The rand (ZAR) arrived in 1961, the same year that South Africa became an official Republic. There are 100 cents to every rand, but one and two cent coins have fallen out of use due to inflation.
When it comes to tour guides, taxis and meals, it's customary to leave around 10% of your bill as a tip. Give this directly to your waiter/tour guide/taxi driver and if the service was really good, you can round it up to 15%.
The notes you'll use in South Africa are for the value of 10 (green), 20 (brown), 50 (red), 100 (blue) and 200 (orange) rand. Each note includes an image of Nelson Mandela as part of the design, as well as one of the many animals native to South Africa.
What to spend your rand on**:
Soft drink in a restaurant
10 ZAR
Return trip on a cable car to the top of Table Mountain
The Cape of Good Hope is where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, offering one of the most picturesque and mesmerising views in all of South Africa.
Durban
Some of the best beaches of South Africa’s east coast are here, as well as the beautiful Botanical Gardens and the uShaka Marine World aquarium.
Johannesburg
For safari fans Jo’burg is the place to be, with plenty of wildlife to spot outside of the city. For those who want to learn a bit more about South African history, head straight to the Apartheid Museum.
Buying South African rand online is easy
Order South African rands online, lock in the rate and collect at your local store or at the airport before you fly.
1. Click the ‘Buy South African rand’ button below
And tell us how much you need for your trip.
2. Choose where to get it
Collect your currency from 33 Travelex stores.
3. Pay online
Simply pay using either your debit card (recommended) or credit card and you’re all set!
If buying online is not your thing, visit your nearest Travelex store around and one of our friendly sales consultants will help you organise your real for your trip to South Africa.
A budget
Recalculate
