Is cash still widely used?
Yes, almost entirely. Bolivia is one of South America’s most cash-based countries. Markets, local transport, restaurants, guesthouses, and most businesses across the country require boliviano cash. Card acceptance is essentially limited to a handful of upscale hotels in La Paz and Santa Cruz.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in La Paz, Sucre, and larger cities. Banco Nacional de Bolivia and BancoSol machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 20 BOB per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Withdrawal limits can be low — typically 1,500-2,000 BOB per transaction
- Uyuni and smaller towns have ATMs but they can run out of cash
Card acceptance
Very low. A small number of upscale hotels in La Paz and Santa Cruz accept cards. Everywhere else requires boliviano cash.
Tips for travelers
- Carry plenty of bolivianos for salt flat tours, markets, and all daily spending
- Uyuni tour operators may accept USD or cards for large packages — confirm in advance
- Altitude sickness is a serious concern in La Paz (3,600m) and the Altiplano
- Tipping is appreciated — 10% in restaurants is becoming more common