Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
» Many machines have a limit of Mtc3000 (US$120) per transaction. BCI's limit is
Mtc5000 (US$200) and some Standard Bank machines dispense up to Mtc10,000
(US$400) per transaction.
CASH
» US dollars are easily exchanged everywhere; together with South African rand (which
are especially useful in southern Mozambique), they are the best currency to carry.
» Only new-design US dollar bills will be accepted. Euros are easy to change in major cit-
ies, but elsewhere you're likely to get a poor exchange rate.
» Most banks don't charge commission for changing cash, and together with foreign ex-
change bureaus, these are the best places to change money. BCI branches are generally
good. Many Millennium BIM branches will let you change cash only if you have an ac-
count.
»
Casas de câmbio
(foreign exchange bureaus) usually give a rate equivalent to or slightly
higher than the banks, and are open longer hours.
» Changing money on the street isn't safe anywhere and is illegal; asking shopkeepers is a
better bet.
CREDIT CARDS
» Credit cards are accepted at most (but not all) top-end hotels, many midrange places, es-
pecially in the south, and at some car-hire agencies, but otherwise are of limited use in
Mozambique.
» Visa is by far the most useful, and is also the main (often only) card for accessing
money from ATMs.
TIPPING & BARGAINING
In low-budget bars and restaurants tipping is generally not expected, other than perhaps
rounding up the bill. At upmarket and tourist establishments, tipping is customary (from
10% to 20%, assuming service has been good). Tips are also warranted, and always appre-
ciated, if someone has gone out of their way to do something for you.
TRAVELLERS CHEQUES
Travellers cheques can only be exchanged with difficulty (try BCI) and with a high com-
mission plus original purchase receipts. Nowhere accepts travellers cheques as direct pay-
ment.
