Payment methods and expenses
From general information about Botswana's currency and payment methods to specific advice on tipping during your lodge stay – below, we've compiled the most important information regarding financial matters.
Currency
The currency is the Botswana Pula, which means "rain" and underscores the strong significance of this word for a country mostly consisting of desert. 1 Pula (= rain) = 100 Thebe (= shield).
You can always check the current exchange rate using a currency converter.
Payment methods
Upon entering Botswana, you will be required to declare your cash of all foreign currencies. You can exchange your money at international airports as well as in hotels and lodges. We advise you to exchange only as much money as necessary. To find out the current exchange rate, you should inquire with your bank beforehand.
Cash and traveller's checks can only be exchanged for a fee at banks and official exchange bureaus. To avoid being bound by bank opening hours, it is advisable to always carry a certain amount of cash with you. During tours, you have the option to withdraw money from ATMs in Maun, Kasane, and other cities. Additionally, some lodges and hotels accept credit card payments. Besides Botswana Pula, Euros and US Dollars are generally accepted as payment.
Tipping
Offering a tip at the end of your lodge or camp stay is a customary way to show gratitude if you were satisfied with the service provided to you. A tip of 5 to 10 Euros per day per traveller is appropriate, both for your guide and for the entire remaining team of the lodge or mobile camp. However, it is entirely up to you whether and how much tip you would like to give.
Shopping
Most lodges have on-site souvenir shops where you can often pay with a credit card. Additionally, there are small shops or street vendors in Maun, Kasane, and other cities offering arts, crafts and souvenirs.
