How Currencies Work in Tanzania

How Currencies Work in Tanzania

How Currencies work in Tanzania, The official currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) , but U.S. dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR) are also widely accepted in tourist areas. Understanding how money works in Tanzania can help you budget your trip, avoid fees, and stay safe.

ATM Machines and Currency Exchange in Tanzania

When visiting Tanzania for safaris or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, it is helpful to understand how local currency and ATM services work.

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), although US Dollars are widely accepted in many tourist areas, hotels, safari lodges, and trekking companies.

ATM Availability in Tanzania

ATM machines are available in major cities and tourist towns such as:

• Arusha
• Moshi
• Dar es Salaam
• Zanzibar

Most ATMs accept:

• Visa cards
• Mastercard
• International debit cards

Popular banks include:

• CRDB Bank
• NMB Bank
• NBC Bank
• Equity Bank

Important Money Tips

• Carry some cash for small shops and rural areas
• Inform your bank before traveling
• Use ATMs in secure locations
• Bring newer US Dollar notes when possible
• Keep small cash denominations for tips and local purchases

Card Payments in Tanzania

Many hotels, restaurants, and tour companies accept card payments, but some may charge additional transaction fees. Cash is still commonly used in local markets and remote areas.

Kilimanjaro Climbing Tip

There are no ATM machines on Mount Kilimanjaro, so climbers should withdraw enough cash before starting the trek, especially for guide and porter tips.

Official Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

• Abbreviated as TSh or TZS
• Banknotes come in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 TZS
• Coins are used for smaller amounts, such as 50, 100, 200, and 500 TZS

Using Foreign Currency

• U.S. Dollars (USD) are widely accepted for hotels, safaris, and big purchases.
• Older U.S. notes printed before 2001 are not accepted anywhere in Tanzania.
• Euros (EUR) may also be accepted in some tourist areas.
• Smaller shops and local markets usually prefer Tanzanian Shillings.
• Always carry smaller bills; larger notes may not be accepted.

Exchanging Money

• Currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change, and major hotels.
• Airports have exchange counters, but rates may be less favorable than in banks or local exchange offices.
• ATMs are widely available in cities and towns; Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted.

Tips for Using Money in Tanzania

• Cash is king in rural areas and safari lodges; don’t rely solely on cards.
• Check the exchange rate before withdrawing or exchanging money.
• Avoid using large denominations in local markets or taxis.
• Keep small change for tips, park fees, and small purchases.

Safe Money Practices

• Only carry what you need for the day; store the rest securely in your hotel.
• Use hotel safes or lockable bags for valuables.
• Always count your money before leaving the exchange point.

Summary

Understanding Tanzania’s currency system and how money is accepted will make your trip smoother and stress-free. By carrying a mix of Tanzanian Shillings and U.S. Dollars (printed after 2001), and using secure exchange methods, you can focus on enjoying your Kilimanjaro trek or safari adventure without worrying about money.