On Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:34:37 -0700 (PDT), Sapphyre
wrote:

Hi,

I understand Mozambique currency is non-convertable and cannot be
removed from the country. (Can't be exchanged outside the country
either).

How heavily is this enforced? Will taking a few coins as a souvenir be
okay?

Will they get upset if they see I have coins from other countries I've
been to on my trip?

Thanks,
S.

Sapphyre,

I have never had ANY hassles with the Mozambiquan authorities about
taking money in or out of Mozambique and I've travelled there many,
many, many times. There's certainly NO problem with taking out a few
notes or coins. No-on has ever searched me, or even asked about
currency. I have a few hundred Meticais on my car dashboard, and no
Mozambiquan has ever queried it.

While it is technically illegal to change money informally in
Mozambique, it goes on everywhere. Be careful at the borders because
those money touts will skin you alive. They're SO quick with their
arithmetic and sleight of hand that you'll lose half your money. If
you want to change money, rather do it a a bureau de Change in a town.
You can use the informal money changers if you wish, but keep your
wits about you and only change small manageable amounts at a time. If
you have unused Meticais before you leave, you can probably sell them
on the street for some US Dollars, or even SA Rands if you're coming
to South Africa.

You will find that Travellers Cheques are not widely accepted, or not
widely trusted. Clean, NEW (with the large presidents head), US Dollar
notes in smaller denominations ($50 and smaller) are best.

Recently there are quite a lot of ATM machines in Mozambique that are
generally very reliable and they dispense Meticais at the ruling
exchange rate. They're very convenient and safe, and found in most
major towns and cities. I haven't had any problems with my Visa and
Mastercard there, but some of my colleagues have not been able to
withdraw cash.

Enjoy Mozambique - one of the most beautiful countries on earth.