Djibouti
Money in Djibouti: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Djiboutian francs for most cash purchases; US dollars and euros are accepted in hotels and by tour operators. Cards work at larger hotels and supermarkets, but carry cash for taxis, markets and excursions. Tip about 5‑10% of the bill.
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GuideDjibouti
Key facts
- Official currency
- Djiboutian franc (DJF)
- USD/EUR acceptance
- Widely accepted in hotels and tour operators
- ATM locations
- City centre and major hotels only
- Card acceptance
- Larger hotels, supermarkets, some restaurants
- Typical tip
- 5‑10% of bill
Currency and payment methods
The Djiboutian franc (DJF) is the legal tender. It is pegged at roughly 177.7 DJF per US$1, so conversion is straightforward. US dollars and euros are also accepted in most hotels, tour operators and some larger shops, but prices are usually quoted in francs.
ATMs are limited to the capital, Djibouti‑City, and a few large hotels. Expect none in smaller towns or remote sites such as Lac Assal or Moucha Island. Bring enough cash for day trips, taxis, and market purchases.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work at major hotels, supermarkets and a handful of restaurants. Smaller eateries, street vendors and many taxis are cash‑only. Keep a small amount of francs for tips and incidental costs.
- Carry at least 10,000 DJF (~US$55) for daily cash needs.
- Check exchange rates at hotels or official exchange bureaus; avoid street changers.
- Notify your bank of travel to Djibouti to prevent card blocks.
Tipping in Djibouti
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, especially in hotels and for guides. A tip of 5‑10% of the bill is customary for restaurant service. For drivers, guides and porters, a small cash tip (around 2,000 DJF, ~US$11) per day is a good guideline.
- Restaurants: 5‑10% of the total bill.
- Guides/drivers: 2,000 DJF per day per person.
- Hotel staff (porters, housekeeping): 1,000‑2,000 DJF per service.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Djibouti?
The Djiboutian franc (DJF) is the official currency; US dollars and euros are also widely accepted in hotels and by tour operators.
Should I use cash or a card in Djibouti?
Use cash (francs) for most daily purchases, taxis and markets; cards work at larger hotels, supermarkets and some restaurants, but not everywhere.
How much should I tip in Djibouti?
Tip about 5‑10% of restaurant bills; give guides, drivers and porters roughly 2,000 DJF per day.
Can I use US dollars everywhere?
No. Hotels and tour operators accept dollars, but small shops, taxis and markets expect Djiboutian francs. Carry a mix.
Are ATMs available outside Djibouti City?
Almost none. Withdraw enough cash in the capital before heading to Lac Assal, Moucha Island or Tadjoura.
Is Djibouti expensive for travellers?
Yes. Most food and goods are imported, so daily costs are high by East African standards. Budget travellers need about US$70–145 per day.
Check live
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Djibouti guide
Ask about Djibouti
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