Are you looking for information on where and how to exchange foreign currency in South Africa? With so many alternatives available to you, you can select the best way to travel with foreign money that best meets your vacation plans.
Credit and debit cards are accepted.
Using your credit or debit card when traveling overseas is a popular and convenient choice for those who prefer to stick to what they know. MasterCard and Visa are major credit card brands that are accepted worldwide. Debit and credit cards can be used over the counter and at specified ATMs (depending on your location).
When traveling internationally, notify your bank. If they notice strange activity on your account, they may freeze it, which might be difficult to undo when you’re away!
Cash
Traveling with cash is convenient, but it also puts you at risk if you lose your wallet or are pickpocketed. If you’re traveling somewhere where alternative payment options aren’t accepted, or if you’re spending a lot of time outside of a major city, having cash on hand comes in handy. If you decide to travel with a significant amount of cash, consider breaking it up and storing it in separate locations (wallet, travel pouch, waterproof bag, etc.) so that if you are robbed, you will not lose all of your money at once. If you need to exchange money, look for a bureau that has a flat rate and exchange big sums at once to avoid incurring multiple costs.
Travel Wallet/Cash Passport
Cash passports, sometimes known as travel wallets, have become a far more popular mode of transportation. These are ideal if you are traveling numerous countries and require multiple currencies. The cash passport is simply a debit card that has been pre-loaded with the amount of foreign currency you specify. This card can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs and to swipe at stores and restaurants. Although you may get these cards from your local bank, they are not tied to your bank account, thus you save money on bank fees. You can put several currencies onto the card and top up your balance online. If the card is lost or stolen, notify your bank or forex store, who will block the card and give you a new one.
Where in South Africa can I convert foreign currency?
Aside from large local banks such as Absa, FNB, Standard Bank, Bidvest, and Capitec, there are numerous agencies and bureaus where foreign money can be purchased and exchanged.
Cape Town
Rennies
Travelex
Inter Africa Bureau de Change
Master Currency
Johannesburg
Master Currency
Travelex
Tower Bureau de Change
Forex World
Global Foreign Exchange
Rennies
American Express
Interchange Africa
Pretoria
Kudex Foreign Exchange
American Express
Inter Africa Bureau de Change
Master Currency
Travelex
Rennies
Durban
Kudex Foreign Exchange
American Express
Inter Africa Bureau de Change
Master Currency
Travelex
Rennies
