Prepaid Botswana SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide

This guide will highlight the benefits of getting a SIM card in Botswana and how it can improve your travel experience. 

If you’re visiting Botswana, you might be thinking about how to get a SIM card. A Botswana SIM card is essential for staying connected during your trip, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and use the internet easily.

I. What are the Best Botswana SIM cards for Tourists?

1 USD = 13.36 BWP

There are three main operators in Botswana: Orange, Mascom and BTC Mobile. 

1. Orange

Orange Botswana is one of the largest operator in Botswana. They have good coverage throughout the country.

Orange SIM Card packages
Orange SIM Card packages

Orange BuaLeNna Le BaBangwe + Data

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesCross-Net MinutesValidity
24 BWP60 MBUnlimited on-net minutes30 cross-net minutes1 day
90 BWP400 MBUnlimited on-net minutes120 cross-net minutes7 days

Orange Ola Prepaid Packages

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesAll-Net MinutesInternational MinutesLocal SMSValidity
6 BWP5 MB5 on-net minutesN/AN/A5 SMS1 day
12 BWP10 MBN/A10 all-net minutesN/AN/A1 day
20 BWP20 MBN/A20 all-net minutesN/AUnlimited SMS1 day
22 BWP20 MB20 on-net minutesN/AN/A20 SMS7 days
50 BWP20 MBN/A30 all-net minutes5 international minutesN/A7 days
60 BWP50 MB50 on-net minutesN/AN/A75 SMS30 days
100 BWP50 MBN/A50 all-net minutes5 international minutesUnlimited SMS7 days
120 BWP50 MBN/A70 all-net minutes7 international minutesN/A30 days
300 BWP1 GBN/A80 all-net minutes10 international minutesUnlimited SMS30 days

Orange All My Friends

PriceData for Social Media AppsOn-Net MinutesSMSValidity
5 BWP500 MB5 on-net minutes10 SMS1 day
20 BWP500 MB/day20 on-net minutes50 SMS7 days
60 BWP500 MB/day60 on-net minutes200 SMS30 days

Orange All My Internet Plus

PriceDataNight BonusValidity
6 BWP40 MB40 MB1 day
12 BWP120 MB120 MB1 day
25 BWP300 MB300 MB2 days
50 BWP650 MB650 MB7 days
75 BWP1 GB1 GB7 days
95 BWP1500 MB1500 MB14 days
125 BWP2 GB2 GB30 days
240 BWP4 GB4 GB30 days

Orange Mega Bundles

PriceDataValidity
9.50 BWP15 MB15 days
18 BWP30 MB15 days
45 BWP75 MB15 days
85 BWP150 MB15 days
170 BWP300 MB15 days
299 BWP550 MB30 days
399 BWP2 GB60 days
799 BWP5 GB60 days
1399 BWP10 GB60 days

2. Mascom

You can buy a Mascom SIM card for 10 BWP in Mascom stores. 

Mascom MyCombo

PriceDataMinutesSMSValidity
5 BWP10 MB3 minutes3 SMS1 day
15 BWP60 MB10 minutes10 SMS1 day
45 BWP600 MB20 minutes20 SMS7 days
65 BWP1 GB30 minutes20 SMS7 days
95 BWP1 GB50 minutes30 SMS14 days
125 BWP2 GB75 minutes30 SMS14 days
165 BWP2 GB100 minutes50 SMS30 days
245 BWP4 GB150 minutes100 SMS30 days

Mascom MyMix

PriceDataValidity
2 BWP50 MB1 day
5 BWP200 MB1 day
10 BWP1 GB1 day
18 BWP2 GB1 day
20 BWP1 GB2 days
39 BWP1.5 GB7 days
45 BWP2 GB7 days
49 BWP1 GB14 days
69 BWP2 GB30 days
85 BWP3.5 GB14 days
99 BWP4.5 GB30 days
149 BWP8.5 GB30 days
279 BWP17 GB30 days
525 BWP35 GB30 days
Mascom SIM Card packages
Mascom SIM Card packages

Mascom MyMeg Prepaid

PriceDataValidity
9.50 BWP14 MB14 days
19.50 BWP30 MB14 days
45 BWP70 MB30 days
80 BWP130 MB30 days
150 BWP250 MB45 days
300 BWP500 MB60 days
600 BWP1.2 GB60 days

Mascom MyApp Data Bundles

PriceDataExtra All Access DataValidity
3 BWP100 MB10 MB1 day
10 BWP300 MB50 MB7 days
40 BWP1200 MB250 MB30 days

3. BTC Mobile

You can get a BTC SIM card for 10 BWP in BTC stores

BTC Mobile Voice & Data Bundles

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesCross-Net MinutesValidity
15 BWP75 MBUnlimited on-net minutes15 cross-net minutes1 day
30 BWP200 MBUnlimited on-net minutes30 cross-net minutes7 day
100 BWP1 GBUnlimited on-net minutes50 cross-net minutes30 days

BTC Mobile Night Riders

The Night Riders bundle is an unlimited data bundle that can be used as 00:00-5:00 (12 AM-5AM). The Night Riders bundle costs 10 BWP. 

