Places to exchange currency in Botswana

I landed in Gaborone and went straight to an FNB ATM at the airport. Worked perfectly with my foreign card, and the rate was decent. Later, I saw exchange counters in Riverwalk Mall offering slightly better rates for USD. For convenience, airport ATMs win - but if you want to squeeze every pula, head into the city. On safari in the Okavango Delta, cash was essential, and ATMs were far away, so I was glad I withdrew enough early.

Botswana is easy for cash access. Airport exchange counters are fine for small sums but not the best value. ATMs from Absa, Stanbic, and FNB are safe and widespread, giving fair conversion rates. If you bring USD or ZAR, exchange them in city centers like Gaborone or Francistown where rates are stronger. A lot of lodges and safari operators prefer cash, so it’s good to stock up before heading into remote areas. For everyday spending, ATMs are the simplest solution.

I prefer using ATMs when I land in Botswana - FNB and Absa are solid choices. The airport exchange counters will change your money, but their rates are weaker. In Gaborone and Maun, shopping centers have currency exchange places with much better rates. I usually withdraw a small amount from an airport ATM, then do bigger exchanges in town if I’m carrying USD. This way, you don’t overpay at arrivals but still have enough pula for taxis and meals.

At Sir Seretse Khama Airport in Gaborone, you’ll find exchange counters, but rates aren’t the best. I recommend withdrawing pula directly from ATMs. Barclays (now Absa), Stanbic, and First National Bank (FNB) all have ATMs at the airport and in the city. Fees are low, and the rate is official. Exchange houses in Gaborone malls also give better rates than airport counters. Grab just enough at arrivals for a taxi, then use ATMs in town for the bulk of your cash.