South African Rand
ZAR
The money
As a trading centre, multiple currencies circulated throughout South Africa. The first official currency used was the Guilder. During the late 17th century, the Rixdollar was used and was the first South African currency to include paper notes. During British occupation, in 1826, the Cape Colony was put on a sterling basis, though other currencies, including Spanish Dollars, US Dollars, French Francs, and Indian Rupees continued to circulate. In 1921, the Reserve Bank of South Africa was established as the central bank. In 1961, the South African Rand replaced the Pound under a decimalized system. The ratio was 2 ZAR to 1 GBP.
- Currency
- South African Rand
- Code
- ZAR
- Symbol
- R
- One Australian dollar
- 10.9354 ZAR
Bank notes
- R10
- R20
- R50
- R100
- R200
Coins
- 10c
- 20c
- 50c
- R1
- R2
- R5
We supply notes only. Coins are listed so you know what the change in your pocket is worth.
What things cost in South Africa
The left column is what the guide records locally. The right column is that same figure through today’s rate — the arithmetic we would do for you at the counter, done here instead.
| Everyday price | Rands | Australian dollars |
|---|---|---|
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range restaurant | 500 | A$45.72 |
| One-way ticket on local transport | 18 | A$1.65 |
| Bottle of water | 9.91 | A$0.91 |
Converted at 1 AUD = 10.9354 ZAR, our online rate as at 14 Sep 2026, 08:15. Local prices are a guide to what you will pay, not a quote.
How much to take
Set the trip and the calculator prices it in ZAR, using the same rate as the figures above.