Money in Cameroon: FCFA, cards, cash machines and Mobile Money
Updated on 23 October 2026 · 6 min read
In Cameroon you pay in Central African CFA francs (FCFA), fixed to the euro at 655.957 FCFA. Day to day, people pay in cash or with Mobile Money far more than by card. Here is how to bring, withdraw and spend money without stress, and how family abroad can send you money in minutes.
The currency: the CFA franc
- 1 euro = 655.957 FCFA, a fixed rate. For a quick sum, 10,000 FCFA is a little over 15 euros.
- The same franc (code XAF) is used in the six CEMAC countries: Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, Chad, the Central African Republic and Equatorial Guinea.
- Other currencies (Canadian or US dollars, pounds) are exchanged at a variable rate; euros are the easiest to change.
Cash, cards and cash machines
| Means | Where it works | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Cash (FCFA) | Everywhere: taxis, markets, small restaurants, tips | Keep small notes; change for big notes can be hard to find. |
| Bank card | Hotels, supermarkets, some restaurants and shops | Visa is the most widely accepted. Tell your bank before travelling. |
| Cash machines | Banks in Douala, Yaoundé and the big towns | Withdraw in the daytime, inside a bank or a mall when possible. Rare in villages. |
| Mobile Money | Almost everywhere, from taxis to markets | MTN MoMo or Orange Money, on a local SIM registered in your name. |
Mobile Money: how visitors use it
- 1Buy a SIMMTN or Orange, at an official shop, with your passport: the SIM is registered in your name.
- 2Open the walletMTN MoMo or Orange Money is opened on the same SIM, usually at the shop.
- 3Top upDeposit cash with an agent (they are on every street), or receive a transfer from abroad.
- 4Pay and sendPay merchants, send money to family or a driver, withdraw cash from an agent when needed.
Sending money from abroad
Family abroad can send money straight to an MTN MoMo or Orange Money wallet with transfer apps such as Remitly, WorldRemit, Taptap Send, Western Union or Orange Money International; it often arrives in minutes. Fees and exchange rates differ a lot from one service to another: compare the amount actually received in FCFA, not only the fee. Wallets have daily limits, so split large amounts or use a bank transfer.
Safety with money
- Carry what you need for the day; leave the rest in the apartment.
- Do not count money in the street or at the cash machine.
- Split cash between two places (wallet and bag).
- Leaving the country with 5 million FCFA or more in cash must be declared.
Paying for your stay with us
A 30% deposit secures your dates and the balance is due by the day of arrival. Our payment options and conditions are explained when your booking is confirmed; see also our cancellation policy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the exchange rate between the euro and the FCFA?
It is fixed: 1 euro = 655.957 FCFA.
Can I use my bank card in Cameroon?
In hotels, supermarkets and some restaurants, yes; Visa is the most widely accepted. Day to day, cash and Mobile Money are used much more.
Can a visitor use Mobile Money in Cameroon?
Yes. Buy an MTN or Orange SIM with your passport, open the MoMo or Orange Money wallet on it, then top it up with an agent or receive transfers from abroad.
How can family abroad send me money in Cameroon?
With transfer apps that pay straight into an MTN MoMo or Orange Money wallet, often in minutes. Compare the amount received in FCFA between services.