> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://travel-info.co.zw/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Currency and Money > Understand Zimbabwe's multi-currency system including USD, ZiG, ATMs, card payments, and money exchange. Practical tips for managing money while traveling. Zimbabwe has a complex monetary system that has evolved through years of economic challenges. Understanding the current currency situation and payment options will help you manage your finances effectively during your visit. ## Current Currency Situation Zimbabwe's currency landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years: In April 2024, Zimbabwe introduced a new currency called the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), replacing the Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL). Key points about the ZiG: * Backed by gold and other precious metal reserves * Currency code: ZWG * Available as both notes and coins * Exchange rates more stable than previous currencies * Most businesses accept ZiG for goods and services **Note**: As this is a relatively new currency, the situation may evolve. Check the latest updates before your trip. The US Dollar remains widely used throughout Zimbabwe: * Officially recognized for transactions * Preferred currency for tourism services (hotels, tours, national parks) * Accepted almost everywhere, including small businesses and rural areas * Often receives better pricing than local currency payments * Main currency for high-value transactions **Tip**: The US Dollar is still the most reliable currency to carry in Zimbabwe. While the US Dollar dominates, other foreign currencies have limited acceptance: * South African Rand (ZAR): Widely accepted in southern Zimbabwe and border areas * Euro (EUR): Accepted at major hotels and tourism businesses * British Pound (GBP): Limited acceptance in tourism establishments * Botswana Pula (BWP): Accepted near the Botswana border Exchange rates for these currencies are typically less favorable than for USD. ## Payment Methods ### Cash Payments Cash remains the most reliable payment method in Zimbabwe, especially outside major cities: **US Dollar Notes:** * Bring clean, newer bills printed after 2009 * Small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20) highly valuable * $50 and $100 bills sometimes difficult to use * Counterfeit detection markers often used for larger bills **Local Currency (ZiG):** * Useful for small purchases, markets, and public transport * Obtain from official banks and exchange offices only * Exchange rates can fluctuate * Consider changing small amounts frequently rather than large sums **Change Issues:** * Change shortages are common; exact amounts appreciated * Small USD bills ($1-$5) often used as change * Sometimes change given in local currency even for USD payments ### Card Payments Card acceptance is improving but still limited: **Credit/Debit Cards:** * Visa and Mastercard accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and upscale establishments * AmEx and other cards have very limited acceptance * International transaction fees often apply (check with your bank) * Sometimes incur additional local surcharges * Many businesses require minimum purchase amounts * Network connectivity issues can affect processing **Mobile Payments:** * Increasingly common, especially in urban areas * Services include EcoCash, OneMoney, and Telecash * Require local mobile number and registration * Not practical for most short-term visitors **Contactless Payments:** * Limited but growing in large supermarkets and hotels * Apple Pay and Google Pay have minimal acceptance ### ATM Withdrawals ATMs are available in cities and major tourist destinations: **Availability:** * Major banks: CBZ, FBC, Stanbic, Standard Chartered * Mostly dispense USD, though some offer local currency * Victoria Falls, Harare, and Bulawayo have the most reliable ATMs * Rural areas have very limited or no ATM access **Withdrawal Limits:** * Typically $50-$200 USD per transaction * Multiple withdrawals may be possible * Daily limits apply (both local bank and your home bank) **Reliability Issues:** * Cash shortages can mean empty ATMs * Power outages affect availability * Higher reliability at ATMs in major hotels and shopping centers **Fees:** * Local ATM fees: \$2-5 per transaction * Your bank's international withdrawal fees * Currency conversion charges **Security:** * Use ATMs in secure locations (inside banks, hotels, shopping centers) * Shield PIN entry and be aware of surroundings * Avoid ATM use at night when possible ## Money Exchange **Important**: