Helpful Tips for Traveling in Kenya 🇰🇪 & Zanzibar 🇹🇿

Dress comfortably and appropriately. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for Kenya and Zanzibar due to warm daytime temperatures. Neutral colors are best for safari to avoid attracting insects and to blend into the environment. When visiting villages, Stone Town, or religious sites, dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees out of respect for local customs.

Carry some local currency. The Kenyan Shilling (KES) is used in Kenya, while the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is used in Zanzibar. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, resorts, and larger restaurants, but cash is helpful for tips, local markets, small vendors, and optional excursions. U.S. dollars are widely accepted for tours and extras—be sure bills are clean and newer.

Stay hydrated at all times. Safari days, walking tours, and beach activities can be long and warm. The African sun can be intense, so keep bottled water with you throughout the day and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Listen closely to your guides and drivers. Professional guides are highly experienced and will provide essential safety instructions, wildlife etiquette, and cultural insights—especially during safari game drives and village visits. Always follow their guidance when observing animals.

Be security-conscious in busy areas. Use hotel safes for passports and valuables, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, and keep personal belongings secure in crowded places such as markets and Stone Town streets.

Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Sun exposure can be strong in both destinations, particularly during safari drives and beach days in Zanzibar. Reef-safe sunscreen is recommended for ocean activities.

Expect early mornings for safari activities. Wildlife is most active in the early hours, and safari days often start before sunrise. Plan to rest mid-day and enjoy relaxed evenings at camp or the resort.

Bring a universal power adapter and a small power bank. Kenya and Tanzania use different plug types than the U.S., and while most hotels have reliable electricity, having backup power is helpful during long travel days or excursions.

🏦 CASH vs. CARDS (WHAT TO EXPECT)

Cards Work Best For:

• Hotels & safari lodges

• Resorts (Essque Zalu)

• Restaurants & larger shops

• Tour payments already included in your package

Cash Is Best For:

• Tipping guides & drivers

• Local markets & souvenirs

• Village visits

• Optional excursions

• Small vendors in Zanzibar & rural areas

✔️ Visa & Mastercard are widely accepted
⚠️ American Express is accepted only at select upscale venues
📲 Contactless payments may work at resorts but should not be relied on exclusively

🏧 ATMs & CURRENCY EXCHANGE

ATMs are widely available in:

• Nairobi

• Major towns in Kenya

• Stone Town & Nungwi (Zanzibar)

Best practices:

• Use ATMs inside banks, hotels, or malls

• Notify your bank before travel

• Expect possible foreign transaction or ATM fees

• Withdraw moderate amounts at a time

Currency exchange is best done at banks, authorized exchange bureaus, or hotels. Airport exchange counters are convenient but may offer slightly higher fees. Avoid street money changers.

💵 TIPPING GUIDELINES (SAFARI COLLECTION TOUR)

Tipping is customary and appreciated.

• Safari guides & drivers: Highly appreciated (primary recipients of tips)

• Tour guides: Tip based on service and experience

• Hotel porters: Small cash tip per bag

• Restaurants: 5–10% if service charge is not included

• Drivers: Rounding up or small cash tip

💡 Your TravelJunkees team will also provide suggested group tipping guidance during the tour.

💸 DAILY BUDGET ESTIMATES (USD)

• Coffee: $2–$4

• Casual meal: $8–$15

• Nice dinner for two: $40–$80

• Bottled water: $1–$2

• Short taxi ride: $5–$15

Most major safari-related costs are already included, so daily spending is typically minimal unless shopping or booking optional excursions.

🔐 SAFETY & CONVENIENCE TIPS

• Keep cash and valuables secure at all times

• Use hotel safes for passports and excess cash

• Carry small denominations for tips and markets

• Keep backup cash in a separate location

• Occasional connectivity or power issues can affect card machines—cash is your backup

✅ QUICK SAFARI COLLECTION MONEY CHECKLIST

✔️ Bring a debit card + at least one credit card
✔️ Bring small USD bills (newer, clean)
✔️ Have some local cash for tips & markets
✔️ Inform your bank before departure
✔️ Carry a small wallet or money pouch

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TheTravelJunkees started with a simple idea: to share the joy of discovery and the thrill of new experiences with like-minded adventurers. Over the years, we've grown into a vibrant community known for our daring exploits and unique travel stories. One of our most memorable moments was our appearance on Jimmy Kimmel, where a monkey photo opp adventure took an unexpected turn, putting us in the spotlight and showcasing our commitment to embracing the unexpected.

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