Money, Currency and Cards in Kenya
Local Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES)
General Advice
The official currency is the Kenya Shilling. The written abbreviation is either KSh or using /= after the amount (ie 500/=). Available notes are 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 shillings. Available coins are 1, 5, 10, 20 and 40 shillings.
Money Exchange
Visitors to Kenya should change foreign currency at banks, bureaux de change or authorised hotels. The easiest currencies to exchange are US Dollars, Pounds Sterling and Euro.
ATM Availability
ATM machines are located in main towns and cities. For more information check the Visa ATM locator, the MasterCard ATM locator or the American Express ATM locator for the addresses of ATMs around the world.
Credit Cards
Many hotels, travel agencies, safari companies and restaurants accept credit cards. Most banks in Kenya will advance cash on credit cards.
Travellers Cheques
Travellers cheques are widely accepted by most hotels, travel agencies and safari companies.
Other Information
There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Kenya.
Before departure, travellers are advised to convert any excess Kenya shillings into foreign currency at a bank or bureau de change before departure. Departure taxes can be paid in local or foreign currency.
Anyone wishing to take more than 500,000 Kenya Shillings out of the country will require written authorisation from the Central Bank.
