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A stunning south African beach.

Travelling to South Africa?

Get the best rates for South African currency online

Excited for your South African adventure? Secure your South African rand at ManorFX today.

With our pound to rand conversion, you’ll get excellent exchange rates, giving you more ZAR cash to spend. Whether you want to convert pounds to rands or gbp to rands, we’ve got you covered. Choose secure delivery to your location or pick up your rand currency from our Manor FX bureau near Heathrow.

Manor FX ensures a swift delivery and a straightforward online order process for your rand to gbp travel money needs. Remember, whether it’s sterling to rand or South African rand to gbp, we’re here to help.

South African travel money

Are you eager to experience the majestic sights of South Africa’s wildlife? Here’s some practical guidance on handling pound to rand transactions and card payments in South Africa.

Where can you get South African rands?

The South African rand is crucial for travellers, but it can be challenging to find in the UK. If you’re seeking local currency ahead of your journey. You’ll need a reliable currency provider like ManorFX for the best pound to south African rand rates.


Wave farewell to online search troubles! Manor FX is among the few exchange bureaus in the UK that sells South African rand. Purchase your rand effortlessly online with us.

We guarantee superb pound to rand exchange rates, ensuring you get more value for your money on your South African journey!

If you’re around Heathrow, pick up your rand directly from our Manor FX bureau. Anticipate the same excellent rates face-to-face.

A South African city with a large mountain in the middle of it.

Can you buy South African rands in the UK?

Of course! You can obtain South African rand in the UK via our online exchange service.

Dive into our easy-to-use currency exchange platform to secure the rand you require. Plus, if you spend over £750, enjoy free delivery. Convert your GBP to rand swiftly and kick-start your holiday!

Buy your rand now

Should I exchange money before I travel to South Africa?

Certainly, carrying South African rand before landing is a smart choice. Though you can exchange currency in South Africa, having local money on hand is convenient.

This means you’re equipped to handle immediate costs like transport or refreshments. It’s a sensible measure, guaranteeing you have funds the moment you arrive in South Africa.

What is the best currency to bring to South Africa?

The South African rand is the official currency of South Africa. So it’s a good idea to have some on hand before your trip. Using rand is essential for minor purchases, exploring local markets, and transportation in South Africa.

Like several other African nations, many exchange desks in South Africa gladly accept US dollars. It’s a traveller-friendly option, and swapping them for rand typically goes smoothly.

Quick note: They might not accept dollar notes issued before 2009.

South Africa draws a considerable number of European visitors and expats. Consequently, the euro is a beneficial currency to carry. Airports and various spots throughout South Africa, including popular locations like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, accept it.

Can I use my bank card in South Africa?


Absolutely, you can use your bank card in South Africa, but numerous locations favour cash. 

South African rand is vital in smaller towns, local markets, and for smaller purchases.

Bigger cities and several grand resorts might be open to card transactions. Yet, keeping both cash and card with you provides adaptability.

A handy hint: Always inform your bank of your travels to avoid any card issues overseas.

Should I use cash in South Africa?

Certainly! Here’s why having South African rand in cash is advantageous:

  • Universal acceptance: Cash reigns supreme, especially in local bazaars and countryside locations.
  • Benefits of local currency: Sidestep surprise charges or poor conversion rates.
  • ATM presence: While cities have ATMs, possessing cash ensures you’re ever-prepared.
  • Negotiating strength: Cash is pivotal when bartering in markets, ensuring top-notch bargains.
  • Currency swap: Trade your GBP or other leading currencies for South African rand at banks or conversion centres. It’s always beneficial to have some rand at the ready.
  • Don’t forget to change any remaining rand back to pounds upon your return to the UK.
A couple standing on top of a mountain looking down to the see in South Africa.

Is it better to use cash or credit card in South Africa?

In South Africa, cash is generally more favoured. However, a credit card serves as a handy fallback. Here’s a brief overview:

Cash: Everywhere accepts South African rand, especially for day-to-day expenses.

Credit card: Hotels, eateries, and larger establishments find it handy, but they might prefer cash.

All in all, possessing a combination of both for everyday dealings in South Africa is sensible.

How much cash should I take to South Africa?

The cash you’ll need for South Africa largely hinges on your itinerary, but here’s a brief guide:

Transport in South Africa is relatively cost-effective; local minibuses, commonly known as “taxis”, are popular. A trip into the city centre could be around R20. Taxis around cities might cost between R150 – R400, roughly £8.

South Africa boasts scrumptious dishes like boerewors (traditional sausage), bunny chow (curried meat in a bread loaf), and braai (barbecue).

These tempting meals usually cost between R40 – R120. So, indulging in local food can be as wallet-friendly as just £6 per day.

Aim to allocate about £75 per day for your journey, approximately R1,350. This encompasses everything: a cosy accommodation, delightful dishes, and perhaps a thrilling visit to a South African game reserve!

A South African beach side town.

How can I avoid ATM fees in South Africa?

Dodging ATM charges in South Africa can be tricky, but here’s some guidance:


Opt for ATMs from leading banks such as the Standard Bank of South Africa. Take out more substantial sums in one go to cut down on transaction numbers and related costs.

Scoping out ATMs in tourist hotspots is wise. Machines in these areas might cater to international travellers and offer reduced fees.

Is life expensive in South Africa?

  • Transport, encompassing public buses and shared taxis, won’t break the bank.
  • Admittance costs to museums, heritage sites, and attractions are usually reasonable.
  • Daily essentials, apparel, and keepsakes can differ in cost but tend to be budget-friendly.


