Planning a trip to Tanzania involves more than securing your flight tickets and confirming your safari accommodation. To travel confidently and avoid financial inconvenience, it is crucial to understand Tanzania’s currency system, exchange rates, payment methods, tipping etiquette, and cash accessibility.

Whether you are visiting for a Serengeti safari, a Mount Kilimanjaro climb, a Zanzibar beach holiday, or a cultural tour in Arusha, having clear knowledge about Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), US Dollar acceptance, ATM availability, and foreign exchange bureaus will significantly improve your travel experience.

This complete Tanzania travel money guide provides essential financial tips for tourists, including how to manage cash, the best currency to bring to Tanzania, understanding exchange rates, where to exchange money safely, and how tipping works in the tourism industry. With proper travel budgeting and smart money planning, you can focus on enjoying Tanzania’s wildlife, national parks, and coastal destinations without unnecessary financial stress.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to Tanzania’s Currency
  2. How Much is $100 USD in Tanzania?
  3. How to Understand Tanzania’s Currency
  4. Best Currency to Bring to Tanzania
  5. Where to Get Tanzanian Currency
  6. ATMs in Tanzania
  7. Tipping in Tanzania
  8. Don’t Bring Old Notes
  9. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Introduction to Tanzania’s Currency

When planning your Tanzania travel budget, it is essential to understand the country’s official legal tender. Tanzania uses the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) as its national currency. Locally, it is commonly called “Shilingi,” and everyday transactions in shops, markets, restaurants, and local transport are conducted in Tanzanian Shillings.

For most daily expenses in Tanzania—such as groceries, taxis, local tours, and small purchases—prices are quoted strictly in TZS. However, within the tourism sector, particularly for Tanzania safaris, Kilimanjaro trekking packages, Zanzibar beach resorts, national park fees, and high-end lodges, rates are frequently listed in US Dollars (USD). This is standard practice in the tourism and hospitality industry across East Africa.

Travelers should note that while U.S. dollars are widely accepted in the tourism market, other foreign currencies like Euros (EUR) and British Pounds (GBP) are generally not accepted for direct payments outside major international hotels or upscale establishments. In most cases, these currencies must first be exchanged into Tanzanian Shillings at licensed forex bureaus or banks.

Understanding how the Tanzanian Shilling works, where USD is accepted, and when local currency is required is a crucial part of smart travel money planning in Tanzania.

  • How Much is $100 USD in Tanzania?

Before traveling, it is important to understand the current US Dollar to Tanzanian Shilling exchange rate, as this directly affects your travel budget in Tanzania. The value of currencies changes regularly due to global financial markets, local demand for foreign currency, and differences between banks and exchange bureaus.

In recent periods, 1 USD has generally ranged between 2,400 and 2,700 TZS. Using an average working rate:

$100 USD is approximately equal to 250,000 Tanzanian Shillings (TZS).

This amount can cover a variety of common travel expenses depending on your itinerary and travel style. Around 250,000 TZS may be enough for:

• Several meals at reputable local restaurants

• Taxi fares or short-distance private transfers within major cities

• Entrance fees for certain cultural attractions or smaller parks

• Purchases of locally made souvenirs and handicrafts

• Day-to-day incidental expenses during a safari

For visitors on safari, $100 USD can also reasonably cover one day of tips for guides and lodge staff, particularly when the tipping amount is shared among travelers in the same vehicle.

Because exchange rates are not fixed, it is advisable to confirm the latest USD to TZS rate shortly before your departure. Rates may vary slightly between airport exchange counters, urban forex bureaus, and ATM withdrawals. Checking the current rate in advance will help you estimate your spending power more accurately and manage your travel finances with confidence while in Tanzania.

  • How to Understand Tanzania’s Currency

To manage your travel budget effectively, it is essential to understand how the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) works in daily transactions. The Tanzanian currency is issued in paper banknotes and coins, although coins are rarely used in most tourism-related payments.

The most common Tanzanian Shilling banknote denominations you will encounter are:

1,000 TZS

2,000 TZS

5,000 TZS

10,000 TZS

In cities such as Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar, these notes are widely used for transport, restaurant bills, shopping, market purchases, and local services. While coins exist, they are generally of low value and are uncommon in safari lodges, hotels, or tour operations.

Important practical tips for handling Tanzanian money:

• Prices are frequently expressed in thousands. For example, a local vendor may say “ten thousand” instead of “10,000 shillings.”

