The currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). US dollars are widely accepted for safaris, hotels, park fees and tips, and many tourist prices are quoted in dollars. For small purchases, local transport and markets, shillings are better.
What to bring
- US dollars in cash for tips and some purchases. Bring notes printed in 2009 or later, clean and untorn. Older or damaged notes are often refused.
- Small denominations such as $1, $5, $10 and $20 for tips.
- A debit or credit card for ATMs and larger payments.
Cards
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, lodges and larger shops, often with a surcharge of 3–5%. Smaller shops, markets and restaurants usually only take cash. Tell your bank you are travelling to Tanzania.
ATMs
ATMs are easy to find in Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam and Stone Town, and at the main airports. They dispense shillings. There are no ATMs inside the safari parks or on the mountain, so take what you need before you leave town. Daily withdrawal limits can be low.
Exchanging money
Use banks or licensed bureaux de change. Do not change money on the street. Larger notes, $50 and $100, often get a better rate than small ones.
Mobile money
Tanzanians use mobile money, such as M-Pesa, for many payments. Visitors with a local SIM card can register, but most tourists will not need it.
How much cash to carry
| Use | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Safari guide tips | Around $20–$30 a day per group |
| Kilimanjaro crew tips | $250–$400 per climber |
| Souvenirs and drinks | Depends on you |
Read tipping on safari, Kilimanjaro tipping and how much a safari costs.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, for safaris, hotels, park fees and tips. Bring notes printed in 2009 or later. Use shillings for small purchases.
No. Withdraw cash in Arusha or another town before your safari.
At most hotels, lodges and larger shops, often with a surcharge. Markets and small shops need cash.
