Cash

Take enough cash - the best currencies to take with are US Dollars and European Euro for West Africa,  US Dollar and Pound Sterling for East African countries, US Dollar for countries in Northern Africa  and US Dollar, Pound Sterling and Euro for travel in southern African countries, except in South Africa and Namibia, where ZAR Rands are accepted.

East African countries only accept US Dollar post 2000; for other countries in Africa make sure the notes are not older than 1991. Make sure you have cash in most denominations, as you may need to pay for a visa at some ports of entry, departure tax, for a taxi service or for tipping.

Exchange Rates

Exchange rates vary from country to country and fluctuate frequently. Up-to-date rates can be obtained from your own local bank, the official website of the country you are visiting or on websites such as Oanda.

Credit Cards

With Visa and MasterCard debit/cash cards you may be able to draw cash at ATM's at most airports and in the  capital cities and major towns. Credit card payments will be accepted at internationally - branded hotels and luxury restaurants in major cities, but not elsewhere.

Note: Before departure, inform your bank and your credit card company that you will be travelling in Africa, and may be doing credit/debit card transactions.

Travellers Cheques

Travellers cheques are safe, as you may claim back your money if stolen, but you will only be able to exchange them at bureaux de changes and banks in the major cities. Commissions will most probably be quite high. Preferred names are traveller cheques of Barclays Bank, Thomas Cook and American Express.