Tanzania Money

Tanzania's unit of currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh). Notes are issued as TSh10,000; 5000; 1000; 500; 200 and 100. Coins are issued as TSh100; 50; 20; 10, 5 and 1.

Exchange Rate

The Tanzanian Shilling is a weak currency, and prices are likely to be much cheaper in Tanzania than in your home country. Generally you will find that fine cuisine, wine and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world.

Banks

Banks and foreign exchange bureaus are available at international airports and in all big towns.

Banking hours are 08:30 to 15:00 from Monday to Friday, and 08:30 to 13:30 on Saturdays. A few branches in the major towns open until 16:30 on weekdays.

Foreign currency in cash or traveller's cheques may be exchanged through authorised dealers, commercial banks, and at Bureau de Change at the international airports, major towns and border posts.

Visitors are strongly advised against changing money on the black market. Some of the black marketers are undercover policemen, while others are likely to be con artists.

Credit Cards

Visa and MasterCard are accepted by most top hotels and lodges around the country. In addition to credit cards, travellers should bring US dollars cash and traveller's cheques.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in small establishments (especially in Tanzania's rural areas), but tips will be expected in major towns and tourist centres. Upmarket places will include a service charge on the bill.

Bargaining for a cheaper price is quite acceptable in shops selling local handcrafts.

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