Where to exchange money in Dakar
If you’re planning a trip to Dakar, it will definitely be useful to know how to obtain the local currency. Additionally, you may want to be aware of the current exchange rate and the most convenient places to exchange your money.
On this page, we’ll provide you with a list of the best places to exchange currency in Dakar. We’ll also introduce you to an alternative, Wise, which may be more cost-effective and save you the hassle of visiting a physical location
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Currency exchanges in Dakar
If you’re still into the idea of carrying cash around and exchanging it, here are some popular foreign currency exchange locations in Dakar.
One reminder, though: there’s no such thing as fee-free or 0% commission foreign exchange transactions. So, always check the mid-market exchange rate in advance, so you know how much your money’s worth.
| Money Changer | Address | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Bureau de Change S. K. F_Diambar Serigne Mbacke Et Frères | 4 Rue du Liban, Dakar, Senegal | +221 77 635 99 45 |
| Ria Office Senegal | MGWV+Q7M angle Rue 09 bis face rond-point Abdou Aziz SY Dabakh, Bd de l'Est, Dakar, Senegal | +221 33 859 08 90 |
| Bureau De Change Exchange | Dakar, Senegal | +221 77 508 36 29 |
| Change | Rt Ancien 'Aeroport Dakar Yoff, Dakar, Senegal | +221 77 327 46 83 |
| Bureau De Change | QG2M+RJM, Rte de l'Aeroport, Dakar, Senegal | |
| CAMBIO WECHSEL | QH49+5PW, Rte des Niayes, Dakar, Senegal | +221 77 635 84 15 |
| ADM BUSINESS SERVICES | Près de terrain ACAPES, pclles assainir, QH43+663, Dakar, Senegal | +221 33 835 69 25 |
| MoneyGram | Grand Dakar Face Demba Diop Dakar, Dakar 11000, Senegal | +221 33 869 31 30 |
| MoneyGram | Route De Ngor X Route Du Meridien President Dakar, Dakar 11000, Senegal | +221 77 440 76 50 |
| MoneyGram | Lot 31, SEN INTERIM BUILDING, Lot 31 Voie de degagement N, Dakar 00000, Senegal | +221 33 859 29 19 |
| MoneyGram | Cite Apix Lot A No459, MH78+W4C, Rue de la République, Dakar 11000, Senegal | +221 33 869 31 30 |
CFA franc BCEAO rate today
The currency used in Dakar, as well as the rest of Senegal is CFA franc BCEAO.
However, when visiting a currency exchange shop you will notice they use currency codes. The code for CFA franc BCEAO is XOF. Keep an eye out for this if you want to compare exchange rates.
What you should know about exchanging money in Dakar
When exchanging money in Dakar or any foreign city, it's important to be aware how to get the best deals and avoid excessive charges and hidden fees. If you are planning on staying in Senegal long-term or looking to make a larger investment you could consider opening a local bank account. Otherwise, use the tips below to help avoid getting overcharged.
1. Pick local currency on ATMs and card payments
When using an ATM abroad, choose to be charged in CFA franc BCEAO for a fairer rate and fees. The same applies if you get the option on card machines.
2. Know the exchange rate
Check what the current exchange rate is so it's easier to spot a bad deal from currency exchanges.
3. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels
It may be highly convenient, but airports and hotels will almost always offer poor rates and high transaction fees. Avoid this where possible.
4. Use ATMs strategically
Check if your local bank has partnerships in Senegal banks to avoid unwanted ATM fees. Also try to plan ahead and make as few withdrawals as possible to avoid multiple extra fees.
5. Be wary of 'zero fee' services
Some services claiming 'no commission' often offer poor exchange rates. These may not reflect the mid-market rate, similar to what you'd see when checking the rate on Google. This can lead to higher costs for you and more profits for them.
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Bottom line
As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to exchanging money in Dakar. Don't forget to do your research on the exchange rate before converting your money, and check Wise out if you want a fuss-free alternative to exchanging cash.
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