BTC Mobile Live Social

PriceData for Social Media AppsValidity
5 BWP500 MB1 day
15 BWP500 MB/day7 days
60 BWP500 MB/day30 days

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Botswana for Tourists?

There are three ways to buy a SIM card for your trip to Botswana:

  • Buy a SIM Card at Botswana Airports
  • Buy a SIM Card in Botswana City Centers
  • Buy an eSIM Online One Day Before Departure

1. Buy a SIM Card at Botswana Airports

When you arrive at Maun Airport or any international airport in Botswana, you’ll find kiosks or shops selling prepaid SIM cards. There is an atm across the road from the airport, and SIM cards can be bought at the small stalls across the road from the airport.

They offer different plans based on your needs. Just make sure to check if the stores are open when you arrive, as they may not be open all the time.

  • Price : Usually higher than in city stores.
  • Pros : You can get internet access right away.
  • Cons : Higher costs, fewer plan options, possible long lines, and limited store hours.

2. Buy a SIM Card in Botswana City Centers

BTC selling point
BTC selling point

You can find prepaid SIM cards at official phone stores, convenience stores, and gas stations in Botswana. Once you’re settled in your hotel, use Google Maps to locate the nearest providers. 

  • Price : Cheaper than at airports.
  • Pros : Competitive prices and more options available.
  • Cons : You’ll need to travel to the stores.

3. Buy an eSIM Online One Day Before Departure

This option is available if your phone supports eSIM. You can choose a plan that suits your needs, make the payment, and receive a QR code in your email within 5 minutes. Just scan the QR code to activate your eSIM on your phone. There’s no need to wait for delivery or visit a store.

  • Pros : You can pre-order and activate your eSIM for internet access in advance. It saves time and money since there’s no shipping fee.
  • Cons : It only works if your phone supports eSIM.

Our Recommendation

If your phone supports eSIM, buying an eSIM online one day before you leave is the most convenient option. It allows you to set up your both internet connection in advance, saving you time and money.

III. How Much is a Tourist Botswana SIM Card?

Mascom is one of the largest operators in Botswana
Mascom is one of the largest operators in Botswana

A tourist SIM card in Botswana typically costs around 10 BWP (Botswana Pula). This price is consistent across the main operators, including Mascom, Orange, and BTC Mobile. Additionally, you’ll find various data bundles and plans available for purchase that can suit different needs and budgets. For example, data rates start at around 2 BWP for 20 MB for short-term options.

IV. What types of Botswana SIM cards are available for tourists?

Tourists visiting Botswana can choose between two types of SIM cards for their trip:

  • Prepaid Physical Botswana SIM Cards
  • Prepaid Botswana Digital SIM (eSIM)

1. Prepaid Physical Botswana SIM Cards

  • Form : A physical SIM card that you insert into your phone.
  • Activation : You need to insert the SIM card and activate it.
  • Convenience : You may need to go to a store to buy the physical SIM card.
  • Storage and Security : The card can be easily lost or damaged.
  • Future Compatibility : You might need a new physical SIM card for any network upgrades or changes.
Mascom SIM Card
Mascom SIM Card

2. Prepaid Botswana Digital SIM (eSIM)

  • Form : A digital SIM that is built into your phone.
  • Activation : You activate the eSIM by scanning a QR code or following an activation process.
  • Convenience : You can purchase and activate the eSIM online without visiting a store.
  • Storage and Security : It is stored securely in your phone, so there’s less risk of losing it.
  • Future Compatibility : The eSIM can be updated remotely or switched to a different plan.

Overall, the eSIM has many advantages over physical SIM cards. Just remember that your phone needs to support eSIM technology to use it.

V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Botswana travel?

Yes, getting a SIM card in Botswana is a great idea if you want to stay connected during your visit. With a local SIM card, you’ll have a reliable network for making calls, sending messages, and using mobile data.

Let’s look at other options:

  • Data Roaming : This can be very expensive.
  • Pocket WiFi : While convenient, it can be easy to lose, and insurance for it can cost a lot.
  • Free WiFi : This often has slow speeds, unstable connections, and can put your personal information at risk.
  • Embedded SIM (eSIM) : This is convenient but only works with devices that support eSIM.

