Prepare your trip
Money, prices and bargaining with confidence.
Prepare your payments, understand a price and bargain respectfully.
Which currency is used?
Senegal uses the West African CFA franc (XOF). Consult BCEAO for reference exchange rates; the amount actually received depends on the service and its fees. Confirm accepted cards with each venue, ATM charges with the bank and exchange services with an identified operator. Separate meals, visits, transfers and a personal buffer in your travel budget.
Agree the price before starting
Ask for the total price, currency and inclusions before a ride, outing or order. Have the amount written down if spoken numbers are unclear. For a group, clarify whether the price is per person or for everyone. Keep a backup payment method and check withdrawal and payment fees with your bank; our catalogue does not provide live exchange rates.
Bargaining is not about winning at any cost
Begin with a greeting, inspect the item and ask whether the price is fixed. If bargaining is welcome, suggest a reasonable amount you are willing to pay. You can leave politely if the agreement does not suit you. Do not bargain over a lengthy service after it has been performed. At a shop with displayed prices, restaurant or ticket desk, do not assume bargaining is expected.
Small payments and tips
Our advice: keep small notes for everyday purchases without displaying all your cash. Ask whether service is included before leaving a tip. Leydimen sets no universal percentage: context and your judgement matter. At a market, a simple “Ñaata la?” can start the exchange; then confirm the amount in digits before paying.
Sources and verification
Documentary research and editorial advice. No field visit claimed.