How to get Bitcoin

Before buying Bitcoin from an exchange,

consider earning it first—or buying directly from a friend, peer, or trusted individual.
Earning Bitcoin is the easiest, most private and safest way to acquire it.

Buying Bitcoin from an Exchange:

Pick an exchange

Choose a reliable South African exchange where you can buy Bitcoin using Rands.
Examples: Luno, or Valr, CapeCrypto
or 54052.co.za (For smaller amounts and lighter KYC requirements)

Create an Account

Sign up using your email address and set a strong password.
You’ll need to verify your identity by uploading your ID and a selfie (this is called KYC – Know Your Customer).

Deposit Rands (ZAR)

Link your bank account or make an EFT deposit into your exchange wallet.
Most platforms support instant deposits from major South African banks.

Buy Bitcoin/Satoshis

Once your ZAR reflects, choose how much Bitcoin you want to buy.
You can start small! Even R50 buys a small fraction of Bitcoin called sats (short for satoshis – the smallest unit of Bitcoin).
For buying smaller amounts with lighter KYC requirements, check out 54052.co.za – available to install as an app.

Send Bitcoin to Your Wallet (Recommended!)

Move your Bitcoin into your own mobile wallet for better security and control.
Learn how wallets work and which ones we recommend on our Wallets Page.

Support the Local Community!

Use some of your sats at a local business that accepts Bitcoin—it’s a great way to learn how it all works and support the local businesses to become a part of the circular economy. Check out our Local Vendors List to see where you can spend your sats!