Is cash still widely used?
Yes, alongside cards. South Africa has reasonable card infrastructure in its major cities and tourist areas. However, local markets, townships, informal vendors, and rural areas rely heavily on rand cash. Load-shedding (power cuts) can disrupt card payment systems unexpectedly.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are widely available in cities. Absa, Standard Bank, and FNB machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 30 ZAR per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Use ATMs inside shopping malls during daylight hours for safety
- Be security-conscious — ATM crime is a concern in some areas
Card acceptance
Good in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are broadly accepted. Load-shedding (power outages) can occasionally disrupt card terminals.
Tips for travelers
- Keep cash for markets, township tours, and tips
- Tipping 10-15% is expected in restaurants and for guides
- Be security-aware — don’t use ATMs at night or in isolated areas
- South Africa’s national parks (Kruger etc.) increasingly accept cards