What Currency Should I Use While Traveling in East Africa?

Planning a journey across East Africa is one of the most thrilling experiences any traveler can embark on. Whether you’re dreaming of watching the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania, trekking with mountain gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda, or relaxing on Zanzibar’s turquoise shores, every moment in this region feels extraordinary. But before setting off on your adventure, one practical question arises — what currency should I use while traveling in East Africa?

Understanding local currencies, exchange rates, and payment options can help you avoid unnecessary costs, confusion, or inconvenience during your trip. East Africa is a wonderfully diverse region, and while the countries share cultural ties, each has its own national currency, regulations, and preferences when it comes to cash and cards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about money in East Africa — from which currencies to carry and where to exchange them, to practical tips for safaris, border crossings, and day-to-day spending.

The Currencies of East Africa

The East African region includes Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda as the main safari destinations. Each of these countries uses its own official currency:

• Kenya: Kenyan Shilling (KES)

• Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

• Uganda: Ugandan Shilling (UGX)

• Rwanda: Rwandan Franc (RWF)

Although each country has its own currency, the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted across the region — particularly in the tourism and hospitality industries. Safari lodges, national park authorities, car rental services, and many tour operators quote prices in USD. This makes it convenient for travelers, as you can use dollars for most major expenses.

However, it’s still important to carry some local currency for smaller purchases like souvenirs, meals in local restaurants, market shopping, and tipping. Knowing when to use local money and when to use dollars can make your trip smoother and save you money.

Using the US Dollar in East Africa

The US Dollar is the unofficial “second currency” across East Africa. It’s accepted in nearly all tourist hubs, hotels, and safari lodges, and is even required for certain payments like gorilla trekking permits in Uganda and Rwanda or visa fees upon arrival.

When using dollars, it’s important to note a few details:

1. Bring newer bills: Only carry US dollar notes printed in 2009 or later. Older notes are often rejected due to counterfeiting concerns.

2. Crisp, clean bills: Torn, marked, or wrinkled notes are not accepted in most banks or by vendors. Make sure your bills are clean and in good condition.

3. Large denominations preferred: $50 and $100 bills often get better exchange rates than smaller ones like $5 or $10. However, keep a few smaller bills for tips and small purchases.

4. Cash over coins: US coins are generally not accepted anywhere in East Africa.

For large expenses such as accommodation, safari packages, and activities, USD is perfectly fine. For smaller day-to-day spending, you’ll get better value by exchanging some of your dollars into local currency.

Country-by-Country Breakdown

Kenya – The Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Kenya’s economy is one of the most advanced in Africa, and its tourism industry is highly developed. The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is the main currency used for daily transactions.

You can exchange US dollars, euros, or British pounds easily at banks, exchange bureaus, or even at hotels. Major towns and airports like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu have numerous forex bureaus offering competitive rates.

Most ATMs in Kenya accept international cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard. You can withdraw shillings directly, but note that your bank may charge international withdrawal fees. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and major retail shops, though smaller businesses and rural lodges may prefer cash.

For everyday use, having some shillings on hand is essential for things like buying snacks, souvenirs, or paying for taxis.

Tanzania – The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Tanzania uses the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), and while US dollars are accepted in tourist areas such as Arusha, Serengeti, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam, local currency is often preferred for smaller transactions.

You’ll need Tanzanian shillings for everyday expenses like drinks, meals, or tipping. It’s best to withdraw shillings from ATMs in major towns before heading into national parks, as cash machines are scarce in remote areas.

Some safari lodges and island resorts may accept USD payments directly, but they will usually quote prices in dollars and require payment in that currency. Keep in mind that when paying in dollars, you’ll often receive change in Tanzanian shillings, so it helps to have both currencies handy.

ATMs in Tanzania work reliably in cities, though power outages can occasionally disrupt service. Carry enough cash when traveling to rural regions, especially for your safari.

Uganda – The Ugandan Shilling (UGX)

In Uganda, the Ugandan Shilling (UGX) is the primary currency for most day-to-day purchases, although USD is commonly used in the tourism sector. Gorilla trekking permits, park fees, and accommodation in national parks are usually quoted and payable in dollars.

