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This guide covers everything you need to know about managing your money and staying connected during your Tanzania journey. From currency and ATMs to mobile networks and internet access, we've got you covered.
Understanding the local payment landscape and connectivity options will help you travel smoothly and confidently across Tanzania.
The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). It's denoted by the symbol "TSh" or "TZS". While the shilling is the official currency, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, lodges, and for larger payments.
1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 TZS
100, 200, 500 TZS
Tanzania has a growing banking infrastructure, but it's important to understand where and how to access money during your travels.
Available in major cities (Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Moshi, Zanzibar Town). Limited or no ATMs in rural safari areas. Bring sufficient cash for remote destinations.
Most ATMs accept Visa and Mastercard. Withdrawal limits typically range from 300,000–500,000 TZS per transaction.
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, lodges, and tour operators in tourist areas. American Express is less commonly accepted.
Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.
Essential for local markets, small shops, restaurants, and tips. Carry a mix of TZS and USD (small bills).
Bring clean, undamaged USD notes – older or worn bills may be refused.
Tipping is a common practice in Tanzania's tourism industry. While not mandatory, it's a way to show appreciation for excellent service. Your guides, drivers, and lodge staff work hard to make your journey memorable.
$15–$25 USD per day (per group). For exceptional service, you may tip more.
$10–$15 USD per day (per group). If your guide is also your driver, combine the tip.
$10–$20 USD per day (per room) for the general staff pool at lodges and camps.
$10–$15 USD per day for guides, $5–$10 USD per day for porters (per group). Tips are split among the team.
10% of the bill or round up to the nearest convenient amount.
Tanzania has good mobile network coverage, especially in cities and tourist areas. Buying a local SIM card is affordable and easy, allowing you to stay connected during your journey.
Vodacom: Best coverage in Tanzania, especially in rural areas and safari parks.
Tigo: Good coverage, competitive data packages.
Airtel: Good coverage in cities, affordable rates.
Available at airports, mobile network shops, and kiosks. You'll need your passport for registration.
Cost: ~5,000–10,000 TZS ($2–$4 USD) includes starter credit.
Prepaid data packages are affordable. Expect ~10,000–20,000 TZS ($4–$8 USD) for 2–5 GB of data, valid for 7–30 days.
Internet access in Tanzania has improved significantly in recent years. However, connectivity varies by location – from high-speed Wi-Fi in cities to limited or no internet in remote safari areas.
4G coverage is available in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Moshi, and Zanzibar Town. Most hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi.
Speeds are generally good, but can be slower during peak hours.
Many lodges in safari areas offer Wi-Fi, but speeds may be slower. Some remote camps have limited or no internet access.
This can be a wonderful opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the wilderness.
No internet access on the mountain. You'll be completely disconnected during your trek – a truly immersive wilderness experience.
Make the most of your Tanzania journey with these helpful apps for navigation, communication, translation, and planning.
Google Maps or Maps.me – download offline maps before you travel for navigation without internet.
Google Translate (Swahili is available) to help with basic communication in local languages.
WhatsApp is widely used in Tanzania for communication with guides, lodges, and local contacts.
XE Currency or a similar app to quickly convert TZS to your home currency.
| Topic | Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) | USD accepted in tourist areas |
| ATMs | Available in major cities | Limited or none in remote safari areas |
| Credit Cards | Visa & Mastercard accepted | Inform your bank before travel |
| Tipping | Common practice in tourism | $15–$25/day for guides |
| Mobile Networks | Vodacom (best coverage), Tigo, Airtel | Local SIM ~$2–$4 USD |
| Internet | 4G in cities, Wi-Fi at lodges | Limited or none in remote areas |
Our Tanzania-based team is here to help with any questions about money, connectivity, or any other aspect of your journey. We're just a message away.
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