Money & Costs in Zanzibar: Currency, Cards, ATMs and Tipping

Understanding money in Zanzibar before you arrive saves a lot of small frustrations once you're there. Currency The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted for hotels, tours, park entry fees, and the visa fee. Many tour operators and hotels quote prices in USD. If you're bringing USD cash, notes from 2013 or later in good condition are generally accepted more easily than older or damaged bills. Cards and ATMs Larger hotels, resorts, and some restaurants in Stone Town accept card payments, sometimes with a surcharge. Smaller guesthouses, local restaurants, markets, taxis, and independent tour operators are mostly cash-only. ATMs are available in Stone Town and larger towns and dispense TZS; withdrawal limits and fees vary by bank, so it's worth carrying some backup cash rather than relying on a single ATM run. Exchanging money Stone Town's banks and licensed bureaus de change typically offer better rates than the airport or hotels. Avoid street money-changers, however good the rate looks - it's a common source of scams for first-time visitors. Typical costs to budget for - Street food and local restaurants: inexpensive, often just a few dollars per meal - Mid-range restaurants and hotel dining: moderate, comparable to a budget restaurant in Europe - Taxis: agree the fare before you get in - there are no meters - Tours (spice farm, snorkeling, Stone Town walking tour): prices vary by operator and group size - check the price range shown on each listing on this site, and confirm directly with the operator before booking - Tipping: not obligatory, but appreciated for guides, drivers and restaurant staff - a modest tip in cash (TZS or small USD notes) is the norm A few money-saving habits - Agree prices upfront for taxis, souvenirs, and informal tours - bargaining is normal and expected in markets. - Ask your hotel for a realistic price range before hiring a taxi or guide, so you know what "fair" looks like. - Carry small denomination notes - vendors and taxi drivers often can't break large bills. - Look for listings on this site with a clear price range shown - it means the operator has confirmed pricing upfront, reducing the chance of a surprise later.