Is it safe to use local buses?

Yes, but prioritize daytime travel. Avoid night buses whenever possible to reduce the risk of accidents and to see the scenery.

How do I carry money?

Carry a mix of local currency and USD. Keep your USD in crisp, clean notes issued after 2013, as many exchange bureaus will refuse older or damaged bills.

Tipping isn't mandatory for food, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. For safari guides and porters, a modest tip of $5–$10 per day is standard if the service was excellent.

East Africa on a Budget: How to Travel for Under $50 a Day

To keep costs under $50 a day, prioritize local public transport like matatus or coaches, stick to street food and local markets, and book dorm beds or budget guesthouses. Avoid organized safaris until you reach specific hubs where you can group-book to lower costs significantly.

Master the local transit. Avoid private taxis. Use 'matatus' (minibuses) for city travel and long-distance coaches for cross-country routes. Download the 'EasyCoach' or 'Modern Coast' apps to check schedules and prices online before arriving at the terminal.
Eat like a local. Skip tourist restaurants. Eat 'nyama choma' or 'ugali' at local roadside shacks where a filling meal costs $2–$4. Stock up on seasonal fruits and bread from open-air markets to handle breakfast and snacks.
Lower your accommodation costs. Aim for hostels or modest guesthouses. Use apps like Hostelworld or Booking.com, but verify the price in person if you arrive during the off-season. Negotiating a weekly rate can often drop your daily cost by 15%.
Group your safaris. Safaris are your biggest expense. Don't book online. Reach towns like Arusha or Moshi, find other travelers at your hostel, and approach local operators as a group of 4-6 to negotiate a per-person rate.

Is it safe to use local buses?: Yes, but prioritize daytime travel. Avoid night buses whenever possible to reduce the risk of accidents and to see the scenery.
How do I carry money?: Carry a mix of local currency and USD. Keep your USD in crisp, clean notes issued after 2013, as many exchange bureaus will refuse older or damaged bills.
Do I need to tip?: Tipping isn't mandatory for food, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. For safari guides and porters, a modest tip of $5–$10 per day is standard if the service was excellent.