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Kenyan Shillings Fast!

  • Free home delivery over £750
  • with Royal Mail Special Delivery 1pm
  • Better rates than the banks
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Giraffes and sunset in Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Park in Kenya

Travelling to Kenya?

Get the best rates for Kenyan currency online

Excited about your Kenyan safari? Get your Kenyan shillings sorted with Manor FX today. Our superb exchange rates mean you’ll have more KES in your pocket. Choose secure delivery to your doorstep, or collect from our Manor FX foreign exchange bureau near Heathrow.

Manor FX offers quick delivery and an easy online order process for your Kenyan shilling travel money. 

Kenyan travel money

Dreaming of visiting the Maasai Mara in Kenya? Here’s what you need to know about handling cash and cards in Kenya.

Where can I buy Kenya currency?

The Kenyan shilling is vital for visitors, but it’s not always easy to find in the UK. You need a reliable currency provider for Kenyan shillings before your trip. Why not skip the high street banks; here at Manor FX, we sell Kenyan shillings.

We offer fantastic exchange rates, so you get more value on your Kenyan journey! Pick up your shillings at our Heathrow bureau or opt for convenient delivery.

Buy your shillings now

Can you buy Kenyan shillings in the UK?

Yes! Secure Kenyan shillings in the UK through our online exchange service. Our platform is the best place to buy Kenyan shillings.

If you spend over £750, enjoy free delivery. Convert your GBP to Kenyan shillings smoothly and start your holiday right!

African flamingos in the lake over beautiful sunset, flock of exotic birds at natural habitat, Africa landscape, Kenya nature, Lake Nakuru national park reserve.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Kenya?

Arriving in Kenya with local currency is wise. It allows you to cover immediate costs like taxi fares and snacks without searching for an exchange service or ATM. It’s a practical step that gives you peace of mind as you begin your Kenyan journey.

Buy your Kenyan shillings online today and enjoy the best Kenyan shilling exchange rate with Manor FX.

What is the best currency to bring to Kenya?

The Kenyan shilling, the official currency, is a must-have. It’s crucial for small purchases and transport in Kenya. If you’re shopping or eating at local spots, especially those away from touristy areas, they’ll prefer Kenyan shillings. So, having some on hand for those moments is a good idea. 

The US dollar is the second most used currency in Kenya. It’s the preferred way of payment for activities such as hot air balloon safaris, park fees, and staying at hotels. 

Friendly reminder: Ensure the dollars you take are printed after 2006.

Overall, the Kenyan shilling is your best bet for everyday transactions. For larger purchases or in case of emergencies, US dollars are widely accepted.

Remember to convert your pounds sterling to KES before you travel to get the best rate for Kenyan shillings.

Can I use my bank card in Kenya?

Yes, but cash is king, especially in smaller areas. Cards are accepted in cities and larger establishments. Always inform your bank about your travels to avoid card issues.

Woman tourist on safari in Kenya, travelling by car, watching elephants in the savannah.

Should I take cash to Kenya?

Absolutely. Cash is widely accepted and useful for bargaining in markets. While ATMs are in cities, having cash is always a good idea.

If you have any leftover cash from your recent travels to Kenya, remember to convert your Kenyan shillings to pounds with Manor FX.

Is it better to use cash or credit card in Kenya?

While cards offer security, cash is more universally accepted in Kenya. A mix of both gives you the flexibility to handle any transaction quickly, regardless of where you are.

How much cash should I take to Kenya?

Wondering how much money you’ll need in Kenya? It really depends on what you plan to do. Are you chilling out or going on wildlife adventures?

Daily budget for Kenya

  • On a tight budget? You can get by on £15, which is around 3,243 KES daily.
  • For a bit more comfort, aim for around £50 a day, around 10,136 KES. This covers essential travel and some cool sites.
  • Fancy safaris and tours? Then you’re looking at £100 – £200 daily, around 20,273 – 40,547 KES.

Get your travel money, no matter your budget, with Manor FX; we offer the best GBP to Kenyan shilling rate.

Kenya Standard Gauge Railway Line SGR Bridge

How can I avoid ATM fees in Kenya?

Use ATMs at major banks and withdraw larger amounts less frequently. Look for ATMs in tourist areas, which might have lower fees.

How does tipping work in Kenya?

A 5-10% tip in restaurants and a few thousand KES for hotel staff are common. Tips for guides and drivers are about £5-£10 per day.

Is Kenya a cheap country to visit?

Kenya is known for its affordability, especially regarding local transport, food, and basic amenities. This makes it an excellent destination for travellers looking to experience a rich culture and stunning landscapes without overspending.

Maasai Dance

How much does a meal cost in Kenya?

Street food like ugali, rice, and stew costs 60 – 80 KES (40p) per plate. Simple and filling!

Nyama choma, a grilled meat delight, is a must-try. Expect to pay 250 – 350 KES, around £1.80 for a kilo of goat. 

Lunch at food courts or mid-range restaurants will set you back about 200 – 500 KES, around £2.50 per meal.

