FWIW, I don't think it will take long for our shares to convert to Kinross. It's in K's best interest to get it done quickly. I can't really say how long it will take of course - this is the first time for me as well (I sold some shares in the recent mini-rally but I still hold the bulk of them untendered)
If you have big exposure and are worried about a falling market let me suggest put options on K. These will go up in value as the underlying shares go down, thus locking in your price. Talk to your broker about this and they will find the right combination for you. Don't try to do it yourself unless you know how. Options are tricky and best left to the pros.
Hope that helps.
ebear