🇰🇪 What Currency is Used in Kenya? Exchange Rates & Travel Money Tips
Kenyan Shilling (KES) | Currency Exchange | Best Payment Methods for Travelers
If you’re planning a Kenya safari or beach holiday, you might be wondering: What currency is used in Kenya? The official currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), but many places also accept USD, EUR, and credit cards.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔️ Current exchange rates & where to exchange money
✔️ Can you use USD in Kenya?
✔️ ATMs, credit cards & mobile payments
✔️ Money-saving tips for travelers
📌 Need help planning your trip? Get Expert Travel Advice
📍 What is the Official Currency in Kenya?
✅ The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES).
- Currency symbol: KSh or KES
- Banknotes: 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000 KES
- Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, KES
💡 Fun Fact: The latest Kenyan banknotes feature images of wildlife, including lions, rhinos, and elephants!
📌 Need to check exchange rates? Use XE.com or Google’s currency converter before traveling.
Can I Use USD, EUR, or GBP in Kenya?
Yes! Many hotels, safari lodges, and tour operators accept USD, EUR, and GBP, but:
✅ USD bills must be from 2010 or later (older notes are rejected).
✅ Exchange rates are often better at forex bureaus than at hotels.
✅ Kenyan Shillings (KES) are required for local markets, taxis, and smaller shops.
📌 Tip: Carry small USD bills for tips & quick purchases.
Where to Exchange Money in Kenya?
🔹 Best Places to Exchange Money in Kenya:
- Official Forex Bureaus (Best exchange rates, low fees)
- Banks (Safe but slower process)
- ATMs (Convenient, but may charge withdrawal fees)
🚨 Avoid exchanging money at:
- Street Money Changers (Risk of counterfeit notes!)
📌 Pro Tip: Use Visa/Mastercard ATMs at banks like Equity Bank, KCB, or Barclays.
Payment Methods: Cash, Credit Cards & Mobile Payments
1️⃣ ATMs & Credit Cards in Kenya
- Visa & Mastercard are widely accepted in major cities & safari lodges.
- American Express & Discover cards may not work everywhere.
- ATM withdrawal limits: Usually KES 40,000 (~$300) per transaction.
2️⃣ Mobile Payments: M-Pesa
- Kenya’s #1 mobile payment system.
- Used for taxis, restaurants & even small shops.
- How to use M-Pesa? Get a local SIM card at Safaricom & load money easily.
📌 Best for travelers: Use a mix of cash, cards & mobile payments for convenience.
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