A nice dinner at a restaurant? It costs around 500 – 1000 KES, around £5.00 per person.

So, there you go! Kenya can be super affordable but budget a bit more if you want those extra experiences. 

Buy your shillings now

Kenyan Currency

Banknotes in Kenya

In 2019, the Central Bank of Kenya rolled out a fresh set of banknotes. The old notes featured the Presidents on them. But, many Kenyans wanted to move away from having political figures on their money.

Listening to the people, the new Kenyan shilling notes celebrate Kenya’s unique cultural heritage. 

Each note has a unique theme, presented as the drivers of a newly reborn and prosperous Kenya.

50 KES note: is all about green energy. It’s got wind, geothermal, and solar power on the back. 

100 KES note: showcases agriculture. It nods to Kenya’s farming strengths, with images of crops and livestock.

200 KES note: it’s about social services. You’ll find pictures of teachers, doctors, and athletes celebrating the people who make Kenya tick.

500 KES note: is a tribute to tourism. It features Kenya’s stunning wildlife reserves, like the famous Maasai Mara.

1,000 KES note: is themed around governance. It’s got a picture of Nairobi’s Parliament building on the back.

Each note tells a story about Kenya’s journey and what makes it a great place.

Current Kenya banknote series

Coins in Kenya

In 2018, the Central Bank of Kenya issued a new series of coins. The designs replaced images of the presidents with Kenya’s fantastic wildlife.

These coins are all about capturing the essence of Kenya. They give a big nod to the country’s dedication to wildlife conservation.

Here’s what’s on them:

1 shilling coin: Shows a graceful giraffe.

5 shilling coin: You’ll find a sturdy rhino.

10 shilling coin: boasts a majestic lion.

20 shilling coin: It features a grand elephant.

Current Kenyan shilling coin series

Kenya’s currency import and export regulations

You can bring any amount of foreign currency. For amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent), declare it on arrival.

Order Kenyan shillings online

Order your travel money online and convert your British pounds to Kenyan shillings today. We offer fast and secure delivery or pick them up from our travel money shop near Heathrow.

Selling back Kenyan shilling online

If you have leftover shillings, convert your Kenyan shillings to GBP with us. Get the best exchange rate for Kenyan shillings today. Once your currency has been received, you’ll get your money via bank transfer within 24-36 hours (sometimes faster.)

The convention center in Nairobi city center

FAQs

Yes, if you’re travelling from the UK to Kenya, you’ll need a visa. But don’t worry, it’s quite simple to get one. You can apply for it online, which is really handy. Fill in the application, pay the fee, and you’re ready for your Kenyan journey.

Typhoid vaccines are recommended because you can catch these diseases through food or water in Kenya. 

Depending on where you’re going, you might also need vaccines for Hepatitis B, Rabies, Meningitis, and Yellow Fever. Plus, remember to protect yourself against malaria. 

It’s best to chat with your doctor or a travel clinic a few weeks before your trip. They’ll give you the best advice for your travel plans. 

The best time to visit Kenya is during the dry seasons.

June to October: Prime wildlife watching

  • These months are ideal for safaris.
  • The weather is usually cool and dry, making animal spotting easier.
  • The highlight is the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Maasai Mara, especially from July to October. It’s a breathtaking natural spectacle!

December to March: Beaches and more wildlife

  • This period is another dry season, offering sunny days and clear skies.
  • Wildlife is still abundant, and it’s a great time for bird watching.
  • The Kenyan coast is fantastic during these months. Think beautiful beaches, warm ocean waters, and vibrant marine life.

Specific Months for unique experiences:

  • July and August are peak tourist months, thanks to the migration and European summer holidays. It’s busy but exciting.
  • September and October are slightly quieter but still offer great wildlife experiences.
  • December is festive and lively, with many local and international tourists.

Things to consider

  • April and May are the long rainy periods. Some lodges close, and roads can be tricky, but it’s also less crowded and green.
  • November and March experience short rains, but travel is possible and often cheaper.

Why timing matters

  • Your experience can vary greatly depending on when you visit. Wildlife, weather, and tourist numbers change with the seasons.
  • Kenya is a year-round destination, but aligning your visit with your interests (like migration, birding, or beach time) is key.

Remember, no matter when you go, Kenya’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and incredible wildlife make it a fantastic destination.


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Great competitive rates & friendly & helpful staff. Easy to order online & collect in person or delivery.

Babs Woolfries

Great, fast and reliable service would certainly use again for my travel needs, as the rates are the best around!

Mark WB

This amazing company have gone above and beyond in getting a large amount of a rare currency across the pond to Ireland.

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Great rates and really responsive, friendly customer support, will definitely be using Manor FX again.

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Manor FX gave me a better rate than my bank with great customer service, I highly recommend them.

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Family run business that’s always super helpful. Manor FX’s rates are always really good as well!

Dale Grant

Get
Kenyan Shillings Fast!

  • Free home delivery over £750
  • with Royal Mail Special Delivery 1pm
  • Better rates than the banks
You exchange:
£
You get:
Rate:
You exchange:
You get:
£
Rate: