Democratic Republic of Congo

Money & costs

Money

The local currency is the Congolese franc (CDF); it cannot be converted and cannot be taken out of the country. With individual note denominations nearly worthless it is often easier to use US dollars, though you should be careful not to use old dollar bills or small denominations (anything below a US$20 note).

Travellers cheques and credit cards are rarely accepted here; credit cards are only accepted in one or two upmarket hotels in Kinshasa. Your best bet is to travel with a carefully concealed money belt containing US dollars.

You can change money around the port, but it’s better to find a reliable contact (ask around where you are staying).