Money, Budget, and Shopping in Bolivia

Money

Currency

Devise: Boliviano (100 centavos).

Billets: 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 Bs.

Pièces: 10, 20 and 50 centavos + 1, 2 and 5 Bs.

Change:

It was in 1986 that the Boliviano replaced the Bolivian Peso, which had been in circulation previously.

Exchange

Major foreign currencies can be exchanged in the country, at least at airports and in cities or tourist areas. In practice, you’ll find exchange counters in most major banks, as well as independent exchange bureaus called casas de cambio, plus ATMs that are increasingly common everywhere. Banks are generally open on weekdays until around 6:00 PM and on Saturday mornings.

Which currency to bring

While the official currency is the Boliviano, it’s often possible to pay directly in US dollars in good condition at upscale hotels and other establishments, as well as with tourism professionals—just make sure the exchange rate offered is fair. So, while you can bring cash in euros, US dollars are also worth having. Otherwise, as always, it’s best to prioritize card payments for simplicity.

Note that some prices are sometimes listed directly in US dollars, especially for tourist services.

Payment methods

Card payments are possible but mainly in hotels, restaurants, rental services, and shops that cater to tourists or have a certain "standard." However, as always, watch out for bank fees if you make too many small purchases or withdrawals. It’s therefore wise to carry a stock of cash in the local currency (small bills preferred) and some US dollars as a backup.

Upon return

While you can exchange leftover Bolivianos before departure, the exchange rates are usually not favorable. The simplest approach is to exchange money as you go, according to your needs.

Budget

Bolivia is an affordable country, in fact the most budget-friendly to travel in all of South America. If you use local transport, eat at small restaurants or markets, and stay in "basic" accommodations, you can get by on around 30 to 40 € per day for two people. However, for more comfort and to enjoy activities like excursions, a slightly higher budget of around 50 € per day is more realistic.

What can be expensive

Flights to get there, especially in high season.

Certain excursions that require guides (Amazon, mountaineering, Salar de Uyuni, etc.) and a minimum budget.

What can be inexpensive

As always, accommodations, local restaurants, and transport.

Price range

Budget double room: around 5 or 6 € for a dorm bed and 15 to 20 € for a double room in many cases.

Mid-range double room: 20 to 30 € for decent comfort.

Local meal: under 2 € at markets, and 4 or 5 € in local eateries.

Tourist restaurant meal: 10 to 15 € for a full meal.

Budget car rental: 30 to 40 € per day for a standard vehicle, and double that for a 4x4.

One hour of bus travel: around 5 € per 100 km with major companies, and less with more basic services.

Bargaining and tips

Bargaining is common in the country, especially in markets or with street vendors. Tips are not mandatory, but it’s always nice to leave a little something if you’re happy with a service, especially given local wages.

Shopping and souvenirs

As you’d expect, it’s in the markets of big cities—and occasionally in village markets—that you’ll discover Bolivia’s wonderful handicrafts. Whether it’s alpaca wool sweaters, hats, scarves, or gloves, traditional ponchos and fabrics, Andean musical instruments, or gold and silver jewelry, everything is negotiable.