Venezuela's currency is the Bolívar Soberano (VES), which replaced the Bolivar Fuerte (VEF) in August 2018. It is divided into 100 centimos. US dollars are the most favoured foreign currency so it is best to have cash in USD. Foreign currency can be changed at bureau de change offices found in most larger cities and tourist destinations. Some banks will now buy US dollars for bolivares or sell bolivares against a foreign credit card; some major hotels will also swap US dollars for bolivares. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday. Bolivars should be exchanged before exiting Venezuela. There are ATMs in the cities (however some travellers have experienced problems using them), and most credit cards, including MasterCard/Eurocard and Visa, are accepted in major cities. Visitors are also warned that there is a serious problem with credit card fraud and using credit/debit cards will greatly increase trip expenses.