• 10,000 TZS is approximately equal to 3–5 USD, depending on the current exchange rate.
• Smaller shops, local markets, and taxi drivers may struggle to provide change for large bills, especially 10,000 TZS notes, early in the day.

When converting USD to TZS, it is helpful to think in rounded figures. Many travelers mentally calculate using an estimated exchange rate to simplify budgeting. Understanding local pricing habits will make negotiating, paying for goods, and managing daily expenses in Tanzania much easier.

  • Best Currency to Bring to Tanzania

For international travelers, the most practical and widely accepted foreign currency is the US Dollar (USD). USD is commonly used for safari payments, hotel balances, visa fees on arrival, and certain tourism services. It also tends to receive more favorable exchange rates compared to other currencies.

If you plan to exchange money upon arrival, bring clean, undamaged US Dollar notes printed in 2009 or later, as older series notes are often rejected by banks and exchange bureaus. While Euros and British Pounds can be exchanged in major cities, USD remains the preferred and most convenient foreign currency for travel in Tanzania.

  • Best Currency to Bring When Traveling to Tanzania

When preparing for a trip to Tanzania, the most practical and widely accepted currency to carry is the US Dollar (USD). US Dollars are recognized almost everywhere in the tourism and travel industry, making them the preferred choice for international visitors.

USD is commonly used for:

• Safari package payments, including private and group tours

• Settling hotel bills, lodges, and tented camps

• National Park entrance fees, including popular parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire
• Visa fees upon arrival (for countries that require a visa)

• Other travel-related expenses, such as guided tours or cultural experiences

Important: Only clean, undamaged US Dollar notes printed in 2009 or newer series are accepted. Older or worn notes may be refused by banks, hotels, safari operators, and exchange bureaus, which can create inconvenience during your trip.

While Euros (EUR) and British Pounds (GBP) can also be exchanged in Tanzania, USD is generally preferred because it offers better exchange rates, wider acceptance, and smoother transactions across hotels, safari companies, banks, and licensed forex bureaus.

For travelers planning a Tanzania safari, mountain climbing, or beach vacation, bringing a combination of USD cash along with a travel card or debit card for ATM withdrawals ensures financial flexibility and convenience throughout the trip.

  • Where Can I Get Tanzanian Currency?

Travelers visiting Tanzania will need to access Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) for day-to-day expenses, safaris, park fees, and tipping. There are several reliable options to obtain local currency, and knowing the best sources can save both time and money.

  1. Airport Currency Exchange Bureaus

Most international airports in Tanzania, including Kilimanjaro International Airport and Julius Nyerere International Airport, have currency exchange counters where you can convert US Dollars or other major foreign currencies into Tanzanian Shillings. These counters are convenient for immediate cash needs upon arrival, but the exchange rates may be slightly lower than those offered by city-based forex bureaus.

  • Local Forex Bureaus

Licensed foreign exchange bureaus in cities such as Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar City provide competitive exchange rates and often have lower service fees than airports. Forex bureaus are a popular choice for travelers who want to maximize the value of their US Dollars, Euros, or Pounds when converting to Tanzanian Shillings.

  • Banks
    Major Tanzanian banks, including CRDB Bank and NMB Bank, offer currency exchange services for foreign travelers. While banks generally provide secure and official rates, the process may take more time compared to private forex bureaus, especially if documentation like a passport is required.
  • ATMs
    ATMs are widely available in major cities and towns, making them a convenient option for withdrawing Tanzanian Shillings directly. Most ATMs accept international cards such as Visa and Mastercard, allowing you to access cash without carrying large amounts of USD. Keep in mind that withdrawal limits, fees, and occasional machine cash shortages can occur, particularly in remote safari regions.

For smooth travel planning, it is recommended to carry a combination of US Dollars for initial payments and park fees, while using ATMs or local forex bureaus to obtain Tanzanian Shillings for daily expenses. This strategy ensures you always have enough cash for safaris, local markets, transportation, and tipping.

  • ATMs in Tanzania

ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas throughout Tanzania, including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar City. They provide a convenient way for travelers to access Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) without carrying large amounts of cash. However, access becomes very limited in rural locations and safari destinations, so it is important to plan.

