Money tips for travelers to Tanzania

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency of Tanzania, a country located in East Africa. Here are some key details about the Tanzanian Shilling:

• Symbol: The symbol used to represent the Tanzanian Shilling is "Tsh" or "TZS".

• Subunits: The Tanzanian Shilling is divided into smaller units called cents, but due to inflation, these smaller denominations are rarely used in practice.

• Banknotes and Coins: The Tanzanian Shilling is available in both banknotes and coins. Banknotes come in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10,000 shillings, while coins come in denominations of 50, 100, 200, and 500 shillings.

• Issuing Authority: The Tanzanian Shilling is issued and regulated by the Central Bank of Tanzania, which is the country's central banking institution responsible for overseeing the monetary policy and issuing currency.

• Exchange Rate: The exchange rate of the Tanzanian Shilling fluctuates against other currencies in the foreign exchange market. It can be influenced by various factors such as inflation, interest rates, and the overall economic performance of Tanzania.1 US Dollar is about 2450,- Tanzanian Shilling. Check a currency calculator for the latest exchange rate.

• Usage: The Tanzanian Shilling is used for all transactions within Tanzania, including everyday purchases, payment of bills, and financial transactions. While some businesses may accept foreign currency, especially in tourist areas, it's generally advisable to use the local currency to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.

• Currency Code: In international financial transactions and currency exchange platforms, the Tanzanian Shilling is identified by its currency code "TZS".

Tanzania's ATMs and credit cards

We recommend that travelers pack enough money for their safari. ATMs are common in airports and major cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Moshi, although they are sparse in rural areas. If you're heading to Tanzania's northern region, ATMs can be found in towns like Karatu and Mto wa Mbu, which are on the way to national parks. The normal withdrawal limit is 500,000 TSH, albeit this may be lower in rural areas. Because carrying significant quantities of cash may not be ideal, we recommend bringing a credit card.

How much money should I bring on safari?

The amount of money you'll need for your safari can vary greatly from person to person. Are you someone who enjoys partaking in lots of extra activities or tends to pick up many souvenirs along the way? Keep in mind that tipping your guide is customary, usually around $6-10 per day. While your safari package typically covers essentials like accommodation and meals, many find they end up spending more than anticipated. Prices in tourist hotspots tend to align with those in Western countries, so it's wise to bring along enough cash to cover several days' expenses.

Money in Zanzibar

When traveling to Zanzibar, make sure you have enough cash. There are only a few ATMs available at the airport and downtown Stone Town, with Barclay's being the most reliable option. There are no ATMs on the beaches or on the islands of Pemba and Mafia. Our observations show that travelers spend more money in Zanzibar than on the mainland since there is more time for excursions, cocktails, and dining out. Of course, you can save money by taking a more casual beach trip. It ultimately comes down to your choices, but we recommend keeping enough cash on hand to avoid any unexpected shortages..