Only exchange currency at official locations. Black market exchange is illegal and extremely risky, potentially resulting in counterfeit notes, robbery, or legal troubles. ### Official Exchange Options * Most secure exchange option * Official rates with receipts * Require passport identification * Often have long queues * Limited operating hours (typically 8am-3pm weekdays) * Located in major cities and tourist areas * Slightly better rates than banks sometimes * Faster service with shorter queues * Verify they are officially licensed * May have wider operating hours * Convenient but worst exchange rates * Good for emergency exchanges * Available to hotel guests * Often have higher minimum exchange amounts * Provide receipts for all transactions ## Estimated Costs * Budget meal (local restaurant): \$3-7 * Mid-range restaurant: \$10-20 per person * High-end restaurant: \$25-50+ per person * Street food/fast food: \$2-5 * Bottle of water: \$0.50-1 * Local beer: \$1-3 * Coffee at café: \$2-4 * Intercity bus (e.g., Harare to Bulawayo): \$15-25 * Short taxi ride: \$3-5 * Airport transfer (Victoria Falls): \$20-30 * Car rental: \$50-80 per day (plus fuel) * Fuel: Approximately \$1.50-1.80 per liter * Local minibus/kombi: \$0.50-1 per trip * Backpacker/hostel: \$10-25 per night * Budget hotel: \$30-60 per night * Mid-range hotel: \$70-150 per night * Luxury lodge: \$250-800+ per night * Camping: \$5-20 per person * National Park entry: \$15-30 per day * Victoria Falls entry: \$30 * Game drive: \$40-120 * White water rafting: \$120-150 * Helicopter flight (Victoria Falls): \$150-330 * Sunset cruise: \$50-85 * Guided tour (half day): \$30-60 ## Budget Planning ### Total Daily Budget Estimates \$50-80 per day including: * Hostel/budget accommodation * Public transportation * Self-catering and local eateries * Limited paid activities * Free/low-cost attractions \$120-200 per day including: * 3-star hotels * Some taxis/private transportation * Restaurant meals * Daily activities/entrance fees * Occasional souvenirs \$300-1,000+ per day including: * 4-5 star hotels and lodges * Private transfers/vehicle * Fine dining * Premium activities * Shopping and souvenirs **Safari Costs**: Safari packages typically range from $150-500+ per person per day depending on accommodation level, with all-inclusive luxury safaris reaching $800-1,200 per day. These often represent better value than arranging components separately. ## Money-Saving Tips **Practical ways to make your money go further:** * **Negotiate prices** at markets and for unmetered taxis (respectfully and within reason) * **Carry small USD bills** to avoid change problems and overpaying * **Use local transport** (kombis/minibuses) for authentic experience and cost savings * **Visit national parks mid-week** for reduced crowds and sometimes promotions * **Travel during shoulder season** (April-June, September) for lower accommodation rates * **Self-cater occasionally** using supermarkets in major towns * **Group activities** often have per-person discounts for larger numbers * **Combine border crossings** with a KAZA Univisa if visiting multiple countries * **Drink local beverages** like Zambezi Lager instead of imported options ## Tipping Guidelines Tipping is expected in the tourism industry, and many workers depend on tips to supplement their income: * 10-15% of bill for good service * Check if service charge already included * Tip in USD when possible * Porters: \$1-2 per bag * Housekeeping: \$1-2 per day * Room service: 10% of bill * Concierge: \$5-10 for special assistance * Safari guides: \$10-20 per person per day * Tour guides: \$5-10 per person for half-day * Trackers: \$5-10 per day * Drivers: \$3-5 per journey Tipping is typically done at the end of your stay or tour for multi-day services. Many lodges have staff tip boxes that are shared equally among all staff. ## Money Safety **Keep your money secure:** * Distribute cash in different secure locations (hotel safe, money belt, different bags) * Avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public * Keep small amounts easily accessible for daily spending * Make copies of credit cards (front and back) and keep separate from the cards * Notify your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks * Record emergency contact numbers for your cards * Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch in crowded areas *** **Ethical Consideration**: Zimbabwe's economy has faced challenges for years. When possible, try to support local businesses, community tourism initiatives, and fair trade shops that ensure benefits reach local people directly.