Money, phones and language in Kenya: the practical basics

Kenya's currency is the Kenya shilling (KES). The Central Bank of Kenya issues banknotes of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 shillings.

In 2024 the Central Bank began issuing an updated series of all five banknotes, with new signatures, the year 2024 and a colour-changing security thread, starting with the 1,000-shilling note. It stated that all banknotes then in circulation remain legal tender, so you may be handed both the older and the 2024 notes.

KenyaPlus doesn't hold exchange rates, card acceptance or cash-machine information. Ask your bank about using your card in Kenya, and carry some shillings for small purchases and tips.

To register a SIM card, a foreigner must show the original of a valid passport or Foreign National Registration Certificate.

The operator or its registration agent checks your documents against the relevant government database, and may ask you to appear in person. Registering a SIM on someone else's behalf is not allowed, except a parent or guardian registering for a child.

Buy your SIM from a mobile operator's shop or its official agent, and take your passport with you.

Kiswahili is Kenya's national language, and the official languages are Kiswahili and English.

A few words of Kiswahili go a long way: jambo or habari (hello), asante (thank you) and karibu (welcome, or you're welcome).

It is illegal to use, import or manufacture plastic carrier bags in Kenya. The ban took effect on 28 August 2017.

NEMA says travellers arriving with duty-free bags must leave them at the entry point.

Pack shoes and toiletries in cloth or reusable bags rather than plastic carrier bags, and carry a reusable shopping bag.