Senegal is part of the French Monetary Area. Only currency issued by the Banque des Etats de l'Afrique de l'Ouest (Bank of West African States) is valid; currency issued by the Banque des Etats de l'Afrique Centrale (Bank of Central African States) is not. The CFA Franc is pegged to the Euro.

American Express is the most widely accepted, although Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa have limited use. Commissions are added for the use of credit cards and many businesses may not accept payments with foreign cards. It is best to carry cash for the majority of transactions

There are ATMs throughout Senegal (although they are more limited outside the cities) and they are fairly widespread throughout Dakar. However, many do not accept foreign cards.

Traveller's cheques are easy to cash in Dakar. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take them in euros rather than dollars. There is limited or no acceptance outside Dakar, however.

Banking hours: 

Mon-Fri 0800-1115 and 1430-1630.

 

Import of local and foreign currency is unlimited but subject to declaration. Export of local currency is restricted to XOF20,000. Export of foreign currency is limited to XOF50,000.

Money-changers can be found throughout Senegal, with exchange rates generally more favourable at border points. However, be careful to keep your money in a secure place and watch out for scams.

The following may be imported into Senegal by travellers over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.

• 1 bottle of spirits and 1 bottle of wine.

• 1 bottle of perfume and 1 bottle of eau de toilette.

Prohibited items include obscene publications, narcotics and subversive publications.

Restricted items requiring a permit include firearms and ammunition, medicines (other than for personal use), meat and endangered species.

Banned exports: 

Restricted exports requiring authorisation include leather, salt, gold and endangered species.