I used my US card in Senegal & the ATM just asked me Accept or Decline Conversion - I feel like I should choose Accept coz it seems more appealing but it had these super confusing numbers on the screen saying 8% markup so not sure. What should I do?
Accepting that conversion at Senegal ATMs is like paying a secret tax. Use Ecobank or Banque Populaire machines and decline conversion. Carry cash in CFA francs for remote areas.
I’ve always declined conversion in Senegal and saved tons. The ‘Accept’ route is a shortcut to losing cash unnoticed. Use your card at Mobile Money ATMs or big banks with good reputations. Check your bank’s foreign transaction fees before you go.
Senegal’s ATM conversion pop-ups can be tricky. That 8% fee is a money trap. Decline conversion and let Mastercard or Visa do the exchange-they usually have better rates. Always keep some West African CFA francs handy in cash.
Using my US card in Senegal, I always chose ‘Decline.’ Accepting those conversion offers sets you up for an 8% markup or higher. Local ATMs in Dakar like those at CBAO or Banque Atlantique work well once you decline the conversion.