Money - Zambia

Currency

Zambia's unit of currency is the Zambian kwacha, which is divided into 100 ngwee. Notes are issued in denominations of K10,000; 5,000; 1,000; 500; 200; 100 and 50. Coins are K1, and 20, 10, 5,2 and 1 ngwee. There is no limit to the importation of foreign currency, provided it is declared on arrival through a currency declaration form.

Exchange Rate

Most visitors will find the exchange rate is in their favour. Generally, you will find that fine cuisine, wine, and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world.

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.

Tipping

Tipping is discouraged as it is included as service charge on your bill.

Bargaining for local goods is acceptable.

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