Best free VPNs for Africans: Top picks for 2025

A virtual private network (VPN) is valuable for many Africans. It offers significant benefits, from bypassing geo-restrictions to improving online privacy and security. Whether you want to access restricted streaming services, protect your data from cyber threats, or enjoy unrestricted browsing, a reliable VPN is your go-to tool.

In a previous article, I explored the top eight VPNs for Nigerians. In this article, however, I’ll show the five best free VPNs tailored to African users, highlighting their key features, limitations, and ideal use cases. By the end, you'll clearly understand which VPN best suits your needs and how to initiate the process.

TL;DR: Key takeaways

• Proton VPN offers unlimited data for secure browsing and streaming but has limited server locations.
• Windscribe provides 10 GB of monthly data, ideal for Android users and light streaming.
• Hide.me is well-suited for privacy-conscious users with its no-logs policy and robust encryption.
• TunnelBear is beginner-friendly with a simple interface and free 500 MB of data monthly.
• PrivadoVPN delivers 10 GB of free data, optimised for occasional streaming on platforms like Netflix.

What is a VPN?

A VPN, or virtual private network, is a powerful tool designed to keep your online activities private and secure. Imagine it as a digital shield that not only hides your real Internet Protocol (IP) address but also replaces it with one from a different location, making it seem like you're browsing from somewhere else entirely.

But that's not all! 

A VPN encrypts your internet connection, creating a secure "tunnel" that protects your data from prying eyes. Whether it's hackers, your internet service provider (ISP), or even government agencies, no one can snoop on your online activities.

Think of it as your personal bodyguard in the digital world, ensuring your private information stays protected from cybercriminals while you browse, shop, or stream worry-free.

Best Free VPNs for Africans

1. Proton VPN
2. Windscribe 
3. Hide.me
4. TunnelBear
5. PrivadoVPN

1. Proton VPN [unlimited data]

Based in Switzerland, Proton VPN is known for its strong focus on privacy, no-logs policy, and unlimited free data. Its excellent security features make it a favourite among African users seeking enhanced online safety and unrestricted access.

Proton VPN’s free plan is especially appealing as it provides unlimited data, which is uncommon for free VPNs. Although its free version limits users to five server locations—US, Japan, Romania, Poland, and the Netherlands—upgrading to the premium plan unlocks broader advanced features and a wide server network, including servers in Nigeria, South Africa, Rwanda, and Senegal. 

Key features

1. Extensive server network and access

Let the best of tech news come to you

Join 30,000 subscribers who receive Techpoint Digest, a fun week-daily 5-minute roundup of happenings in African and global tech, directly in your inbox, hours before everyone else.

Digest Subscription

Email

First Name

JOIN FREE

Give it a try, you can unsubscribe anytime. Privacy Policy.

• Proton VPN has more than 9,000 servers across over 110+ countries, though the free plan restricts users to servers in the US, Japan, Romania, Poland, and the Netherlands.
• Proton VPN has servers in Africa, including its global network that supports African users effectively.

2. Bandwidth limit and speed

• Proton VPN offers unlimited bandwidth on the free plan.
• It has reliable speeds for secure browsing and streaming, even on free servers.
• The premium plan supports up to ten simultaneous device connections.

3. Security and privacy

• We use military-grade 256-bit encryption and Perfect Forward Secrecy to ensure top-notch data security.
• We have a strict no-logs policy to guarantee user anonymity.
• Secure Core technology routes traffic through multiple servers for added privacy.
• The kill switch feature shields your IP from exposure during unintentional disconnections.

4. Device compatibility

• Proton VPN has apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, and iOS/iPadOS.
• The setup process is easy for Roku, routers, smart TVs, and other devices. 

5. Free trial and pricing

• The free plan offers unlimited data but limited server access.
• Premium plans start at $4.99/month with access to all servers and advanced features.

Does Proton VPN have servers in Africa?

Yes, Proton VPN has servers in Nigeria, South Africa, Rwanda, and Senegal. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Unlimited data even on the free rarity among free VPNs.
• Robust security and privacy.
• It is available on multiple devices. 
• The free plan allows you to connect up to ten devices simultaneously. 

Cons:

• There are limited server locations for free users.
• African servers are available only to premium users. 

