Travel Advice
Money, Budgeting & Tipping
Plan your finances for a seamless Tanzanian adventure with our guide to currency, safari costs, and showing appreciation through tipping.
Travel Advice
Plan your finances for a seamless Tanzanian adventure with our guide to currency, safari costs, and showing appreciation through tipping.
Navigating payments in Tanzania is straightforward. While US Dollars are widely accepted in the tourism industry, the local currency, the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), is essential for smaller, everyday purchases.
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). It's best for local markets, small shops, and restaurants outside of tourist hubs. Major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted at larger hotels and lodges, but often with a surcharge.
US Dollars (USD) are widely used for safari payments, park fees, and tips. It is crucial that any USD bills you bring are printed in 2009 or later, as older bills are often not accepted due to counterfeiting concerns.
A Tanzanian safari is a significant investment, with costs varying based on several factors. Understanding these components can help you plan a trip that aligns with your budget and expectations.
A significant portion of your cost goes directly to conservation. These fees, set by the government, help protect the wildlife and habitats you've come to see.
From budget-friendly adventure camping to luxurious tented lodges, your choice of accommodation is a major factor in the overall price.
Longer trips and traveling during the peak dry season (June-October) generally cost more than shorter trips in the green season.
A private, fully customized safari offers the most flexibility, while joining a small group safari can be a more economical option.
Tipping is a customary and much-appreciated way to show gratitude for excellent service in Tanzania's tourism industry. While always voluntary, your generosity provides a significant and direct supplement to the wages of the hard-working individuals who make your trip special.
It is best to give tips directly to the individuals or via a designated tip box at the end of your stay or activity. We recommend tipping in USD or TZS.
For restaurants in towns, a tip of 10% of the bill is standard if a service charge is not included.