Travel money

Currency in Tanzania

What to Use and Whether to Carry Cash

Currency in Tanzania explained: the Tanzanian shilling, using US dollars, cards, ATMs, where to exchange money and how much cash to carry on safari or in Zanzibar.

Published byGodlove MalekoFounder & certified tour guide

TZSTanzanian shilling, the official currency

Cards and cashUse both; cards are not accepted everywhere

Major townsWithdraw cash before remote safari areas

Authorised onlyExchange through banks or licensed bureaus

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Currency in Tanzania: what to use and what to carry

The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Although major hotels, established restaurants and some safari businesses accept credit or debit cards, carrying some cash is strongly recommended, especially when visiting local markets, travelling through smaller towns or spending time in remote safari areas.

For most international visitors, a practical approach is to use a bank card for larger expenses where accepted and keep Tanzanian shillings for smaller purchases, tips, snacks and places that do not accept cards.

US dollars are also useful for some tourism-related payments. Tanzania’s currency regulations allow foreign-currency payments between residents and non-residents, including tourists, for eligible goods and services. However, you should not assume that every shop or local service provider accepts dollars.

This guide to the currency in Tanzania explains how money works, where to exchange currency, how to use ATMs, and how much cash to prepare for a safari or beach holiday.

Important: Exchange rules, fees and card acceptance change. Confirm payment terms with your operator and bank before you travel.

Currency in Tanzania quick facts

Official currency: Tanzanian shilling (TZS or TSh)
Cash: Carry some, especially for markets, towns and tips
Cards: Visa and Mastercard work at many established businesses
US dollars: Useful for eligible tourism payments, not accepted everywhere
ATMs: Common in major towns, scarce in remote safari areas
Exchange: Use banks or authorised bureaus, never the street
Mobile money: Widely used locally, not simple for visitors
Best approach: A bank card, a backup method and some shillings

These are general travel points, not financial advice. Your bank and operator’s terms take precedence.

1 · OFFICIAL CURRENCY

What is the official currency in Tanzania?

The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling, abbreviated as TZS and commonly written as TSh. The currency is issued by the Bank of Tanzania. Banknotes and coins are used for everyday transactions, although banknotes are generally more convenient for many purchases.

You may see prices written in different ways: TZS 10,000, TSh 10,000 or 10,000 Tanzanian shillings. These all refer to the same currency amount.

Check the rate: Before travelling, check the current exchange rate between your home currency and the Tanzanian shilling. Rates change, and the amount you receive also depends on the provider’s exchange margin and any applicable fees.

2 · CASH

Should you carry cash in Tanzania?

Yes. Carry some cash, but avoid carrying all your travel money in cash. Cash remains widely used across Tanzania. Cards are accepted in many established hotels, larger restaurants and tourist businesses, but acceptance is less reliable in rural areas and smaller establishments. Cash is useful for:

Buying snacks and drinks from local shops.
Visiting markets and small businesses.
Paying for certain local transport services.
Giving tips.
Making small purchases in towns and villages.
Covering unexpected expenses when electronic payments are unavailable.

During a safari, you may spend several days travelling between national parks, lodges and remote camps. You might not have convenient access to a bank or ATM throughout the journey.

Use both: A combination of cash and cards gives you greater flexibility when dealing with the currency in Tanzania.

3 · US DOLLARS

Can you use US dollars in Tanzania?

Yes, US dollars can be useful for international visitors, particularly for some tourism-related payments. The Bank of Tanzania clarified in 2025 that payments between residents and non-residents, including tourists, may be made in foreign currency for goods and services. Transactions between residents must be conducted in Tanzanian shillings under the applicable rules. In practical terms, US dollars may be useful for:

Paying an eligible safari or tourism service provider when the agreed price is in dollars.
Paying certain accommodation or travel-related bills.
Exchanging into Tanzanian shillings at an authorised foreign-exchange provider.

However, dollars are not a substitute for the local currency in Tanzania in every situation. A neighbourhood shop, local market stall or other small business may prefer or require payment in Tanzanian shillings.

What kind of US dollar notes should you bring? If you plan to exchange dollars or use them for an agreed tourism payment, bring clean, undamaged banknotes. Some exchange providers and businesses may apply their own acceptance policies, including restrictions relating to older notes or certain denominations. Check these requirements with the provider before departure rather than assuming every dollar bill will be accepted at the same rate.

Confirm first: Confirm the accepted currency and payment terms with your safari operator or accommodation before travelling. Do not assume you can use dollars for every purchase.

4 · EXCHANGING MONEY

Should you exchange money before arriving in Tanzania?

You do not necessarily need to exchange all your money before travelling. Many visitors bring a bank card and some cash in a major currency, then exchange a portion into Tanzanian shillings after arrival. You can generally look for currency-exchange services at:

International airports.
Banks.
Authorised foreign-exchange bureaus in major towns.
Some hotels, although their rates may be less competitive.

