Cameroon Cash vs. Credit Cards | 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.