The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). The US Dollar is also widely accepted and easily exchanged into Kenyan Shillings. US Dollars are only accepted if they are not torn and are not more than 10 years old. Smaller denominations are difficult to use or exchange.

While the official and primary currency in Nairobi is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in specific tourist-oriented sectors. Major hotels, international tour operators, and national park entrance fees often quote prices in USD and will readily accept them. However, for everyday transactions—such as at local markets, small restaurants, or for taxi fares—you will absolutely need Kenyan Shillings. It is a common mistake for travelers to rely solely on USD; even when accepted, merchants often apply an unfavorable exchange rate, making your purchase more expensive than if you paid in the local currency. Additionally, if you do use USD, the bills must be in pristine condition and printed after 2013, as many Kenyan banks and businesses refuse older or damaged U.S. currency. For the best experience in 2026, it is recommended to carry a mix of USD for large payments and KES for daily expenses, or use a travel-friendly debit card at local ATMs to withdraw Shillings at the mid-market rate.