What currency and how much will I use on DRC safari
The main currencies used for a DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo) safari are US dollars and Congolese francs (CDF). While local money is required for smaller transactions and in more rural places, US dollars are generally accepted in tourist zones and for large charges like gorilla permits. A combination of both is advised, with smaller US dollar denominations for instant usage and bigger ones (such as 50 or 100) for exchanging.
Congolese Franc (CDF): The official currency and required for the majority of local transactions is the Congolese franc (CDF).
US dollars: Are often accepted, particularly for gorilla trekking permits and at hotels and tourist lodges.
Other Foreign Currencies: US dollars are the most often used currency, while euros and British pounds are occasionally accepted.
ATMs and Credit Card: Although they are accessible in large cities like Kinshasa, Goma, and Bukavu, ATMs and credit cards are not always dependable or frequently recognized. It's wise to have enough cash on hand.
Money Management Advice When you’re on Safari:
Exchange: At respectable locations or at your accommodation, exchange money.
Condition of US Dollars: The state of the US dollar Because damaged banknotes could not be accepted, make sure US dollar bills are in good shape and free of rips or marks.
Be ready to haggle, particularly when it comes to souvenirs.
ATMs: Although they may be found in major cities, ATMs can be unreliable and have daily withdrawal restrictions.
Safety: When handling cash or exchanging money, always put your own safety first.
Bring Cash for Remote Areas Destinations.
Local stores, park entrances, and safari hotels sometimes only take cash. Even though USD is often accepted, possessing local cash guarantees that you can cover minor costs like gratuities, beverages, and souvenirs. Cash is necessary in remote locations like the Okavango Delta and the Serengeti, where card facilities are few.
Because change might be difficult to obtain, it's a good idea to have a variety of small and big denominations on hand. To prevent losing everything in the event that one bag disappears, keep cash in separate locations, such as your daypack and main baggage.
Selecting the Proper Card for Backup
On safari, cash is king, but it's a good idea to have a travel-friendly debit or credit card with you. Choose one that doesn't charge for international transactions. American Express is not as extensively recognized as Visa and Mastercard. To prevent your card from being blocked for suspicious behavior, it's also a good idea to let your bank know about your vacation plans. A backup card for emergencies should be kept somewhere else. In remote locations, always expect to pay with cash for park fees, gratuities, and souvenirs, even if some lodges take cards for lodging and food.
Be sure to budget for gratuities and tips.
Tipping is a common practice on safari and a significant method to express gratitude for exceptional service. Tips are a major source of revenue for drivers, guides, and lodge employees. Spend $10 to $20 USD per person per day on guides and $5 to $10 USD per day on lodge employees. Drivers and porters often make between $2 and $5 USD each service.
You can tip without needing change if you have tiny USD notes or the equivalent in local currencies. As a show of respect, always give gratuities directly, preferably in an envelope.
Before you go, exchange your money.
ATMs in isolated locations are unreliable, and exchange rates at hotels and airports might be subpar. Make sure you have adequate money exchanged before your trip to avoid any worry. You may save money and be ready for scenarios when card payments aren't accepted by purchasing your travel cash in advance.
Get your safari currency in advance to save trouble at the last minute. Bring both US dollars and the local money of the nations you are visiting.
Protect Your Money
Divide your money among your luggage and use a travel money belt. For valuables, the majority of safari lodges feature safes. Don't show off big sums of money in public. For daily costs, keep little money close at hand, and safely store bigger quantities.
When traveling between camps, always carry cash and credit cards in your hand baggage rather than in checked luggage. To keep the majority of your money safe and discourage opportunistic criminals, think about storing a dummy wallet with a little quantity of cash.
Think of services for mobile money.
M-Pesa and other mobile payment systems are widely utilized for daily transactions in East Africa. They are very useful for paying small merchants, drivers, and guides. To use mobile money, you'll need a local SIM card, which is readily available when you get there.
But not all places take mobile money, particularly in remote safari regions. Although it's a fantastic addition to cash, it shouldn't be used in place of it.
In distant areas, cellphone networks may not always be dependable, so always have enough cash on hand to meet necessities.
Recognize Park fees and admission charges
Only payment, usually in US dollars or local money, is accepted at the gate of several national parks. For instance, admission costs to Tanzania's Serengeti or Kenya's Maasai Mara normally vary from $60 to $80 USD per person per day. Although network problems can make transactions unpredictable, some parks do accept card payments. To confirm payment methods, check with your trip operator ahead of time.
Particularly at crowded park gates, having the precise amount in little notes guarantees prompt access without having to wait for change.
Set aside money for extras and souvenirs.
Beautiful crafts may be found at local markets, although most sellers require payment in cash. Handwoven baskets, wooden sculptures, and Maasai beading are popular gifts.
To facilitate negotiations, always carry modest sums and bargain courteously. Verify whether the seller takes credit cards or make arrangements to pay in US dollars if you intend to purchase bigger things, such as artwork.
Avoid Using ATMs
In isolated safari regions, there are few ATMs and they can run out of money. International cards may not be accepted by ATMs, even in major cities. A smooth trip is ensured when you have cash on hand. The next ATM may be miles away, so if you do find one, take out enough cash to last you several days.
Make appropriate plans because certain ATMs have withdrawal restrictions.
Key Takeaways
Having the appropriate cash on hand makes your safari less stressful.
Having both local money and US dollars on hand guarantees seamless transactions whether you're traveling through the Okavango Delta, the Kruger, or the Serengeti.
Make a plan, keep minimal cash on hand, and avoid depending entirely on ATMs or credit cards. You may enjoy the journey without thinking about money if you take the proper attitude.
Have a great trip!