Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Guatemala: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
Smartest plan in Guatemala is to withdraw at ATMs in cities like Antigua, Guatemala City, or Flores. Budget GTQ 300-450 daily for tours, meals, and transport. Bring a Visa card, as Amex often doesn’t work. Airport exchanges are overpriced, so only change GTQ 100-200 for taxis or tips. ATMs inside banks are the safest choice. Withdraw larger amounts to minimize fees and stretch your quetzales further.
The airport counter in Guatemala City was a letdown. I swapped $100 and later realized I’d lost GTQ 70-80 compared to the ATM rate. That’s basically two days’ worth of meals. With a daily budget of GTQ 400, wasting money upfront was frustrating. ATMs in Antigua and Flores gave me better value even after withdrawal fees. Don’t rely on the airport desks unless you want to lose part of your budget instantly.
I arrived in Guatemala City and exchanged $40 at the airport, which barely covered my ride to Antigua. The rate was awful. Later, I used a Banco Industrial ATM in town and the difference was striking - I got way more quetzales. I was spending around GTQ 350 daily for food, shuttle buses, and activities, and the ATM helped me stick to my budget. I’d only use airport counters for emergencies.
In Guatemala, ATMs usually give better rates than airport counters. Machines from Banco Industrial and BAC Credomatic in Guatemala City provide more favorable quetzal conversions than airport desks, which charge extra margins. If you’re budgeting GTQ 300-400 daily for meals, buses, and entry fees to places like Tikal or Antigua tours, use ATMs for most of your money. Exchange a small amount at the airport if you need quick cash for taxis or snacks.