Mozambique
Money in Mozambique: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use the Mozambican metical (MZN) for most purchases; cards work in Maputo, large hotels and lodges, but keep cash for markets, small restaurants and transport. Tip about 5‑10% of the bill where service is not included.
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GuideMozambique
Key facts
- Currency
- Mozambican metical (MZN, MT)
- ATMscheck
- Available in Maputo, Beira, Nampula; often out of service, bring backup cash
- Card acceptancecheck
- Visa/Mastercard in major hotels, restaurants and tour operators; cash only in markets and chapas
- Typical tip
- 5–10 % of the bill; round up in restaurants, give 10 MT per porter
Currency overview
Mozambique uses the metical (MZN, MT). Bills are issued in 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1 000 MT; coins exist but are rarely needed. Exchange rates fluctuate; a quick check on a currency converter is advisable before travel.
| Item | Typical price (2026 estimate) |
|---|---|
| Local meal at a market | 20–40 MT |
| Beer (2 L) | 10–30 MT |
| Chapa (minibus) ride | 20–30 MT |
ATMs and cards
ATMs are concentrated in Maputo, Beira and Nampula; they dispense meticals and occasionally US dollars. Machines may be out of service, so carry enough cash for the first days.
Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, tour operators and some supermarkets in the main cities. Small shops, street vendors and transport (chapas, taxis) usually require cash.
- Bring at least 200 MT per day for meals and transport outside major cities.
- Notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
- Use a card with no foreign transaction fees to save money.
Tipping guide
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants where a service charge is not added, leave 5–10 % of the total, rounded up to the nearest 10 MT. For hotel porters, give 10 MT per bag. Guides and drivers usually expect a tip of 10–20 USD per day, payable in cash.
- Restaurants: 5–10 % of the bill.
- Hotels (porters, housekeeping): 10 MT per service.
- Guides/drivers: 10–20 USD per day, cash.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Mozambique?
The official currency is the Mozambican metical (MZN, MT). US dollars and South African rand are sometimes accepted near the border, but rely on meticals for most purchases.
Should I use cash or a card in Mozambique?
Use cards in Maputo, large hotels and tour operators; keep cash for markets, small restaurants, chapas and rural areas where cards are not accepted.
How much should I tip in Mozambique?
Tip about 5–10 % in restaurants without a service charge, 10 MT for hotel staff per service, and 10–20 USD per day for guides or drivers.
Are ATMs reliable in Mozambique?
ATMs are found in Maputo, Beira and Nampula, but often run out of cash or are out of service. Always carry enough meticals for a few days, especially outside major cities.
Can I use US dollars or South African rand in Mozambique?
Some lodges and border-area shops accept US dollars or rand, but at poor exchange rates. For everyday purchases, use meticals. Ask before relying on foreign currency.
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