Sahara Las Vegas Adds Crypto Payments to Its Main Casino Cage

Sahara Las Vegas has allowed its players to buy dollar chips or slot tickets at the main cage using Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin. Deposited cryptocurrencies are converted to dollars before any bets are placed, so players do not gamble directly with crypto. The property is the first casino on the Las Vegas Strip to offer this flexibility through the service. Downtown, Circa Resort & Casino had previously introduced a similar crypto system.

The system runs on BurraPay's infrastructure, which Circa also uses. BurraPay's system received approval from the Nevada Gaming Control Board earlier this year. Players who deposit with crypto will pay a 5 percent fee. They also need to be at least 21 years old, have an active Infinity Rewards account and verify their identity.

Crypto can only be used for casino games. It cannot be used for room charges, restaurant tabs or other purchases. Sahara Las Vegas General Manager Craig Pleva said the service gives guests more flexibility and reflects the property's goal of a "modern, seamless experience."

BurraPay co-founder and chief technology officer Luke Millanta described the Strip launch as a natural next step for his team, following the opening with Circa downtown. Sahara and BurraPay said they will continue to offer crypto deposit options in a compliant manner and to combat financial fraud.