Money & Budgeting Information

Money & Budgeting InformationCurrency

Rwanda: The official currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Banknotes are issued in denominations of RWF 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000, while coins are available in RWF 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100.

Tanzania: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is issued in banknotes of TZS 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, and 500, and coins of TZS 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5.

Uganda: The Ugandan Shilling (UGX) is available in banknotes of UGX 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000, with coins in denominations of UGX 100, 200, and 500.

Most banks and currency exchange bureaus charge a commission for foreign currency exchange. Please note that US dollar bills printed before 2006 are generally not accepted by banks, lodges, or travel service providers, including Afri Safaris. ATMs are widely available in major towns and cities, though withdrawals are made in local currency only.

Tipping & Gratuities
Tipping is not mandatory; however, it is warmly appreciated as a gesture of satisfaction for good service. While tipping remains entirely at the guest's discretion, the guidelines below may help you prepare.

It is important to note that tipping is personal, and guests often choose to tip higher amounts based on the quality of service. In some cases, travelers may tip anywhere from US$ 100 up to US$ 1,000, depending on their level of appreciation—there is no set limit.

Rwanda & Tanzania
Porter (per bag): US$ 1.50, Trekking porters (Rwanda): US$ 20–30 per person per trek, Restaurant servers (per meal): US$ 2 per person, Driver-guide (per day): US$ 20–30 per person.

Uganda
Porter (per bag): US$ 1, Trekking porters: US$ 20–30 per person per trek, Waiters (drinks): Approximately 10% of the bill, Restaurant servers (per meal): US$ 2 per person, or 10% for exceptional service, Driver-guide (per day): US$ 20–30 per person.