How do you handle the local payments in US$ for safaris?

Hi there,

I am wondering what is the smartest way of doing all these local payments in US$ for safaris? I plan on doing two safaris in East Africa which require altogether about 1000,- US$ for local payments. I dislike the idea to travel around with that much cash especially since I will be going to some other places before. I am also not too keen on withdrawing first the local currency and then having to exchange it back into US$ because this only leads to loosing money for exchanging it.
Thanks a lot in advance for your help.

Cheers
Ingo

The tour company I went with allowed me to pay in traveler's cheques which was really convenient. They took my credit card number as the deposit but didn't charge it of course (they would charge it if I didn't show up for the safari). I think a lot of reputable safari companies would do this for you. If you want to know the company that I went with, private message me.

If you are takling about incidentals (souvenirs, tips, drinks, etc) most will accept credit cards ot $US. If you are dealing with fixed prices, credit cards or dollars are fine. If you are bargaining in KS or dollars, it almost doesn't matter since whatever currency you deal in you are in control of the amount you offer, so offer 5% or so less to make up for exchange rate. If you also are considering paying tour ooperators, credit cards, wire or cash (bring $s with you or go to a major ATM and it will provide the cash in KS at a bank (better) exchange rate. In any case, for about $1,000 needed, the difference will not be large enough for you to worry about. Just do what is easiest for you and have a great vacation.

Hello Ingo. The best way to handle local payment is by carrying some US dollars to pay for the safari . Then withdraw from ATM the local currency for your own use. Maximum cash withdrawal is 40,000kshs. Dont even think of carrying travellers cheques ,you will have a difficult time since most banks and forex bureaus dont accept them.

Judy