What currency is used in South Africa?

South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). The symbol is R.

What is the exchange rate for ZAR?

As of 2026, approximately 18.5 ZAR = 1 USD. Rates fluctuate, so check current rates before traveling.

Money & Currency

South Africa Currency Guide

Q: Can I use US dollars in South Africa?

While some tourist areas accept US dollars, it's best to have local currency (ZAR) for most transactions. Safari lodges and some hotels may quote in USD.

Everything you need to know about money in South Africa. Currency, exchange rates, ATMs, credit cards, and tipping customs.

Currency Name

South African Rand

Currency Code

ZAR

Symbol

Exchange Rate

18.5 = $1 USD

Updated: 2026

Quick Conversion Guide

Approximate values at current exchange rate

USD	ZAR	Common Use
$1	R18.5	Coffee, small snack
$5	R92.5	Local meal
$10	R185	Restaurant meal
$20	R370	Nice dinner, taxi ride
$50	R925	Day activities
$100	R1,850	Budget daily spend

Typical Prices in South Africa

What things cost to help you budget

Budget Meal$5-10

Restaurant Meal$15-50

Beer$2

Wine Tasting$5-15

ATMs & Credit Cards

ATM Withdrawals

•ATMs widely available in cities and major towns
•Most ATMs dispense local currency (ZAR)
•Visa and Mastercard widely accepted
•Withdraw cash before heading to rural areas or parks
!ATM fees vary - check with your bank

Credit & Debit Cards

•Accepted at hotels, lodges, and upscale restaurants
•Visa and Mastercard most widely accepted
•American Express less common
!Small businesses and markets: cash only
!Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid blocks

Where to Exchange Money

Banks

Best rates, may require ID. Open weekdays only.

Best Rates

ATMs

Convenient, competitive rates. Watch for fees.

Recommended

Forex Bureaus

Convenient hours, rates vary. Compare first.

Compare Rates

Hotels

Convenient but worst rates. Emergency only.

Poor Rates

Tip: Bring clean, undamaged US dollars (post-2006 bills preferred). Damaged or old bills may be refused or exchanged at lower rates.

Tipping in South Africa

10-15% in restaurants, $10-20/day for guides

Service	Suggested Tip	Notes
Safari Guide	$10-20/day	Per person, more for exceptional service
Safari Driver	$10-15/day	Shared among group
Lodge Staff	$10-20/day	Often pooled, put in staff box
Restaurant	10%	Check if service charge included
Taxi/Driver	Round up	Not expected for short rides
Porter	$1-2/bag	At hotels and airports

Note: Tips in USD are often preferred for safari staff. Small local currency bills are useful for everyday tipping.

Money Tips for Travelers

1Carry a mix of cash and cards

2Keep small bills for tips and markets

3Withdraw larger amounts to minimize ATM fees

4Use a travel card with no foreign transaction fees

5Keep emergency USD in a separate location

6Don't change money on the street (illegal)

7Save ATM receipts for reference

8Download a currency converter app offline

Daily Budget Guide

budget

$50-$80/day

Hostels, self-catering, public transport

mid range

$150-$250/day

B&Bs, restaurants, rental car

luxury

$400-$1500/day

Luxury lodges, fine dining, private guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use US dollars in South Africa?

Some tourist establishments, safari lodges, and hotels accept USD. However, local currency (ZAR) is needed for everyday purchases, markets, and local restaurants.

Should I exchange money before I arrive?

You can bring USD to exchange on arrival. Exchange rates at the airport are usually fair. ATMs at the airport are also a good option.

How much cash should I carry?

Have enough local currency for 2-3 days of expenses plus emergency USD. Don't carry large amounts - use ATMs as needed.

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