Although South Africa is relatively easy on the pocket for visitors. Tailoring your budget to your travel tastes and planned excursions is crucial.

How does tipping work in South Africa?

Here’s a general outline for tipping in South Africa:

  • Restaurants and cafes: It’s standard to leave a tip of about 10-15% of the total bill.
  • Hotels: People often tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeepers, a few tens of rands.
  • Tour guides and drivers: A daily tip ranging from £5-£10 for guides and drivers is typical.
  • Porters: At train stations and airports, it’s customary to tip porters a few rands per piece of luggage.
  • Street vendors and minor services: Rounding up the total or giving small change is a thoughtful act.

Is it rude not to tip in South Africa?

No, it’s okay if you don’t tip. People won’t think it’s rude. It’s up to you if you want to tip or not.

Is South Africa a cheap country to visit?

Absolutely! From food, accommodation, to transport, South Africa offers great value. 

Whether you’re dining, exploring, or shopping, you’ll enjoy the experience without spending a fortune. With the favourable pound to rand conversion, your GBP goes further. 

Whether converting pounds to rands or checking the rand exchange rate. You’ll find that South Africa gives you more bang for your buck.

 So, if you’re thinking of converting gbp to South African rand, now’s a great time to plan that trip!

A group of penguins on a beach in South Africa.

Buy your rand now

South African Currency

Banknotes in South Africa

The banknotes currently circulating in South Africa belong to the series from recent years. 

People might not commonly use older banknotes.

The South African rand banknotes are available in denominations of 10 ZAR, 20 ZAR, 50 ZAR, 100 ZAR, and 200 ZAR.

South African banknotes are colourful and showcase a combination of notable South African personalities, wildlife, and important landmarks.

People broadly accept all these denominations. However, for daily small purchases, it’s handy to carry a blend of both lower and medium denominations. It’s always good to stay informed about the rand currency in use, especially with the pound to rand conversion.

South African Rand banknote series image

Coins in South Africa

South African coins vary from 5 cents to 5 rands. The designs on South African coins highlight the nation’s deep-rooted legacy, traditions, and natural beauty. Remember, when considering the pound to rand conversion, even coins hold value!

South Africa’s currency import and export regulations


Currency import: Visitors can enter with any sum of foreign currency. But, if you enter South Africa with more than USD 10,000 (or its equivalent in another currency), you need to declare it using the appropriate customs document.

Currency export: If you have a foreign currency amount that matches or exceeds USD 10,000 (or its equivalent) when leaving South Africa, you must declare it.

Note: These rules offer a general framework, but remember, currency guidelines and rules might shift. Before travelling, checking the most recent regulations is wise. When planning your finances, keep the pound to rand exchange rate in mind.

Ordering South African rands online

Order South African rand online and receive them swiftly and safely at your home or workplace, courtesy of a reliable delivery service. Alternatively, collect them from our travel money outlet near Heathrow. Click here to purchase South African rand online. Remember to check out our rates using the pounds to rands converter on this page. 

Selling back south africa rand to gbp

If you have South African rand to exchange. Follow this link to convert rands to pounds, then click on ‘sell currency’ and choose ‘ZAR South African rand’. We offer competitive rates for your South African rand to pound conversion. Don’t forget to check the rand to pound rate in our currency calculator for the best value!

A beach and mountain in South Africa.

FAQs

If you’re a British passport holder visiting South Africa for tourism purposes. You typically do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, business visitors might need a visa.

Before travelling, it’s always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements and regulations with the South African consulate or embassy. Additionally, ensure your passport has at least two blank pages and is valid for 30 days beyond your planned departure date from South Africa.

When planning to travel to South Africa, it’s always best to consult with a travel clinic or your GP for the most current vaccine recommendations. However, people commonly suggest the following vaccines and precautions for South Africa:

  • Routine Vaccines: Ensure that you are up-to-date on routine vaccines like measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
  • Hepatitis A: Recommended for most travellers to protect against food and water-borne illnesses.
  • Hepatitis B: If you might have contact with blood or body fluids, have sexual encounters, or get tattoos or piercings, consider this vaccine.
  • Typhoid: Especially if you’re venturing to smaller cities or rural areas, or if you love trying local foods.
  • Yellow Fever: South Africa doesn’t pose a Yellow Fever risk. However, if you come from a country at risk of Yellow Fever transmission, they may require you to show vaccination proof.
  • Rabies: Considered for travellers who are involved in outdoor activities in remote areas that expose them to wildlife.
  • Malaria: There’s a risk in certain parts of South Africa, especially near the borders with Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Swaziland. Consider taking prophylactic medication and using mosquito preventive measures.

Remember, health recommendations can change, and individual needs can vary, so always check with a healthcare professional about your specific situation. Safe travels!

The optimal time to visit South Africa varies based on your interests:

For a safari: May to September is the dry season, providing top-notch wildlife spotting in parks like Kruger. 

For hiking or visiting Table Mountain: March to May or September to November offer pleasant temperatures.
Beach holiday in Cape Town or along the Garden Route: December to February boasts warm summer days. Wine tasting in the Cape Winelands. 

March to May or September to November. Recall, South Africa shines throughout the year. Tailor your trip to what you’re eager to do, and always consider the rand-to-pound rate when budgeting!


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Get
South African Rand Fast!

  • Free home delivery over £750
  • with Royal Mail Special Delivery 1pm
  • Better rates than the banks
You exchange:
£
You get:
Rate:
You exchange:
You get:
£
Rate: