Traveling with an Amex - will I be able to use it widely in Zambiaor should I carry a backup Visa/Mastercard?
During my April travels through Zambia, I tried using Amex at a mid-range guesthouse in Kitwe. The receptionist apologized and said their system doesn't accept it, only Visa or Mastercard. Withdrawals from Stanbic ATMs only supported those two as well. Bring Amex for emergencies, but always have a supported Visa or MasterCard as your primary card.
Visited a craft shop in Victoria Falls this May where Amex was outright rejected. The shop said, “Terminal only supports Visa/MasterCard.” Same story at nightspots in Lusaka. It became a bit frustrating, so I flagged myself with two Visa cards just in case one declined. Bottom line: Amex rarely works here. Visa/MasterCard are the way to go.
I’ve been living between Livingstone and Ndola since March. Ever tried pay with Amex? You’ll hit brick walls - shops, guesthouses, even the Highlands Cafe don’t support it. Visa debit works smoothly, Mastercard too. Also handy for ATM withdrawals. Carrying a backup ensures you won’t be stuck when a hostel or tour operator says “cash or card - but not American Express.”
Tried to pay with Amex at a cafe in Lusaka in June and got a flat “No sir, we don’t take that.” Staff looked genuinely confused. Even some hotel front desks said their POS terminals wouldn’t process Amex. Everywhere I went accepted Visa or Mastercard without trouble - ATMs, restaurants, supermarket chains. My advice: bring Amex as a backup, but your go-to should be Visa or MasterCard.