Direct answer
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at Nairobi hotels, malls (Two Rivers, Village Market), and most mid-range to luxury safari lodges — often with a 3–5% card surcharge. Budget camps, park gates, rural markets, and tips require cash. Notify your bank before travel; some US cards decline East African transactions. M-Pesa mobile money dominates locally but is impractical for most visitors.
Quick facts
- Full expanded guidance for this topic is updated regularly by our safari planners.
- Gorilla and chimp permits should be secured early in peak season.
- Licensed safari operators handle park fees, guides, and in-country support.
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
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