Cost of living and prices in Tanzania, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc 🇹🇿 Updated Jul 2023

Traveling to Tanzania is an exciting experience with a diverse range of cuisines available, influenced by the country's culture and history. Tanzanian restaurants offer an array of options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary requirements, and the food is mostly served in local portions. Most restaurants in Tanzania serve a variety of cuisines, including traditional African dishes like Ugali, Pilau, and Nyama Choma. Additionally, many eateries offer more exotic dishes, such as Indian, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. Visitors can also enjoy street food in Tanzania, where they can grab deliciously spiced snacks and drinks while exploring the country.

Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or a meat lover, options abound in Tanzania that suit your preferences. Dar es Salaam, for instance, has a variety of restaurants that cater to dietary preferences such as halal, Jain, Hindu, and kosher. Other specialized options include organic, gluten-free, and raw food restaurants. For those who prefer the comfort of familiar, fast-food chains, international brands such as KFC, McDonald's, and Subway are available in larger cities like Dar es Salaam and Arusha. Regardless of your food preferences, you will find exciting dishes to explore while touring Tanzania.

In Tanzania, the market prices for goods and services can vary depending on several factors such as location, availability, and demand. Urban areas tend to have higher prices compared to rural areas due to the cost of living and the availability of goods and services. Similarly, the prices for goods and services in tourist destinations can be higher than in other areas due to the high demand from tourists. In addition, prices for certain products are influenced by seasonal fluctuations, with prices for agricultural products often fluctuating during harvesting and planting seasons.

The Tanzanian market is also affected by currency exchange rates, which can cause prices to fluctuate significantly. For example, when the value of the Tanzanian shilling decreases compared to foreign currencies such as the US dollar or the Euro, prices for imported goods can increase. On the other hand, when the Tanzanian shilling strengthens, prices for imported goods can decrease. However, the Tanzanian government has taken steps to regulate prices and protect consumers from exploitation, particularly for essential goods and services, such as food, medicine, and utilities.

Tanzania offers various modes of transportation for tourists to explore the country. One of the most popular options is the safari vehicle, which provides a comfortable and thrilling way to see Tanzania's best wildlife parks. These vehicles are operated by experienced drivers and guides who are knowledgeable about the animals and the terrain. Travelers can opt for a private safari vehicle or join a group tour. Another popular way to get around Tanzania is by train. The Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) connects Dar es Salaam with Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia. The train journeys offers impressive views of the countryside, including the Great Rift Valley and the Selous Game Reserve.

For those looking for a more adventurous mode of transportation, motorcycles and bicycles are a popular choice. These options give travelers a chance to explore Tanzania at their own pace and see parts of the country that are not easily accessible by cars or buses. Motorcycle tours are operated by experienced guides who can take travelers to off-the-beaten-path destinations like remote villages and scenic mountain passes. Alternatively, bicycles can be rented in most major towns and cities and provide an eco-friendly way to explore Tanzania's National Parks. Whether you prefer to travel by safari vehicle, train, motorcycle, or bicycle, Tanzania offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.

When traveling to Tanzania, it's important to know that utilities such as water and electricity can be expensive compared to other African countries. This is due to the fact that Tanzania heavily relies on hydroelectric power, which can fluctuate depending on rainfall levels. As a result, the government has had to rely on costly emergency measures such as importing diesel generators to meet energy demands. Visitors should plan accordingly and be conscious of their water and electricity usage to avoid high bills.

In addition to the high cost of utilities in Tanzania, access to these services can also be limited in rural areas. Many remote villages are not connected to the national power grid, forcing them to rely on alternative sources such as generators or solar panels. Water shortages are also a common issue in these areas, with residents sometimes having to walk long distances to fetch water from a well or stream. Tourists interested in visiting these areas should be prepared to adjust to a more basic lifestyle and conserve resources wherever possible.

Sports and leisure in Tanzania can be an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and opportunities to explore nature. The country has vast and diverse regional parks where tourists can engage in various recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and game drives. Visitors can explore the Serengeti National Park and witness the great migration of wildebeest and zebras or climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. Additionally, Tanzania has beautiful beaches, such as Zanzibar, where visitors can participate in water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.

