budget-friendly satellite tool
Solo hikers or trail runners who need reliable check-ins
Weekend adventurers doing half-day or moderate-distance trails
Users who prefer voice notes over typing
People who want satellite safety without committing to a full satellite phone
If your outdoor adventures lean toward casual or recreational rather than extreme or remote, the Messenger Plus is absolutely brilliant.
But if you’re going into the Drakensberg, Amatola, Wild Coast, Cederberg, or any trail where evacuation is complex, not having live voice communication is still a limitation.
And that’s exactly why the IsatPhone 2 remains the top-recommended device for multi-day hikers and group leaders.
Option 4: Budget Emergency Beacons – The “Cheaper” Safety Option
There are PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) and some offshore devices that allow one-way SOS signalling. They are the cheapest option in satellite safety.
They do one thing: send an SOS signal and your GPS position.
They do not allow:
Voice calls
Two-way messaging
Weather updates
Check-ins
General communication
These are “push and pray” devices—lifesavers in certain situations, but nowhere near as functional as a satellite phone.
So Which Device Should a Hiker Really Carry?
This depends on the type of hiking you do.
1. Day Hikes / Light Trails
Garmin Messenger OR
Garmin inReach Mini 2
These are great for check-ins, sharing your trail progress, and calling for help if needed via SOS messaging.
2. Multi-Day Hikes / Remote Mountain Routes
IsatPhone 2 (primary)
Garmin Mini 2 (optional backup tracking)
If you are hiking the Drakensberg Grand Traverse, the Otter, Amatola, or any multi-day trail far from civilisation, you need voice capability. The IsatPhone 2 is simply the safer, more complete option.
3. Group Hikes or Guided Adventure Tours
IsatPhone 2 only
Rescue teams and emergency coordinators almost always prefer that the group leader has a voice-enabled satellite phone because texting slows everything down and increases risk.
Why Hikers Choose the IsatPhone 2 Above All
After years of talking to hikers, trail guides, and mountain rescue volunteers, a pattern becomes clear:
The device that can make an actual phone call always wins.
And when you compare price, airtime costs, coverage, and practicality, the IsatPhone 2 consistently comes out on top.
What Makes It the “Perfect” Option?
Strong global coverage
Long battery life
Affordable airtime packages
Works in extreme temperatures
Easy to operate (even for first-time users)
True voice-to-voice communication
Reliable SOS assistance
Tough, durable build
Voice calling is the key reason serious hikers choose it, but the reliability and cost-effectiveness make it a smart investment overall.
Take the Mountains Seriously—Take Your Safety Seriously
Hiking in South Africa is one of the most enriching outdoor experiences you can have. But the mountains demand respect. Weather changes fast, paths disappear, GPS apps fail, ankles twist, rivers rise, and small mistakes can snowball quickly.
Carrying a satellite device isn’t about fear. It’s about preparedness.
And when you look at the options—the light Garmin units, the cheaper beacons, the messenger devices—they all have their place. But only one device consistently gives you everything you need in a real emergency: voice, reliability, and global reach.
That’s why the IsatPhone 2 remains the best satellite phone for hiking in South Africa.
If you’re planning a trail soon and want to set yourself up with the right safety gear, you can get the IsatPhone 2—along with prepaid airtime bundles and accessories—right here at SatComms.
Stay safe out there, and happy hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions: Satellite Phones for Hiking in South Africa
1. Do I really need a satellite phone for hiking in South Africa?
If you hike in areas with strong cellphone coverage, probably not. But in reality, most South African hiking trails—Cederberg, Drakensberg, Amatola, Baviaanskloof, Wild Coast—have long stretches of zero signal. A satellite phone or satellite messenger ensures you can call for help, check in with loved ones, or get weather updates even in remote mountain terrain.
2. Why is the IsatPhone 2 better for hikers than Garmin inReach units?
The biggest difference is live voice calling.The IsatPhone 2 lets you speak directly to rescue teams, family members, or emergency responders. Voice conversations are faster, clearer, and more detailed than typing or sending audio clips. Garmin units are excellent for messaging and tracking, but they cannot hold an actual phone call.
3. What’s the benefit of the Garmin inReach Mini 2 if it can’t call?
The Mini 2 shines in navigation and tracking.If you need breadcrumbs, route planning, or regular check-ins during your hike, it’s brilliant. It’s also extremely lightweight. But for serious emergencies, it lacks the speed and detail of real-time voice communication.
4. How does the Garmin inReach Messenger Plus differ from the Mini 2?
The Messenger Plus introduces short voice message capability — similar to WhatsApp voice notes. This is much faster than typing and adds clarity, but it still isn’t a real voice call. It’s a fantastic budget option for shorter or recreational hikes.
5. What is the cheapest satellite solution for hikers?
A PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is the cheapest emergency device. However, it offers no texting, no voice, no audio clips, no check-ins—only a one-way SOS alert. It’s better than having nothing, but not ideal for full communication.
6. What airtime do I need for the IsatPhone 2?
You can choose between pay-as-you-go vouchers or monthly/annual plans. For hikers, the prepaid vouchers are the most popular because you only pay for what you use. SatComms offers all airtime packages locally, including free activation with most SIM cards.
7. Is the IsatPhone 2 easy to use on the trail?
Yes. It’s designed for first-time users.You turn it on, extend the antenna, wait a few seconds for satellite lock, and you’re ready to call or message. Battery life is especially good for multi-day hikes.
8. What’s the best device for solo hikers?
If you want the safest option: IsatPhone 2.If you want lightweight messaging & tracking: inReach Mini 2.If you want messaging + audio clips on a budget: Messenger Plus.If you just want SOS-only backup: PLB.
9. Will these devices work outside South Africa?
Yes.All the mentioned devices use global satellite networks. Whether you’re hiking in Namibia, Lesotho, the Alps, or Patagonia, they’ll still function.
10. What’s the best all-round satellite device for hikers?
If safety is your priority and you want real two-way voice conversation, nothing beats the IsatPhone 2. It remains the most dependable and complete hiking communication device for South African conditions.
Comparison Table:
Feature | IsatPhone 2 | Garmin inReach Mini 2 | Garmin inReach Messenger Plus | PLB / Emergency Beacon |
Primary Purpose | Full satellite phone (voice + SMS + SOS) | Navigation + text messaging + SOS | Messaging + short voice clips + SOS | Emergency SOS only |
Live Voice Calling | ✔ Yes – real phone calls | ✖ No | ✖ No (audio clips only) | ✖ No |
Short Voice Messages | ✖ No | ✖ No | ✔ Yes – “voice note” style | ✖ No |
Two-Way Text Messaging | ✔ Yes (SMS) | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes | ✖ No |
SOS Emergency | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes (Garmin IERCC) | ✔ Yes (Garmin IERCC) | ✔ Yes (one-way only) |
Live Tracking | ✖ No | ✔ Yes – breadcrumb tracking | Limited check-ins only | ✖ No |
Weather Reports | Basic SMS weather (manual) | ✔ Detailed forecasts | ✔ Basic forecasts | ✖ No |
Battery Life | Excellent (up to ~160h standby) | Very long | Very long | Very long |
Navigation Capability | ✖ No | ✔ Full Garmin navigation | Minimal (app-based only) | ✖ No |
Ease of Use | Very easy | Requires Garmin app | Very easy (app-based) | Very easy |
Best For | Serious hikers, remote areas, real emergencies | Navigation-focused hikers | Recreational hikers wanting messaging + audio clips | Backup only |
Price Range | Mid | Mid–High | Low–Mid | Low |
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