Kenya is not a low-budget destination. However, it is surely possible to enjoy a roadtrip in Kenya with a smaller pocket if you follow our budget travel tips.
On this page, we'll advise you on ways to cut costs, how to handle money in Kenya and what daily travel budget to expect when paying for accommodation, food and drinks. Any travel-related questions that are not covered here? Then don't hesitate to contact our team at Roadtrip Africa, we are happy to assist you!
While Kenya may not be considered a low-budget destination, it's entirely possible to enjoy its beauty without breaking the bank. Here are some budget travel tips to make the most of your experience:
Dining out in Kenya is generally quite cheap, with local restaurants offering plenty of budget-friendly options. However, if you opt for a three-course meal at a lodge inside a safari park, the cost is slightly higher, ranging from approximately $15 to $25 per person. It's customary to tip in Kenya, and a 10% tip is common and greatly appreciated. If you're satisfied with the service, consider being more generous, keeping in mind that tips are usually shared among all staff at most places.
When it comes to lodging inside a national park or conservancy, the price categories are as follows:
For those seeking more budget-friendly accommodations, there are plenty of guesthouses and hotels outside national parks that offer lower rates.
The cost of petrol can fluctuate, and for the most up-to-date fuel prices, it's advisable to do a quick online search.
In Kenya, it's important to note that most restaurants, lodges, or campsites do not accept foreign debit cards. However, payment with credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) is generally accepted at more upscale hotels and restaurants.
For accessing cash, ATMs are widely available throughout the country. KCB, Barclays, and Citibank are reliable banks in Kenya that accept MasterCard, Maestro, and Visa. To ensure smooth transactions, bring additional cards, as daily withdrawal limits may apply to foreign cards at ATMs.
Currency exchange is easily done at Forex Bureaus in most provincial towns, where US Dollars and Euros can be converted to Kenyan Shillings.
Use mobile money for easy transactions
A convenient way to manage money during your travels in Kenya is through mobile money. This system allows you to store, send, and receive money using your mobile phone. Contrary to what you might think, Kenya is no longer a cash-centric economy due to the widespread use of mobile money. You can seamlessly settle bills or make payments (such as entrance fees at park gates, purchases at local markets, or restaurant bills) directly from your phone. To take advantage of this system, purchase a local SIM card (Safaricom is recommended), load it with airtime and an internet bundle, and register for MPESA at any Telecom kiosk. You can transfer Kenyan Shillings to your mobile money account through platforms like Wise or load cash at a Telecom kiosk, enabling you to make mobile money payments effortlessly.
