Lost my card to an ATM in Guinea

Happened to me in Kankan at an Orabank ATM. The machine took my card but at least displayed a receipt saying “retained.” I asked a taxi to take me to the Orabank branch, and they confirmed they had it. Picked it up next morning, no fee. Took patience but it worked out. I now only withdraw during weekdays when I know the branch is open. Weekend withdrawals in Guinea are risky, because if something goes wrong, you’re stuck with no help until Monday.

If you’re still nearby, check which bank’s ATM it was. Ecobank, Orabank, and BICIGUI are the main ones in Guinea. Walk into the branch with your passport and explain. They usually retrieve swallowed cards once the technician opens the ATM, typically the next day. My experience in Conakry airport was that Ecobank staff were helpful and gave my Mastercard back in 48 hours. It’s stressful but solvable if you’re not leaving immediately. Meanwhile, try to carry USD - everyone here takes it for bigger payments.

Honestly, Guinea is not the place to rely on ATMs. My Visa card was swallowed at a BICIGUI machine in Kaloum, and the staff just told me “come back Monday” - but I was leaving on Saturday night. I ended up blocking the card on my Wise app and borrowed cash from a colleague. You’ll probably need to chase the branch directly, but don’t expect speed. If you need money urgently, money changers near Madina or in Kaporo are reliable, though you’ll get piles of francs since notes are low denomination.

I had my card eaten by an Ecobank ATM in Conakry near Madina Market. The guard told me to return the next day. Sure enough, inside the branch they had a drawer full of swallowed cards. They asked for my passport, I signed a paper, and they handed it back. It took about 24 hours. Guinea is still cash-heavy, so if you’re waiting, make sure you have francs guinéens in hand. Hotels like Riviera Royal sometimes exchange USD or EUR if you’re stuck. Don’t panic, but go to the branch early.