What currency to use in Abkhazia and is it worth taking dollars?

In Abkhazia, the official currency is the Russian ruble. It is the only currency that can be freely and profitably used everywhere: in shops, markets, cafes, and for excursions. The national currency, the apsar, exists but is used only as a collectible coin; it is not involved in real transactions.

If you are traveling from Russia, bring cash rubles. There are no restrictions on import, but amounts over $10,000 equivalent must be declared at customs. If you are traveling from another country, it is best to exchange dollars or euros for rubles in advance — at Adler Airport or in Sochi banks. The exchange rate there is more favorable than in Abkhazia.

Plastic cards are not accepted everywhere in Abkhazia, but the situation is improving. More and more shops and even private traders at markets accept payment via Sberbank transfer or QR code. If you don't have internet, the seller can share WiFi with you. However, you cannot do without cash entirely — for small purchases, taxis, and tips, it's better to have rubles on hand.

You can withdraw cash from ATMs of local banks. There are no Russian ATMs (e.g., Sberbank) here — only Sberbank of the Republic of Abkhazia operates. Withdrawing from its ATMs using Russian Sberbank cards incurs no additional fee (only your bank's commission according to its tariff). Withdrawals at POS terminals cost 2% of the amount.

Here are the main addresses of banks and ATMs in popular cities:

Tipping in Abkhazia is not mandatory — in cafes and restaurants, a service charge is already included in the bill. However, leaving change or a small extra amount will be received with gratitude.

You can learn more in our reliable and honest guide in the article Currency and Money in Abkhazia. There we detail all the nuances, addresses of banks and ATMs, and how to avoid pitfalls with currency exchange.