What currency should I bring?

The currency in South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR), and US dollars are not widely accepted. South African Rands can also be used easily in Namibia and eSwatini (Swaziland). If you're travelling anywhere else in Southern Africa or East Africa, the most useful currency to have with you is US dollars (USD). In countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania and Kenya, they all have their own local currencies but the most useful currency to have with you as a tourist is US dollars, which are accepted everywhere. Bring crisp, recent notes in small denominations (torn bills or older bills from before 2006 are sometimes not accepted). You won't always be able to get change for a $100 bill. Rather bring lots of $10, $5 and $1 bills.

However, you shouldn't need to carry a lot of cash with you as most places accept credit cards (Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, Amex not as much). Be sure to inform your bank about your trip and activate or unblock your credit card for international transactions before you leave.

You can exchange money easily at any bank or airport. There is also a wide network of ATMs at airports, most shopping centres, petrol stations, etc. where you can withdraw cash. This usually works out cheaper than changing money at a Bureau de Change.