South Africa Currency Guide
From its iconic wildlife to its cosmopolitan cities, South Africa can offer something to travellers of any persuasion. The country boasts some of the continent’s most stunning natural wonders, from the awe-inspiring Table Mountain to Kruger National Park. Visitors can explore diverse terrain, including rugged mountain ranges, coastal beaches and deserts. With its absorbing history and breathtaking sights, South Africa is a perfect choice for holidaymakers seeking new experiences in a beautiful and captivating location.
Taking Travel Money to South Africa
If you’re travelling to South Africa, you’ll need to exchange your Australian dollars (AUD) for South African rands (ZAR).
Is it better to convert currency in Australia or South Africa?
When travelling from Australia to South Africa, it is more practical and beneficial to buy South African rand in Australia than to do so in South Africa. Converting your currency before leaving Australia will save you time, unnecessary stress, and possibly additional costs associated with exchanging currency overseas. This way, you can know exactly how much travel money you have before your departure and access the funds right away when you land in South Africa.
How much cash can I take to South Africa?
Up to 25,000ZAR in cash is allowed for the South African Rand, and up to US$10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies is permitted. Anything higher than this should be declared on entry.
Where to convert currency?
Crown Currency Exchange is Australia’s largest and leading foreign exchange provider. With over 20 years of experience in ensuring our customers have the exact currencies needed to get the most from their travel adventures, we offer great rates on foreign currency and exceptional customer service. You can collect your foreign currencies from over 60 stores across Australia and get your travel money on the spot, locking in a fantastic exchange rate. Our stores are located nationwide in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide, Tasmania & Perth.
What should you budget per day?
Budget
For the budget-conscious traveller, South Africa is an incredibly affordable destination. With around 1500 ZAR per day, you can have a unique and memorable experience. You can stay in comfy hostels, cook your own delicious meals, explore nature and local sights on self-guided walking tours, and get around with public transportation.
Moderate
With about 3000 ZAR per day, you can get the entire South African experience. Why not stay in a private hostel or Airbnb and enjoy some delicious meals? Treat yourself with a few drinks, hop into a taxi for some sightseeing here and there and participate in special activities like an unforgettable safari or even learning how to surf! Make South Africa your next destination – it will be a memorable trip!
Luxury
Love the finer things in life? Then with about 5,000 ZAR or more per day, you can have the luxury holiday of your dreams. With this budget, you can indulge yourself without forgetting this nation’s beauty and culture. From luxurious hotels or villas to exquisite dinners with some of the finest wines and local delicacies, you’ll surely experience a trip you’ll never forget. You can also explore the countless safaris, adventure sports and nightlife experiences that await you.
What is ATM access like in South Africa?
Banking in South Africa is highly convenient due to its well-developed system and vast network of ATMs. Accessing cash is simple, with both traditional and more established banks offering access to ATMs located in strategic places such as near supermarkets, shopping malls, and even bank branches. Furthermore, navigating the ATMs is relatively straightforward, with English as the primary language for making transactions.
Is tipping customary in South Africa? How much is expected?
As a visitor, you’ll want to ensure that you respect local customs and traditions—including tipping etiquette. So to help you, here are some tips on how to tip in South Africa.
Taxis: When taking a taxi in South Africa, it’s customary to tip 10-20% of your total fare. How much you give should depend on the length of your ride, the number of stops you made, the friendliness and professionalism of your driver, and the distance they took you.
Restaurants: In restaurants and cafes across South Africa, 10% is considered an absolute minimum tip; 15% or more is more usual. You can use your judgement about where to place your tipping rate based on the quality of service you received.
Spas and Salons: If you are visiting a spa or salon while in South Africa, 10-15% of the total service charge is generally acceptable when leaving a tip for your technician or stylist. Those who receive exceptional service may choose to go more than this amount if they feel inclined; however, this should not be expected but rather as an act of kindness if warranted by the level of service provided
Safari Staff: For safari guides or other staff members that help make your trip more enjoyable, tips should range between R100-R250 per day depending on their level of expertise and helpfulness during your stay. Be sure to ask before giving any tips what is standard or appropriate so as not to overstep any bounds about cultural etiquette.
Hotels: Tips at hotels can vary widely depending on the length of stay and services received by guests; however, R20-R500 are the usual amounts given by visitors who have had an enjoyable experience during their visit. Again, it’s best practice to ask before leaving any tips what would be considered polite so as not to make anyone uncomfortable with expectations that are too high or too low for the service provided.
Must-Do's in South Africa
1
Visit Table Mountain
Table Mountain dominates the Cape Town skyline, with its flat top rising 3,563 feet above sea level. The mountain is part of the Table Mountain National Park and features some of the most breathtaking views in all of South Africa. Visitors can take a cable car up the mountain to avoid climbing over 1,000 stairs up to the summit. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of both Cape Town City Centre and Table Bay. Several hiking trails around the mountain allow hikers to explore different parts of this natural wonder.
2
Take a safari in Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations and offers visitors an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience. Located in northeastern South Africa near Mozambique, Kruger National Park covers over 7,500 square miles and is home to thousands of species of animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, zebras, giraffes and more! Visitors can go on guided game drives throughout the park, where they can spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
3
Explore the Cape Winelands
The lush green valleys of South Africa’s wine region are dotted with vineyards where visitors can taste some world-class wines from over 300 wineries located throughout Stellenbosch and Franschhoek Valleys. Not only will visitors have access to some fantastic wines, but they will also be able to experience spectacular views from rolling hills covered with vineyards as far as the eye can see! With so much variety available at each winery, it’s no wonder The Cape Winelands attracts wine lovers from around the globe every year!
4
Spend time on the Beaches Of Durban Or Camps Bay
Durban is located along South Africa’s eastern seaboard between Johannesburg and Cape Town on KwaZulu-Natal Province’s coastline. It boasts beautiful beaches perfect for swimming or simply lounging on its golden sands under sunny skies. If you want something more exciting than sunbathing, head down to Camps Bay, which has become famous for its collection of trendy bars located next door to each other, making it easy for partygoers looking for an unforgettable night out!
5
Try different South African Cuisine
When visiting South Africa, you should take some time from your sightseeing itinerary and sample some delicious local cuisine! Bobotie is a traditional dish with minced meat (usually beef or lamb) mixed with various spices such as turmeric and curry powder, served with rice or mashed potatoes – yum! For those who prefer snacks rather than full meals, then biltong (dried meat strips similar to jerky) makes an excellent snack or accompaniment when paired with beer – delicious!