Finance

Currency / Banks
The exchange rate generally tends to be in the international tourist's favour. With the average value of the rand, this means that the overseas tourist should find most South African goods very affordable, but imported and specially manufactured items tend to be expensive. Generally, you will find that fine cuisine, wine and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world.

Currency: 1 South African Rand (ZAR) = 100 cents

Most banks are open Mon-Fri 09:00-15:30 and Sat 09:00-11:00.

Credit cards
Credit cards (American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard/EuroCard, Visa) are widely accepted by most restaurants, stores, hotels, car rental companies and other points of sale and service.

ATM's
Automatic Teller Machines (ATM's) are found in most towns and operate on a 24 hour basis. Most ATM machines will support your card if it bears the Cirrus/Maestro Logo.

Traveler's cheques
Traveler's cheques of most major currencies are also widely accepted and exchanged. Different commission charges are incurred depending on which bank you use and which traveler's cheques you have.

VAT / Tax Refunds
VAT (Value-Added-Tax) of 14% is levied on nearly all goods and services. Foreign tourists may claim back VAT paid on items, with a total value exceeding R250,00, that will be taken out of the country with them. Original tax invoices, foreign passport, plus all the items on which a refund is claimed, must be presented at the VAT refund administration office on departure, and the total VAT on these items will be refunded. The VAT can be claimed at airports and/or harbours of departure, and customs offices. Visitors will be requested to fill out a VAT Refund Control Sheet.

Location of Visa ATM's