Searching for the ATMs

"Where's the cheapest ATM?" Ah, the age-old traveler's quest. It's like searching for the Holy Grail, but with less dramatic music and more… well, cash withdrawals. The problem in Zanzibar? There's no easy answer. ATM fees are a bit of a mystery. They seem to change depending on the bank, the location, and maybe even the phase of the moon.

For example, in Paje, you might find one ATM charging 10,000 TZS for a 400k withdrawal, while others are closer to 14,500 TZS or more. It's the same story in Stone Town, Nungwi, and everywhere else. The average seems to hover around 15,000 TZS, but it's always a bit of a gamble.

And remember, that's just the ATM fee. Your total cost depends on the exchange rate and any fees your own bank might slap on you. So, getting cash can feel like a financial obstacle course.

The good news? ATMs are popping up all over the tourist areas these days. So, you're less likely to trek for miles just to get some Tanzanian Shillings. However, if you've chosen a super remote hotel (and some of them are seriously remote), ATMs might be another thing you'll have to sacrifice for peace and quiet.

My advice? Ask your hotel reception if there's an ATM nearby. Or, when you're in a taxi (which, let's face it, you'll be doing a lot of), ask your driver to swing by one. Taxi drivers are the ATM whisperers of Zanzibar.

Another pro tip: ATMs located at actual bank branches are usually refilled more often and better maintained than those in remote areas. So, if you can find one of those, you're less likely to encounter the dreaded "out of order" sign.

Of course, you could withdraw cash at your hotel, but be warned: they often add a hefty fee (up to 15%!). Unless you're feeling incredibly generous towards your hotel owner, finding an ATM is usually the better option.

One last thing: Zanzibar's ATMs dispense Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), not USD. Despite rumors of USD-dispensing ATMs, they're basically mythical creatures. So, get used to the local currency.

And the limit... currently a lot of the ATMs let you withdraw 600k (some 800k, some 400k still) but most accept that you put in your card and do another withdrawal right away (some banks can decline a double withdrawal like that though). Wonder how it feels to be a millionare in cash?

You can learn more about cash and currency (including my recommended currency converter app!) in my other blog post about money here. Consider it your TZS training manual.

Karibu Zanzibar!