Money on Safari: Cash, Cards and Currencies

Last checked 15 October 2026.

On most of our journeys your accommodation, meals, activities and transfers are paid in advance, so you need far less money on the ground than you might expect. What you will need is cash for tips, a card for drinks and extras at lodges, and a little local currency for markets and small purchases.

US dollars

US dollars are widely accepted for tips and extras at safari camps across East and Southern Africa. Bring notes in small denominations, such as US$5, US$10 and US$20, and make sure they are newer, clean and undamaged. In East Africa in particular, older notes, printed before 2006, and torn or marked notes are often refused.

Cards and cash machines

Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most lodges and in cities. Other cards are less widely accepted. Remote camps may only take cash, or add a card surcharge.
Cash machines are found in cities and larger towns, but not in the bush. Withdraw what you need before flying out to camp.
Tell your bank that you are travelling, to avoid your card being blocked.

Local currencies

Kenya: Kenyan shilling
Tanzania and Zanzibar: Tanzanian shilling
Uganda: Ugandan shilling
Rwanda: Rwandan franc
Botswana: pula
Zambia: Zambian kwacha
Zimbabwe: US dollars are widely used alongside the local currency
Namibia: Namibian dollar, with the South African rand also accepted
South Africa: rand
Seychelles: Seychelles rupee

Local currency is useful for markets, small shops and small tips, and is always welcome. You do not need much: change a modest amount on arrival.

Tipping

Tips are the main reason to carry cash on safari. Our tipping guide sets out what is customary for guides, trackers and camp teams in each country.

For visas, yellow fever and everything else to arrange before you travel, see Before You Travel. If you are planning a journey, we would be pleased to begin with a conversation.

Currency rules and card acceptance can change. Please check with your bank and with us before you travel.