La Paz - Post Report Question and Answers
Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and larger stores, but you still need lots of cash. ATMs are common and have yet to have problems. - Jan 2024
Kind of. A lot of stores will accept but it is a big cash economy. And they don't like large bills. ATM's usually have fees for US cards. - Aug 2022
Yes. - Dec 2019
Credit cards are widely accepted at most of the nicer restaurants. We make most of our payments and purchases in cash, from the fruit market to dance classes. - Feb 2019
Yes to all. - Sep 2016
So far so good. Prefer chip technology here. - Jun 2015
I haven't heard of any issues using ATMs in terms of theft. Not all ATMs accept my debit card, so sometimes I have to go hunting for one that will. Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and big stores. Smaller restaurants and shops will only take cash. - Apr 2015
I wouldn't. - Nov 2014
You can use local ATMs here but it may take a few tries to find one that works with your U.S. bank. Withdrawal limits are pretty low (US$50-75) as are credit card purchase limits imposed by local banks so you may have trouble with larger purchases. Sometimes this can be solved by charging a lesser amount several times. It's still primarily a cash economy. If you use your ATM and credit card, monitor your account closely for fraud, it happens. Most embassy staff cash personal checks at the Bisa bank in the Embassy or use the ATM in the lobby. - Jan 2014
Never had any problems. I usually use cash and use the same ATMs. - Jul 2013
Be careful. Our credit card info was stolen from an ATM machine within 30 days of our arrival in country. We use cash for everything now. You are able to withdraw USD from the embassy cashier, and then you can exchange it on the economy for a better rate. - Jun 2013
The embassy offers cashier service and ATM; there are also plenty through the city. Like always, be vigilant. - Jul 2012
I cash money at the Embassy, but machines are available around the city. - Feb 2012
Avoid using them or carrying them around due to the growing rate of express kidnapping. - Aug 2011
More places are accepting credit cards and ATMS work in many places. Use caution. The embassy has an ATM machine for employees and family members. My family and I use either the embassy ATM or ATM at the Mall (inside). - May 2011
The are ATMs throughout the city but the use of credit cards is limited. It is better to carry cash with you but not a lot. - May 2011
I don't use credit cards or carry them in my wallet, just to be safe. ATM cards are generally okay, they can be used at the grocery stores. ATM machines are available, but most people only use the ones where bank guards are standing nearby. Cash is still necessary in most places! - Mar 2011
Safe. - Aug 2010
We used ATMs all the time as well as our credit cards. - Jan 2010
Some problems with ATMs, but the ones attached to banks are fine. I have used them the past year with no problems. - Aug 2009
