Currency in Africa

Currency & Typical Costs in Africa (North Africa & East Africa)

Africa does not have a single currency—each country uses its own. However, for travelers, there are some consistent patterns: cash is still very important, and U.S. dollars are widely accepted in many tourist areas, especially in East Africa.

Below is a clear breakdown by region, along with typical daily costs and common item prices to help set expectations

North Africa (Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia)

Currency

Morocco: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Egypt: Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Tunisia: Tunisian Dinar (TND)

Credit cards are accepted in hotels and major restaurants, but cash is essential in markets (souks), small shops, and taxis.

Typical Costs (North Africa)

Coffee: $1 – $3

Local meal: $3 – $10

Restaurant meal (mid-range): $10 – $25

Taxi ride (short distance): $2 – $8

Bottled water: $0.30 – $1

Overall, North Africa is very affordable, especially compared to Europe or the U.S.

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia)

Currency

Kenya: Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Ethiopia: Ethiopian Birr (ETB)

U.S. dollars are widely used in:

Safari lodges

Tours and excursions

National park fees

Typical Costs (East Africa)

Coffee: $1 – $4

Local meal: $4 – $12

Restaurant meal (mid-range): $12 – $30

Bottled water: $0.50 – $1.50