Money

For almost a century before dollarization, Ecuador's currency was the sucre. Today, sucre notes and coins have no value except as souvenirs. Since 2000, the US dollar is the only official currency of Ecuador. Only US dollar bills circulate. US coins are used alongside the equivalent size and value Ecuadorean coins. Ecuadorean coins have no value outside the country. Some merchants are reluctant to accept bills larger than US$20, both because counterfeit notes are a problem and because change may be scarce. Since they are seldom replaced, small-value banknotes have become worn and tatty.

There are a variety of different ways for visitors to bring their funds to Ecuador. You are strongly advised to use more than one of these, so as not to be stuck if there are problems with any one alternative. Always bring some US dollars cash. Although euros are gaining acceptance, it is best not to bring any currencies other than US dollars to Ecuador; they are difficult to exchange and generally fetch a poor rate.

ATMs are common throughout Ecuador. Many, but not all, are linked to international networks such as Plus or Cirrus. Smaller towns may have only one ATM which accepts only one type of card, or no ATM at all. An ATM or the entire network may unexpectedly go out of service, so always keep some extra cash you can fall back on. Check with your home bank before travelling regarding charges and conditions which apply to international ATM transactions.