Live2Travel1000

We just got back from our 17 day journey to Kenya and Tanzania. We were also concerned about the money situation.

Here is what we did:

We exchanged USD for Kenyan Shillings for an excellent rate at a bank in the US before we left.

We ordered new, one dollar bills at our bank for tipping at the camps.

And like many of those that responded, we went to our banks and asked the tellers to find new $5's, $10's, and $20's with no creases, folds, or writing for tipping the guides. It took some time, but all the tellers were overly willing to assist us. I also brought blank thank you notes to individually thank our guides.

We also wanted to feel safe carrying this money, so I purchased two travel waist wallets and an anti theft ticket organizer (PAC SAFE 200). The PAC SAFE 200 was kept in my backpack and I always had the backpack in my possession. I also put a tiny lock (so it wouldn't attract attention) on the part of the backpack that had the money.

We kept small denominations of shillings and dollars in zippered pockets of our safari slacks.

Most of the lodges/camps we stayed at took American Express for our incidentals. We also were able to buy souvenirs on American Express. We did purchase souvenirs from the Masai in Kenyan Shillings.

Have a wonderful, safe trip!! Kenya and Tanzania are truly magical!!!