Money in Kenya

M-Pesa Is Kenya's Payment Revolution — You Can Use It Too

M-Pesa (Safaricom's mobile money platform) is used by virtually every Kenyan — from safari lodges to vegetable vendors. Foreign visitors can set up M-Pesa by purchasing a Safaricom SIM card (available at the airport and in towns, passport required, inexpensive — check the current price when you buy) and loading money at any M-Pesa agent (green kiosks everywhere). Once active, you can pay for taxis, restaurants, small shops and even safari tips directly from your phone. It's faster, safer and more convenient than carrying large amounts of cash.

ATMs Work Well in Cities — Less So in Safari Country

ATMs from Equity Bank, KCB, Standard Chartered and Barclays (now Absa) are found throughout Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and major towns. Most accept Visa and Mastercard. Outside cities and in safari areas, ATMs are scarce or non-existent — withdraw enough cash before heading to national parks. Per-transaction withdrawal limits are generous but worth checking with your home bank alongside any international-card ATM fee, since both vary and change over time. Always decline dynamic currency conversion and withdraw in KES.

Cards Work at Hotels and Lodges — Cash for Everything Else

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at tourist hotels, safari lodges, upmarket restaurants, supermarkets and shopping malls in Nairobi and Mombasa. Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) work at modern terminals in Nairobi's malls and international hotel chains. Most everyday transactions — markets, local restaurants, matatus (minibuses), tuk-tuks, park entry fees and small shops — are cash or M-Pesa only. Always carry Kenyan Shillings.

Safari Costs Are Higher Than Many Expect

Kenya's safari infrastructure is excellent but prices reflect this — check current park fees and lodge rates before budgeting rather than relying on a fixed figure. National park entry is a genuine daily cost at the major reserves, and a mid-range safari — park fees, accommodation, vehicle, fuel and guide combined — represents a significant investment, considerably more than most travellers expect a comparable beach holiday to cost. Budget safaris exist but quality varies. The Maasai Mara is the most expensive park. Luxury camps sit at a genuine premium above mid-range options. Budget carefully and book in advance for the best rates.