Money in South Africa
South Africa uses the South African rand. Here is how to pay there, whether to tip, and what common amounts are worth.
- Currency
- ZARSouth African rand
- Symbol
- R
- Tipping
- Expected
Paying in South Africa
Cards are widely used. Carry cash for tips and parking attendants.
- Cards
- Widely accepted
- Cash
- Markets and roadside stalls may take only cash. Carry small cash for tips, with car guards typically expecting a few rand to about R10 (South African Tourism, Cape Town Tourism).
- ATMs
- ATMs are in all cities and towns and most accept foreign cards. Some ATMs have limits or extra fees, so check with your bank.
- Exchanging money
- Exchange at banks, forex bureaux and airports, including a 24-hour service at Cape Town International. Use only reputable offices to avoid counterfeit notes.
- Watch out for
- Cover your PIN, ignore strangers offering help at ATMs and avoid ATMs in dark or deserted areas. Do not let anyone take your card out of sight.
Tipping in South Africa
10–15% in restaurants. Tip petrol attendants and car guards with small change.
Expected: Tips are customary, and staff often rely on them.
Sources checked: South African Tourism (trade site), Gauteng Tourism, Faraway Worlds, Cape Town Tourism, Jacada Travel, Discover Africa.
Convert to and from ZAR
Quick reference
| Amount | USD | EUR | GBP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 16.60 ZAR | 18.60 ZAR | 22.28 ZAR |
| 10 | 166 ZAR | 186 ZAR | 223 ZAR |
| 50 | 830 ZAR | 930 ZAR | 1,114 ZAR |
| 100 | 1,660 ZAR | 1,860 ZAR | 2,228 ZAR |
| 500 | 8,302 ZAR | 9,301 ZAR | 11,140 ZAR |
What each amount is worth in ZAR. Mid-market rates from 2 November 2026, 17:00 UTC.
Common questions
What currency does South Africa use?
South Africa uses the South African rand (ZAR).
Do you need to tip in South Africa?
Expected. 10–15% in restaurants. Tip petrol attendants and car guards with small change.
Can you pay by card in South Africa?
Widely accepted. Markets and roadside stalls may take only cash. Carry small cash for tips, with car guards typically expecting a few rand to about R10 (South African Tourism, Cape Town Tourism).
Are there ATMs in South Africa?
ATMs are in all cities and towns and most accept foreign cards. Some ATMs have limits or extra fees, so check with your bank.