Читать книгу (101 things to know when you go) ON SAFARI IN AFRICA - Patrick Brakspear - Страница 10

Whilst most major western currencies (USD, Euros, and Sterling) are welcome throughout Africa, United States dollars remains the most widely accepted currency.

Whilst it is difficult to set a figure, I would recommend taking at least US$150 to $250 per person per week in cash from home (excluding what you might need for entry visas and airport departure taxes). This cash is specifically for paying for small incidentals (including taxis, tips and souvenir purchases). Visas secured on arrival must be paid in cash and often the exact amount i.e. officials will 'claim' not to have change - so carry an assortment of US$5, US$10 and US$20's (plus the required US$50 notes).

Be warned – some countries are not accepting US$ bills dated before the year 2000 due to suspicions of counterfeiting. Don’t be surprised if your US$ notes are run through a ‘counterfeit-checking’ device. Generally, large bills (US$50 and US$100) obtain better exchange rates than smaller denominations (US$5, 10 and US$20) if you need to exchange for local currency.

Be wary of street money-changers! They may offer a better rate but are not averse to using any number of underhand techniques to short change you. If you do use one, be sure to count each note separately to satisfy yourself that the whole amount is there BEFORE handing across any of your own cash. Once counted, be sure not to let the pile out of your sight – it is an old trick to switch bundles and for you to later discover that the new bundle is mostly newspaper. If the money traders are legitimate they will not be offended!