Money
The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). As of 2025, the exchange rate is roughly 2,500–2,700 TZS to the US dollar. US dollars are widely accepted alongside shillings, particularly for park fees, hotels, and major purchases.
ATMs are reliable in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar, but scarce elsewhere. Carry enough cash when heading into smaller towns or national parks. Credit cards are accepted at upmarket hotels and lodges. You cannot import or export Tanzanian shillings.
Park fees must be paid by card or prepaid card (systems vary by park). This has caught visitors off guard — check current payment methods before entering any national park.
Costs
Tanzania is not cheap by East African standards, primarily because of park fees. Fees in parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro run to $70–80 per person per day on top of accommodation. Budget travel is feasible in cities and on the coast; inside the parks, there is no budget option.
Health
Malaria is present throughout Tanzania below 1,800 metres, year-round. Take prophylaxis, use repellent, and sleep under a net.
Vaccinations recommended by most health authorities include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies (particularly for those spending time in rural areas). Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if arriving from a yellow fever-endemic country — carry your vaccination certificate.
Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled or filtered water is the only option throughout the country.
Medical facilities are limited outside Dar es Salaam and Arusha. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is essential.
Safety
Tanzania is relatively safe by East African standards, but standard precautions apply. Petty theft and pickpocketing are a risk in busy parts of Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar's Stone Town. Avoid walking alone at night, especially on beaches. Don't display expensive equipment or cameras openly.
Road travel carries real risk — accidents are common due to poor road conditions and reckless driving. Long-distance travel on reputable bus companies is generally fine, but dala dalas and motorbike taxis (boda bodas) have poor safety records.
Communications
Mobile networks (Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo) cover most populated areas. Buy a local SIM card at the airport on arrival — it is cheap and requires your passport. Internet is widely available in cities and tourist areas. Remote parks and rural interior have limited or no signal.
Electricity
230V, 50Hz. The standard plug type is British BS 1363 (three square pins), though two-pin round sockets (Type C) also appear. Bring a universal adapter.
Time Zone
Tanzania is on East Africa Time (EAT), UTC+3. No daylight saving time.