Tanzania Visa Information
eVisa, visa on arrival, entry requirements and how to apply the right way.
Read guideUnderstanding money in Tanzania before you travel makes budgeting and daily spending far easier. In short: the local currency is the Tanzanian shilling, US dollars are widely used in tourism, cards work in larger hotels, and it always pays to carry some cash. Here is everything you need to know, including what to tip.
The official currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS), with notes for 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 shillings. Shillings are best for local shops, markets and restaurants. In tourism settings such as hotels, tour payments, tips and souvenirs, US dollars are the preferred currency.
Bring clean, undamaged US dollar bills dated 2009 or later. Older or torn notes are often refused outright.
ATMs accepting Visa and Mastercard are available in most cities and towns, though not on safari or in remote areas. You can typically withdraw the equivalent of around US$300 in shillings per day. Banks open roughly 9am to 3:30pm on weekdays and 9am to 11am on Saturdays. Tell your bank you are travelling so your card is not blocked, and carry enough cash before heading into the parks.
International credit cards are accepted in most hotels, lodges and larger restaurants, usually with a 5 to 15 percent processing fee. Smaller shops rarely have card facilities, so keep cash for incidentals.
Traveller’s cheques are not accepted anywhere in Tanzania.
On top of your prepaid itinerary, budget an extra US$30 to US$50 per day for drinks, souvenirs and optional activities.
| Item | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Local beer | US$4 to US$5 |
| Imported beer | US$6 to US$8 |
| Wine, per glass | US$8 to US$10 |
| Cocktail | US$10 to US$15 |
A 16 percent VAT applies to most goods and services and is usually included in the price or added to your bill; there is no tourist refund scheme.
If you come from a country that does not use US dollars, it is easy to buy dollars at home before you fly, or to exchange on arrival at airport bureaux de change, banks and larger hotels. Airport desks are convenient for a first small amount, while banks in town often offer slightly better rates, though queues can be long. Keep a mix of small and large dollar bills; small notes are handy for tips and park fees. Always count your money before leaving the counter, and avoid changing cash with unofficial street dealers. For live rates, check XE.com before you exchange.
Tipping is an important part of the tourism culture and is always appreciated for good service. As a general guide:
| Who | Guideline | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Safari driver-guide | US$20 | per group, per day |
| Kilimanjaro guide | US$20 | per group, per day |
| Kilimanjaro chef | US$15 | per group, per day |
| Kilimanjaro porters | US$10 each | per day |
| Transfer drivers | US$5 to US$10 | per transfer |
| Hotel staff | US$1 | housekeeping or waiters |
On Zanzibar, bring enough US dollars with you. There are ATMs in Stone Town and at the airport, but they are rare at beach resorts, and you will usually spend more here on activities and dining than on safari. Still unsure how much to bring? Ask our team and we will advise based on your itinerary.
We are a local, Arusha-based team, and we tailor every safari and Kilimanjaro climb to your dates, budget and pace. Request a free, no-obligation quote and we will usually reply within 24 hours.
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