Money & duty free for Bolivia
Exchange rates:
BolivianoC$1 = Bs5.17
€1 = Bs7.26
£1 = Bs8.59
US$1 = Bs6.94
Currency & Money
Boliviano (BOB; symbol Bs), divided into 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of Bs200, 100, 50, 20 and 10, while coins are in denominations of Bs5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20 and 10 centavos.
The boliviano has an official fixed exchange rate against the US dollar, set by the Central Bank of Bolivia at Bs6.86 per US$1 (Bs6.96 selling rate). However, foreign-currency shortages have resulted in a parallel exchange market where rates can differ considerably from the official rate.
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and larger businesses in the main cities and tourist centres. Cash remains important for markets, small shops, taxis and businesses in smaller towns and rural areas. Card acceptance can be limited outside the principal cities, so travellers should carry sufficient cash when travelling to remote areas.
Mobile and QR payments are widely used by Bolivians, particularly in urban areas, but these systems are generally linked to local bank accounts and should not be relied upon by international visitors.
ATMs are widely available in La Paz, Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, Sucre and other larger cities and generally accept major international cards. Availability is much more limited in small towns and remote areas. Withdrawal limits and fees vary between banks, and the traveller's own bank may impose additional charges.
Travellers heading to remote areas, including parts of the Altiplano and Amazon basin, should withdraw sufficient cash beforehand.
There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency, but amounts of US$10,000 or more, or the equivalent in another currency, must be declared. Additional requirements apply to larger amounts.
Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and authorised exchange offices (casas de cambio) in major cities and tourist centres. US dollars are the most readily exchanged foreign currency. Travellers should use banks or established exchange offices rather than informal street money changers.
Bolivia duty free
Travellers entering Bolivia may bring personal belongings and new articles for personal use with a total value of up to US$1,000 without paying customs duty, subject to the applicable conditions. The allowance includes:
• 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500g of tobacco.
• 3 litres of alcoholic beverages.
The duty-free allowance generally applies only when at least 90 days have passed since the traveller last entered Bolivia and used the allowance. Goods must be for personal use and not for commercial purposes.
Duty-free allowances are subject to change, sometimes at short notice due to policy updates or external factors. Information is correct at the time of writing; travellers should verify current allowances with official customs authorities before departure. We accept no liability for any inconvenience or loss arising from changes to these regulations.
Prohibited and restricted imports include illegal drugs, certain weapons and ammunition, and goods subject to agricultural, health or environmental controls. Travellers carrying medicines should keep them in their original packaging and carry the prescription where applicable.
This list is not exhaustive. Travellers should consult the official customs website or contact the embassy or consulate near you for the most up-to-date information.
Restrictions apply to the export of archaeological, historical and cultural objects and certain protected plants and animals.
This list is not exhaustive. Travellers should consult the official customs website or contact the embassy or consulate near you for the most up-to-date information.
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