ATMs in Angola keep asking Accept or Decline Conversion - what does that mean? Shows high charges for this
If you’re getting that Accept/Decline Conversion prompt in Angola, hit Decline. I tested both options using my Revolut card at Banco BIC and the difference was huge - the conversion rate was far worse when I accepted. Dynamic Currency Conversion in Angola is a common pitfall for tourists. It’s designed to look helpful but usually includes an extra fee hidden in the rate. Declining gives you the rate your bank sets, which is almost always better. Just be alert - it’s easy to click the wrong one if you’re rushing.
I had no idea what that message meant at first and clicked “Accept,” thinking I was avoiding surprise charges. Instead, I got slammed with a terrible exchange rate at a Banco Keve machine in Huambo. Later I realized Accepting Conversion in Angola ATMs lets the local bank set the rate - and they take a big cut. Always choose “Decline” and confirm that your withdrawal will be in kwanza (AOA), not USD or EUR. After that lesson, I stuck with BFA ATMs and double-checked every screen. It makes a big difference on longer trips.
Yeah, that screen’s a trap. When I hit "Accept Conversion" on my first withdrawal at a Banco Sol ATM, I got a worse rate and an extra markup. Total scam move. Always hit "Decline" when Angolan ATMs ask about conversion. It means you’re letting your own bank do the exchange - way safer and cheaper. I was using a Wise card, and after switching to Decline, I saved about $6 per transaction. The trick is that they phrase it like it’s helpful, but it’s not. Just always go with your home currency.
That prompt is known as Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). If you hit “Accept,” the Angolan ATM converts your withdrawal into your home currency - usually at a terrible exchange rate. I tested this at a BIC ATM in Luanda and lost nearly 9% on the transaction when I accepted. Foreign travelers using ATMs in Angola should always hit “Decline” so your home bank handles the conversion at a far better rate. It might seem counterintuitive, but declining gives you more control. Keep an eye out, especially at standalone ATMs in hotels and airports - those are the worst offenders.