Cameroon Currency and Money | africatourvisa

Cameroon Cash vs. Credit Cards

• Cash is King: Cameroon operates largely as a cash economy. For most day-to-day transactions, especially outside of major cities, cash is essential. This includes local markets, smaller shops, taxis, and many restaurants.
• Credit Card Acceptance: While credit cards (Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted) are gaining some traction, their use is limited. You might be able to use them in:
• Larger hotels (especially international chains) in Douala and Yaoundé.
• Some upscale restaurants and supermarkets in major cities.
• Certain travel agencies or tour operators.
• It's always wise to ask in advance if a business accepts credit cards before assuming.
• Fraud Risk: Be mindful of credit card and ATM fraud. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN and be cautious about suspicious-looking card readers.

ATMs and Banking in Cameroon

• ATM Availability: ATMs are primarily found in major cities like Douala, Yaoundé, and Limbe. Their availability can be less reliable in smaller towns or rural areas.
• Foreign Cards: While some ATMs accept international cards (Visa and MasterCard are best), not all do. It's advisable to use ATMs located inside or directly outside bank branches for better security and reliability.
• Withdrawal Limits: Be aware of daily withdrawal limits, which can be lower than what you're used to in your home country.
• Cameroon Bank Branches: Major banks with a presence in Cameroon include: Ecobank, Standard Chartered Bank, Société Générale Cameroun, Access Bank, Citi (primarily for corporate and public sector clients, but useful for understanding the banking landscape).
• Exchange Services: You can exchange major foreign currencies (USD, EUR) at banks, official currency exchange bureaus, and some larger hotels. Euros are generally easier to exchange than US Dollars due to the fixed exchange rate.

Cameroon Traveler's Cheques

• Traveler's Cheques Traveler's cheques are not widely accepted and can be difficult to cash. If you do bring them, ensure they are in Euros or US Dollars, but rely on them as a last resort.
• Mobile Money | Growing Popularity: Mobile money services (e.g., MTN Mobile Money, Orange Money) are becoming increasingly popular in Cameroon for local transactions, especially for remittances and smaller payments. While primarily used by locals, some tourists might find them useful if they have a local SIM card and account.

Cameroon Key Recommendations for Tourists:

• Carry Enough Cash: Always have a good supply of Central African CFA Francs, especially smaller denominations, for daily expenses and when traveling outside major cities.
• Exchange Money Strategically: Exchange a sufficient amount of your currency into XAF at reputable banks or exchange bureaus upon arrival at the airport or in major cities.
• Use ATMs in Secure Locations: When withdrawing cash, prioritize ATMs inside or attached to bank branches during business hours.
• Inform Your Bank: Let your home bank know about your travel plans to Cameroon to prevent your cards from being blocked due to suspicious activity.
• Consider a Travel Card: Companies like Wise (formerly TransferWise) and Revolut offer multi-currency debit cards that can be loaded with XAF or allow for competitive exchange rates when spending. These can be a secure and convenient alternative to traditional credit/debit cards for withdrawals and larger purchases where cards are accepted.
• Emergency Funds: Have a backup plan for funds, such as a separate debit/credit card or a small amount of emergency cash in a secure location. Western Union and MoneyGram are options for emergency transfers.

Food (Per Day) in Cameroon

• Street Food / Local Eateries (Cheap Restaurant): Very affordable. A meal can cost FCFA 1,200 - 3,000 (approx. $2 - $5 USD).
• Mid-Range Restaurants: A meal for one can be FCFA 3,000 - 12,000 (approx. $5 - $20 USD). A three-course meal for two could range from FCFA 8,000 - 40,000 (approx. $13 - $65 USD).
• Fast Food (e.g., local equivalent of McDonald's): Around FCFA 2,800 (approx. $5 USD).
• Groceries (if self-catering): Monthly groceries for one person could be FCFA 60,000 - 150,000 (approx. $100 - $250 USD), depending on where you shop (local markets are cheaper than supermarkets, and imported goods are more expensive).

Cameroon Visa Costs (Essential Pre-Trip Expense)

eVisa (Consular Fee): visas

• Short Stay (1-180 days): Around €153 - €206 (approx. $165 - $220 USD).
• Long Stay (181-360 days): Around €305 - €326 (approx. $330 - $350 USD).
• Transit Visa: Around €153 (approx. $165 USD).
• xpress/Urgent Processing: Additional fees apply, increasing the cost. For example, an expedited 6-month single entry visa through a third-party service might cost around $303 - $414 USD (including consular and service fees).
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: Costs vary by country and provider, but budget for this mandatory vaccine.

Cameroon Travel FAQ

Here's a comprehensive FAQ about Cameroonian visas, incorporating the latest information and common queries: Travel FAQ

Visiting Cameroon

Visiting Cameroon can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a unique blend of diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich wildlife, earning it the moniker "Africa in Miniature."

Best Time to Visit Cameroon

The ideal time to visit Cameroon is during the dry season, from November to February.

Cameroon Law

Cameroon Travel Advisories

When planning travel to Cameroon, it's essential to use official and up-to-date sources for information on visas, safety, and general travel advice.

• Website: Embassy of Cameroon
• U.S. Department of State
• 北京市人民政府外事办公室 Travel Alerts
• Government of Canada Travel Advice
• UK Foreign travel advice
• Smartraveller Advice & Safety
• RU Cameroon Advisories
• SafeTravel Page updated
• CIA Travel Facts
• Business Travel