Tips for using ATMs in Tanzania:

• Notify your bank before your trip to ensure your debit or credit card works internationally.
• Be aware of withdrawal limits, as most machines have daily or per-transaction restrictions.
• Occasional shortages may occur, particularly in smaller towns or during peak tourist seasons.
• ATMs only dispense Tanzanian Shillings, so foreign currency is not available.

For safari travelers visiting remote areas such as the Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Crater, ATMs are not available within the parks. It is advisable to withdraw enough Tanzanian Shillings in towns or cities before traveling to these locations.

Carrying backup cash is recommended in case of network issues, machine malfunctions, or emergencies. Combining ATM withdrawals with clean US Dollars can help ensure that you have sufficient funds for park fees, tips, local transport, and daily expenses while traveling across Tanzania.

  • Tipping in Tanzania

While tipping is not legally required in Tanzania, it is a customary practice in the tourism and hospitality sectors and is highly appreciated by service providers. Understanding local tipping expectations can help travelers show gratitude while avoiding awkward situations. Tipping is particularly important in safaris, hotels, lodges, restaurants, and trekking services.

Recommended tipping guidelines for Tanzania travelers:

• Safari Guides and Drivers: $15–$25 per day per vehicle, depending on the quality of service and group size.

• Camp or Lodge Staff: $5–$10 per guest per day, often given collectively to housekeeping, servers, and support staff.
• Porters on Kilimanjaro Treks: $5–$10 per day per porter, depending on the length and difficulty of the climb.
• Restaurant Service: 5–10% of the bill if a service charge is not already included.

Tips are generally given in US Dollars (USD) or Tanzanian Shillings (TZS). It is important to use clean, newer USD bills (2009 series or later), as older or damaged notes may be refused. Small denominations are preferred for easy distribution.

Proper tipping not only shows respect for Tanzanian hospitality but also enhances your overall travel experience by supporting the local workforce that contributes to safaris, hotel stays, and guided tours. For budget planning, travelers should factor in tipping costs when estimating the total expenses for a Tanzania safari, city tour, or mountain trek.

  • Don’t Bring Old Notes

When traveling to Tanzania, it is very important to pay attention to the condition of your U.S. dollar bills. Banks, hotels, safari lodges, and foreign exchange bureaus in Tanzania have strict informal rules regarding the acceptance of US currency. Using damaged or outdated notes can lead to refusal or delays, which can be frustrating for travelers.

To avoid issues, make sure to bring only clean, newer US Dollar bills. Specifically, travelers should avoid:
• Notes printed before 2009

• Bills that are torn, heavily creased, or folded

• Currency that has marks, stamps, or writing

Older or damaged US Dollars are frequently rejected by local banks, exchange offices, and hotels, especially when paying for safari packages, accommodation, park entry fees, or tipping guides and staff. Carryingcrisp, unmarked billsensures smooth transactions throughout your trip and avoids unnecessary complications when exchanging money or making payments in Tanzania.

By following this guideline, travelers can confidently use US Dollars for currency exchange, safari payments, park fees, hotel bills, and tipping staff, making their financial experience in Tanzania seamless and stress-free.

  1. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use credit cards in Tanzania?

Yes, in major hotels and some safari lodges. However, many places charge a 3–5% transaction fee. Cash remains the most reliable option.

Should I exchange all my money at once?

No. Exchange smaller amounts as needed to avoid carrying large sums of cash.

Is Tanzania expensive for travelers?

Costs vary depending on travel style. Safari tourism is premium-priced, while local transportation and food can be affordable.

Is it safe to carry cash?

Yes, but use hotel safes and avoid displaying large amounts in public areas.

Final Thoughts

Handling money while traveling in Tanzania can be simple and stress-free with proper preparation and planning. Always carry clean US Dollar bills from the 2009 series or newer, as older or damaged notes may be refused at banks, hotels, and safari lodges. Make sure to withdraw Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) from ATMs or exchange bureaus in major cities such as Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar City, since cash access is limited in rural areas and national parks. Understanding local tipping practices, managing your daily budget, and checking current USD to TZS exchange rates before your trip will help you avoid unexpected expenses.

With careful money management, travelers can fully enjoy Tanzania’s world-famous safaris, stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultural experiences without worrying about cash shortages or financial challenges. Proper planning ensures that you can focus on exploring national parks, visiting local markets, and experiencing authentic Tanzanian culture while staying financially prepared throughout your journey.