2. Windscribe [unlimited number of devices]

Windscribe offers a favorable mix of features, making it one of the most versatile free VPNs. Its generous 10 GB monthly data cap and additional security features are ideal for casual streaming, browsing, and Android users.

Its three server locations across Africa are available to several other African countries, including Nigeria.

Key features

1. Large server network and access: 

• Windscribe has servers in 134 cities and 69 countries.
• The free plan allows access to up to ten locations: the US, Canada, the UK, Hong Kong, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Norway, and Romania. 
• Paid plan open access to all servers, including Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa locations. 

2. Bandwidth limit and speed: 

• Free users' monthly data allowance is 2GB, which they can increase to 10GB by confirming their email address.
• Also, you can permanently add 5 GB of data to your monthly plan just by tweeting.
• The Winscribe Referral Program can earn you additional bandwidth and a free Pro plan.
• Winscribe offers reliable speeds, making it suitable for streaming and secure browsing."

3. Security and privacy: 

• Feature robust privacy features and high-end encryption to ensure adequate security.
• It includes R.O.B.E.R.T., a built-in malware protection and ad-blocker.
• Support protocols like WireGuard and OpenVPN. 
• It also has a strict no-logs policy and supports advanced features like double-hop connections.

4. Device compatibility

• The program supports Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox, and MS Edge).
• It’s also available for FireTV, Huawei, routers, and F-Droid.
• The plan offers unlimited device connections, even on the free plan.

5. Free trial and pricing

• The free plan includes 10 GB of data and access to servers in 10 countries.
• Premium plans start at $5.75/month with unlimited data and servers.

Does Windscribe have servers in Africa?

Yes, they include Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• There is a free data allowance (up to 10 GB/month).
• There is a built-in ad-blocker and malware protection.
• It supports unlimited devices, even on free plans. 

Cons:

• The free plan has limited server options (ten server locations).
• Only three server locations in Africa (Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa).

3. Hide.me

Hide.me is an excellent choice for privacy-conscious users. Its free plan includes 10 GB of monthly data, strong encryption, and access to limited servers. Users looking to bypass restrictions and protect their identity online will find the VPN useful. 

Each of Hide.me servers supports a wide range of popular protocols, including WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2 IPsec, SoftEther, and SSTP. Its server locations in Africa include Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa.

Key features

1. Server network and access

• Boasts 2,600+ servers in 91 locations around the world.
• It features optimised streaming servers worldwide, allowing you to get the most out of your streaming subscriptions.

2. Bandwidth limit and speed

• Free users get 10 GB of monthly data.
• We offer reliable speeds for browsing and light streaming.

3. Security and privacy

• Hide.me offers complete IPv6 support, so you don’t have to worry about IPv6 leaks.
• We implement a no-logs policy to ensure absolute data privacy.
• SmartGuard protects you against malware, tracking, ads, and phishing threats.
• Stealth Guard, a smart app control, allows you to choose which apps use the VPN. This helps to restrict certain apps to VPN-only and automatically cut internet if the VPN drops, preventing accidental leaks. 

4. Device compatibility

• Works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV.
• Hide.me supports Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions, making it a versatile option for lightweight browsing.

5. Free trial and pricing

• The free plan offers 10 GB of data per month and allows up to 10 simultaneous devices. 
• Premium plans start at $2.39/month with unlimited data and additional features.

Does Hide.me have servers in Africa?

Yes, Hide.My servers are located in Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• The product is privacy-focused and features strong encryption.
• There is a free data allowance (up to 10 GB/month).
• Apps are simple to install and use across devices. 
• The company provided free VPN service without requiring trials, payments, or sign-ups.

Cons:

• There are limited server locations for free users.
• Limited servers in Africa. 

4. TunnelBear [Unlimited number of devices]

TunnelBear is a beginner-friendly VPN service that offers a simple and reliable user experience. With both a free plan and premium options, it caters to casual and more demanding users.

The free plan includes 500MB of monthly data, with opportunities to earn more through promotions. The premium plan is a worthwhile upgrade for unlimited data and enhanced features.

With servers in 47 countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya, TunnelBear provides secure access to local and global content. It's an excellent choice for users seeking an intuitive VPN that prioritizes ease of use and robust privacy protection.

