Do I Need Cash at the Ivory Coast Entry Point?

Yes, it is recommended to carry some cash when arriving at the Ivory Coast port of entry, especially for visa-on-arrival payments and other entry-related fees.

Why do I Need Cash When Entering Ivory Coast?

Here’s why:

1. Visa Fees

If you are obtaining a visa on arrival, you will need to pay the fee in cash at the Abidjan airport (Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport). Typically, in CFA Francs (the local currency).

2. Transportation Costs

Local taxis or airport shuttles often accept only cash, particularly in CFA francs. Having small denominations (1,000–5,000 CFA) is useful.

3. Emergency or Unexpected Expenses

In case of delays or document issues, you may need to pay for printing, internet, or phone services, which are usually cash-only.

4. Small Purchases and Tips

- Airport Amenities: Food stalls, coffee shops, or small shops at the airport typically accept only cash for items like snacks, water, or SIM cards. A bottle of water costs ~500 CFA ($1 USD), and a local SIM card with data may cost 2,000–5,000 CFA ($3–$8 USD).

- Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping luggage porters or taxi drivers 500–1,000 CFA ($1–$2 USD) is customary for good service. Cash is needed for these small gratuities.

5. Currency Exchange

ATMs and currency exchange booths are available at the airport, but it’s wise to have at least €50–100 or 30,000–60,000 CFA in cash for convenience.

Practice Tips

How much cash should I carry at the Ivory Coast port of entry?

Carry 50,000–100,000 CFA ($80–$160 USD) for taxis, tips, and small purchases. Declare amounts over 500,000 CFA to customs.

Can I use credit cards at Abidjan airport?

Limited. Taxis and small vendors require cash, but some airport shops may accept Visa cards. Use cards cautiously due to fraud risks.

Is there an ATM at Port Bouet Airport?

Yes, but ATMs may not accept all cards and can run out of cash. Carry some CFA francs as a backup.

To avoid any issues, it’s best to carry sufficient cash in CFA Francs or a widely accepted currency like USD or EUR. You can exchange money at the airport or use ATMs if available.

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