Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Eritrea: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
Eritrea’s banking infrastructure for tourists is very limited. My Western cards failed at ATMs, so airport currency exchange was my main source of cash. The rates aren’t amazing but it’s better than nothing. Best to come prepared with plenty of hard currency.
From what I experienced, airport exchange in Eritrea is your best bet on arrival unless you have access to a UnionPay card. ATMs are mostly for locals, and foreign cards rarely work well. The counter rates are okay if you avoid the obvious rip-offs.
I tried my Visa at a couple of ATMs in Asmara, but none worked with foreign cards. The airport exchange counter wasn’t great but it was my only option for local money. Bring some Euros or USD ahead, as cash is king here.
Eritrea’s ATM scene is pretty minimal, especially for foreigners. I had a better exchange rate getting cash at the airport exchange counter in Asmara because most local ATMs don’t accept foreign cards, or charge very high fees. If you have local currency, it’s easiest.