Money / ATMs / simcard
The local currency is Tanzanian Shilling (Tzs). Many hotels require payment in US$, in particular for accommodation, but also for food and drink and for tours. Taxis and car rentals are also paid in US$. You do need Tzs if you go shopping s or eat at local restaurants in Arusha(recommended!) and for petrol if you rent a car. Tzs come in notes of 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000 shillings. Coins used here are 500, 200, 100 and 50 Shilling.
The Government recently closed all exchange bureaus in Arusha town. At present, one can only exchange money at the local banks, their new exchange bureau outlets and at the Post Office. Apparently new regulations for exchange bureaus are being formulated as well as a proper registration process.
The exchange bureaus inside the airport arrivals and departures halls are still open 24/7. Bring $100 and $50 notes for best rates. NB: latest news is that only US$ notes printed after 2013 will be exchanged! For an indication on current exchange rates check https://crdbbank.co.tz/exchange-rates/
The bigger hotels, restaurants and car rentals have credit card facilities. A surcharge of 5% is applicable. Be aware that at many places credit cards are not accepted.
ATMs: You can only draw Tzs against your credit card or a card with a Visa or Mastercard logo. An ATM is at the airport parking lot, there are a few other ATMs in Arusha Town. Most ATMs have a maximum payout of Tzs 400,000 per withdrawal. You can use your credit card multiple times until your daily withdrawal limit on your credit card is reached. You might have to visit different ATMs though.
The majority of ATMs are in Arusha town and big Shopping Centers, these are the ONLY locations of ATMs in Arusha town and other areas around the city (beware, they frequently run out of money especially on weekends!):
Petrol costs Tzs 1885 per liter for Super (August 2020) and is paid in Tzs. You can also pay in US$ but you’ll get a really bad exchange rate.
Simcard/internet: You can buy a simcard at the airport or in Arusha town (cheaper). A Vodacom with 12 GB apparently costs US$ 20 at the airport. Vodacom has the best coverage on the Arusha, but going outside consider Airtel or Halotel (Ask your in country contact for specic advice.
More Arusha Trip Ideas
Planning your Arusha trip? Whether you’re looking for things to do in Arusha such as events and attractions, key traveller information to make your Arusha visit run smoothly or are planning where to stay in Arusha, you’ll find everything you need for your Arusha holiday on Our Website. Arusha City Travel guide has the information about latest events not to miss while you visit Arusha – there’s always something going on, so don’t miss out on the latest exhibitions, shows and more on your trip to Arusha.
Discover the best day trips from Arusha or try one of the best Arusha tours. If you’re here as a family, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Arusha with kids and find suitable accommodation such as Arusha holiday apartments. Whether you’re looking for the best weekend breaks in Arusha or planning a longer holiday in Tanzania, you can be sure you’ll find all the information you need.
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