Tanzania is a fun country that's famous for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to make sure your adventure is incredible and affordable. Dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip.
How much does it cost to travel to Tanzania?
You should plan to spend around $106 (TZS289,084) per day on your vacation in Tanzania. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $37 (TZS101,439) on meals
- $14 (TZS38,333) on local transportation
- $93 (TZS251,714) on hotels
A one week trip to Tanzania for two people costs, on average, $1,489 (TZS4,047,176). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$745
TZS2,023,588
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,489
TZS4,047,176
-
One Month
Per person
$3,191
TZS8,672,520
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,489
TZS4,047,176
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,979
TZS8,094,352
-
One Month
For a couple
$6,383
TZS17,345,040
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Tanzania cost?
A one week trip to Tanzania usually costs around $745 (TZS2,023,588) for one person and $1,489 (TZS4,047,176) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Tanzania on average costs around $1,489 (TZS4,047,176) for one person and $2,979 (TZS8,094,352) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Tanzania will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Tanzania on average costs around $3,191 (TZS8,672,520) for one person and $6,383 (TZS17,345,040) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Tanzania expensive to visit?
Tanzania is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.
Within Africa, Tanzania is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Namibia or South Africa.
Tanzania offers a great mix of sights and accommodations, making it a destination that works for travelers of all budgets and preferences. In Arusha, Zanzibar, and Moshi, budget options like hostels are available, but if you're after something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels, as well as mid-range spots for families and couples.
It's true that Tanzania can be expensive, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can help you make the most of your money.
On average, budget travelers spend $41 (TZS110,111) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $106 (TZS289,084) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $291 (TZS791,521) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Tanzania.
For more details, see Is Tanzania Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Tanzania?
The average Tanzania trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Tanzania travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Tanzania cost?
Tanzania on a Budget
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$17
(TZS46,131)
|
$46
(TZS125,857)
|
$136
(TZS370,616)
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$5.59
(TZS15,184)
|
$14
(TZS38,333)
|
$35
(TZS96,363)
|
Food 2
|
$15
(TZS39,986)
|
$37
(TZS101,439)
|
$95
(TZS257,851)
|
Entertainment 1
|
$15
(TZS41,020)
|
$40
(TZS107,530)
|
$108
(TZS293,240)
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-5
(TZS4,914-14,742)
|
$5-14
(TZS12,408-37,223)
|
$11-34
(TZS31,199-93,598)
|
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
Many travelers hear that exploring Tanzania can be done for $41 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.
Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.
Fortunately, Tanzania has a significant number of hostels, especially in Arusha, Zanzibar, and Moshi.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors to Tanzania will want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $106 per person, per day.
Tanzania has tons of hotels and vacation rentals available. If you're traveling with a group or family, sharing accommodations with a partner, friend, or your family will cut back on the daily per-person budget. Popular family-friendly destinations like Zanzibar Town, Matemwe, and Nungwi offer hotels and restaurants that cater specifically to kids. For a family-friendly stay, consider Zanzibar Coffee House in Zanzibar Town or Zanzibar House in Matemwe. You can discover more family and couples options in our hotel guide for Tanzania here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $291 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Arusha and Dar es Salaam. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as 12 Days Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing & Wildlife Safari - offered by Kiriwe Travel And Trekking Safaris Ltd.
Accommodation Budget in Tanzania
The variety of accommodation prices in Tanzania can be surprising. Some areas and hotels are much more expensive than others, and prices soar during peak season. You'll save more if you visit in the off-season or book in advance.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Tanzania for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $93 (TZS251,714). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $46 (TZS125,857) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Tanzania? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Tanzania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $14 (TZS38,333) per person, per day, on local transportation in Tanzania. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Tanzania is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$14
TZS38,333
Food Budget in Tanzania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Tanzania can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Tanzania is $37 (TZS101,439) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$37
TZS101,439
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Tanzania is around $37 (TZS101439) per person, with previous travelers spending from $15 to $95. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Tanzania are as follows:
- Breakfast: $7 to $11
- Lunch: $6 to $19
- Dinner: $13 to $30
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $6
Tanzanian cuisine makes use of the high quality produce found in the country. Vegetables are quite good. Coffee is also popular and delicious throughout the country. Use caution if you consume meats or dairy products as the freshness and quality can be variable. It is best to make sure the meat is thoroughly cooked so as to avoid any potential problems.
Mtori Soup: This Tanzanian dish is made with plantains and beef. It is most often prepared for breakfast and is cooked over an open fire in a clay pot.
Mchicha: This vegetable stew is a favorite in the country. It is usually prepared with peanuts, spinach, curry, and coconut and is often served with a meat such as fish or beef in it.
Mandazi: This doughnut like pastry is usually made fresh first thing in the morning. It is served with coffee and also makes a great, sweet snack.
Traveling with kids? Look for restaurants that have a dedicated kids menu. This can help you save some cash since those meals are often cheaper. Additionally, some restaurants might not list the childrens' options, so don't forget to ask the waiter first.
Many hotels have breakfast included in the room rate, while some charge for it separately. The cost and quality of breakfast can differ from hotel to hotel. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you choose whether to enjoy the hotel buffet or opt for a more affordable option at a nearby bakery or café.
