Currency, SIM Cards & Internet in Tanzania During AFCON

by Bongo Trips / Monday, 09 March 2026 / Published in AFCON 2027, AFCON 2027-TANZANIA

Currency, SIM Cards & Internet in Tanzania During AFCON 2027

Planning your AFCON 2027 trip to Tanzania involves more than match tickets and stadium visits. Understanding the local currency, SIM cards, and internet options ensures that your trip is convenient, connected, and stress-free. Whether you’re booking hotels, arranging transfers, or sharing your matchday experiences online, proper preparation is essential.

This guide provides practical information for international travelers attending AFCON 2027 in Tanzania.

Currency in Tanzania

The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), though US dollars are widely accepted in hotels, tour operators, and larger establishments.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for markets, small restaurants, and local transport. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels, malls, and some restaurants.
ATMs: Available in major cities including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar City. However, ATMs may be limited in remote areas.
Currency Exchange: Use authorized banks or exchange bureaus for the best rates. Avoid exchanging money on the street to reduce the risk of scams.

Carrying small bills for day-to-day expenses and tipping is recommended.

SIM Cards and Mobile Connectivity

Staying connected during AFCON 2027 is important for match updates, travel coordination, and sharing experiences online.

Local SIM Cards: Major providers include Vodacom, Airtel, and Tigo. SIM cards are easy to purchase at airports, mobile shops, and authorized vendors.
Required Documents: A passport is needed to register a SIM card.
Data Packages: Prepaid data packages are affordable and widely available. Packages can include both local and international calling minutes.

Purchasing a local SIM card ensures reliable connectivity at stadiums, hotels, and tourist destinations.

Internet Access During AFCON 2027

Internet connectivity in Tanzania varies by location:

Urban Areas: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and shopping centers in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar City.
Stadiums: Mobile networks generally provide coverage, but heavy crowds may slow data speeds during match days.
Remote Safaris: Internet is limited in national parks like Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. Consider downloading offline maps and guides beforehand.

For travelers who rely heavily on connectivity, combining a local SIM card with hotel Wi-Fi is the most effective solution.

Tips for Managing Currency and Connectivity

Always carry small denominations of Tanzanian Shillings for small purchases.
Keep digital and physical copies of SIM card registration and data plans.
Check roaming options with your home provider before traveling, but local SIMs are generally cheaper.
Consider mobile payment apps like M-Pesa for cashless transactions in cities.

These tips help you stay connected and manage expenses conveniently throughout your AFCON trip.

Plan Your AFCON 2027 Trip with Bongo Trips

To make the most of AFCON 2027 in Tanzania, proper planning for currency, mobile connectivity, and internet is essential. Bongo Trips can help organize your entire trip, including match-day transfers, accommodations, safari tours, and Zanzibar holidays.

Contact Bongo Trips today for a smooth AFCON 2027 experience: