Unlike many other travel companies we operate on a trust account model. Once we’ve paid the airline for your flights, the rest of your money is held in a trust account. We do not have access to this directly and can only withdraw funds when you are back home from holiday
All of our holidays that include flights are protected by the ATOL scheme from the moment you book. So if one of our suppliers fails, you’ll get your money back. If you’re left stranded abroad, a flight home will be arranged at no extra cost. Our ATOL number is 11806
As proud ABTA members we deliver the highest standards when it comes to our holidays. So if you book with us you’re guaranteed the best service. Our ABTA number is P8283, Y6720.
The official currency in South Africa is the Rand (ZAR).
The currency takes its name from Witwatersrand, the ‘ridge of white waters’ upon which Johannesburg is built. One rand is worth roughly 6p, so a R100 note is just under £6, though exchange rates fluctuate daily. Notes range from 10 rand up to R200. They bear the images of Nelson Mandela and the Big Five game animals. There are also coins ranging from one cent through 10c (worth about half a penny) to 50c.
If you don’t have time before you leave, there are plenty of places to exchange money in South Africa. The minute you step off the plane, you’ll see banks, money exchanges and ATMs. Don’t be tempted to change money with unlicensed traders in the street. They may say they offer a good deal but you risk getting cheated or robbed, so stick to the many banks and established exchanges. Hotels may also swap your money for you.
You’ll also be able to withdraw rand from a local cash machine, as there are plenty of ATMs around the country, even in rural towns. But make sure you’re aware of any charges and limits your bank may have as some may charge you to withdraw in a foreign country.Credit cards like MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in most places, though be on the alert for fraud. We also suggest having some cash to hand for markets and tipping. Occasionally, sterling and dollars may be taken in tourist areas, but the locals much prefer rand. If you cross any borders during your holiday, it’s worth noting that the rand is also accepted in the Common Monetary Area which includes Swaziland, Lesotho and Namibia.