When traveling across Latin America, one question comes up repeatedly: How do I access cash safely and cheaply? Whether you’re in Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Chile, or Costa Rica, this guide provides everything you need to know about ATM fees, withdrawal limits, and insider tips to avoid unnecessary costs.
Withdraw cash in larger amounts to minimize fixed fees.
Always choose ATMs inside banks or malls for better security.
Decline dynamic currency conversion (DCC) – always withdraw in local currency.
Notify your bank about your travel dates to avoid card blocks.
Use debit cards for withdrawals and credit cards for purchases where possible.
Currency: USD (US dollars) – no currency exchange needed.
Withdrawal limits:
Banco Pichincha: ~$100 to ~$500 per transaction
Banco Guayaquil: ~$100 to ~$500 per day
ATM fee: $0 to $5 per withdrawal.
Tip: ATMs are widely available in cities; in remote areas like the Amazon or Galapagos, bring cash beforehand.
Currency: Colombian Peso (COP)
Withdrawal limits:
Bancolombia: ~600,000 COP per transaction
Davivienda: up to 1,000,000 COP daily
ATM fee: $3–$4
Tip: Avoid airport ATMs due to higher fees; always use machines at official banks.
Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Withdrawal limits:
BCP and Interbank: ~700–900 PEN per transaction
ATM fee: $5–$6
Tip: In Cusco and small towns, carry extra cash. ATMs can run out during high tourist season.
Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP)
Withdrawal limits:
$220–$330 (200.000 – 300.000 CLP)
ATM fee: around $5
Tip: Santander and BCI often charge higher fees. BancoEstado tends to be traveler-friendly.
Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC); USD accepted in tourist areas.
Withdrawal limits:
$200 per transaction (100.000 CRC)
ATM fee: $4–$5
Tip: Use BAC Credomatic or Scotiabank ATMs. Avoid withdrawing small amounts frequently.
Always travel with two cards, preferably from different providers.
Withdraw during business hours when banks are open.
Consider prepaid debit cards as a backup in case of card blockages.
If you’re visiting multiple countries, withdraw USD in Ecuador if your bank allows, then exchange locally.
| Country | Currency | Withdrawal Limit (approx.) | ATM Fee (approx.) | Traveler Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecuador | USD | $300–$500 per transaction | $0–$5 | No currency exchange needed. ATMs common in cities, scarce in remote areas like Galapagos. |
| Colombia | COP (Colombian Peso) | 600,000–1,000,000 COP daily | 13,000–16,000 COP (~$3–$4) | Avoid airport ATMs. Use machines at major banks like Bancolombia or Davivienda. |
| Peru | PEN (Peruvian Sol) | 700–900 PEN per transaction | 18–22 PEN (~$5–$6) | In Cusco or rural areas, ATMs may run out. Carry extra cash during high season. |
| Chile | CLP (Chilean Peso) | 200,000–300,000 CLP per transaction | 4,000 CLP (~$5) | BancoEstado is traveler-friendly. Santander and BCI often charge higher fees. |
| Costa Rica | CRC (Costa Rican Colón) | 100,000 CRC ($200) per transaction | 3,000–4,000 CRC (~$4–$5) | USD is widely accepted. Best ATMs: BAC Credomatic or Scotiabank. Avoid frequent small withdrawals. |
Last updated: February 2026 · Written and reviewed by Christian Greiner, founder of Terra Sur Travels, based in Quito, Ecuador.
