Staying connected in Botswana is easy and affordable with prepaid SIM cards. Whether you’re planning a safari, a cultural trip, or a business visit, getting a local SIM ensures cheaper calls, fast internet, and seamless communication. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about prepaid SIM cards in Botswana—from network coverage to tourist-friendly options.
Basics
Botswana has a well-established mobile network infrastructure, primarily dominated by three main providers:
- Mascom Wireless
- Orange Botswana
- BTC Mobile (BeMobile)
Prepaid SIM cards are available nationwide at airports, kiosks, malls, supermarkets, and official retail outlets. You’ll need a valid passport or national ID for registration.
Official Websites
Here are the official websites for the three major providers:
- Mascom: www.mascom.bw
- Orange Botswana: www.orange.co.bw
- BTC (BeMobile): www.btc.bw
Frequencies
Botswana’s mobile operators use the following frequency bands:
| Network | 2G | 3G | 4G LTE | 5G |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mascom | 900 / 1800 MHz | 2100 MHz | 800 / 1800 / 2600 MHz | Testing |
| Orange | 900 / 1800 MHz | 2100 MHz | 800 / 1800 / 2600 MHz | Not Yet |
| BTC | 900 / 1800 MHz | 2100 MHz | 1800 MHz | Not Yet |
Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with these bands for full connectivity.
Coverage & Speed
Mascom generally has the best national coverage, especially in remote areas like the Okavango Delta and Kalahari. Orange offers competitive speeds in urban centers like Gaborone and Francistown. BTC is catching up but still lags in rural reach.
| Provider | Urban Coverage | Rural Coverage | Average 4G Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mascom | Excellent | Very Good | 20–35 Mbps |
| Orange | Excellent | Good | 15–30 Mbps |
| BTC | Good | Fair | 10–20 Mbps |
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | Mascom | Orange Botswana | BTC Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 🥇 Best | 🥈 Good | 🥉 Fair |
| Speed | High | High | Moderate |
| Prices | Moderate | Affordable | Cheapest |
| Tourist SIM | Yes | Yes | No |
| eSIM Support | No | No | No |
Biometric User Registration
All SIM card purchases in Botswana require biometric registration. You’ll need to present:
- A valid passport (for tourists)
- A national ID (for residents)
- Fingerprints or facial photo (depending on the store)
This is mandatory by law and applies to both prepaid and postpaid users.
What to Expect
- English is widely spoken, making communication easy at SIM shops.
- Most vendors will help you insert and activate the SIM.
- SIM registration is typically completed within minutes.
- Credit can be topped up at retail stores, ATMs, and via mobile money.
Device Registration
There is no mandatory device registration in Botswana, unlike in some African countries. As long as your device is unlocked and supports local frequencies, it should work without any issues.
Mobile Apps
Each provider offers a mobile app to manage your account, buy data bundles, and check usage:
- MyMascom (Android/iOS)
- My Orange (Android/iOS)
- BTC Mobile App (Android/iOS)
These apps support English and are simple to navigate.
SIM Card Price
Expect to pay the following for a prepaid SIM:
| Provider | SIM Card Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Mascom | BWP 5–10 ($0.40–$0.80) |
| Orange | BWP 5–10 |
| BTC | BWP 5–10 |
Prices may vary slightly depending on location.
Prepaid Plans
Botswana’s prepaid plans are flexible and include voice, data, and combo bundles.
Example: Mascom Prepaid Plans
| Bundle | Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | BWP 5 | 100MB | 1 day |
| Weekly | BWP 20 | 750MB | 7 days |
| Monthly | BWP 100 | 5GB | 30 days |
Similar structures are available with Orange and BTC.
Tourist SIM Options
Both Mascom and Orange offer tourist SIMs, ideal for short-term visitors. Features include:
- Preloaded airtime and data
- Valid for 7–30 days
- Easy top-ups and app access
Ask for a “Tourist SIM” at the airport or main city kiosks.
Data Add-Ons
Need more data? Top up easily with data-only bundles through:
- USSD codes
- Mobile apps
- Online recharge portals
- Mobile money (like Orange Money or Mascom MyZaka)
Popular data add-ons:
| Provider | Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mascom | BWP 50 | 3GB | 7 days |
| Orange | BWP 100 | 6GB | 30 days |
| BTC | BWP 25 | 2GB | 7 days |
SIM Activation
SIM cards are usually activated at the point of purchase, especially at official stores. Once activated:
- Insert the SIM into your phone.
- Restart your phone.
- Dial the provider’s setup code (e.g.,
*123#for Mascom). - Choose your preferred language and plan.
How to Check Remaining Balance
Use these USSD codes to check your credit or data balance:
- Mascom:
*123#or via MyMascom App - Orange:
*121#or My Orange App - BTC:
*180#or **BTC Mobile App`
Conclusion
Getting a prepaid SIM card in Botswana is a smart, budget-friendly choice for travelers and residents alike. With reliable providers like Mascom, Orange, and BTC, you’ll enjoy wide coverage, fast speeds, and competitive prices. Whether you’re exploring the wilds of Chobe or attending a business conference in Gaborone, staying connected is just a SIM card away.
For the best experience, we recommend:
- Mascom for remote areas
- Orange for strong urban performance
- BTC for basic, low-cost use
Just remember to carry your passport, choose the right plan, and download your provider’s app for a seamless experience!