This blog explores details on purchasing a SIM card at Sir Seretse Khama Airport (GBE): rates, where and how to purchase, and the best alternative to a normal SIM.
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.
In this article
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 BuaLeNna Le BaBangwe + Data
Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | Cross-Net Minutes | Validity |
24 BWP | 60 MB | Unlimited on-net minutes | 30 cross-net minutes | 1 day |
90 BWP | 400 MB | Unlimited on-net minutes | 120 cross-net minutes | 7 days |
Orange Ola Prepaid Packages
Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | All-Net Minutes | International Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
6 BWP | 5 MB | 5 on-net minutes | N/A | N/A | 5 SMS | 1 day |
12 BWP | 10 MB | N/A | 10 all-net minutes | N/A | N/A | 1 day |
20 BWP | 20 MB | N/A | 20 all-net minutes | N/A | Unlimited SMS | 1 day |
22 BWP | 20 MB | 20 on-net minutes | N/A | N/A | 20 SMS | 7 days |
50 BWP | 20 MB | N/A | 30 all-net minutes | 5 international minutes | N/A | 7 days |
60 BWP | 50 MB | 50 on-net minutes | N/A | N/A | 75 SMS | 30 days |
100 BWP | 50 MB | N/A | 50 all-net minutes | 5 international minutes | Unlimited SMS | 7 days |
120 BWP | 50 MB | N/A | 70 all-net minutes | 7 international minutes | N/A | 30 days |
300 BWP | 1 GB | N/A | 80 all-net minutes | 10 international minutes | Unlimited SMS | 30 days |
Orange All My Friends
Price | Data for Social Media Apps | On-Net Minutes | SMS | Validity |
5 BWP | 500 MB | 5 on-net minutes | 10 SMS | 1 day |
20 BWP | 500 MB/day | 20 on-net minutes | 50 SMS | 7 days |
60 BWP | 500 MB/day | 60 on-net minutes | 200 SMS | 30 days |
Orange All My Internet Plus
Price | Data | Night Bonus | Validity |
6 BWP | 40 MB | 40 MB | 1 day |
12 BWP | 120 MB | 120 MB | 1 day |
25 BWP | 300 MB | 300 MB | 2 days |
50 BWP | 650 MB | 650 MB | 7 days |
75 BWP | 1 GB | 1 GB | 7 days |
95 BWP | 1500 MB | 1500 MB | 14 days |
125 BWP | 2 GB | 2 GB | 30 days |
240 BWP | 4 GB | 4 GB | 30 days |
Orange Mega Bundles
Price | Data | Validity |
9.50 BWP | 15 MB | 15 days |
18 BWP | 30 MB | 15 days |
45 BWP | 75 MB | 15 days |
85 BWP | 150 MB | 15 days |
170 BWP | 300 MB | 15 days |
299 BWP | 550 MB | 30 days |
399 BWP | 2 GB | 60 days |
799 BWP | 5 GB | 60 days |
1399 BWP | 10 GB | 60 days |
2. Mascom
You can buy a Mascom SIM card for 10 BWP in Mascom stores.
Mascom MyCombo
Price | Data | Minutes | SMS | Validity |
5 BWP | 10 MB | 3 minutes | 3 SMS | 1 day |
15 BWP | 60 MB | 10 minutes | 10 SMS | 1 day |
45 BWP | 600 MB | 20 minutes | 20 SMS | 7 days |
65 BWP | 1 GB | 30 minutes | 20 SMS | 7 days |
95 BWP | 1 GB | 50 minutes | 30 SMS | 14 days |
125 BWP | 2 GB | 75 minutes | 30 SMS | 14 days |
165 BWP | 2 GB | 100 minutes | 50 SMS | 30 days |
245 BWP | 4 GB | 150 minutes | 100 SMS | 30 days |
Mascom MyMix
Price | Data | Validity |
2 BWP | 50 MB | 1 day |
5 BWP | 200 MB | 1 day |
10 BWP | 1 GB | 1 day |
18 BWP | 2 GB | 1 day |
20 BWP | 1 GB | 2 days |
39 BWP | 1.5 GB | 7 days |
45 BWP | 2 GB | 7 days |
49 BWP | 1 GB | 14 days |
69 BWP | 2 GB | 30 days |
85 BWP | 3.5 GB | 14 days |
99 BWP | 4.5 GB | 30 days |
149 BWP | 8.5 GB | 30 days |
279 BWP | 17 GB | 30 days |
525 BWP | 35 GB | 30 days |
Mascom MyMeg Prepaid
Price | Data | Validity |
9.50 BWP | 14 MB | 14 days |
19.50 BWP | 30 MB | 14 days |
45 BWP | 70 MB | 30 days |
80 BWP | 130 MB | 30 days |
150 BWP | 250 MB | 45 days |
300 BWP | 500 MB | 60 days |
600 BWP | 1.2 GB | 60 days |
Mascom MyApp Data Bundles
Price | Data | Extra All Access Data | Validity |
3 BWP | 100 MB | 10 MB | 1 day |
10 BWP | 300 MB | 50 MB | 7 days |
40 BWP | 1200 MB | 250 MB | 30 days |
3. BTC Mobile
You can get a BTC SIM card for 10 BWP in BTC stores
BTC Mobile Voice & Data Bundles
Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | Cross-Net Minutes | Validity |
15 BWP | 75 MB | Unlimited on-net minutes | 15 cross-net minutes | 1 day |
30 BWP | 200 MB | Unlimited on-net minutes | 30 cross-net minutes | 7 day |
100 BWP | 1 GB | Unlimited on-net minutes | 50 cross-net minutes | 30 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
Price | Data for Social Media Apps | Validity |
5 BWP | 500 MB | 1 day |
15 BWP | 500 MB/day | 7 days |
60 BWP | 500 MB/day | 30 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
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?
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.
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.
VI. What to prepare when buying a 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!
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 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
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.