So this whole Equatorial Guinea trip almost went sideways right from day one, all thanks to cash problems. Seriously, wish I’d had this guide myself back then.
Getting My Hands on CFA Francs
Thought I was slick bringing Euros instead of Dollars into Malabo. Big mistake. Pulled out my crisp €50 at a tiny exchange booth near the port. Guy squinted at me like I’d handed him play money. “No Euro. CFA only,” he mumbled, shoving my bill back. Had to trek three blocks to a shady back-alley place just to get some francs. Got ripped off so bad.
Felt stupid when I realized later: you CAN bring Euros, but literally nobody uses them on the street. Learned that the hard way.
The Taxi Driver Disaster
Hopped in a cab from the airport into town. Driver quoted me 5000 CFA. Seemed okay… until later when my coffee cost 2500 CFA. Realized I paid double. Blamed the colorful bills making my head spin. They got:
- 10,000 franc notes in bright orange like toy money
- Weird little 100 franc coins nobody accepts
- A giant 500 franc coin that actually looks useful
Driver saw my dumb tourist face immediately. Charged me extra because my 5000 franc note had a small tear. Swore it was “unacceptable”. Total scam.
Paying With Cards? Forget It.
Lunch spot on Day 3 looked legit. Swiped my card, terminal blinked error. Cashier shrugged. “Network problem,” she said without looking up. Had to wash dishes? Nah, joke. Wandered three streets to find an ATM machine. Charged me 8% to pull out cash. WIFE rolled her eyes SO hard.
Rule here: Bring double the cash you think you need. Fancy restaurants? Still cash-only. Nice hotel? Cash deposit required. Want bottled water? Better have coins.
That Stupid Street Market Trip
Tried buying carved wooden statue near the church. Seller looked offended when I offered euros. Then I gave him 10,000 CFA note for something worth 2000 CFA. He waved me off – NO CHANGE. Stood there awkwardly holding this ugly statue while he served other customers. Finally got smaller bills from another seller. Paid the guy. He mumbled something rude. Not sure if I got ripped off or just traumatized.
Key lessons learned:
- Carry TONS of 500 & 1000 franc bills
- Check EVERY note for tears/stains (seriously, they reject anything)
- Bring cash in like three different bag pockets
- Keep euros ONLY for backups, not daily use
Honestly? The money stress almost ruined the first week for me. Wrote this thing so you don’t end up scowling at your wallet in some hot alleyway like I did. Next time? I’d pack CFA francs like toilet paper.
