The official currency of Tanzania is the:
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
- Symbol: TSh or /=
- Code: TZS
- Common notes: TSh 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000
- Coins: TSh 50, 100, 200, 500
Exchange Rates (approx. as of July 2025)
- 1 USD ≈ 2,500 TSh
- 1 EUR ≈ 2,700 TSh
- 1 GBP ≈ 3,150 TSh
Rates vary slightly check locally or online before exchanging.
Using Money in Tanzania
Cash
- Cash is king in many places, especially outside cities.
- Always carry local currency for:
- Tips
- Souvenirs
- Village markets
- Entry fees (in rural areas)
Credit/Debit Cards
- Accepted at:
- Major hotels
- Tour companies
- Some restaurants & shops (in cities)
- Visa and Mastercard are most common.
- 3–5% surcharge may apply for card use.
ATMs
- Widely available in major towns and airports (Arusha, Moshi, Dar, Zanzibar).
- Limit per withdrawal: Often around TSh 400,000–500,000
- Use ATMs during the day for safety.
Currency Exchange Tips
- Bring USD, EUR, or GBP — easy to exchange.
- Higher denominations ($50 or $100 bills) get better rates.
- Avoid torn or old bills.
- Exchange at:
- Banks
- Bureau de change (no commission, better than hotels or airports)
- Some safari lodges (but rates are lower).