Wondering if I need cash for taxis in Cameroon or if I can just pay with card or app like in other countries?
From my experience, Cameroon taxis don’t do cards at all. It’s straight-up cash, and usually you need to bargain before hopping in. The fares are inexpensive, but it helps to carry smaller notes, because drivers rarely have change. Apps like Uber or Bolt aren’t present here, so you’re dealing directly with drivers every time. My tip: get cash from ATMs in the main towns, and keep enough on hand since taxis are an everyday thing if you’re moving around.
My time in Cameroon showed me that taxis run only on cash. You negotiate the fare before the ride, and then settle in CFA francs at the end. Cards aren’t part of the system. Even hotels that take cards for rooms will tell you to carry cash for taxis. I found ATMs in the cities fairly reliable, but I wouldn’t leave it last minute because sometimes they’re offline. Definitely no apps, so cash is your only option everywhere.
I quickly realized taxis in Cameroon are cash-only. When I first arrived, I asked a driver if I could use my card, and he laughed-it’s just not part of how transport works here. Fares are cheap, but you do need local currency, so keep plenty of CFA francs with you. ATMs exist, but depending on the area, they can be unreliable. Don’t rely on apps either; everything is direct negotiation. Carrying cash makes things smoother and avoids any awkward moments.
In Cameroon, taxis are absolutely cash-based. I tried in Yaoundé and Douala, and none of the drivers had card machines. You also won’t find ride-hailing apps like Uber operating here. Fares are usually small, so drivers expect coins or low denomination CFA francs. If you try paying with big bills, it’s a headache because many can’t give change. Best advice is to withdraw enough cash early and keep smaller notes for taxis. Don’t bother asking about cards-it isn’t a thing.