South Africa is a country where bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but where a little cash in rand (ZAR) remains essential for tips, markets and unexpected expenses. Here's how to balance the two before you leave.
The South African rand (ZAR), a currency worth knowing
The local currency is the rand, represented by the letter R and coded ZAR. Banknotes in circulation range from R10 to R200 (R10, R20, R50, R100, R200), complemented by coins of 1, 2 and 5 rand as well as cents. The modern banknotes celebrate the local wildlife (the famous "Big Five") and a portrait of Nelson Mandela.
The rand has a reputation for being a volatile currency: its rate against the euro can vary significantly from one month to the next, depending on commodities and the economic climate. In practical terms, it's best to monitor the rate before you leave and avoid exchanging everything at once. The rates displayed in an exchange office are indicative counter rates, which change every day.
Card or cash: a very "cashless" culture
South Africa is one of the most advanced countries on the continent when it comes to electronic payment. Bank cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere: restaurants, supermarkets, petrol stations, hotels, lodges, and even many small traders equipped with mobile terminals. Contactless payment is common in major cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban.
That said, don't leave without cash. Cash remains king in several very specific situations:
- tips, ever-present in the local culture (more on this below);
- craft markets, township stalls and small roadside stands;
- informal parking attendants ("car guards") who watch over your vehicle for a few rand;
- rural areas and certain national parks where the payment network may be limited;
- episodes of load shedding (scheduled power cuts) which can make a payment terminal unusable for a few hours.
How much cash in rand should you budget?
It all depends on your travel style, but for a classic trip combining cities and safari, keep the equivalent of around €30 to €60 per day in rand on you for small expenses, tips and the unexpected. The bulk of your spending (hotels, restaurants, car hire, excursions) is easily settled by card.
A good strategy is to arrive with a reserve of rand already in your pocket for the first few hours (taxi, tip for the porter, first meal), then top up on site. Automated teller machines (ATMs) are plentiful in cities and airports; favour those located inside shopping centres or banks, which are safer and less exposed to "skimming" (card copying). Avoid isolated ATMs out in the street, especially in the evening, and never let a stranger "help" you.
Cash safety: the right habits
South Africa is a magnificent country, but caution is still advisable in large urban areas. A few simple rules:
- never pull out a large wad of notes in public: split up your money (pocket, bag, hotel safe);
- keep small denominations (R10, R20, R50) accessible for tips and car guards;
- in the car, don't leave any valuables visible and keep the windows up at traffic lights;
- keep your exchange receipt: it can be useful for converting back any unspent rand on your return.
Tipping and local customs
Tipping is an integral part of daily life. At a restaurant, count on around 10 to 15% of the bill (often not included). Petrol stations are not self-service: an attendant fills the tank, checks the oil and tyres, and you reward this service with a few rand. You also leave a small amount for car guards, porters and safari guides. Having change in rand avoids many awkward situations.
Customs rules and smart currency exchange
Bear in mind the European regulations: above €10,000 in cash (or the equivalent in foreign currency) when leaving or entering the European Union, a customs declaration is mandatory. For a tourist trip, this threshold is rarely reached, but it's worth knowing if you're travelling in a group or for a long stay.
As for exchanging money, avoid airport counters, which are often less favourable, and prepare your currency before departure. At Paris Change, an exchange office licensed by the ACPR (Banque de France), you can order your currency online and collect it in store, commission-free and from among more than 53 available currencies, including the South African rand. Our single store at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel (75005 Paris), in the heart of the Latin Quarter, is open 7 days a week (Monday to Saturday from 9am to 8pm, Sunday from 10am to 7:30pm), accessible via the Saint-Michel metro (line 4) and the RER B and C (Saint-Michel–Notre-Dame).
Frequently asked questions
Should you exchange your euros for rand before leaving?
Yes, at least a reserve for the first few hours (transport, tips, first meal). Since the rand is volatile and airport counters are unfavourable, preparing your currency in advance at a commission-free office is more reassuring.
Can you pay by card everywhere in South Africa?
In cities and tourist areas, yes, cards are very widely accepted. However, keep some cash for markets, tips, car guards, rural areas and power cuts that can paralyse a payment terminal.
Which rand denominations should you favour?
Ask for a mix of small and medium denominations (R20, R50, R100) rather than large R200 notes, which are harder to get accepted for small purchases and useful for everyday tips.
Prepare for your trip with complete peace of mind: order your currency online from Paris Change and collect your rand at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 7 days a week, commission-free.
