Best Places To Exchange Your Angolan Kwanza

The kwanza (Kz; AOA) is the official currency of Angola and the only currency officially accepted by the Angolan government. However, the US dollar is widely accepted as a secondary currency. Kwanza can be hard to find, as most banks and post offices don't stock them. Currency exchange bureaus are a good option for exchanging money, and online exchange services offer a convenient way to get travel money. When travelling to Angola, it is recommended to have some local currency, especially for cash-based transactions outside major urban centres. Carrying a mix of AOA and USD is practical, as dollars are useful for more significant transactions or emergencies.

Online exchange services

Another option is BookMyForex, an online forex marketplace by MakeMyTrip. They offer a 5-minute fully-digital online process for currency exchange and deliver the Angolan Kwanza to your doorstep. They also provide multi-currency forex cards, which can be loaded in multiple currencies and used for economical and safe transactions.

When using online exchange services, it is important to compare exchange rates and be aware of any additional fees or commissions. For example, exchanging currency at an airport can be significantly more expensive than using an online service.

Additionally, some online money transfer providers, such as Wise, allow you to sign up for rate alerts, so you can be notified when the exchange rate is favourable. This can help you get the best value for your money when converting GBP to AOA.

Currency exchange bureaus

Online exchange services and platforms are another way to get your travel money, with the added convenience of having your currency delivered to your doorstep. Manor FX is one such online platform.

Travel agents sometimes offer currency exchange as part of their packages. However, it is always good to compare exchange rates and be aware of additional fees or commissions.

Specialist bureau de changes, such as Manor FX, offer Angolan Kwanza exchange services. They can be collected from bureaus or delivered to your home or workplace.

Travel agents

As a travel agent, it's important to be well-informed about currency exchange options for your clients, especially when dealing with less common currencies like the Angolan kwanza. Here's some essential information to guide your customers effectively:

Angolan Kwanza Availability

Angolan kwanza can be challenging to obtain, as most banks and post offices don't typically stock this currency. This makes specialist currency exchange bureaus like Manor FX a valuable resource for your clients. These bureaus offer competitive exchange rates and convenient services, such as home delivery or collection near major travel hubs like Heathrow.

Online Exchange Services

Online platforms and exchange services provide a convenient alternative for travellers. They can order the kwanza online and have it delivered to their doorstep or opt for collection at a designated location. Manor FX is one such provider, offering competitive rates and a straightforward ordering process.

Travel Agent Currency Exchange

It's worth noting that some travel agents, including yourself, may offer currency exchange services as part of your travel packages. While this can be a convenient option for customers, it's essential to compare exchange rates and be mindful of any additional fees or commissions associated with this service.

Currency Recommendations for Angola

When advising your clients about currency for Angola, it's important to recommend having some Angolan kwanza in cash upon arrival. This is particularly useful for cash-based transactions outside major urban centres. Carrying a mix of kwanza and US dollars is also practical, as dollars are widely accepted in larger establishments and can be useful for more significant expenses or emergencies.

Card Usage in Angola

While credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas, their usage may be limited in rural regions. Therefore, it's essential to advise clients to have some kwanza cash for smaller purchases, street food, local transportation, and shopping in local markets.

In summary, as a travel agent, it's beneficial to be well-informed about Angolan kwanza availability, online exchange services, and the advantages of having local currency upon arrival. By offering this guidance, you can ensure your clients have a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in Angola.

Banks

The Banco Nacional de Angola (National Bank of Angola) introduced the first national currency unit, called Kwanza (AOK), in 1977. The bank issued the first banknotes in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 kwanzas. The 20 kwanza note was later replaced by a coin in 1978.

In 1990, during the transition from a socialist model to a market economy, the National Bank of Angola replaced the current currency with the New Kwanza (AON). The old kwanza bills were reprinted with the words "NEW KWANZA," and the new currency included coins from the previous currency.

The National Bank of Angola has implemented various measures to stabilize the value of the kwanza and curb inflation, including setting interest rates and controlling the money supply.

While banks are a secure option for exchanging currency, they may charge higher fees and offer less favourable exchange rates than other methods. Additionally, banks may only exchange a limited amount of cash, and the process can be time-consuming due to long queues.

It is recommended to explore other options, such as online forex marketplaces or prepaid travel cards, which often provide better exchange rates and lower fees.

Using a prepaid travel card

A prepaid travel card is a reloadable debit card with a kwanza balance that can be used to access money in Angola. This method is a good idea for several reasons.

Firstly, prepaid travel cards generally incur lower fees on kwanza currency exchange than credit cards or bank debit cards. They also allow you to hold multiple currency balances, which can help you avoid DCCs and other fees while travelling. Prepaid travel cards also provide the same level of security and convenience as a credit or debit card.

If you're from the US, UK, EU/EEA, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Azerbaijan, Sri Lanka, Brazil, or Chile, you can use a global provider like Revolut, which offers excellent exchange rates and multi-currency balances. With Revolut, you can hold 150+ currencies on a debit card and send or spend money in local currencies worldwide. You can order your card in the Revolut app and get it sent to you.

If you live in Canada or New Zealand, the Wise Account is another excellent option. If you're from any other country, check what multi-currency cards are available locally or whether your bank offers any similar products.

Frequently asked questions