Planning a safari to Tanzania? While wildlife, landscapes, and adventure take center stage, it’s also essential to understand how money and tipping work during your journey. At Kiliclimb Africa Safaris, we’ve created this quick guide to help you manage your finances and show appreciation the right way.
While the official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted, especially in the tourism industry. Hotels, safari lodges, national parks, and even souvenir shops often list prices in USD.
Quick tips:
Bring clean, crisp USD bills printed after 2009—older notes may not be accepted.
Small denominations ($1, $5, $10) are useful for tips and small purchases.
ATMs are available in major cities like Arusha, Moshi, and Dar es Salaam but are limited in remote areas.
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a strongly appreciated part of the tourism culture. It’s a way to show gratitude for the hard work and dedication of your guides, porters, and lodge staff.
Safari Guides: $10–$20 per day per guest
Mountain Porters (Kilimanjaro/Meru): $6–$10 per porter per day
Mountain Cook: $10–$15 per day
Mountain Guide: $20+ per day
Lodge Staff: $1–$5 per day, typically left in a communal tip box
Note: Always tip in cash and hand it over personally when possible. It adds a personal touch and ensures the right person receives it.
National park fees, accommodations, and safari packages are usually prepaid, but:
Drinks, souvenirs, optional activities (like hot air balloon rides), and gratuities are often paid on-site in USD or TZS.
Credit cards are accepted at high-end hotels, but expect a surcharge (usually 3–5%).
Carry a mix of USD and local currency.
Always inform your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks.
Have cash on hand when traveling to rural or park areas with limited ATM access.
A great safari isn’t just about the sights—it’s about the people who make it happen.
Show your appreciation, come prepared, and let Kiliclimb Africa Safaris take you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tanzania.
None of us is as good as all of us.” By booking a safari, climb, or any trip with the Kiliclimb Africa Safaris team, you not only get an unforgettable holiday in Tanzania but also contribute to making the world a better place. We are proud to be a part of the communities we serve, dedicating 3% of our profits per trip to community support.
+255 768 735 700 (Managing Director)
+255 764 117 423 (Founder & Expert Guide)
