ATM in Zanzibar – Don’t Use One Until You Read This

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ATM in Zanzibar isn’t something you really think about until you’re standing there with no cash and no idea where to go. I’ve been there, and trust me, it’s not fun. When your hotel only takes cash, or you suddenly need to pay for a tour or buy a cute trinket from a Maasai warrior, things can get stressful fast.

Some travelers wonder, is there an ATM in Zanzibar at all. The answer is yes, but not all of them are reliable. A few work perfectly fine, while others might eat your card or just be out of service. That’s why knowing ahead of time which one you should use helps so much.

You might hear people mention a free ATM in Zanzibar. But it’s hard to know which ones actually work (if any), so it’s better to plan ahead. You can still find the cheapest ATM in Zanzibar if you know where to look. I’ve tested a few myself, and some are definitely better than others.

I’ll also go over tips for avoiding high Zanzibar ATM fees. It’s one of those things that’s easy to overlook until it starts eating into your travel budget.

There’s even an ATM in Zanzibar airport, which many travelers use. But you don’t want to rely on just one option.

If you’re heading to Zanzibar and planning to use your card, keep reading. Knowing where and how to get cash can save you a lot of stress.

Is there an ATM in Zanzibar?

A lot of people ask, is there an ATM in Zanzibar. It’s a smart question because having access to cash really matters there.

That is one of the first things travelers should check before traveling to Zanzibar. It’s not the most exciting topic, but it saves a lot of stress later.

You want to have cash ready for taxis, street food, and those little markets that don’t take cards.

Not every place has easy access to ATMs. Many travelers find that popular spots such as Stone Town or Nungwi usually have ATMs, but once you head to smaller villages such as Paje where you can try super art cappuccino, options get limited. Also, some ATMs only accept certain cards, which can be a problem.

If you plan carefully, you might find the cheapest ATM in Zanzibar to save a bit on fees. Speaking of fees, Zanzibar ATM fees can add up quickly if you’re not paying attention. That’s why it’s smart to check before withdrawing.

Is there an ATM in Zanzibar? Yes, but it’s worth taking a moment to research the locations before your trip. I recommend checking out the Nungwi ATM options if you’re spending time up north. Those areas tend to be more tourist-friendly with reliable ATMs.

Another thing to keep in mind is Zanzibar currency – Tanzanian shillings. Right now, one US dollar is about 2,350 Tanzanian shillings. Carrying some local currency helps in small shops and markets.

If you want to avoid extra charges, finding the cheapest ATM in Zanzibar can make a difference, especially with fees varying from place to place.

Zanzibar ATM fees

If you’re planning to withdraw money during your trip, it’s important to understand Zanzibar ATM fees. These fees can sometimes catch you off guard if you’re not prepared.

Each ATM transaction will cost between 13,000 and 17,000 Tanzanian shillings, which is around $4.50 to $6.50. Many travelers are surprised by how different Zanzibar ATM fees can be depending on the location.

Different ATMs belong to different local banks or private companies, which affects the fees. The fees aren’t always clearly displayed, so take your time before confirming a withdrawal.

It’s good to know that the best ATM in Zanzibar might not always be the closest one. Sometimes you have to walk a little further to avoid unnecessary charges.

Another thing to keep in mind is how much you’re withdrawing at once. Smaller withdrawals can lead to paying more in fees overall. Daily withdrawal limits are usually between 200,000 and 400,000 Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), which is about $85 to $170.

So, finding the cheapest ATM in Zanzibar can really help stretch your travel budget. Many people wonder about how much are ATM fees in Tanzania overall.

It really depends on both your bank and the local ATM, so it’s best to check in advance. Being aware of this can help you plan better.

In the end, understanding Zanzibar ATM fees before you land can save you a lot of money. It’s one less thing to worry about so you can enjoy the trip more.

ATM in Zanzibar Airport

If you’re flying into Zanzibar, you might wonder about the ATM in Zanzibar airport. It’s one of the first places travelers check when they need cash right away.

At the airport, you’ll find this ATM located in Terminal 2, which is where most international flights arrive. This ATM can be convenient, especially after a long flight when you want to avoid hunting for cash.

However, since it’s one of the first ATMs you see, many people use it right away, so sometimes the lines can get a bit long.

The fees at the ATM in Zanzibar airport are often higher than in other parts of the island. That’s something to keep in mind if you want to save money.

Many visitors also look for the best ATM in Zanzibar beyond the airport to avoid extra charges. While the airport ATM is easy to find, sometimes it’s worth waiting until you reach Stone Town or another busy area.

Knowing this can help you plan your cash needs better and avoid surprises. It’s good to know that some travelers prefer using a Nungwi ATM or others in tourist areas because they sometimes offer better rates.

Also, understanding the local Zanzibar currency can help you manage your spending more easily. Keep in mind that the ATM in Zanzibar airport is just one option, and it is worth exploring other options as well.

In summary, while there are ATMs at Zanzibar Airport, the fees can be higher compared to those in Stone Town. To save on withdrawal fees, consider using ATMs in Stone Town or other touristy areas.