Each option has its pros and cons. However, when it comes to performance, SIM cards and eSIMs (if your phone supports them) usually provide the best results.

Buy Orange SIM Card in Botswana
Buy Orange SIM Card in Botswana

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Botswana? 

Buy BTC SIM Card in Botswana
Buy BTC SIM Card in Botswana

To buy a prepaid SIM card in Botswana, you’ll need to prepare the following:

  • Identification : Bring an ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
  • SIM Serial Number (SSN) : This number is usually printed on the SIM card or its packaging.

If your phone supports eSIM, you can choose this option to skip paperwork and save time. 

VII. Botswana eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards

When you travel to Botswana in 2024, the easiest way to stay connected is by using an eSIM card. It’s super convenient and takes just a few minutes to set up online. You won’t have to deal with swapping physical SIM cards or buying one from a store—an eSIM makes everything simpler.

Just make sure your phone can use eSIM before ordering one for Botswana. It’s that easy! You’ll stay connected and have a great time in Botswana!

Botswanan eSIM from Gigago
Botswanan eSIM from Gigago

Gigago is a reliable service provider for Botswana eSIMs, offering several benefits:

  • Quick Delivery : Gigago sends the eSIM to your email right after you make your payment.
  • Wide Coverage : The Botswana eSIM works throughout the entire country.
  • Trusted Networks : Gigago partners with well-known providers in Botswana, including MTN and Orange.
  • Easy Setup : You can set up the eSIM by scanning the QR code in your email or entering the activation code manually.
  • 24/7 Support : Gigago offers customer support 24/7 to help with any questions or issues.

For Botswana, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $8.90 . What is great about Gigago’s Botswana eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $8.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Botswana, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Botswana?

The length of a SIM card in Botswana is often from 7 to 30 days
The length of a SIM card in Botswana is often from 7 to 30 days

The length of a tourist SIM card in Botswana depends on the provider and the plan you choose:

  • 7-Day Plan : Great for short trips or vacations.
  • 14-Day Plan : Suitable for two-week visits.
  • 30-Day Plan : Ideal for month-long stays.

If you need more time, check with your provider about extending or topping up your plan.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Botswana? 

This will guide you how to activate Botswana SIM Cards: 

1. Using Prepaid Botswana Tourist SIM Cards

Here’s how to use a prepaid SIM card as a tourist in Botswana:

  • Buy a SIM Card : You can purchase a prepaid SIM card online or from major providers like BTC Mobile, Orange or Mascom. You can find them at airports, train stations, and shops. Make sure your phone is unlocked.
  • Insert the SIM Card : Turn off your phone, insert the SIM card into the SIM tray, and then turn your phone back on.
  • Activate the SIM Card : Once your phone is on, follow the instructions to set up the card. You may need to enter a PIN code provided with the SIM.
  • Top Up : Most prepaid SIMs come with a small balance. If you need more, you can top up online or buy top-up vouchers locally.
  • Use Your Phone : You can use your phone as usual, but keep an eye on usage limits and any fees for going over.

Pro Tip: Keep the receipt or proof of purchase during your trip to avoid any issues.

2. Setting Up and Activating Botswana eSIM

Activating Orange eSIM
Activating Orange eSIM

Here’s how to install and activate an eSIM for your trip to Botswana:

  • Purchase an eSIM : Buy an eSIM plan from a Botswana mobile carrier or an eSIM provider like Gigago.
  • Receive the Information : Check your email for the eSIM details. Use your phone camera to scan the QR code to install the eSIM profile.
  • Restart Your Phone : After scanning the QR code, restart your phone.
  • Check Activation : Go to your phone’s settings to see if the eSIM is activated. You should see Botswana carriers listed.
  • Use the Internet : Once you arrive in Botswana, you can start using the internet.
  • Remove the eSIM : Before leaving Botswana, delete the eSIM profile to avoid any roaming charges.

Pro Tip: Make sure your device supports eSIM before buying a plan.

X. FAQs

Are there any special plans for tourists?

While there aren’t specific tourist plans, various combo and data-only bundles are available that can suit short-term travelers.

Can I use my SIM card in rural areas?

Coverage can be limited in rural areas, with most small towns having only 2G service. Major cities generally have at least 3G, with some areas offering 4G/LTE.

What documents do I need to buy a SIM card?

You will need to present your passport for registration when purchasing a SIM card.

Botswana SIM cards are a convenient and affordable choice. You can easily buy them at airports and stores without spending too much. With a travel SIM card, you can use your own phone with a local Botswana number, helping you avoid high roaming fees from your home carrier. If your phone supports eSIM, you can also consider using a virtual SIM for internet access.