Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Botswana
BWPPula
Money in Botswana
Mixed: cards and cash Cards work in Gaborone, Maun, Kasane, supermarkets and lodges; carry pula cash for small towns, fuel in remote areas and tips. US$1 ≈ P14.16 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: About 10% in restaurants; lodges usually have a shared tip box plus a separate tip for your guide.
- ATMs: ATMs in Gaborone, Francistown, Maun and Kasane; few elsewhere, so withdraw before heading out.
- Paying by phone: Tap-to-pay cards work in towns and lodges; mobile money (Orange Money, MyZaka) is mostly for residents.
- Price level: about 38% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maun | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards in lodges, supermarkets and larger restaurants; cash for combis, craft markets and small shops. ATMs in town. |
| Kasane | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards at lodges and larger shops; cash for border fees, markets and small cafés. ATMs in town may run empty. |
| Gaborone | Cards almost everywhere | Cards and contactless work in malls, supermarkets and most restaurants. Cash for combis, small stalls and taxis; ATMs are plentiful. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Botswana?
About 10% in restaurants; lodges usually have a shared tip box plus a separate tip for your guide.
Is Botswana cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. Cards work in Gaborone, Maun, Kasane, supermarkets and lodges; carry pula cash for small towns, fuel in remote areas and tips.
What currency does Botswana use?
The Pula (BWP). US$1 ≈ P14.16 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Botswana
- Botswana Tourism Organisation
- Speedtest Global Index: Botswana
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.