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Documentation Index

Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.orca.so/llms.txt

Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

Trade any token on Solana in seconds with Orca’s intuitive swap interface.
Orca compares quotes from its own pools and Jupiter aggregator, so you always get the best price without leaving the app.

Before You Start

Solana Wallet

Phantom, Backpack, or any supported wallet

SOL for Fees

Keep at least 0.05 SOL for network fees

Tokens to Trade

The token you want to swap
New to Solana? See our wallet setup guide to get started.

How to Swap

1

Go to Orca and connect your wallet

Visit orca.so and click Connect Wallet in the top right corner (or center of the trading modal on mobile).Select your wallet from the list and approve the connection.
2

Select your tokens

In the swap interface:
  • Click the top token selector to choose the token you want to sell (pay with)
  • Click the bottom token selector to choose the token you want to buy (receive)
Token selection interface
3

Enter the amount

Type the amount you want to swap in either field:
  • Enter in the top field to specify how much you’re selling
  • Enter in the bottom field to specify how much you want to receive
Use Half or Max buttons for quick amounts.
Swap amount entry
4

Review the quote

Check the swap details:
  • Rate — Current exchange rate
  • Price impact — How your trade affects the price
  • Minimum received — Guaranteed minimum after slippage
Click the dropdown arrow to see more details.
Swap quote details
5

Compare prices (optional)

Orca shows you quotes from both:
  • Orca Direct — Trading through Orca’s pools
  • Jupiter — Aggregated from multiple DEXs
The better price is highlighted. Choose your preferred option.
6

Adjust slippage (optional)

Click the gear icon (⚙️) to adjust slippage tolerance if needed.
Pair TypeRecommended Slippage
Stablecoins0.1%
Major pairs (SOL/USDC)0.5%
Volatile tokens1-3%
See Understanding Slippage for more details.
7

Execute the swap

Click Trade (or Swap) and approve the transaction in your wallet.The UI will show progress and confirm when complete.

After Your Swap

Swapped tokens appear in your wallet immediately after the transaction confirms. Check your wallet’s token list—you may need to add the token if it’s new to your wallet.
The final amount can differ slightly due to:
  • Slippage — Price moved between quote and execution
  • Price impact — Your trade size affected the price
You’ll never receive less than the “Minimum received” shown.
Common causes and fixes:
  • Slippage too low — Increase slippage tolerance
  • Insufficient SOL — Add more SOL for fees
  • Price moved — Try again with updated quote
See FAQs for more troubleshooting.

Tips for Better Trades

Check Price Impact

High price impact means you’re moving the market. Consider splitting large trades or using a pool with more liquidity.

Verify Token Addresses

Always verify token mint addresses, especially for new or unfamiliar tokens. Scam tokens often mimic popular names.

Start Small

Testing with a small amount first is always a good practice, especially with new tokens or large trades.

Compare Quotes

Use Orca’s built-in comparison to ensure you’re getting the best deal between Orca and Jupiter.
Always verify your transaction details in your wallet before approving. Check the tokens, amounts, and destination address carefully.

Get SOL for Fees

If you need SOL for transaction fees:
  1. From a centralized exchange — Buy SOL and withdraw to your wallet address
  2. Through a fiat on-ramp — Some wallets have built-in purchase options
  3. Bridge from another chain — Use a bridge if you have assets elsewhere
When withdrawing from an exchange, ensure you select the Solana (SPL) network. Test with a small amount first.

Next Steps

Understanding Slippage

Learn how slippage works and how to protect your trades

Range Orders

Set limit-order-style trades that earn fees while waiting

Provide Liquidity

Earn trading fees by providing liquidity

FAQs

Common questions and troubleshooting