Are you travelling to Central Africa?

Get the best rates for Central African currency online

Prepare for your Central African journey by ordering your Central African CFA francs from Manor FX today. 

Our excellent Central African franc exchange rates ensure you’ll have extra XAF cash for your trip. 

You can have your banknotes delivered directly to your home or office. Or visit our Manor FX bureau near Heathrow for a convenient pick-up.

Manor FX ensures quick delivery and a straightforward online ordering system for your Central African CFA franc travel funds. Enjoy a hassle-free experience and speedy service.

Central African travel money

Prepare for your Central African adventure with some valuable information about cash and card payments.

What is XAF currency?

XAF is the Central African CFA franc currency – the currency of the Central African Republic.

Which African countries use the CFA franc?

These are the six countries that use the Central African CFA francs.

• Cameroon
• Central African Republic
• Chad
• Republic of the Congo
• Equatorial Guinea
• Gabon

Can I buy CFA francs in the UK?

Yes. But CFA francs are not available at most banks or the Post Office.

We recommend you look no further; our rates are the best in the UK. 

You can choose to have your travel money delivered to your home or office and avoid rubbish airport exchange rates and high fees. Get more XAF money for your travels.

Where can I buy Central African francs?

Buy your Central African francs here at Manor FX.

Get the best central African CFA franc exchange rate and fast, free next-working-day delivery for orders over £750.

Where is the Central African CFA franc zone?

The CFA franc zone comprises 14 sub-Saharan African countries, each belonging to one of two monetary unions. 

The Central Africa CFA franc zone includes Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea (a former Spanish colony), and Gabon.  

The West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) includes Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo. 

What does CFA stand for?

CFA stands for Communauté Financière Africaine or communauté financière d’afrique

(African Financial Community) in the West African context.

It also stands for Coopération Financière en Afrique Centrale (Financial Cooperation in Central Africa) for Central Africa. 

Are XAF and XOF the same currency?

No, XAF and XOF are not the same currency. Both are CFA francs but used in different regions: 

• XAF is the currency code for Central Africa’s six member nations. 
• XOF is used in the West African states. Including former French colonies (colonies Françaises d’Afrique) like Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau. (Get the West African CFA franc here) 

Both currencies are tied to the French Treasury and were initially pegged to the French franc. However, they serve different member countries. 

Should I exchange money before I travel to Central Africa?

Yes, exchanging some money before travelling to Central Africa is advisable. 

Local currency (XAF) is useful for immediate expenses like transport and meals. Especially since many places don’t accept cards. 

It’s also more convenient, as you don’t need to find an exchange office or ATM upon arrival. Plus, you can get better rates at home. 

Carrying some cash serves as an emergency backup in case your cards don’t work. Exchanging money beforehand can avoid high airport fees. 

Use a mix of cash and cards for flexibility during your trip.

Do I need cash in Central Africa?

Yes, cash is essential in Central Africa, especially in rural areas, local markets, and for transportation. 

Credit and debit cards are accepted in some urban areas, but cash is often the primary payment method. Especially in smaller towns and villages where electronic systems are unavailable. 

Cash is also helpful for emergencies, negotiating prices, and covering unexpected expenses. 

ATMs are available in major cities but may be unreliable or inaccessible in remote areas. 

To be prepared, exchange some money before travelling, and keep your cash secure while on the move.

What is the best currency to bring to Central Africa?

Central African CFA franc (XAF): Essential for local transactions, transport, and small purchases.

US dollars (USD): Widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas. Ensure bills are in good condition.

Euros (EUR): Accepted in some areas, especially those with European ties.

A mix of these currencies will ensure you’re prepared for different situations and expenses.

Can I use my bank card in Central Africa?

Yes, you can use your bank card in Central Africa, especially in larger cities like Bangui, Brazzaville, and Yaoundé. Some hotels and malls accept international cards (Visa, Mastercard). 

