Zambia Money

Currency

Zambia's unit of currency is the Zambian kwacha, which is divided into 100 ngwee.

Notes are issued in denominations ranging from K50 to K50,000. Although 20 kwacha notes are still in circulation, they are so rare that shops usually round totals up to the nearest 50.

There is no limit to the importation of foreign currency, provided it is declared on arrival through a currency declaration form. We'd recommend including some low denomination US dollar bills, as these are easy to exchange.

Exchange Rate

Most visitors will find the exchange rate is in their favour. Do note, however, that Zambia is not a cheap safari destination, as lodges and tented camps tend to be small, exclusive and tucked away in remote locations.

Banks

There is a choice of banks in major towns as well as bureau de change, which usually offer better exchange rates than banks. Bank hours are generally 08:15 - 14:30 Monday to Friday and 08:15 to 10:30 hours on the first and last Saturdays of the month.

Note that off the tourist routes there are not many banks and you will need a supply of cash. Entrance to the game reserves can only be paid in kwacha.

Credit Cards

Most hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and the bigger shops will accept major credit cards. Most of the bigger banks will advance local currency against a credit card. Standard Chartered and Barclays Banks have ATMs which accept Visa cards for cash.