Traveling with an Amex - will I be able to use it widely in Djiboutior should I carry a backup Visa/Mastercard?
I’d recommend not depending on Amex in Djibouti. While some upmarket hotels take it, most places don't. I found it useful to carry Visa and Mastercard, and always some local cash (DJF) for markets or transport. It’s better to be prepared with cards that have lots of global acceptance here.
Using Amex in Djibouti felt frustrating because it was barely accepted. Visa or Mastercard was the way to go for everything from taxi fares to meals. Also, the main banks like Bank of Djibouti or Banque pour le Commerce et l’Industrie offer ATMs that work better with Visa/Mastercard.
From my experience, Amex isn’t widely accepted in Djibouti. It’s better to have a Visa or Mastercard for everyday purchases and ATM withdrawals. Few places outside luxury hotels take Amex, and ATMs rarely dispense cash for it. Having cash in hand is also helpful since many smaller vendors don’t accept cards at all.
In Djibouti, Amex acceptance is very limited. Most shops, restaurants, and ATMs expect Visa or Mastercard. I had trouble using Amex except at a handful of international hotels in Djibouti City, so I always suggest carrying a reliable Visa or Mastercard as a backup and some cash in Djiboutian franc.