Key features

1. Server network and Nigerian access

• Operate over 1,000 servers in 47 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa.
• Tunnelbear prevents speed throttling and unblocks apps and websites on school and work networks, improving your streaming experience. 
• Changes virtual location so you can see content that would otherwise be available only in certain regions. 

2. Bandwidth limit and speed

• Up to 2 GB monthly is available on the free plan, while the premium plan offers unlimited data.
• Allows unlimited devices to connect simultaneously. 

3. Security and privacy

• TunnelBear blocks hackers and scammers from stealing passwords and data over public networks. 
• Blocks ad services from using your IP address to track your behaviour across sites by assigning you a new IP.
• Unblocks government restrictions on popular websites and apps by changing your virtual location.
• Protect you from the prying eyes of network owners and internet service providers.
• Includes a kill switch (VigilantBear) designed to keep your location and data private in the short while TunnelBear takes to reconnect. 

4. Device compatibility

• Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
• Also supports browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge, making it an excellent choice for lightweight browsing.

5. Free trial and pricing

• Premium plans start at $5.75/month with unlimited data.

Does TunnelBear have servers in Africa?

Yes, TunnelBear has servers in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Simple interface for beginners.
• Servers in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.

Cons:

• Limited free data (capped at 2 GB/month). Premium plan required for unlimited data.
• Limited server locations in Africa. 

5. PrivadoVPN

PrivadoVPN offers an impressive free plan with 10 GB of monthly data, making it a top pick for occasional streaming and secure browsing.

PrivadoVPN is a reliable and feature-packed VPN service offering free and premium plans tailored to meet users’ needs. Known for its commitment to privacy and security, this VPN provides AES-256-bit encryption, ensuring your data remains safe from hackers and third-party monitoring. 

With a no-logs policy and servers in 47 countries, PrivadoVPN allows you to securely access restricted content, stream media seamlessly, and protect your online activity. Its user-friendly apps are compatible with a wide range of devices, making it a beneficial choice for beginners and seasoned VPN users.

Key features

1. Server network and Nigerian access

• PrivadoVPN has over 320 servers in 47 countries, allowing users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from various locations. 

2. Bandwidth limit and speed

• Offers super-fast connection speeds across its servers, optimised for unlimited data on premium plans. 
• Free users get 10 GB of data monthly, suitable for occasional browsing and streaming.

3. Security and privacy

• Uses AES-256-bit encryption, the same level of security used by the US government for classified files. 
• Features a strict no-logs policy, meaning your browsing data remains private and cannot be shared with third parties. 
• Additional features like ad-blocking, threat protection, and parental controls enhance online safety.

4. Device compatibility

• PrivadoVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and tvOS. 
• Its apps are simple to use and support automatic connections to the fastest available server.

Does PrivadoVPN have servers in Africa?

Yes, PrivadoVPN has servers in South Africa.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Free plan with 10 GB of monthly data.
• Strong AES-256-bit encryption and no-logs policy.
• Easy-to-use apps for multiple platforms.
• Optimised servers for high-speed connections.
• 30-day money-back guarantee for premium plans.

Cons:

• Limited servers in Africa—only in South Africa.

Best free VPNs for specific use cases in Africa

Best free VPN for beginners

Recommendation: Tunnelbear

TunnelBear is an excellent choice for beginners due to its intuitive interface and simple setup process. With fun, bear-themed visuals and easy-to-understand features, it provides a user-friendly experience without compromising security.

Best free VPN for streaming in Africa

Recommendation: Proton VPN

Proton VPN is the best choice for uninterrupted streaming with unlimited data and reliable speeds.

Best free VPN for Android users in Africa

Recommendation: Windscribe

Windscribe is perfect for Android users for several reasons, including its easy-to-use app, free data allowance, and unlimited connection.

Best Free VPN for Privacy in Africa

Recommendation: Hide.me

Given its advanced encryption and a strict no-logs policy, Hide.me ensures your data stays private and your online presence remains protected. 

Best free VPN for Chrome extension in Africa

Recommendation: Proton VPN

Proton VPN stands out as one of the best free VPNs for Chrome users in Africa. It offers unlimited data, robust security, and a user-friendly Chrome extension. 

Best free VPN for Nigerians

Recommendation: Tunnelbear

TunnelBear is the best free VPN for Nigerians because it offers servers in Nigeria, enabling faster local connections and secure browsing. 

