Benin Republic currency: naira to CFA, explained simply
Benin Republic uses the West African CFA franc, written CFA or XOF. It's shared by eight countries, including Togo, Senegal and Côte d'Ivoire, so the same money works if you continue your trip to Lomé.
For Nigerians, the currency is the part of the trip that surprises people most. Here's how it works, why prices can feel high, and how to change money without getting cheated.
Today's rate
Use the converter below to see what your naira is worth in CFA right now.
Why the CFA feels so strong
The CFA is fixed to the euro: 655.957 CFA always equals €1. The naira floats, so when the naira weakens, Cotonou feels more expensive for Nigerians, even though local prices haven't changed. Many people remember when the naira was much stronger against the CFA. That's why it's worth checking the rate before you budget.
The notes and coins you'll use
| Type | Values |
|---|---|
| Notes | 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 CFA |
| Coins | Small values, up to 500 CFA |
Small notes are precious. Zémidjan riders, market sellers and small shops often can't change a 10,000 note, so break big notes at supermarkets or your hotel.
Where to change money in Cotonou
A trusted bureau de change: usually the best rate, and the safest option for larger amounts
Banks and ATMs: convenient, but check your Nigerian card works abroad and watch the fees
Your hotel: easy, but the rate is usually weaker
Street changers: avoid them. Fake notes and short counts are a real risk
Changing a larger amount? Meet my dad
My dad has been changing money in Cotonou for 30 years. He's the person our family, our friends and half the neighbourhood go to when they need naira, CFA, pounds or dollars changed fairly and safely. He handles larger amounts, and his team will come and meet you, so you don't have to go looking for a bureau.
Paying for things
Cash is still the norm for taxis, zémidjans, markets and small restaurants. Larger hotels, supermarkets like Erevan and some restaurants accept cards. Locals use mobile money a lot, mainly through MTN and Moov, and a local SIM makes life easier for calls and data.
Tips to avoid losing money
Check the rate before you change, so you know if an offer is fair
Count your money in front of the person, every time
Keep small notes in one pocket and larger notes somewhere safe
Ask the price before you ride or order, especially at small places
Insider tip: Change a little before you travel so you can pay for your first taxi, then change the rest in Cotonou where the rate is usually better.
Frequently asked questions
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The West African CFA franc (XOF), the same currency used across Benin and seven other West African countries.
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Some traders near the border and in busy markets accept naira, but you'll get a poor rate. Change into CFA.
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Yes. Both use the West African CFA franc.
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The West African CFA franc has a fixed exchange rate with the euro, 655.957 CFA to €1, which keeps it stable.
Changing a larger amount? Meet my dad.
Licensed in Cotonou for 30 years. He handles larger amounts, and his team comes to meet you.
- Naira, CFA, pounds, dollars✓
- Larger amounts✓
- His team comes to you✓
