Tanzania Currency and Cash: Dollars, Shillings, and Card Use on Safari

Understanding how money works in Tanzania helps you avoid unnecessary expenses and payment difficulties during your safari. Whether you are visiting Serengeti National Park, exploring Ngorongoro Crater, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or relaxing in Zanzibar, you need to know when to carry cash and when to use your bank card.

This Tanzania safari money guide explains the differences between Tanzanian shillings and US dollars, where you can exchange money, how card payments work and how much cash to carry.

Tanzania has a growing digital payment system, particularly in major towns and tourist areas. However, cash remains important in rural communities, local markets and remote safari destinations.

Planning your payments before travelling will make your journey more comfortable.

Understanding Tanzania’s Currency

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling, abbreviated as TZS and commonly written as TSh.

Shillings are used for everyday transactions, including local transport, shopping, restaurant meals and small purchases.

Banknotes commonly come in the following denominations:

• TSh 1,000

• TSh 2,000

• TSh 5,000

• TSh 10,000

Smaller payments may involve coins.

You should carry a mixture of denominations because small businesses and market traders sometimes struggle to provide change for larger notes.

Although you may see safari packages advertised in US dollars, the Tanzanian shilling remains the most practical currency for daily spending.

Exchange rates change regularly, so check the current rate before converting your money.

Can You Use US Dollars in Tanzania?

US dollars have traditionally been common in Tanzania’s international tourism industry. Some safari operators advertise packages in dollars because they serve travellers from different countries.

However, Tanzania introduced new foreign-currency payment regulations in 2025, followed by further regulatory changes in 2026.

The Bank of Tanzania clarified that certain transactions involving non-residents, including tourists, may use foreign currency. International tourism bookings can therefore have different payment arrangements from ordinary domestic purchases.

For everyday expenses, Tanzanian shillings are the safest choice.

Before travelling, ask your safari operator which currency they accept for:

• Safari package balances

• Accommodation payments

• Optional activities

• Tips for guides and porters

• Additional transport

• Personal purchases

Never assume that a business will accept dollar notes simply because its prices appear online in dollars.

If you are paying in US dollars, carry clean, undamaged notes. Some businesses and exchange providers prefer newer banknotes.

Tanzania Safari Money Guide: Cash or Card?

Both cash and cards are useful during a safari. The best approach is to use each payment method where it works most reliably.

Payment facilities vary between establishments, even within the same destination.

Confirm accepted methods before making expensive purchases or travelling to isolated locations.

Where to Exchange Money in Tanzania

You can exchange foreign currency at authorised banks and bureaux de change.

Major destinations such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Moshi and Zanzibar have currency exchange services.

Banks and Exchange Bureaux

Banks provide a formal environment for exchanging money. Authorised bureaux de change are another convenient option.

Before exchanging, compare the rate offered with the current market rate and ask whether any commission applies.

Count your money before leaving the counter and keep your receipt.

Avoid exchanging cash with unlicensed street dealers, even when they promise attractive rates.

Airport Currency Exchange

International airports offer convenient access to local currency after arrival.

However, exchange rates may be less favourable than those available elsewhere.

A practical approach is to exchange enough money for your immediate expenses, then arrange additional cash in town.

If your airport transfer and accommodation are prepaid, you may need very little cash on arrival.

Using ATMs in Tanzania

ATMs are available in major cities and tourist towns.

You will find them in places such as Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam and parts of Zanzibar.

Most bank ATMs dispense Tanzanian shillings.

International Visa and Mastercard cards may work, depending on the bank, card issuer and ATM network.

Before withdrawing money, check:

• Your bank’s international withdrawal fees

• The ATM operator’s charges

• Your daily withdrawal limit

• Whether your card supports overseas transactions

If an ATM offers to convert the withdrawal into your home currency, compare the proposed exchange rate carefully. Choosing to be charged in shillings often avoids an unfavourable conversion offered by the machine.

Withdraw money during daylight hours where possible, preferably at an ATM attached to a bank.

Keep your card secure and avoid accepting help from strangers.

Can You Pay by Card on Safari?

Many established hotels, safari lodges and tourism businesses accept international debit or credit cards.

Card payments can be convenient for large expenses because you do not need to carry substantial cash.

However, remote safari locations may have unreliable internet connections or limited banking facilities.