Arusha, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar’s main tourist areas have currency services, but availability varies by location and opening hours. Compare the exchange rate and any commission before exchanging money, and avoid exchanging more money than you reasonably expect to spend in cash.

Avoid street exchanges: Informal street exchanges can expose you to scams or counterfeit notes. Use banks or authorised providers for the currency in Tanzania you need.

5 · CARDS

Can you use credit and debit cards in Tanzania?

Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at many established hotels, larger restaurants, supermarkets and tourism businesses. However, acceptance varies, and some businesses may accept one card network but not another. Cards are particularly useful for larger bills and reducing the amount of cash you need to carry. Before leaving home:

Tell your bank about your travel plans if it recommends or requires this.
Check your international withdrawal and purchase fees.
Confirm that your card is enabled for international transactions.
Make sure you know your PIN.
Carry a second payment method if possible.
Check whether the merchant applies a card-processing surcharge before paying.

Do not assume that contactless payments or digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay will work everywhere. Carry the physical card and a backup payment option.

Is it safe to pay by card? Card payments are common at established businesses, but keep your card in sight during a transaction where possible, check the amount before approving a payment and review your statements. If a card terminal or ATM looks suspicious, use another one.

6 · ATMS

Are ATMs available in Tanzania?

ATMs are available in major cities and many larger towns, and some accept international Visa or Mastercard cards. You can use them to withdraw Tanzanian shillings without exchanging all your cash in advance. However, ATMs may occasionally be out of service, run out of cash or charge withdrawal fees, and access is more limited in remote safari destinations. For a smoother trip:

Withdraw money in a major town before heading into remote areas.
Check the fees charged by your home bank and the local ATM provider.
Use ATMs inside banks, shopping centres or other secure locations.
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Keep some cash separate from your main wallet.

Do not wait: Do not wait until you are at a remote camp to withdraw money for tips or personal purchases.

7 · HOW MUCH CASH

How much cash should you bring on a Tanzania safari?

The right amount depends on what your safari package includes, how long you will travel and whether you plan to make additional purchases. If your accommodation, transport, meals, park fees and activities are already included, you may need cash mainly for tips and personal expenses. If you are travelling independently or paying for meals and transport separately, you may need more. Use the following as a starting point rather than a fixed rule:

Small daily purchases: keep a modest amount in Tanzanian shillings.
Tips: set aside a separate amount based on your budget and the service you receive.
Optional activities: check prices and accepted payment methods in advance.
Unexpected expenses: keep a reserve that you can access without carrying it all in your wallet.

No single amount: There is no single cash amount suitable for every traveller. Calculate your expected expenses first, then add a reasonable emergency reserve, and avoid carrying a large sum of cash simply because you are travelling to Tanzania. See our Tanzania safari cost guide.

8 · TIPS

Do you need cash for safari tips?

Cash is a practical way to tip safari guides, drivers, lodge staff and other service workers when you choose to do so. The amount depends on the service, length of the trip, group size, your budget and whether tipping is already included in your package. Before departure, check your safari operator’s tipping guidance and whether tips can be paid by card or must be given in cash.

Tanzanian shillings are convenient for many smaller tips and local purchases. US dollars may also be accepted for agreed tourism-related tips, but ask your operator what is appropriate for your specific trip. Use clean, acceptable notes and keep tips separate from your everyday spending money.

Amounts: See our guide on how much to tip a safari guide in Tanzania.

9 · ZANZIBAR

Should you carry cash in Zanzibar?

Yes. Even though many hotels, resorts, restaurants and tourist businesses in Zanzibar accept cards, cash remains useful for smaller purchases and local services. Carry some Tanzanian shillings for:

Small shops and local markets.
Snacks and drinks.
Some local transport.
Small tips.
Purchases from businesses that do not accept cards.

If you are staying at a beach resort, you may be able to charge many expenses to your room or pay by card. Check the property’s payment arrangements before arrival.

Safari plus beach: For a trip combining the Serengeti and Zanzibar, plan your cash needs for both the safari portion and the island stay. See our Zanzibar guide.

10 · MOBILE MONEY

What about mobile money in Tanzania?

Mobile money services are widely used in Tanzania, including services associated with major mobile-network providers, and they are especially important for many local transactions. However, international visitors should not assume that their home banking app or mobile wallet works in the same way as a Tanzanian mobile-money account.

Access and registration requirements can vary, and some services may require a locally registered SIM or other local identification arrangements.

Keep it simple: If you plan to use mobile money, confirm eligibility and setup requirements with the provider. For most short-term visitors, a bank card plus some Tanzanian shillings is a simpler way to handle the currency in Tanzania.

