Safari News | July 24, 2025
Great news for Tanzania’s tourism industry!
The Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) has secured an exemption from the Bank of Tanzania, allowing safari operators to continue accepting payments in US dollars.
Announced on July 8, 2025, by Deputy Governor Yamungu Kayandabila, this exemption reverses earlier restrictions under the Foreign Exchange Use Regulations, providing significant relief for tour operators and the tourism sector, which powers over 17% of Tanzania’s GDP and employs more than 1.5 million people. Recently Tanzania’s Tourism foreign exchange earnings surpassed Gold export.
Background on the Currency Regulations
In early 2025, Tanzania introduced the Foreign Exchange Use Regulations to promote the Tanzanian shilling and limit foreign currency transactions. While aimed at stabilizing the economy, these rules created challenges for the tourism industry, a vital economic driver.
International tourists often prefer paying in US dollars, and restrictions complicated transactions and operational expenses like park entry fees and accommodations for safari operators.
The new exemption addresses these hurdles, ensuring the industry remains competitive.
Why Tour Operators Prefer US Dollars?
Many safari services in Tanzania, such as park fees, accommodations, and international transportation, are priced and invoiced in US dollars.
For example, entrance fees to iconic destinations like Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Crater are set in dollars by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), as are many high-end lodges and camps catering to international visitors.
Tour operators prefer charging in US dollars because it aligns with these costs, avoiding exchange rate fluctuations that could erode profits when converting Tanzanian shillings.
Additionally, the US dollar is widely accepted and trusted by global travelers, simplifying payments and enhancing convenience for clients booking from abroad.
Benefits of Charging in US Dollars by Tanzania Tour Operators
Charging in US dollars allows Tanzania tour operators to maintain financial stability and streamline operations.
Since many expenses—like importing safari vehicles or paying international suppliers—are dollar-based, receiving payments in the same currency eliminates costly conversions and reduces exposure to currency volatility.
This practice also makes pricing transparent for international clients, who are accustomed to seeing safari packages quoted in dollars, ensuring Tanzania remains an attractive destination compared to other safari hotspots like Kenya or Botswana.
Key Exemptions for the Tourism Industry
The Bank of Tanzania’s exemption includes measures to support seamless operations:
Foreign Currency for Tour Operators: Safari operators can use US dollars to pay for goods and services on behalf of international tourists, simplifying transactions.
Vehicle Purchases in Dollars: Operators can buy tourism vehicles from local suppliers using foreign currency, supporting the industry’s need for modern fleets.
Flexible Payment Options for Tourists: While the Tanzanian shilling remains the official currency, tourists can pay in shillings or US dollars, making transactions more convenient.
These exemptions provide clarity and confidence for operators to deliver exceptional safari experiences without financial disruptions.
Sample Tanzania Tourism Fees Paid in US Dollars
Below is a table of select fees typically charged in US dollars for key safari destinations, as set by TANAPA and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) for the 2025-2026 season.
| Destination/Service | Fee Type | Cost (USD, incl. VAT) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serengeti National Park | Entry Fee (Adult, 16+) | $82.60 per day | Valid for 24 hours; children (5-15) pay $24. |
| Serengeti National Park | Concession Fee (Adult, 16+) | $70.8 per night | For staying in lodges/camps inside the park; children (5-15) pay $12. |
| Ngorongoro Crater Entrance fees | Entry Fee (Adult, 16+) | $82.60 per day | Must be pre-arranged by tour operator; children (5-15) pay $24. |
| Ngorongoro Crater Transit fees | Transit Fee (Adult, 16+) | $70.8 per crossing | For passing through to reach Serengeti; children (5-15) pay $10. |
| Tarangire National Park | Entry Fee (Adult, 16+) | $59 per day | Valid for 24 hours; children (5-15) pay $18. |
| Lake Natron (WMA) | Community/Wildlife Fees | $35 per person | Includes village fees at Engare Sero town; paid at entry. |
These fees are commonly included in safari packages or paid directly at park gates (credit card only, no cash).
Always confirm with our Tanzania safari specialists on what is included in your package.
Note: Fees are subject to change; Children under 5 are generally exempt.
Check out the current Tanzania National Parks conservation fees for 2024 – 2026. Fees can be changed without any prior notice. Contact us for the latest charges.
TATO’s Pivotal Role TATO’s advocacy was instrumental in securing this exemption.
By highlighting the tourism sector’s economic contributions and the risks posed by currency restrictions, TATO’s petition led to a tailored solution.
The association emphasized the need for policies that keep Tanzania competitive with neighboring countries offering flexible currency options.
This win underscores TATO’s commitment to supporting the industry’s global appeal.
Read also about; What is Tanzania famous for?.
Next Steps for Compliance
TATO is committed to ensuring smooth implementation of the new rules.
The association has planned to host workshops and training sessions to help operators understand and comply with the exemptions.
Ongoing collaboration with the Bank of Tanzania and the Ministry of Finance will further support the industry’s growth and stability.
A Boost for Tanzania’s Tourism
This exemption strengthens Tanzania’s position as a premier safari destination, home to iconic attractions like Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar.
By allowing dollar transactions, the government has removed a key barrier for international travelers, boosting the appeal of Tanzania’s tourism offerings.
The decision is expected to benefit hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses, driving foreign exchange earnings and economic growth.
Checkout some of our best selling Tanzania safari packages listed here.
Looking Ahead
The Bank of Tanzania’s decision is a pivotal moment for safari operators and the tourism industry.
By addressing the sector’s unique needs, the government has reinforced its commitment to keeping Tanzania a top travel destination in Africa.
At Safari Desire, we’re excited about this development and look forward to delivering world-class safari experiences to travelers worldwide as we always do. Check out our excellent reviews from a few of our past clients.
For more details, visit the Bank of Tanzania or TATO.
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