Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Money
Legislation was passed in 2012 that revalued Zambia's currency; it has also prohibited any
other currency from being accepted as a form of payment. As of 1 January 2013 three zer-
os were removed from every bank note denomination and the unit of currency changed
from ZK to ZMW; eg ZK90,000 is now ZMW90. Every bank and ATM changed over to
the new system on the first of January.
While tourist-oriented places might still quote prices in US dollars on websites and in
promotional materials, you must by law pay in Zambian kwacha (except for international
airfares, some organised tours and visas). This includes national parks, domestic flights,
restaurants, etc.
CASH & ATMS
In the cities and larger towns, you can easily change cash (no commission; photo ID re-
quired) at branches of Barclays Bank, FNB, Standard Chartered Bank and Zanaco. We've
received reports that many banks, including at least one at the airport, won't accept US
dollars issued before 2000. You can obtain cash (kwacha) at ATMs at Barclays Bank,
Stanbic and Standard Chartered banks in the cities and larger towns.
CREDIT CARDS
Some shops, restaurants and better hotels/lodges accept major credit cards. Visa is the
most readily recognised, Mastercard less so and Amex even lesser. A surcharge of 4% to
7% may be added to your bill if you pay with a credit card.
It's also worth noting that payment by credit card requires a PIN to authorise the trans-
action; many North American tourists might not know theirs.
MONEYCHANGERS
The best currencies to take to Zambia (in order of preference) are US dollars, UK pounds,
South African rands and Euros; the currencies of most neighbouring countries are worth-
less in Zambia, except at the relevant borders. The exception is Botswanan pula, which
can also be exchanged in Lusaka.
Foreign-exchange offices - almost always called bureau de change - are easy to find in
all cities and larger towns. Rates aren't significantly better than banks.
There is no black market. You might get a few kwacha more by changing money on the
street, but it's illegal and there is a chance that you'll be ripped off, robbed or set up for
some sort of scam. Moneychangers at the borders are more or less legitimate, but may
