What Currency Does Botswana Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 13.83 BWP
1 GBP ≈ 18.54 BWP
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Botswana? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Botswana pula spending.
What is money called in Botswana?
Money in Botswana is called the Botswana pula — its ISO 4217 currency code is BWP, and its symbol is P. The Botswana pula is the official legal tender in Botswana and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the Botswana currency or simply money in Botswana.
Is the Botswana pula used anywhere else?
No — Botswana is the only country on this site using the Botswana pula as its official currency.
Practical money tips for Botswana
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Botswana pula in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
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Botswana currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Botswana?
The currency of Botswana is the Botswana pula (currency code: BWP, symbol: P).
What is the currency code for Botswana?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Botswana pula is BWP.
What is the Botswana pula symbol?
The symbol for the Botswana pula is P. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Botswana.
What currency is used in Botswana?
The official currency used in Botswana is the Botswana pula (BWP).
Can I use US dollars in Botswana?
The official currency of Botswana is the Botswana pula, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Botswana pula and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Botswana?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 13.83 BWP and 1 GBP = 18.54 BWP. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Botswana?
Money in Botswana is called the Botswana pula (BWP).
Do other countries use the Botswana pula?
No — Botswana is the only country on this site using the Botswana pula as its official currency.
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