What Currency Does Kenya Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 129.17 KES
1 GBP ≈ 173.17 KES
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Kenya? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Kenyan shilling spending.
What is money called in Kenya?
Money in Kenya is called the Kenyan shilling — its ISO 4217 currency code is KES, and its symbol is Sh. The Kenyan shilling is the official legal tender in Kenya and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the Kenya currency or simply money in Kenya. The Kenyan shilling is subdivided into 100 cents, though small-denomination coins may not always be in everyday circulation.
Is the Kenyan shilling used anywhere else?
No — Kenya is the only country on this site using the Kenyan shilling as its official currency.
Practical money tips for Kenya
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Kenyan shilling in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
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Money essentials for Kenya
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Kenya currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Kenya?
The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (currency code: KES, symbol: Sh).
What is the currency code for Kenya?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Kenyan shilling is KES.
What is the Kenyan shilling symbol?
The symbol for the Kenyan shilling is Sh. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Kenya.
What currency is used in Kenya?
The official currency used in Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES).
Can I use US dollars in Kenya?
The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Kenyan shilling and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Kenya?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 129.17 KES and 1 GBP = 173.17 KES. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Kenya?
Money in Kenya is called the Kenyan shilling (KES).
Do other countries use the Kenyan shilling?
No — Kenya is the only country on this site using the Kenyan shilling as its official currency.
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