Planning a trip to Tanzania in 2025? Here’s what you need to know: the country has officially banned the use of all foreign currencies for local transactions. Whether you’re carrying dollars, euros, or pounds, you’ll now need to exchange your money into Tanzanian shillings to pay for most goods and services, especially the US dollar, which was previously widely accepted by hotels, tour operators, and shops catering to tourists.
We traveled to Tanzania just before the foreign currency ban was fully enforced, though the ban was already in play at that time (it officially came into effect on January 1, 2024). While we weren’t directly affected, the changes were already in motion. In this post, we’ll break down what the foreign currency ban means for tourists, what to expect when planning your budget, and share a few personal insights from our own adventure to help you travel smarter.
Our Experience in Zanzibar with the Ban
When we visited Zanzibar, the foreign currency ban was in effect, but not yet fully enforced. US dollars were still widely accepted, and many tourists used them for everything from meals to market souvenirs. However, we chose not to pay in dollars, even though it was an option. We found that local shops and vendors often inflated prices when paying with foreign currency, so we opted for Tanzanian shillings instead. Now that the official ban on all foreign currencies is in full effect, tourists are required to pay in Tanzanian shillings and honestly, that’s a good thing. It helps level the playing field and ensures that you won’t get overcharged just for paying in dollars. Whether you’re exploring the spice-scented streets of Stone Town or unwinding on the coast, it’s best to have local currency on hand from the start.
What Does the Foreign Currency Ban Mean for Tourists?
As of 2024, Tanzania has officially banned the use of all foreign currencies for local transactions. While this applies to all international money, it’s especially important for tourists to know that US dollars, which were once widely accepted, can no longer be used for everyday purchases.
So, what does this mean for your trip?
- You’ll need to pay in Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) for things like meals, transport, park fees, souvenirs, and even some hotel stays.
- Many online bookings for safaris or lodges may still list prices in dollars, but payment will need to be made in shillings once you’re on the ground.
- Currency exchange is easy to do at the airport, Forex bureaus, or even some hotels (though rates may vary).
- ATMs are available in major towns, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash in shillings for more rural areas or small vendors.
- Card machines work in bigger establishments, but cash is still preferred in many local spots. Always double-check if your card is accepted.
- Although Tanzania is pretty safe, as always, be mindful of how much cash you’re carrying and keep it stored safely
This shift may seem like a hassle at first, but with a bit of planning, it’s easy to navigate and it actually helps you experience more of the local economy.
“A moment that’s now part of the past, buying ice cream with dollars in Tanzania. As of 2024, all foreign currencies are officially off the table for local transactions”
A Win for Tourist?
At first, the idea of not being able to use dollars in Tanzania might sound inconvenient but for travellers, this change could actually work in your favour.
When we visited Zanzibar, we noticed that while many vendors were still accepting dollars, they often charged higher prices if you chose to pay that way. Local markets and small shops would simply round up or convert at inflated rates, which meant tourists were often overpaying without even realising it.
By requiring all payments in Tanzanian shillings, this new rule creates more consistent pricing and a more authentic travel experience. It also gives tourists a chance to engage with the local economy on fairer terms, without feeling like they’re being overcharged just for using a foreign currency.
So while you’ll need to exchange your money or withdraw shillings once you arrive, you’ll likely spend less and support local businesses more directly. Win-win!
How to Budget for Your Trip Now
With the foreign currency ban in place, it’s more important than ever to plan your spending in Tanzanian Shillings. Here are a few tips to help you budget smart:
Know the exchange rate before you travel so you can estimate costs accurately.
Convert a portion of your money at the airport or trusted Forex bureaus upon arrival.
Keep small change for tips, snacks, taxis, and local purchases.
Check in advance whether your accommodation or tour operators accept card payments.
Use budgeting apps or a simple notes system to track your daily spend in shillings.
Avoid exchanging money at tourist traps where the rates can be much higher.
By budgeting in the local currency, you’re not only complying with the new law, but you’ll also get more value without inflated “tourist dollar” prices.
Money Tips for Tourists in Tanzania
Now that foreign currencies like the US dollar are off the table, here’s how to handle your money like a pro in Tanzania:
Exchange at official Forex bureaus – they often have better rates than hotels or airports.
Avoid exchanging on the street – or in unofficial places it’s risky and illegal.
Carry cash, but not too much – keep a small amount for daily use and the rest secured.
Withdraw Tanzanian Shillings from ATMs – in major towns — Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard.
Use mobile money cautiously – while common locally, it may not be tourist-friendly without a Tanzanian SIM.
Ask for prices in shillings – to avoid confusion or “tourist rates.”
Always double-check your change and receipts, especially in busy markets or taxis. (This is common, they so busy talking to you they “forget” about your change.)
Wrap Up: Navigating Tanzania's Foreign Currency Ban Like a Pro
Navigating Tanzania’s new foreign currency ban might seem like an extra step, but it’s really just part of adapting to a more streamlined travel experience. For us, the biggest adjustment was getting used to Tanzanian shillings, especially with the high denominations like 100,000 TZS. But once we got the hang of it, everything fell into place. The ban actually worked in our favour too, by eliminating dollar payments, local shops couldn’t hike up prices for tourists, so we felt like we were getting a more authentic and fair experience..
As long as you plan ahead and exchange your money into shillings before heading out, you’ll find the transition pretty seamless. It’s one less thing to worry about, and one more reason to enjoy the beauty and culture of Tanzania without any surprises.
This change also benefits the Tanzanian economy, especially at a time when the country is experiencing a surge in investment and development.
See you at my next destination!
xoxo Ash
