Money, Costs & Tipping in East Africa

Bring a mix. US dollars (2009 or newer bills, no marks, tears or stains — older or damaged notes are often refused) cover park entry fees, safari packages and hotel bills. Local currency — Kenyan, Tanzanian or Ugandan Shillings — is what you'll actually use day to day: markets, tips, street food, small taxis.

In Kenya especially, M-Pesa (mobile money sent by phone) is how most everyday transactions happen, from a market stall to a matatu fare. As a short-term visitor you don't need it, but if you're staying longer, a local SIM with mobile money set up makes daily life noticeably easier, and many small vendors genuinely prefer it over cash.

Costs vary hugely by style of trip: a budget group safari, a mid-range lodge safari, and a private luxury camp can differ several times over in daily price. Park and conservancy fees are charged separately by most operators and vary by park and season. Always confirm what's included — park fees, meals, transport — directly with your chosen operator before booking.

• Driver-guide: around USD 10–20 per day, paid in cash at the end of the trip.
• Lodge/camp staff: around USD 5–10 per day, often pooled into a shared staff box.
• Porters, waitstaff: small cash tips are appreciated but not obligatory — check if a service charge is already added to your bill.

At open markets and curio stalls, a friendly back-and-forth on price is completely normal and expected — it's part of the interaction, not a confrontation. In supermarkets or shops with printed price tags, prices are fixed. Either way, a warm greeting first goes a long way.