East African Currency: What Travelers Need to Know

Traveling across East Africa is an adventure filled with wildlife safaris, mountain treks, and cultural encounters. But before setting out, it’s important to understand the currencies used in the region. While the East African Community has long discussed creating a single regional currency, each country still maintains its own, and knowing how to manage money on your trip will make your journey smoother.

Uganda – Ugandan Shilling (UGX)

The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Notes come in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000, while coins range from 50 to 500. The shilling is widely used across the country, from big cities like Kampala to small villages. U.S. dollars are also accepted in many tourist areas, especially for park permits and hotel payments, but smaller purchases are always made in shillings.

Kenya – Kenyan Shilling (KES)

Kenya uses the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Notes are available in 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 denominations. As East Africa’s most developed safari hub, Kenya’s currency is stable and widely accepted. Credit cards are common in urban centers, but in rural areas and markets, cash is essential. Like Uganda, U.S. dollars are accepted in the tourism sector, particularly for safaris and flights.

Tanzania – Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency of Tanzania. Notes include 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000. While the shilling is used everywhere, U.S. dollars are very common for park fees, safaris, and hotel stays. If you are visiting Zanzibar, most mid- to high-end hotels quote prices in dollars, though local transactions still use shillings. Carrying both currencies is recommended when traveling through Tanzania.

Rwanda – Rwandan Franc (RWF)

Rwanda’s official currency is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Notes range from 500 to 5,000 francs. Unlike some of its neighbors, Rwanda is stricter about the use of foreign currency, so most transactions must be made in francs. U.S. dollars are accepted for gorilla trekking permits and some hotel payments, but everyday purchases require francs. Credit card use is growing, particularly in Kigali, but cash remains important.

Burundi – Burundian Franc (BIF)

Burundi uses the Burundian Franc (BIF). Notes include 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000. Like Rwanda, the use of foreign currency is limited, and visitors should expect to use francs for nearly all transactions. The economy is less dollarized, so carrying local cash is essential outside of a few international hotels.

Using U.S. Dollars and Other Foreign Currency

Across East Africa, the U.S. dollar is the most widely accepted foreign currency. It is especially important for high-value transactions such as gorilla permits, safari packages, and hotel stays. However, only newer notes (printed from 2009 onward) are usually accepted, and they should be clean and undamaged. Euros and British pounds can be exchanged in banks and forex bureaus, but dollars remain the most practical.

ATMs and Mobile Money

ATMs are common in major towns and cities across East Africa, allowing withdrawals in local currency. Visa cards are generally more widely accepted than MasterCard. Mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa in Kenya and MTN Mobile Money in Uganda are extremely popular and used for everything from paying bills to shopping. While visitors may not rely on these systems fully, they demonstrate the region’s growing cashless economy.

Final Thoughts

Each East African country has its own currency, and while U.S. dollars are useful for safaris and permits, local money is essential for everyday transactions. Knowing the differences between the Ugandan Shilling, Kenyan Shilling, Tanzanian Shilling, Rwandan Franc, and Burundian Franc helps travelers prepare better and avoid surprises. Carrying a mix of local currency and dollars, along with using ATMs where available, ensures a smooth travel experience as you explore the Pearl of Africa, the Serengeti, or the shores of Lake Victoria