You can exchange currency at forex bureaus in Kampala, Entebbe, or Jinja, where rates are usually better than at airports. ATMs are available in most towns and accept Visa and Mastercard cards, but note that some machines may have withdrawal limits.

As with other countries, it’s wise to carry a combination of local shillings for small expenses and USD for larger ones. Uganda is still very cash-oriented, so don’t rely solely on cards for your trip.

When paying in dollars, use only recent notes and avoid old or damaged bills — many local businesses won’t take them.

Rwanda – The Rwandan Franc (RWF)

Rwanda is one of East Africa’s most stable and organized countries, and its Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the official currency. While the US dollar is accepted in high-end hotels, lodges, and for gorilla trekking permits, most local businesses prefer francs.

You’ll find well-regulated forex bureaus in Kigali and other major towns, and ATMs are widely available. Card payments are becoming more common, especially in the capital, but cash still dominates in rural areas and local markets.

Rwanda is also one of the few African countries where you can pay electronically for many services, including transport and shopping, thanks to its rapidly advancing digital economy. However, carrying local currency remains essential for day trips and smaller purchases.

How to Get Local Currency

There are three main ways to obtain local currency in East Africa:

1. Exchange Bureaus (Forex Bureaus)

These are the most common and reliable method of exchanging foreign currency. They are found in airports, major cities, and even in some tourist towns. Always compare rates between bureaus — airport rates are often less favorable than those in city centers.

2. ATMs

Most major East African cities have ATMs that accept international debit and credit cards. This is a convenient option, though it’s important to withdraw enough before heading to rural areas where ATMs are unavailable. Always use ATMs in secure, well-lit locations and notify your bank before traveling to avoid card restrictions.

3. Banks

Banks can exchange money, but they may charge higher fees or offer slightly less favorable rates than forex bureaus. Still, they are useful for larger or official transactions.

Credit and Debit Cards

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards in East Africa, though American Express is less common. You can use cards to pay at major hotels, safari lodges, and upmarket restaurants, but cash remains king, especially in rural destinations.

Always keep some cash on hand — even luxury lodges occasionally experience power outages or connectivity issues that can interrupt card payments.

Tipping and Small Payments

Tipping is customary across East Africa, especially in the tourism sector. Tips are usually given in USD or local currency. For instance, safari guides, lodge staff, and porters greatly appreciate small denominations.

Here’s a rough guide:

• Safari guide or driver: $10–$20 per person per day

• Lodge staff or porters: $2–$5 per day

• Restaurant servers: 5–10% of the bill if not included

Having small notes of either USD or local currency makes tipping convenient and appreciated.

Currency Exchange Tips

• Avoid exchanging money on the street — always use licensed bureaus or banks.

• Keep receipts for large exchanges in case you need to convert unused local currency back before leaving.

• Carry your cash in a money belt or concealed pouch for security.

• Don’t rely on a single payment method — have a mix of cards and cash.

Why Traveling With Muhiga Safaris Makes Money Management Easier

Navigating currencies in multiple countries can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re traveling across borders or combining safaris in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. That’s where Muhiga Safaris makes a world of difference.

With deep local expertise and years of experience organizing seamless tours across East Africa, Muhiga Safaris handles most logistical details, including park payments, accommodation, and transportation — often prepaid in USD. This means you’ll have fewer currency-related hassles and more time to focus on enjoying your adventure.

Their expert guides and travel consultants also offer up-to-date advice on where to exchange money, which ATMs to use, and how to avoid scams. Whether you’re trekking for gorillas, chasing the migration, or exploring cultural villages, Muhiga Safaris ensures your journey is smooth, safe, and financially stress-free.

Conclusion

In summary, while each East African country has its own local currency — the Kenyan, Tanzanian, and Ugandan shillings, and the Rwandan franc — the US Dollar remains the most convenient and widely accepted currency for tourists. Bring clean, recent notes, and use dollars for larger payments while relying on local currencies for everyday spending.

Traveling prepared with the right mix of cash, cards, and currency knowledge ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience as you explore one of the world’s most captivating regions.

When you’re ready to experience East Africa’s breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and warm hospitality, let Muhiga Safaris handle the details. From currency advice to carefully curated itineraries, they make your journey effortless — so you can focus on what truly matters: the adventure of a lifetime.