Money & Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Exchange rate (reference 2025): 1 EUR ≈ 2,800 TZS / 1 USD ≈ 2,600 TZS
Bills: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 TZS. Coins: 50, 100, 200, 500 TZS (rarely in circulation).
Dual Currency System
Tanzania effectively has a dual currency system: For local things (food, transport, markets) you pay in TZS, for tourist services (safari, national parks, hotels, diving courses, Kilimanjaro) mostly in US dollars. Safari operators, upscale hotels, and park fees are almost always charged in USD.
Cash & ATMs
- ATMs: In all major cities (Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Moshi, Stone Town). CRDB and NMB have the most ATMs. Maximum per withdrawal: 400,000 TZS (approx. 140€). Fees: 5,000–10,000 TZS + fees from your home bank.
- Bring US dollars! Bring 200–500 USD in cash (bills from 2006, larger bills = better exchange rate). Many safari tips and small payments are expected in USD.
- Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard accepted in upscale hotels, restaurants, and safari lodges. In markets, local restaurants, and rural areas: cash only!
- Mobile Money (M-Pesa): Tanzania's most popular payment method. Difficult for tourists to use (requires Tanzanian SIM), but some providers accept M-Pesa from tourists.
💡 Tipp
Always carry enough cash — both TZS for everyday use and USD for tips and tourist payments. There are no ATMs outside the cities, and on safari, you will be without access to banks for days. Keep 100–200 USD in small bills (1, 5, 10, 20 USD) ready for tips.
