When traveling to Shanzu, Mombasa, understanding the local currency and payment options is essential for a smooth and hassle-free trip. Whether you're shopping at local markets, dining at restaurants, or booking tours, knowing how to pay, where to exchange money, and what to avoid will help you manage your finances efficiently.
This guide covers everything you need to know about currency exchange, cash vs. card payments, mobile money, and budgeting tips for your trip to Shanzu.
1. What is the Local Currency in Shanzu?
The official currency in Shanzu, Kenya, is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). It is commonly written as KSh or KES.
💰 Kenyan Shilling Notes & Coins:
- Banknotes: KSh 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000
- Coins: KSh 1, 5, 10, 20, and 40
💡 Exchange Rate Tip:
- The exchange rate fluctuates, but as of 2024:
- 1 USD ≈ 150 KES
- 1 EUR ≈ 165 KES
- 1 GBP ≈ 190 KES
It’s always best to check the latest exchange rate before traveling.
2. Where to Exchange Currency in Shanzu?
You’ll need Kenyan Shillings (KES) for most transactions in Shanzu, as many small businesses do not accept foreign currencies.
Best Places to Exchange Money:
✅ Foreign Exchange Bureaus (Forex Bureaus) – Offer better rates than banks.
✅ Banks (Equity, KCB, Co-op Bank, Standard Chartered) – Safe but may have slightly lower exchange rates.
✅ ATMs (Using International Debit/Credit Cards) – Convenient for cash withdrawals.
✅ Mombasa Airport Exchange Booths – Useful but usually have higher fees.
🚫 Avoid exchanging money with street vendors, as this can lead to scams or counterfeit currency issues.
💡 Tip: Always ask for a receipt when exchanging money, and count your cash before leaving the counter.
3. Can You Use Credit & Debit Cards in Shanzu?
Yes, but with limitations. While major hotels, high-end restaurants, and supermarkets accept Visa and Mastercard, many small businesses, market stalls, and local vendors only accept cash or mobile money (M-Pesa).
Where Cards Are Accepted:
✅ Hotels & Resorts
✅ Upscale Restaurants & Cafés
✅ Shopping Malls (City Mall Nyali)
✅ Supermarkets (Naivas, Carrefour)
🚫 Where Cards Are NOT Commonly Accepted:
❌ Local markets & street vendors
❌ Tuk-tuks, matatus, and boda bodas (motorbikes)
❌ Small restaurants & local food joints
💡 Tip: Always carry some cash, as card machines may not work due to power outages or network issues.
4. Mobile Money (M-Pesa) – The Best Payment Option in Kenya
Kenya is famous for M-Pesa, a mobile money service that allows you to pay without cash or a bank account. Many locals and businesses prefer M-Pesa over cash and cards.
📱 What You Can Do with M-Pesa:
✅ Pay for taxis, tuk-tuks, and boda bodas
✅ Buy groceries and shop in local markets
✅ Pay for tours and excursions
✅ Send money to other people
✅ Pay hotel and restaurant bills (some places accept M-Pesa)
💡 How to Use M-Pesa as a Traveler:
- If you have a Kenyan SIM card (Safaricom), you can register for M-Pesa and top up your account.
- If you don’t have a Kenyan number, you can still pay via M-Pesa using an agent (Safaricom shop).
🚀 Tip: M-Pesa is the best way to avoid carrying large amounts of cash and is widely accepted even in small businesses.
5. ATM Withdrawals & Banking in Shanzu
ATMs are available in Shanzu and nearby areas like Mtwapa and Nyali. You can withdraw cash using international Visa and Mastercard debit/credit cards.
Best ATMs in Shanzu:
🏧 Equity Bank ATM – Located near Serena Road, accepts international cards.
🏧 KCB Bank ATM – Reliable and widely used.
🏧 Co-op Bank ATM – Available in Mtwapa, near Shanzu.
💡 ATM Withdrawal Tips:
- Check for withdrawal fees from your bank.
- Use ATMs attached to banks for better security.
- Withdraw money during the day to avoid risk.
🚫 Avoid using ATMs at night or in isolated areas to prevent fraud or theft.
6. How Much Cash Should You Carry in Shanzu?
Carrying too much cash is risky, but you’ll still need some for places that don’t accept cards.
💰 Recommended Daily Budget for Shanzu:
- Budget Travelers: KES 2,000 – KES 5,000 ($15 – $35)
- Mid-Range Travelers: KES 5,000 – KES 10,000 ($35 – $70)
- Luxury Travelers: KES 10,000+ ($70+)
If you’re paying for hotels and tours online, you won’t need much cash. However, if you plan to shop in local markets, take tuk-tuks, or eat in small restaurants, cash is necessary.
💡 Tip: Keep a mix of small bills (KES 50, 100, 200) for everyday spending and larger notes (KES 500, 1,000) for bigger purchases.
7. Scams & Safety Tips for Handling Money in Shanzu
Shanzu is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, money-related scams exist.
🚫 Avoid These Common Scams:
❌ Fake tour operators asking for full payment upfront.
❌ Street money exchangers offering too-good-to-be-true rates.
❌ Pickpocketing in crowded markets – keep your cash in a secure money belt or bag.
🛡️ Safe Money Practices:
✅ Use official banks, ATMs, and forex bureaus.
✅ Keep some money in your hotel safe and only carry what you need.
✅ Always count your change before leaving a shop or market.
Final Thoughts: The Best Payment Option for Travelers in Shanzu
For the best travel experience, use a mix of payment options:
✅ Cash for small purchases & local markets
✅ M-Pesa for taxis, shopping, and fast transactions
✅ Credit/Debit Cards for hotels & restaurants
✅ ATMs for cash withdrawals when needed
By planning your currency and payment options wisely, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free trip to Shanzu.
For a luxurious and hassle-free stay, book at Shanzu Beachfront Apartments Ltd, where you’ll find secure payment options, reliable internet, and easy access to ATMs & forex bureaus.
📞 Call: +254733993375 / +254735140150
📍 Location: Pangoni Road, Off Serena Road, Eden Beach, Shanzu, Mombasa
🔗 Visit: www.shanzubeachfront.com
💵🌴 Enjoy your trip to Shanzu and stay financially prepared
