Currency & Payment

Tanzania uses the Tanzanian shilling (TZS, TSh), divided into 100 cents. Notes are used for most everyday amounts. US dollars in good, newer condition are also widely used for tourism, safaris and national park fees, so it is handy to carry some alongside local currency.

You can exchange money at banks and licensed bureaux de change (forex bureaux) in cities and at airports. Rates vary, so compare a few. US dollars and euros are the easiest to exchange. Keep receipts, use official outlets rather than street changers, and carry newer US dollar notes as older ones may attract lower rates.

Credit cards are accepted at hotels, larger stores, safari lodges and tour operators in cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely taken. Outside the main towns, many places are cash-only, so carry enough local currency. Card payments may add a surcharge, so check before paying.

ATMs are available in cities and larger towns, usually at bank branches, and dispense Tanzanian shillings. Visa and Mastercard are widely supported. Watch out for foreign-card fees and withdrawal limits, use ATMs in secure locations, and always decline home-currency conversion (DCC) to get the better rate. Carry cash when heading to rural or remote areas.

Mobile money is extremely popular in Tanzania and widely used for everyday payments. The main services are Vodacom M-Pesa, Airtel Money and Tigo Pesa, usually accessed via a local SIM. Visitors who buy a local SIM and register can top up and pay for many things easily. For international cards, contactless and card payments work in cities and hotels.

Tipping is common and appreciated in Tanzania, especially in tourism. On safari it is customary to tip your guide and camp staff, and in restaurants leaving around 5-10% for good service is normal. Small tips for porters and drivers are also welcome. Tipping in cash, often in local currency or US dollars, is the usual practice.

Everyday costs such as local food and public transport can be inexpensive, but safaris and national park fees are a major expense and are often priced in US dollars. Zanzibar and top lodges can be pricey. You can save with local street food, dala-dala minibuses and by booking safaris and tours carefully in advance.

Value Added Tax (VAT) is included in most prices in Tanzania. A VAT refund scheme for departing visitors may apply to eligible goods above a minimum amount when you buy from registered retailers. Ask the shop for the required documents when you buy and follow the customs procedure at your point of departure. Conditions and minimum spend apply, so check current rules before you travel.