South Africa
Money in South Africa: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use the South African rand (ZAR) for cash; cards are accepted almost everywhere in cities and at lodges, but carry small cash for tips and places without ATMs. Switch to cash if you need change or encounter ATM limits.
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GuideSouth Africa
Key facts
- Currency
- South African rand (ZAR, R)
- ATM availabilitycheck
- Bank and shopping‑centre ATMs in cities; may be limited in remote parks
- Card acceptancecheck
- Visa and Mastercard widely accepted; contactless tap‑to‑pay common in urban areas
- Typical restaurant tip
- 10–15% of the bill, usually left in cash
- Cash for small purchases
- Carry small notes for taxis, market stalls and tips
Currency and payment basics
The official money is the South African rand (ZAR, symbol R). Exchange rates in 2026 are around 17–18 R per US$, but check the latest rate before you travel.
ATMs are plentiful in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and other major towns, usually located inside banks or shopping centres. In rural reserves, ATMs can be scarce; bring enough cash for the day.
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and larger retailers. Contactless tap‑to‑pay is common in urban areas, but keep your card visible when inserting it and decline help from strangers.
- Use ATMs inside secure buildings.
- Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid blocks.
- Prefer cash for tips, taxi drivers, and small market stalls.
Tipping guide
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10–15% of the total bill is typical; leave the tip in cash even if you pay by card.
Hotel staff (porters, housekeeping) usually receive a small cash tip. Taxi drivers and ride‑share drivers often get a small tip for a short ride.
Guides and drivers on safari lodges often include a service charge, but an extra tip for excellent service is appreciated.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in South Africa?
South Africa uses the rand (ZAR, symbol R). It is the only legal tender; foreign currencies are not accepted for everyday purchases — check.
Should I use cash or a card in South Africa?
Cards work in most urban shops, hotels and restaurants. Carry cash for tips, taxis, market stalls and in remote areas where ATMs are rare.
How much should I tip in South Africa?
Leave 10–15% in cash at restaurants, a small cash tip for hotel staff, and small change for taxi drivers. Safari guides may receive an extra tip for good service.
Are ATMs safe to use?
Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres, keep your card in sight, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Do I need to exchange money before arriving?
You can exchange at the airport, banks or reputable exchange bureaus, but better rates are often found at city‑centre ATMs — check.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – South Africa guide
Ask about South Africa
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