SANParks.org Forums

This just in.... and it is GREAT news!!!!

"The Department of Energy has announced that credit cards may now be used to pay for petrol in South Africa.
The influx of international visitors to South Africa during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and the reduction of cash on site at petrol stations, are two of the main reasons touted for the legalisation of the use of credit cards to pay for petrol at outlets countrywide.
As of yesterday, all petrol stations across South Africa may accept payment in plastic whereas before only cash or garage cards were allowed.
In recent times petrol stations have become a target for robberies in certain areas so the idea is to offer credit cards as a payment option to decrease the amount of cash on site.

It is also felt that with all the visitors from abroad heading our way in 2010, credit cards will be a far more convenient way for all to pay for petrol.

However the public should keep in mind the following:
* Initially, it will be the decision of each station management whether or not they make the credit card payment facility available to their customers.
* It may take some time for participating stations to have the required facilities on hand (speedpoint terminals etc).
* Just don’t forget that credit cards slap on a hefty percentage of interest so use with caution!"

Copyright © 2009 The Portfolio Collection

So how soon before this becomes reality in KNP and other SANParks that have petrol stations? Anything official as yet from SANParks on this?

Definitely great news, as I'll certainly choose to use petrol stations that can accept my plastic!

Woot! This would be great if it extends beyond the World Cup. Plenty of tourists prefer plastic.

HIP HIP HOOOORAAAAYYYYY!!!

At last! This is really good news and I hope it does include the park. Petrol (and tolls, as foreing cards don't work on them) was the only reason we ever needed cash in SA and it always seemed crazy.

Nice to see someone in government (anywhere in the world) is thinking.

Isn't it illegal to charge extra if a credit card is used.
I have my own speed point machine and if they found out that we add on we would be in hot hot water ..I am am a goody goody and stick to the rules But it will be super to just have to carry small amopunts of the paper around .

I assumed they were referring to the interest charged if you don't pay off the balance straight away.

There's also a conversion fee that can be up to 5%, if I remember correctly. It is a money-making slimy rule, if you ask me. (Similar to ATM charges...I hate those!)

I read that a new law came into affect in South Africa this week forcing petrol stations to take credit cards (finally).

Do the all petrol stations in the Kruger now take credit card (visa)?

Thanks
Rob
www.robertkoen.com

There is a thread already started by Curious Canadian here
Hope this helps and Welcome to the Forums robertkoen

I don't think they've been forced to Robert, just allowed to. The article that Lockie has pointed you towards says that it is still at the manager's discretion whether or not to take credit cards.

That's really great news!

When I first came here, I couldn't beleive you could only pay for gas with cash. I do a lot of long distance driving, and it means I have to travel alone with thousands of rands in cash- not cool.

Is this just for credit cards? Or would debit cards work too?

Although it is now acceptable for garages etc to accept credit cards dont count on it as the garages mark up on fuel is controlled by law and very low so for them to give up a further 5% in CC commission it is easier for them to say they dont have a cc machine so as not to have to give up a further 5% of their already limited earnings.

Although it is now acceptable for garages etc to accept credit cards dont count on it as the garages mark up on fuel is controlled by law and very low so for them to give up a further 5% in CC commission it is easier for them to say they dont have a cc machine so as not to have to give up a further 5% of their already limited earnings.

Yes, debit cards are also allowed.

btw, still take some cash with you
You never know