What is the local currency?
The U.S. dollar is the official currency of Ecuador. The former currency was the sucre.
What is the current exchange rate?
For currency conversion information, refer to the following website:
FXConverter
Where do I exchange money?
At the airport:
There is a bank and ATM at the airport.
In Quito:
There are a number of banks located throughout Quito. Some facilities are open on Saturday. ATMs are a good source for money if you know your PIN. Cirrus and Plus ATM cards are widely accepted.
Can I use cash, credit cards or checks?
Credit Cards are widely used in first class restaurants, hotels, gift shops and travel agencies.
Travelers Checks are safe, but since the conversion to the U.S. dollar, banks have added additional charges when cashing traveler's checks; they can also be difficult to cash.
Cash is definitely the easiest option, but old or torn bills will be rejected. New US$20 bills are the easiest denomination to break.
How much money should I bring with me?
The amount of money you bring depends on your personal spending and shopping habits. Global Volunteers service program fee covers all meals, lodging, transportation and work project expenses during the service program except free-time expenses and alcoholic beverages. Many souvenir items can be purchased for less than US$10.00. Weekend tours can cost between US$100 and US$250.
