Tanzania Currency Guide: Cash, Cards and Money Tips for Safari Travelers

Introduction

Tanzania’s tourism infrastructure is well developed, but money habits differ between cities (Dar es Salaam, Arusha) and remote safari circuits. Understanding when to use Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), when US dollars still make sense, and how cards behave at lodges will keep your trip smooth.

A little preparation — small notes for tips, a backup card, and realistic expectations in the bush — goes a long way.

What Currency Is Used in Tanzania?

The official currency used in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). It is the primary currency used for everyday transactions across the country, including local markets, shops, tips, and small purchases during your safari.

While Tanzanian Shillings are widely used, US Dollars (USD) are also commonly accepted in the tourism industry — especially for safari lodges, national park fees, and high-end hotels.

For convenience, it’s best to carry a mix of USD (for major expenses) and TZS (for daily use and smaller payments).

As of early 2026, approximate exchange rates are:

Exchange rates fluctuate regularly, so always check the latest rates before you travel. We recommend using XE.com or Google Currency Converter for a real-time figure.

Should You Bring Cash or Use a Card?

The best approach is to carry a combination of both cash and cards while traveling in Kenya. Please also note that when paying by credit or debit card, most of the lodges, camps, or service providers may apply a processing surcharge of approximately 3–5% depending on the payment provider. For this reason, many travellers prefer to use cash for smaller transactions and reserve card payments for larger expenses.

Cards are widely accepted for the following expenses

• •Paying for beverages or laundry at Safari Camps / Lodges.
• •Higher-value purchases (ex: shopping at malls / souvenir shops)
• •Restaurants and shops in cities or airports

Cash in Tanzania Shillings can be used for

• •Tips to staff at the lodges / camps
• •Guide Tips (Can be paid in both USD / TZS)
• •Small / Low value souvenirs
• •Rural stops
• •Quick local purchases from street vendors
• •Situations where card machines are not working

Which Currency Should You Bring?

Many travelers bring a small amount of US dollars for convenience, especially for travel-related expenses or when exchanging money upon arrival. When carrying US dollars, it is important that the notes are clean, undamaged, and from the 2009 series or newer, as older notes are often not accepted by banks, forex bureaus, or businesses.

However, for everyday local spending such as small purchases, tips, or markets, having some Tanzanian shillings (TZS) is usually more practical and widely accepted.

Where to Exchange Money

You can exchange money at:

• •Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Forex bureaus available on arrival rates are decent for a quick exchange.
• •Nairobi CBD Forex Bureaus: Offer the best rates if you have time. Avoid street exchangers entirely.
• •Your hotel: Convenient, but exchange rates are usually less favourable than banks or forex bureaus. Best used for small amounts if needed.

Paying in Remote Safari Areas

In remote areas, card connectivity can be inconsistent. Even if a camp accepts cards, network interruptions may happen. It is wise to have some cash available as backup.

Money Safety Tips

• •Keep small amounts of cash easily accessible: Carry 500–2,000 TZS in an outer pocket for daily small expenses like tips, snacks, or roadside purchases — so you never need to open your main wallet in public. Store the rest securely in the in-room safe at your lodge or tented camp whenever you leave.
• •Carry USD as backup : US dollars are widely accepted at game reserves, lodges, and souvenir shops; crisp, undamaged bills from 2009 onwards are preferred
• •Beware of torn TZS notes : Vendors will often refuse damaged Kenyan shillings; inspect your change carefully and reject torn or heavily worn notes
• •Decline "money changers" on the street : Only exchange currency at banks, licensed forex bureaus, or your lodge; street exchangers often use sleight of hand with bundled notes
• •Distribute cash across multiple bags and people in your travel group. If a bag is lost or stolen, the rest of the group still has access to funds

Use M-Pesa: Pay Smart, Safari Safe

Mobile money is a part of everyday life in Tanzania. The most widely used service is M-Pesa (run by Vodacom), alongside Airtel Money and Tigo Pesa.

Mobile money is useful in towns and markets, but on safari you will still use cash (TZS + some USD) and cards for most big payments.

Can tourists use it? Yes, but it requires setup: you need a Tanzanian SIM and you’ll be asked for your passport to register. For short stays, many visitors skip this and rely on cash + cards instead.

Safari safety benefits:

• • You never need to pull out a wallet in crowded places
• •Payments are instant and leave a digital record
• •Mobile money balances are PIN-protected

Practical limits:

• •Works best for purchases under ~50,000 TZS (roughly $20–25)
• •Most camps/lodges expect TZS or USD; don’t rely on mobile money at checkout
• •If you leave Tanzania with a balance, you can cash out at an agent before you fly

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use US dollars in Tanzania?
Yes. US dollars are widely accepted in the safari and tourism sector. Bring clean, undamaged notes (preferably 2009 series or newer), and be aware that smaller shops and markets will expect Tanzanian Shillings (TZS).

Is it better to exchange money before flying to Tanzania?
Bring a small amount for arrival, then use ATMs or licensed forex bureaus in Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Zanzibar for better rates. Avoid exchanging everything at the airport and avoid street exchangers.

Can I use my card on safari in Tanzania?
Often yes, especially at lodges and hotels, but card surcharges (around 3–5%) are common and connectivity can be inconsistent in remote areas. Always carry some cash as a backup.

What is the best currency to bring to Tanzania?
Carry US dollars for larger safari-related expenses and Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) for everyday spending such as tips, markets, and small purchases.

Can tourists use mobile money in Tanzania?
You can, but it requires setup: a Tanzanian SIM and passport registration. For short trips, cash + card is simpler. If you do use it, stick to official agents when registering or loading money.

Are torn or damaged Tanzanian Shilling notes accepted?
Often no. Businesses can reject damaged notes, so inspect your change and avoid accepting torn currency.

Ready to Plan Your Tanzania Safari?

Staying connected is just one part of the journey. If you are ready to start planning, our team at Marvels of Africa will take care of everything — from lodges with the best connectivity to guides who know every corner of the parks.

Need help planning your trip to Tanzania? Get in Touch