A lodge might accept cards normally but experience temporary network problems.

Ask your accommodation provider whether card payments are available before arrival.

Also check whether the establishment adds a card-processing surcharge.

If your safari includes several remote camps, carry enough shillings for personal expenses and unexpected purchases.

Carry a Backup Card

Travelling with two cards provides additional security.

Keep them in separate places so that losing your wallet does not leave you without access to money.

Inform your bank about your international travel if necessary, and make sure you can receive authentication messages while abroad.

If your bank requires mobile verification, arrange roaming or reliable mobile data before travelling.

How Much Cash Should You Carry on Safari?

Your cash requirements depend on your safari package and personal spending habits.

Most organised safaris include accommodation, park fees, transport and specified meals.

If these expenses are prepaid, you mainly need money for tips, drinks, souvenirs and optional purchases.

The following figures provide an illustrative daily spending allowance.

These are planning estimates rather than fixed local prices. Guide tips and activities requiring separate fees may increase your budget considerably.

For a five-day prepaid safari, carrying the shilling equivalent of approximately USD 100 to 200 for discretionary spending could be reasonable.

Your actual needs may be lower or higher.

Tipping Safari Guides and Lodge Staff

Tipping is customary in Tanzania’s tourism industry, although it remains voluntary.

Safari guides, camp teams and porters often receive tips from satisfied visitors.

Ask your operator about its recommended tipping arrangements because expectations differ between private safaris, group tours and mountain climbs.

When tipping, use a currency that the recipient can conveniently spend or exchange.

Tanzanian shillings are particularly practical for local staff.

If you are climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, remember that mountain crews commonly include guides, cooks and several porters. Their tipping arrangements differ from those of ordinary safari drivers.

Agree on your tipping budget before the trip to avoid surprises.

Managing Money in Remote Safari Areas

Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park and other protected areas contain lodges and camps far from major towns.

You should not depend on finding an ATM during a game drive.

Withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Arusha, Moshi or another main departure point.

Keep your spending money separate from emergency funds.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash during village walks or crowded market visits.

If your safari operator handles park fees, confirm that these are included in your booking. Park payments commonly use official electronic channels rather than informal cash collection.

Paying for Things in Zanzibar

Zanzibar uses the Tanzanian shilling, just like mainland Tanzania.

International hotels and resorts may offer card payments, while smaller shops and market traders generally find shillings more convenient.

Stone Town has banking and exchange facilities, but access can be more limited in smaller coastal villages.

Before travelling to a beach resort, ask whether you can settle restaurant bills, activities and accommodation extras by card.

Keep some cash available for local transport, refreshments and souvenirs.

Practical Money Safety Tips

A few simple precautions can prevent payment problems during your Tanzania holiday.

• Divide your cash between secure locations.

• Use hotel safes when available.

• Carry smaller notes for daily purchases.

• Avoid displaying large amounts of money publicly.

• Check bills before paying.

• Keep your bank’s emergency contact details.

• Use recognised banks and authorised exchange providers.

• Monitor card transactions during your trip.

You should also keep a small emergency reserve for unexpected transport, medical expenses or changes to your itinerary.

Travel insurance remains important because emergency cash alone may not cover serious problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I bring dollars or shillings to Tanzania?

You can bring an internationally accepted foreign currency and exchange it through authorised providers. Tanzanian shillings are usually the most convenient option for everyday purchases.

Do safari lodges accept credit cards?

Many established lodges accept cards, but availability differs. Confirm payment methods and possible surcharges directly with your accommodation provider.

Can I withdraw money inside national parks?

You should not rely on ATM access inside national parks. Withdraw cash in a major town before beginning your safari.

Is cash necessary for a prepaid safari?

Yes. Even with accommodation, transport and meals included, you may need cash for tips, snacks, souvenirs and personal expenses.

Which currency is best for tipping?

Tanzanian shillings are practical because staff can spend them locally. Confirm whether your guide or operator recommends another arrangement.

Managing money in Tanzania becomes straightforward when you plan ahead.

Use Tanzanian shillings for everyday spending, confirm any agreed US-dollar payments with your safari operator and carry a working international card for larger purchases.

Before entering remote safari areas, withdraw enough cash for personal expenses and emergencies.

With a sensible combination of cash and cards, you can enjoy your Tanzania safari without unnecessary payment difficulties.