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Kenya Vacations

Money and Banking While on Safari

Kenyan currency is called the Shilling, and written as Ksh. It is divided into 100 cents, and 1US$ is equal to approximately 76-80 Ksh. The largest denomination in Kenya is Ksh 1000- equivalent to roughly 12 US $. Other denominations include 500, 200, 100 and 50 Shilling notes. You can change your money at any number of places in Kenya- at the airport, your hotel, and at bureau de change located around Nairobi. Most places will accept travel cheque and credit cards, but be sure to local currency in small denominations for everyday use such as buying bottled water, gifts and for tipping waiters, tour guides and drivers.


Kenya has a tipping culture, but how much you tip is entirely up to you, depending on how satisfied you are with the services offered. Banks will usually open at 9am-3pm on weekdays, and from 9am-11am on Saturdays. ATM machines are available in most major towns. Be sure to bring enough cash if you are taking an extended safari to a remote area.

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