Why are VPNs essential for Africans?

1. Overcoming geo-restrictions

Access to global content is a major challenge for Africans due to regional restrictions. Popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer limit access to certain shows or services based on location. VPNs bypass these barriers by masking your location, granting unrestricted access to content worldwide.

2. Enhancing privacy and security

With the rise of cybercrime and data breaches, safeguarding personal information is critical. VPNs encrypt your internet traffic, protecting your data from hackers, internet service providers (ISPs), and even government surveillance, ensuring a secure online experience.

3. Addressing Internet restriction

Internet restrictions are not uncommon in Africa. For instance, Nigeria has experienced a temporary Twitter ban and limitations on crypto trading platforms following a bitcoin ban. VPNs enable users to bypass such blocks, ensuring unrestricted access to essential sites and services.

4. Safeguarding freedom of expression

For journalists, bloggers, and activists, VPNs are indispensable tools for anonymity. They help individuals report sensitive issues or share opinions on government actions without fear of reprisal. By bypassing censorship, VPNs empower freedom of speech and protect users from scrutiny.

5. Improving online gaming

African gamers often face lag and limited access to global servers. A VPN can enhance gaming by improving connection speeds and unlocking servers restricted to specific regions, providing a smoother gaming experience and equipping them to make the most of global opportunities. 

6. Protecting data from ISPs

ISPs are required to share user data with regulatory bodies in countries like Nigeria, which raises potential privacy concerns. A VPN encrypts your connection, creating a secure tunnel that shields your data from ISPs and third parties, preserving your online privacy.

How to choose the best free VPN for Africa

1. Accessibility in African countries

Check if the VPN has servers offering stable and rapid connections across Africa to ensure reliable access. A VPN with local or nearby servers will provide better speed and connectivity. For instance, Tunnelbear has servers in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.

2. Data allowance

Free VPNs often come with strict data limits, so pick one that offers sufficient monthly data for your browsing, streaming, or gaming needs. This ensures you won't run out of data during critical activities. Proton VPN, for example, offers unlimited data. 

3. Security features

Opt for VPNs with robust encryption protocols, no-logs policies, and malware protection to safeguard your data.

Opt for VPNs that provide robust encryption, a no-logs policy, and malware protection to protect your online privacy and data. These features safeguard you from hackers, ISPs, and other threats while browsing. Hide.me is a wonderful example. 

4. Device compatibility

Ensure the VPN works seamlessly on all your devices, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. This allows for a smooth, hassle-free experience regardless of your platform. All five VPNs on the list are adaptable across a wide range of devices. 

FAQs about VPN usage in Africa

Are free VPNs safe for Africans?

Yes, but only when you choose reputable providers like Proton VPN, Hide.me, or the rest on this list. Avoid lesser-known VPNs that may compromise your data.

Which VPN works best for streaming in Africa?

Proton VPN is ideal for streaming due to its unlimited data and reliable speeds.

Do free VPNs work in all African countries?

Not necessarily. Some VPNs may lack servers optimised for African countries, affecting accessibility. 

How can I set up a free VPN?

Connecting to a free VPN in Africa typically follows four steps: 

Step 1: Choose a VPN provider and visit their website.

Step 2: Download the app for your specific device (for example, download VPN for iOS if you use an iPhone or iPad, not VPN for Android).

Step 3: Create an account or log in.

Step 4: Connect to a server and enjoy secure browsing.

Conclusion

Finding the best free VPN for Africans involves balancing security, data limits, speed, and accessibility. While all the options above offer distinct advantages, the best choice depends on your specific needs, whether for streaming, privacy, or light browsing.

Summary of the best free VPNs for Africans

Each of these VPNs offers valuable features tailored to different use cases, ensuring African users have access to safer, more versatile online experiences.

• Proton VPN for unlimited data.
• Windscribe for Android and streaming.
• Hide.me for advanced privacy.
• TunnelBear for beginners.
• PrivadoVPN for occasional streaming

Final recommendations

While free VPNs have limitations, they’re a beneficial starting point for Africans seeking enhanced online privacy and accessibility. Proton VPN and Windscribe stand out for their features, but the best choice depends on your needs.

Check out our previous article for more VPN options, especially if you live in Nigeria and South Africa.