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Money Matters Tanzania Safaris
Money Matters – Tanzania Safaris & Kilimanjaro Climbs
Planning your budget is an important part of preparing for a Tanzania safari or a Mount Kilimanjaro climb. The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted for safaris, trekking packages, and park fees. It’s helpful to carry some cash for tips, small purchases, and local markets.
Most safari and Kilimanjaro packages include accommodation, meals, park fees, and professional guides, while personal expenses like tips, drinks, and souvenirs are usually extra. ATMs are available in major towns such as Arusha and Moshi, but access is limited in remote areas, so it’s best to withdraw money in advance.
With a little preparation, managing your money in Tanzania is simple, so you can focus on enjoying your safari and reaching the roof of Africa.
Are credit cards acceptable?
Most lodges accept credit cards, but if you want to pay in cash instead, you should use US dollars. Please note that all dollar bills should be dated from 2009 onwards. For credit cards, you should bring either a Mastercard or a Visa.
Am I able to withdraw cash from an ATM while in Tanzania?
For cash, we advise you to bring US dollars with you from home, as these are accepted in most places. If you need to withdraw cash while in Tanzania, then there are several ATM machines in Arusha City, and these are where you should withdraw any additional cash before your safari begins.
Note that in many small towns or beach hotels, there are no ATM machines, so you should have sufficient cash before you depart for remote areas or the beach. Any cash withdrawn from ATM machines will only be issued in Tanzanian shillings (Tshs), and there is a daily limit of 400,000 Tshs per card per day.
Will I be able to use foreign currency?
The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (Tshs), but please note that you cannot take this currency either in or out of the country. However, it is freely convertible into the US dollar, euro, and other Tanzanian currencies. If you need to change money in Tanzania, there are several banks where you can exchange it.
Do not change money on the street; exchange it only at hotels, banks, bureaux de change, or with your tour operator. Always get a receipt for currency exchanges.
What additional costs might I incur when traveling in Tanzania?
Your safari package with Travencia Safaris includes all your accommodation, game drives, park fees, the services of driver guides, and meals as set out in your program. It also includes your transfers between Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airport, but not if you choose to arrive at another airport.
Your package does not include international flights, domestic flights (unless agreed with us as part of your program), insurance, tips for your driver-guide or staff at your accommodations, drinks purchased at hotels, bars, lodges/tented camps, laundry services, phone calls, any activities not included in your safari package, visas, or any shopping.
Every guest has different spending habits, so we cannot advise as to how much you will need. You should budget, taking into account the above items and the length of your safari trip.
Should I bring gifts to give to the local children?
It is not advisable to randomly hand out pens, money, and sweets. Our experience is that this just sets unrealistic expectations and encourages begging. Travencia Safaris appreciates visitors’ desire to express their generosity, and we have connections with schools and orphanages that can responsibly distribute any gifts to those who need them.
Do let us know if you would like to make a gift, and we can organize this for you and advise on what might be an appropriate gift or donation.
What souvenirs can I buy in Tanzania?
During your safari, there will be opportunities to purchase handicrafts, gifts, and souvenirs on your way to and from the National Parks. Examples of items you will find include woodcarvings, masks, antiques, beadwork, and paintings.
Those visitors who like jewelers might be interested in Tanzanite, a unique precious gemstone that can only be found in Tanzania. Tanzanite is a beautiful, dark blue stone. Major credit cards (Mastercard and Visa) are accepted by most of the larger curio shops. Prices are negotiable for most items.
Are credit cards acceptable?
Most lodges accept credit cards, but if you want to pay in cash instead, you should use US dollars. Please note that all dollar bills should be dated from 2009 onwards. For credit cards, you should bring either a Mastercard or a Visa.
Planning to visit Tanzania for a safari or to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? Get your custom itinerary and best price today — Contact Us.
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