Guinea
Money in Guinea: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use cash for most purchases in Guinea; bring US dollars or euros to exchange, as ATMs are scarce and cards work only in a few large Conakry hotels. Tip around 5‑10 % of the bill when service is good.
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Key facts
- Currency
- Guinean franc (GNF)
- USD‑GNF ratecheck
- ≈ 8,600 GNF per US$ (2026 estimate)
- Cash necessity
- 5 (scale: cash essential)
- ATMs
- Few; not all accept foreign cards
- Card acceptance
- Limited to major hotels in Conakry
- Typical tip
- 5‑10 % of bill
Quick answer
Cash is king in Guinea. Exchange US dollars or euros at banks or licensed bureaus, keep a day’s worth of small notes, and use cards only in upscale Conakry hotels.
ATMs and cards
ATMs exist in Conakry but are few and often reject foreign cards. Most travellers rely on cash. Bring US dollars or euros; banks and licensed exchange bureaus will convert to GNF. The largest note is 20,000 GNF, so a day’s cash can be a thick stack. Credit and debit cards work only in large hotels and some upscale restaurants in Conakry; elsewhere cash is required.
Tipping
Tipping is not compulsory but appreciated. In restaurants, hotels and for guides, leave 5‑10 % of the total bill. For taxi drivers and porters, round up the fare or give a small amount (≈ 1,000‑2,000 GNF).
- Restaurants: 5‑10 % of the bill
- Guides: 5‑10 % of tour cost
- Taxi/porters: round up or 1,000‑2,000 GNF
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Guinea?
The Guinean franc (GNF) is the official currency.
Should I use cash or a card in Guinea?
Cash is needed for most purchases; cards work only in a few large Conakry hotels.
How much should I tip in Guinea?
Tip about 5‑10 % in restaurants and for guides; round up taxi fares or give 1,000‑2,000 GNF to porters.
Can I use US dollars directly in Guinea?
Some hotels and tour operators accept US dollars, but most transactions require Guinean francs. Exchange at banks or licensed bureaus.
Are there ATMs in Guinea that accept foreign cards?
ATMs are scarce in Conakry and often reject foreign cards. Bring enough cash for your trip.
Check live
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Guinea guide
Ask about Guinea
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