Sports are a significant part of Tanzanian culture, and visitors can witness the locals' passion for different sporting activities. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Tanzania, and visitors can catch a match at one of the local stadiums. Other popular sports include athletics, basketball, volleyball, and netball. Visitors can also participate in cultural activities like learning traditional dance or interacting with the Maasai people, known for their unique way of life. Overall, there are numerous sports and leisure activities in Tanzania that are sure to provide travelers a unique and unforgettable experience.

If you are considering working or living in Tanzania, it is essential to know about the salaries and financing situation in the country. The average salary in Tanzania is considerably lower than in many developed countries, and this may come as a surprise to those who are used to a certain standard of living. However, the cost of living is also relatively low, so it may balance out. It is important to be aware of this difference before making any financial decisions or accepting a job offer in Tanzania.

Financing can also be a challenge in Tanzania, as access to credit is limited, and the banking system is not as developed as in other countries. Expats may need to bring a large amount of cash into the country, and it is recommended to have a local bank account to help manage finances. Additionally, it is wise to keep a close eye on exchange rates, as they can fluctuate dramatically and have a significant impact on your financial situation. Overall, while Tanzania may have some financial challenges, it is still a land of opportunity and adventure for those who are willing to take the time to understand the financial landscape.

In Tanzania, the cost of childcare can vary considerably depending on the type of childcare and location. As for schools, costs can vary based on whether they are public or private, and whether or not they offer various amenities such as extra curricular activities, meals, and transportation. Additionally, the cost of Kindergartens can vary depending on the quality of care, curriculum, and the qualifications of the teachers.

Private schools and Kindergartens tend to be more expensive than public ones, and those located in urban areas may be pricier than those in rural areas. However, it is worth noting that some schools and Kindergartens offer scholarships or financial assistance to families in need. Overall, the cost of childcare may be a significant factor for many families in Tanzania, and it is important to carefully consider options and costs when making childcare decisions.

In Tanzania, clothing and shoes can vary in price depending on where you shop and what you’re looking for. In general, you can find affordable options in markets and street vendors, but quality may not always be guaranteed. For those seeking more upscale items, there are also boutiques and shopping malls available with a wider variety of choices.

When it comes to places to buy clothing and shoes in Tanzania, there’s something for everyone. For those seeking traditional Tanzanian clothing, markets like Kariakoo in Dar es Salaam offer a range of options. If you’re looking for more global fashion trends, department stores in malls like Shoppers Plaza and Mlimani City are the way to go. And for those who prefer eco-friendly and sustainable fashion, there are several boutiques offering handmade and locally sourced clothing and accessories.

Short term rental options are widely available in Tanzania. For those looking for a home-away-from-home experience, there are many apartments and villas that can be rented on a short term basis. Most of these accommodations are fully furnished and equipped with modern amenities, making them a perfect option for anyone looking for a comfortable stay. In addition to apartments and villas, there are also a variety of short-term stay options available in guesthouses and hotels.

Prices for short term stays vary depending on the location, accommodation type, and amenities provided. Overall, prices are reasonable and affordable, making Tanzania an excellent destination for those on a budget. Moreover, guests can access an assortment of convenient amenities such as facilities for laundry, internet access, and security. Regardless of one's budget, there are many excellent options available for those looking to stay for short durations in Tanzania.

When it comes to buying real estate in Tanzania, there are a few options available for buyers. One popular option is to purchase land and build your own home or investment property. This can often be a more affordable option than buying an existing property, but may require more time and effort in terms of planning and construction. Another option is to purchase an existing property, either through a real estate agency or private sale. There are a range of properties available, from apartments to houses, and prices can vary depending on location and condition.

Overall, prices for real estate in Tanzania can vary widely depending on location, size, and condition of the property. In general, properties in more developed and urban areas tend to be more expensive, while properties in rural areas may be more affordable. The Tanzanian government has also implemented various policies and initiatives aimed at making real estate more accessible for both local and foreign buyers. As such, there are opportunities for buyers at a range of price points, from affordable entry-level properties to luxury homes and investment opportunities.