ATM in Zanzibar – Some Of The Options

If you’re looking for the ATM in Zanzibar to withdraw cash in Stone Town, KCB Bank is a popular choice. It’s located near the Azam ferry ticket office, which is right in the heart of Stone Town’s waterfront area.

This ATM stands out because it doesn’t charge the usual 15,000 TZS withdrawal fee. The catch is that this ATM isn’t always working, so it can be a bit hit or miss. Still, it’s worth trying if you want to avoid extra fees.

Another option in Stone Town is the Bank of Africa, found near Muzamil Center, also located centrally in Stone Town. Their withdrawal fee is lower, around 7,000 TZS, but keep in mind that not all cards work there. It’s a good backup if you have a compatible card.

The ABSA Bank ATMs tend to have the highest fees on the island. I would only use them when I really have no other choice. One convenient ABSA ATM is at the UP petrol station, which is near the police checkpoint on Haile Selassie Road in Stone Town.

Nearby, you’ll also find the NMB ATM at the Petro Petrol station, also in Stone Town along the same road. Plus, there are a couple more machines from Exim Bank and Moja/PBZ located at the roundabout in Stone Town.

If you’re interested in Nungwi ATM options, you’ll find one ATM at the first petrol station after the Nungwi police station. It’s on the left side of the main road heading into Nungwi village. This place is handy for quick cash if you’re staying in that area.

In Paje village, ATMs are quite rare, but there is one near the main beach road. I withdrew money from there once and didn’t have any problems. It’s a handy option if you’re staying nearby, though availability can vary.

It’s also worth noting that some ATM in Zanzibar have limited cash availability and may run out of money quickly, especially in smaller villages like Paje. Therefore, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and withdraw sufficient cash when you find an ATM with a reasonable fee.

Exchanging Money Using Wakala Agents

In Zanzibar, you can exchange money not only at banks and exchange offices but also through wakala agents.

These are local money agents usually set up in small shops or kiosks. You’ll see signs that say “Wakala” outside. They’re very common around Stone Town, Nungwi, Paje, and other busy areas.

While wakalas are mostly known for helping locals with mobile money and small banking tasks, many of them also offer basic money exchange services, especially if you’re changing US dollars to Tanzanian Shillings.

The exchange rates might not be as good as in banks or official bureaus, but they’re convenient when you’re in a rush or far from a bank.

Always make sure to count your money carefully and confirm the rate before handing anything over. If you’re not sure, ask your hotel staff to point you to a trusted wakala nearby.

It’s a handy backup to an ATM in Zanzibar if you’re low on cash and can’t find a working machine nearby.

How much cash should I take to Zanzibar?
I’d say bringing around $50 to $100 per day is a good idea, depending on what you plan to do. Having cash is super helpful for taxis, markets, and small restaurants that don’t take cards. Zanzibar also offers some of the best tours I’ve ever experienced, and some of them require payment in cash.

Which ATM has the lowest fees?
If you want to avoid extra charges, try the KCB Bank ATM near the Azam ferry terminal in Stone Town. It usually has low withdrawal fees, but sometimes it might be out of order. So, it’s smart to have a backup ATM in mind.

How much are ATM fees in Tanzania?
Expect to pay between 10,000 and 16,000 Tanzanian Shillings per withdrawal. That’s about $4 to $6. Fees can be different depending on which bank’s ATM you use.

How much money can you withdraw from ATM in Zanzibar?
Most ATMs let you take out up to 400,000 Tanzanian Shillings at a time. That’s roughly $170. Your bank might have daily limits too, so check with them before you go.

Can I use my debit card in Zanzibar?
Yes, Visa or MasterCard debit cards usually work fine, especially in Stone Town and other tourist spots. Just let your bank know you’re traveling to avoid any surprises.

What is the best currency to take to Zanzibar?
The local money is Tanzanian Shillings, but U.S. dollars are also accepted in many places. It’s usually cheaper to use Tanzanian Shillings for everyday things, so plan to have some local cash on hand.

Can I withdraw dollars in Zanzibar?
All ATMs only give Tanzanian Shillings. If you need U.S. dollars, you’ll have to go to a bank or exchange office. It’s a good idea to carry some dollars with you for bigger expenses or emergencies.

Where can I exchange money in Zanzibar?
You can exchange money in Zanzibar at banks, some hotels, wakala agents, and official exchange offices around the island. Banks usually offer better rates than hotels, so try to avoid exchanging money at your hotel if you can.

Final Thoughts on Using An ATM in Zanzibar

Figuring out how to get cash in Zanzibar might not be the most fun part of trip planning, but it’s super useful once you arrive. A bit of research now can save you a lot of stress later.

There is more than one best ATM in Zanzibar, but it really depends on your location and what card you’re using. Some work great, others not so much. Locals and hotel staff usually know which machines are reliable.

It’s also smart to check where the cheapest ATM in Zanzibar is near your hotel. That way, you won’t waste time or money hunting one down.

Cash is important here, especially for taxis, beachside snacks, and local tours that only take cash. Some places simply don’t have card machines at all.

Knowing where to find an ATM in Zanzibar and understanding the fees can really help you avoid surprises. If you’ve already been and have your own tips, feel free to drop them in the comments and help other travelers out!