Money Matters
Can I get the VAT I paid for my purchases reimbursed?
Yes in South Africa, provided the value of each invoice purchased exceeds ZAR 50.00 and the total value of all items exceeds ZAR 250.00 You must have a valid passport, valid tax invoices and must produce the goods if requested. The invoice must stipulate that it is a VAT invoice and show the amount charged. Follow this link for more information: http://www.taxrefunds.co.za/
Can I use a credit card?
In most cases Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted. For travel to Rwanda, Uganda Zambia and Zimbabwe, you may need to pay in cash for purchases at local shopping outlets.
Can I purchase wine?
South Africa produces some of the world’s finest wines so if you are a wine lover we suggest you have a box shipped to you. Both Canada and the USA have restrictions on how much can be brought in duty free, and anything over that amount will be charged import duties.
USA
One American liter (33.8 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages may be included in your returning resident personal exemption if:
• You are at least 21 years old.
• It is intended exclusively for your personal use and not for sale.
• It does not violate the laws of the state in which you arrive.
Canada – only one of the following is allowed:
• 1.5 litres (50.7 US ounces) of wine, or
• 1.14 litres (38.5 US ounces) of liquor, or
• A total of 1.14 litres (38.5 US ounces) of wine and liquor
What is the shopping like in Africa?
Shopping varies according to destination. Generally African handicrafts such as leather goods, wooden carvings, sculptures, paintings, bead work and woven articles are popular purchases. Jewelry is an excellent purchase in South Africa.
How much should I tip my driver or guide?
The following is only a guideline and tipping is always at your discretion.
Camp and Game Lodge Guides / Rangers
ZAR 150.00 - ZAR 200.00 OR USD $15.00 - $20.00 per guest per day
Camp and Game Lodge Trackers
ZAR 100.00 OR USD $10.00 per guest per day
Lodge Butlers where applicable
ZAR 50.00 OR USD $5.00 per guest per day
General Safari Camp/Lodge Staff
ZAR 75.00 OR USD $7.50 per guest per day
Porterage
ZAR 15.00 USD $2.00 per bag
City Hotel Staff (ie. housekeeping)
ZAR 50.00 or USD $5.00 per guest per day
Transfer and Touring Driver/Guides
Transfer: ZAR 50.00 or USD $5.00 per person
Half day tour: ZAR 100.00 or USD $10.00 per person
Full day tour: ZAR 200.00 or USD $20.00 per person
Restaurants: 10% to 15% on meal accounts
What currency will I need?
South Africa – South African Rands
Botswana – US Dollars
Namibia – South African Rands or Namibian Dollars
Zimbabwe – US Dollars generally accepted at Lodges (Zimbabwean Dollars required at local shops)
Zambia – Zambian Kwacha
East Africa – US Dollars
Where is the best place to exchange money?
We suggest you get local currency on arrival at your first destination at the bank/exchange bureau.
