Venezuela — Currency & Money

The bolívar (VES) has been redenominated three times (most recently in 2021, dropping six zeros) and the economy is de facto dollarised: US dollar cash in small, crisp bills is the working currency everywhere. Foreign bank cards do not work in ATMs and are accepted only at a handful of upscale hotels; locals transact by Zelle and bolívar transfer, neither practical for visitors. That means bringing your entire budget in USD cash split across your person and luggage — an obvious risk that is itself part of why casual tourism here is hard to do safely. Torn or marked bills are refused. Tipping in small USD notes is standard and welcome.