Before you travel to Africa it’s wise to be informed about the currency and payment methods available in the countries you will be visiting. We have put together a little guide to help you out.

Mastercard

 

ATM / Debit cards

Getting money from the ATM is a good way to withdraw local currency when you enter the country. Your card should have a pin and a chip to be able to get money from an ATM. In most cases you will not be able to take a countries local currency to a neighbouring country and exchange it. So, make sure you don’t have too much local currency.

Money Exchange

Make sure you only exchange money with official foreign exchange companies. Do not deal with street vendors offering to exchange your money for a better rate.

ZAR (South African Rand)

The South African Rand is accepted in South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, Mozambique and Namibia. If paying with Rands in any of these countries you will receive your change back in the local currency.

US$ (United States Dollar)

The United States Dollar is accepted in the following countries in East and Southern Africa:
Botswana (local currency: Pula)
Tanzania (local currency: Tanzanian Shilling)
Kenya (local currency: Kenyan Shilling)
Uganda (local currency: Ugandan Shilling)
Malawi (local currency: Kwacha)
Zambia (local currency: Kwacha)

Zimbabwe:

Currently Zimbabwe does not have a currency. US Dollars and Rands are the best bet to pay for things in Zimbabwe. Make sure you have cash before you enter Zimbabwe as most of the ATM’s are no longer working.