Dottie

We will be visiting Victoria Falls and I am wondering what to take for currency. I have read here that U.S. currency is best on the Zim. side of Victoria Falls.Is the same true for the Zambian side? Should I get some of the local currency or figure on taking mostly U.S. dollars?

We will be staying on the Zambian side and only going into the Zim. side for tour of the Falls. Would like to shop at the craft market on Zambian side and want to be sure and have the right currency.

Thank you very much for any help.

pattysuericia

Hi Dottie,

When I was in zimbabwe I left my US dollars in SA and took the south african rand to zim. Why don't you call the consulate? They will advise you.

Raver

I was there in 2001 - US Dollars is without doubt, the best currency to have. They charged the entrance fee in US Dollars. You may have more bargaining power if you offer to pay in US Dollars. Pounds Sterling is also accepted but I would say US Dollars is preferred.

bengali

i was in zim last summer on part of my honeymoon (you'll LOVE it, by the way). i would definitely recommend US dollars - and do NOT change money unless you are using a really reliable source. (if you go to a bank, a real bank in a town, you will get a really low rate. some can give you higher rates but really, in the end, the whole thing is quite tricky and often times people get ripped off. i wouldn't advise it.) and, do NOT use a credit card under any circumstances...if you do, you will be charged the bank exchange rate which will make a (what should be $20) dinner the same as paying about $100 with the exchange. it's a mess. so, go prepared with cash, don't change it unless you absolutely need to, and us dollars are probably the best.
hope that helps.
but zim/zambia is lovely. have a wonderful trip.

Saxey

Just got back from Zambia/Vic Falls last week. Used only dollars, didn't even bother to get Zambian currency. Everything seems to be less than $5 in the markets, so take lots of ones. Bought some nicer things in a shop and used credit card.

Dottie

Thank You to all, for all the very helpful information.

One more question;Can I use U.S. Dollars for Hotel dining? We are staying at the Royal Livingstone.

To: Saxey,
I would love to hear about you trip. How did you like it there? Did you feel safe while there? Where did you stay and what did you do?

Did you happen to notice if there were animal wood carving for sale at the Craft market on the Zambian side?