The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. Approximate exchange rate: USD 1 = KES 125. This cannot usually be exchanged back into hard currency, so whatever you change you will have to spend, give away, or take home. It is worth noting that your on-the-ground expenditure in most parts of Africa should not be as high as it might be on other trips since your accommodation is pre-paid, with many of your meals and activities also included. We recommend taking a modest amount of cash, US$, a small proportion of which you can change into local currency. Then back this up with debit and credit cards. Virtually all principal cash payments can be settled in US$. Some US$ banknotes may not be accepted due to Africa’s high circulation of counterfeit currency. We recommend that you only travel with US$ bills dated 2013 or later. A small amount of KSh can be helpful in small roadside stalls and store purchases. Exchanging US$ for KSh is possible in most locations, although exchange rates will vary. Larger, newer, and better-condition US$ bills generally attract a better exchange rate. Other hard currencies, notably the Euro, can be used, although they may be subject to more unfavourable exchange rates. Credit and debit cards are now accepted at most major stores and lodges and can be used to make payments. Virtually all locations charge a significant premium for using a card; 5% to 10% is standard, and higher rates over 25% can be encountered. Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted. Carrying cash may be significantly easier and cheaper, but this heightens the risk of loss or theft. Refer to the section on crime for more information. There are very few cash machines or ATM’s, except in the major urban centres, where banks can also be found. If you run out of money, your safari operator or lodge owner should be able to bail you out, with our assistance. When assessing how much cash to take, most people settle somewhere between US$50 and US$200 per person daily. The more you take, the more you are likely to bring back home with you. It is more a case of how much you feel comfortable carrying. Note that your most significant expenditure will likely be tips, which could exceed US$25 per person daily.