Currency in Zanzibar
Dreamed of a vacation on a tropical Indian Ocean island? Zanzibar is on many tourists’ bucket lists worldwide. Its long history as a trading hub and cultural links with Arabia, Persia, India, and Europe make it a fascinating destination. What currency, and how much, will you need to have the holiday of a lifetime?
Zanzibar uses the Tanzanian shilling (TZS) as its currency. The majority of lodges on Zanzibar accept US$ - none accept travellers' cheques - most accept credit cards (for an additional fee). It is not easy to buy Tanzanian shillings in Europe or America; most tourists buy local currency when they arrive in Tanzania or Zanzibar. For the latest exchange rates please visit www.xe.com/currencyconverter/
A Brief History of Zanzibar Currency
The different currencies used in the past in Zanzibar reflect the political and commercial influences at various times in the island’s development and the shift from the East to Western powers.
- In the 19th century, the Indian silver rupee was the most common currency in East Africa and Zanzibar. Its rate against the British pound sterling depended on the relative prices of silver and gold until it was fixed at 10 rupees to the pound in 1920.
- From 1882 to 1908, the Zanzibar ryal circulated locally alongside the Indian rupee.
- In 1908, the Zanzibar rupee replaced the ryal, with 100 sants to the rupee.
- In 1936, the Zanzibar rupee was demonetized, and the East African shilling, introduced under British colonial rule, became the legal tender in Tanganyika and Zanzibar.
- In 1964, Tanganyika and Zanzibar formed the United Republic of Tanzania, and they share a common currency, the Tanzanian shilling (TZS).
What Currencies Can Tourists Use in Zanzibar?
There’s no problem using dollars, euros, or any major currency like the franc or pound in hotels, restaurants, and other tourist-friendly places. In fact, many restaurants and hotels will quote their prices in dollars but will accept euros or shillings at a fair exchange rate.
Having said that, there are certain places where you will have to pay in the local currency which is Tanzania Shillings (TZS).
The smaller shops in Stone Town, street vendors, public buses, and taxis all require payment in shillings. You will also need local currency for small purchases like souvenirs, street food, or entrance fees to local events.
Carry enough Zanzibar currency to cover your expenses if you travel to local villages or into the countryside, as only shillings will be accepted in more out-of-the-way places.
Tipping our guides in Zanzibar is not as prevalent as in Tanzania, but good service should be rewarded, and tips are welcomed and appreciated.
How Can One Obtain Zanzibar Currency?
As a tourist, you’re fair game for scammers, so avoid using street traders to exchange your dollars or euros for Tanzania Shillings (TZS) even if they offer an attractive exchange rate.
The safest exchange point would be a bank or official exchange office, but their rates are not always the best, so check first. Another option is to use an ATM to obtain shillings, and these, while not plentiful, are to be found in most tourism centers.
Our expert advisors at Tanzania Safaris are fully trained to assist you with any currency issues, and we know the best places to use so never hesitate to ask for help.
The airport has exchange offices that will assist you on arrival to get some shillings into your wallet, as will most hotels, but again, check whether the exchange rate they offer is acceptable.
You cannot take Zanzibar currency out of the country when you leave. Still, some visitors smuggle notes and coins, not because of their face value, but because they’re so striking – check them out here:
Conclusion
Zanzibar currency is the Tanzania Shilling (TZS), and visitors need to carry a certain amount for those few situations where the dollar or euro isn’t accepted. Exchanging your currency is simple, and when booking your tour with Tanzania Safaris, we’ll provide the necessary assistance before you embark on your Zanzibar adventure.
