Is Tanzania cashless?
Cash preferred#121 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #15 of 54 in Africa
Short answer: Plan to use cash every day. Cards are mainly for hotels and bigger businesses.
Lodges and hotels take cards, often with a surcharge. Park fees are card only, but tips, markets and dala-dalas need cash.
Will my card work?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Tanzania, and little else.
Do I need cash?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Tanzania.
Local currency: Tanzanian shilling (TZS)
How does tipping work?
10% in restaurants. Tipping safari and Kilimanjaro crews is expected.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Good to know
- Bring US dollar notes printed after 2013 for tips and visas.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tanzania cashless?
Tanzania scores 32/100 on Cashlessy (cash preferred), ranking #121 of 197 countries. Lodges and hotels take cards, often with a surcharge. Park fees are card only, but tips, markets and dala-dalas need cash.
Do I need cash in Tanzania?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Tanzania.
Are credit cards accepted in Tanzania?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Tanzania, and little else.
Do you tip in Tanzania?
10% in restaurants. Tipping safari and Kilimanjaro crews is expected.
Compare with Africa
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.