Local vendors prefer cash or mobile payments like MTM Mobile Money. 

ATMs in major cities allow cash withdrawals in CFA francs but be aware of potential technical issues. 

Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks, and check for foreign transaction fees. 

For security, use ATMs in safe areas and carry cash for smaller expenses and in rural areas where card acceptance is limited.

How much cash should I take to Central Africa?

Daily expenses for tourists in Central Africa vary by budget. 

For budget travellers, expect £30-£80 per day, covering basic accommodations, local food, and public transport. 

Midrange travellers should budget £80-£230 for midrange hotels, restaurants, and occasional taxis daily.  

Luxury travellers can spend £230+ per day on upscale accommodations, fine dining, and private tours. 

Costs differ by country, so research thoroughly and consider additional expenses like visas and travel insurance.

How does tipping work in Central Africa?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Central Africa. Small amounts are given for good service in restaurants, hotels, and tour guides.

Central African currency

Banknotes in Central Africa

Central Africa uses a common currency, the Central African CFA franc (XAF). 

Six Central African countries, which are part of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC), share the currency.

This is a subregion of the larger Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). 

The Central African CFA franc banknotes are available in various denominations, including 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 XAF. Each denomination features different colours and designs, making it easy to distinguish between them.

The banknotes feature various elements that highlight the cultural and natural heritage of the Central African region. These elements often include images of local wildlife, traditional art, and notable landmarks. 

Coins in Central Africa

Central African CFA franc coins come in various denominations, including 1fr, 2fr, 5fr, 10fr, 25fr, 50fr, and 100fr. 

Coin designs often feature national symbols, historical figures, local flora and fauna, or cultural elements.  

Coins are typically made of metals like nickel, brass, and copper. Their material and weight correspond to their denominations.

Central Africa’s currency import and export regulations

Bringing money in and out of Central Africa involves specific currency regulations and limits. 

Cameroon

• When entering Cameroon, travellers must declare any amount of local or foreign currency that exceeds XAF 1,000,000 or its equivalent in other currencies.
• When leaving Cameroon, travellers must declare any foreign or local currency that surpasses XAF 1,000,000 or its equivalent in other currencies.

The Central African Republic

• Upon entering the Central African Republic, travellers must declare any amount of currency, whether local or foreign, exceeding XAF 1,000,000 or equivalent in other currencies. Failing to declare amounts above this threshold may result in confiscation or penalties.
• When departing from the Central African Republic, travellers must declare any amount of local or foreign currency exceeding XAF 1,000,000 or its equivalent in other currencies.

Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon

• Upon entering any of these four countries, travellers must declare any amount of local or foreign currency exceeding a specified threshold.  
• When departing, travellers must declare any amount of foreign or local currency that surpasses a specified threshold. 
• The specific currency import and export limits can vary over time and may be subject to change.
• These limits can vary based on local regulations and policies. Obtaining the most up-to-date information directly from the authorities before your trip is crucial. 

Travellers are generally discouraged from taking excessive amounts of local currency outside the Central African monetary union.

Ordering Central Africa CFA Francs online

Order Central African CFA francs (XAF) online. Get swift and secure delivery right to your doorstep or workplace using Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®.

Alternatively, you can collect your currency at our travel money store located near Heathrow Airport. Convert your British pound to Central African CFA franc now.

Whether you’re looking for:

• Cameroon currency (the currency of Cameroon)
• Central African Republic currency (currency of the Central African Republic)
• Chad currency (the currency of Chad)
• Congo Brazaville currency
• Equatorial Guinea currency
• Gabon currency (the currency of Gabon)

… we’ve got you covered!

Selling back Central Africa CFA Francs 

Got leftover Central African currency to sell? Simply follow this link to exchange Central African francs to GBP. Click on ‘sell currency’ and choose ‘XAF Central African CFA Franc.’ 

We offer competitive rates for your unused CFA francs, ensuring you get the best value for your currency.

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