How to withdraw cash at ATMs in Ecuador

Ecuador is a beautiful and diverse country in South America, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities. As a tourist or foreign visitor, understanding how to access money and use credit cards in Ecuador is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this guide, we will explore where to find ATMs, how much they charge for foreigners, tricks and perks of using them, safety aspects, and information about ATMs in the Galapagos Islands. We will also provide details about Ecuadorian banks and their specific fees for international cardholders.

Finding ATMs in Ecuador

Ecuador has a well-developed banking system, and you can easily find ATMs in major cities and tourist destinations. 

Here’s where you can typically find ATMs:

Airports: 

International airports like Quito and Guayaquil have ATMs in their arrival areas, making it convenient for travelers to withdraw cash upon arrival.

Banks: 

Most banks in Ecuador have ATMs outside their branches, allowing you to withdraw cash during business hours.

Shopping Centers and Malls: 

Commercial areas usually have ATMs for the convenience of shoppers.

Tourist Areas: 

Popular tourist destinations like Baños, Cuenca, and Montañita have ATMs to cater to foreign visitors.

ATM Fees for Foreigners

Knowing the fees involved is essential when using ATMs in Ecuador as a foreigner. Here’s what you should know:

Withdrawal Fees: 

Ecuadorian banks mostly charge a fee for ATM withdrawals by foreign cardholders. This fee can vary but is usually around $1.50 to $4.48 per transaction.

Currency Conversion Fees: 

If your home currency differs from the US dollar, the official currency in Ecuador, your bank may apply a currency conversion fee.

ATM Network Fees: 

Your home bank might also charge you a fee for using an ATM outside their network. Checking with your bank about these charges before your trip is wise.

Tricks and Perks of Using ATMs in Ecuador

• Be cautious of hidden card skimmers or suspicious individuals around ATMs. Choose well-lit and secure locations for withdrawals.
• Always cover your PIN while entering it, and avoid using ATMs that appear tampered with.
• Carry some cash with you for emergencies, as ATMs may not always be readily available in remote areas.
• ATMs in Ecuador always dispense USD, which is the official currency, making transactions more straightforward for international visitors.
• Ecuadorian ATMs always only hand out 10 or 20 USD notes. You might have trouble paying with notes higher than that. 
• Using ATMs allows you to access funds in a convenient and secure manner, reducing the need to carry large sums of cash.

Safety Aspects

Safety is paramount when using ATMs in Ecuador!

Use ATMs within bank branches whenever possible, as they are usually more secure.

Avoid withdrawing large sums of money in one go; make smaller withdrawals to reduce the risk of loss in case of theft.

Inform your home bank about your travel plans to prevent your card from being blocked for unusual activity.

Keep an eye on your surroundings when using an ATM and avoid sharing your PIN with anyone.

ATMs in the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands, a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, also have ATMs, but they are relatively limited. Here’s what you should know:

Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island has several ATMs, mainly near the pier, making it the most reliable place to withdraw cash in the Galapagos.

Other islands have limited ATM options, so carrying enough cash for your stay on smaller islands or remote areas is advisable.

Remember that ATM fees in the Galapagos may be slightly higher due to their remote location.

Ecuadorian Banks and Their ATM Fees

Ecuador has several banks, and each has different fee structures for international cardholders. Here are some of the prominent Ecuadorian banks and their general fee information for foreigners.

• Banco Internacional, Banco Bolivariano, and Banco del Austro are usually FREE of any charges for foreign cardholders.
• Banco Pichincha is known to have a wide ATM network. Charges vary but are typically at $4.48 per withdrawal.
• Banco Guayaquil is another major bank with numerous ATMs. Expect to pay $1.50.
• Banco del Pacífico is also known for its presence in coastal areas. Fees are $4.
• Produbanco charges are $4 for foreign cardholders.
• So-called Cooperativas, like JEP, PNL, or Andalucia usually don’t allow foreign cards, neither Debit nor Credit.

So, …

ATMs and credit card usage for foreigners in Ecuador are relatively accessible and convenient, with some fees to consider. Being mindful of safety measures, finding ATMs in major cities and tourist destinations, and understanding your home bank’s fee structure will ensure a smooth financial experience during your visit. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant cities of Ecuador or marveling at the unique wildlife in the Galapagos Islands, having access to money is essential for a memorable trip.