Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Ecuador: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
Airport exchanges in Ecuador are more expensive, especially in Quito. Once you get to town, use Banco del Pacífico ATMs for better rates and a smoother experience. The daily ATM withdrawal limits cover most budgeting, so try to avoid airport exchanges for bigger sums.
If you’re landing in Ecuador, take out cash from a Banco Pichincha or Produbanco ATM. Even with ATM fees, the exchange rate beats airport exchange counters that mark up the rate by a big margin. I used a Revolut card to avoid some fees too.
I landed in Guayaquil and used Banco del Pacífico ATMs - rates are way better than airport exchange counters. Airport counters are okay if you need a little cash quick but you pay a premium. Plan your main cash needs from an ATM for a better deal.
In Quito, I found Banco Pichincha ATMs much better for foreign cards than the airport money exchange counter. The airport exchange margin was huge compared to my card withdrawal rate, even with ATM fees added. Use ATM for the best value.