11 · MISTAKES

Common money mistakes tourists should avoid

Carrying only US dollars: dollars can be useful for certain tourism-related payments, but you may need Tanzanian shillings for everyday purchases.
Relying entirely on cards: some small businesses and remote establishments do not accept cards, and electronic payment systems may occasionally be unavailable.
Assuming every ATM will work: withdraw cash in a major town before travelling to remote safari areas.
Exchanging money informally: use banks or authorised foreign-exchange providers instead of street exchangers.
Carrying too much cash: keep only the cash you need for the day in your wallet and store the rest securely.
Ignoring card fees: check your bank’s foreign-transaction and withdrawal fees, and ask merchants about any applicable surcharge.
Assuming all prices must be paid in dollars: Tanzania’s currency rules distinguish between transactions involving residents and non-residents, so confirm the agreed payment currency with your provider.

Cover your trip: Also arrange Tanzania travel insurance in case cards or cash are lost or stolen.

12 · MONEY PLAN

A simple money plan for your Tanzania trip

Before leaving home, make a basic plan for the currency in Tanzania:

Before departureCheck your bank-card fees, arrange a backup payment method, and confirm which expenses are already included in your safari or accommodation package.

After arrivalWithdraw or exchange a manageable amount into Tanzanian shillings using a reputable provider.

During your safariKeep enough cash for small purchases and planned tips, and use cards where accepted for larger bills.

In remote areasAvoid relying on an ATM being available. Withdraw what you need before leaving a major town.

During your Zanzibar stayKeep some local currency for smaller expenses while using a card at establishments that accept it.

Flexible, not heavy: This approach gives you flexibility without requiring you to carry all your spending money in cash. See also what to know before traveling to Tanzania.

FAQ

Currency in Tanzania: frequently asked questions

Currency in Tanzania: quick answers about shillings, dollars, cards, ATMs and cash for safari.

What currency is used in Tanzania?

Tanzania’s official currency is the Tanzanian shilling, abbreviated as TZS. It is the main currency in Tanzania for everyday purchases.

Is US dollar accepted in Tanzania?

US dollars may be accepted for eligible tourism-related payments and can be exchanged at authorised providers. They are not accepted everywhere, so carry Tanzanian shillings for ordinary local purchases.

Should I exchange money before travelling to Tanzania?

You can exchange a small amount before travelling if you prefer, but it is not essential to exchange all your money in advance. Compare rates and fees, and use reputable currency providers.

Can I use my Visa or Mastercard in Tanzania?

Many established hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and tourism businesses accept Visa or Mastercard. Acceptance is less reliable in smaller towns and remote areas, so bring some cash.

Are ATMs easy to find in Tanzania?

ATMs are available in major cities and many towns. They are less convenient in remote safari areas and can occasionally be out of service or run out of cash.

How much cash should I bring for a safari?

It depends on the duration of your trip and what is included in your package. If meals, accommodation, transport and park fees are covered, you may need cash mainly for tips and personal purchases. Prepare a separate budget for optional expenses.

Is Tanzania expensive for tourists?

Costs vary considerably depending on accommodation, transport, activities and travel style. A fully organised safari generally has different expenses from an independent trip based in towns or cities. Plan your budget around your actual itinerary rather than relying on one daily figure.

Can I use my home currency in Tanzania?

Some major currencies can be exchanged, and eligible foreign-currency payments are permitted for certain transactions involving tourists. However, your home currency is not the everyday currency in Tanzania, and Tanzanian shillings are useful for routine spending.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Plan your money for Tanzania with confidence

The Tanzanian shilling is the official currency in Tanzania, and carrying some cash is a sensible part of preparing for your trip. Cards work well at many established hotels and tourism businesses, while cash remains useful for small purchases, tips, markets and remote destinations.

For most visitors, the simplest strategy is to carry a modest amount of Tanzanian shillings, keep a bank card and backup payment method, and confirm the payment arrangements for major expenses before departure.

If you are planning a safari, ask your independent tour operator which costs are already included and what currency they accept for any outstanding payments. Safari Best Tanzania provides independent Tanzania travel information to help visitors prepare and connect with tourism businesses.

Official information:

Bank of Tanzania

1Check your card fees
2Carry some shillings
3Withdraw before remote areas
4Confirm payment terms

This guide offers general information, not financial advice: exchange rules, fees and card acceptance change. Always confirm current details with your bank, your tour operator and the Bank of Tanzania before travelling.

Currency in Tanzania: key takeaways

Currency in Tanzania means the Tanzanian shilling for everyday spending, with US dollars useful for some tourism payments and cards accepted at many established businesses.

Carry some Tanzanian shillings, keep a bank card and a backup payment method, and avoid carrying all your money in cash.
Withdraw or exchange money in a major town through banks or authorised providers before heading to remote safari areas.
Confirm accepted currencies and payment terms with your safari operator and accommodation before you travel.