Opt to carry a water bottle with you instead of splurging on drinks all the time. It's a choice that benefits the environment too.
If you're organizing a tour, take the time to find out which meals are included ahead of time. Having to pay for some of your meals can increase your total expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Tanzania, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Cooking and Sewing & Jewelry Workshops in Arusha for $33 details
- Full-Day Private Tour in Zanzibar with Cooking Class for $150 details
- Spice tour and cooking class (local food) for $155 details
- Spice Farm Tour with Traditional Cooking Lesson for $77 details
Typical food prices in Tanzania, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.
-
A Quick Lunch (for 2)
TZS5,500
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Tanzania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Tanzania typically cost an average of $40 (TZS107,530) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$40
TZS107,530
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Tanzania. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private Stone Town, Nakupenda Beach and Prison Island Tour for $145 details
- Stone Town Historical Walking Tour for $20 details
- Private Tour Zanzibar Unique Stone Town with spice Farm Plantations for $61 details
- 3-Hour Private Stone Town Walking Tour for $35 details
Nightlife Budget in Tanzania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $9.13 (TZS24,815) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Tanzania per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$9.13
TZS24,815
Nightlife can be fun, but trimming your drink expenses can make a big difference in your travel savings.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Tanzania. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Zanzibar: Pub Crawl & Club Experience for $30 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Jan 30, 2024
Traveling in Tanzania
The Beach of Zanzibar, Tanzania
Tanzania is the largest country is East Africa, and a popular destination for wildlife safaris. The Serengeti National Park is a highlight for almost any trip. The park is a great place to see anything from lions, to cheetahs, to giraffes and elephants.
Many of the most popular and diverse national parks are found in the northern part of the country. These parks are great places to visit for wildlife viewing, luxury safari vacations, and guided tours. If you're looking to get a little more off the beaten path then consider heading to the southern part of the country. These parks are less visited and more affordable.
If you're planning a trip to Tanzania, consider going during January and February, which is the best time to do a safari. Alternatively, the weather is quite comfortable between June and August, at the end of the rainy season.
Many people also hope to pick up some African handicrafts during their trip. There are many local shops that sell everything from beaded jewelry to carved soapstone or Masai blankets. Bartering is a fun part of the experience so don't hesitated to negotiate a price. Keep the exchange light and fun and you'll enjoy the bartering as much as the shopping.
At A Glance
- One of the best ways to travel around Tanzania is by bus. It's possible to fly into Nairobi, Kenya and then take the bus down to Arusha. Arusha serves as a good base for exploring Mount Meru and Ngorongoro Crater. While there are no highways in Tanzania, and the road conditions may not by ideal, buses still offer the most reliable and affordable way to get around. They stop in most small towns along the way so trips can be slow. It is best to be prepared for unexpected stops and situations.
- Many visitors, particularly those short on time, choose to hire a car to travel in Tanzania. This is generally an affordable option and there are many reliable 4 wheel drive vehicles available. This option is the most comfortable and convenient way to explore the country. Because the road conditions can be challenging, it is recommended that you hire a Landcruiser or a Landrover.
- Many people visit Tanzania specifically for the national parks and wildlife viewing opportunities. The northern part of the country is where you will find the more popular parks. These parks are generally packed with tourists but offer a great diversity of wildlife viewing opportunities. If you're looking to travel to the south then Ruaha National Park is your best option. It is less touristy and offers a more authentic and "real" experience.
- Safaris in the country range from a basic tour which includes fly-tents, self-catering and a guide and vehicle to luxury tours with accommodation in luxury lodges and tented camps. Visitors often benefit from hiring a guide and a vehicle as the guides are familiar with the wildlife and the vehicles are designed specifically for wildlife viewing. Many of the basic tours travel to the smaller parks, while the luxury tours are prevalent in parks like Serengeti. That being said, you can find a variety of options wherever you decide to visit.
- Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and is a popular destination for many visitors to Tanzania. It can become crowded with tourists but is a very rewarding experience regardless. If you organizing your climb through a travel agency based in your home country you will likely pay substantially more but will have the convenience of knowing arrangements have been made. If you make arrangements after arrival make sure you read reviews and get referrals for the guide and company you choose to use. This option will save you significant amounts of money though.
Related:
Looking for a hostel in Marrakesh, Cape Town, Nairobi, or Zanzibar?
Top Tourist Attractions
Serengeti National Park: Serengeti National Park is a top location for wildlife safaris. Visitors can view such animals as lions, cheetahs, leopards, hippopotamuses, elephants and more. The most popular time to visit the park is during the wildebeest migration between Serengeti National Park and Kenya's Masai Mara. Visitors are required to have a guide with a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: This area is another popular stop for those hoping to view wildlife. The Ngorongoro crater was formed by volcanic activity and is rich is wildlife including elephants and a small population of black rhinos.
Zanzibar: Zanzibar is a popular island destination that is off the coast of Tanzania. It offers beautiful beaches and a historic stone town. It's a great place for those who enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming with dolphins. There are also red Colobus monkeys, the Jozani Forest, and spice tours available to visitors.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.