The currency is the US dollar. Exchange rate (indicative): 1 € = 1.12 USD or 1 USD = 0.89 €.

Most credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, etc.) are accepted in Ecuador at major retailers. You can withdraw cash directly from ATMs in major cities you'll visit during your journey (Quito, Otavalo, Guayaquil, Riobamba, Baños, Cuenca...). Plan ahead between major stops to ensure you have enough cash for personal expenses (souvenirs, etc.). Additionally, try to have small denominations (5, 10, 20 USD) since shops rarely have change.

For stays in the Galápagos, only the islands of Santa Cruz and Santa Cristobal have ATMs.

Note: it is difficult to exchange euros; currency exchange is only possible in major cities at banks (with limited opening hours) and exchange offices ("casa de cambio").

*Before your departure, it is advisable to consult your bank about your conditions and foreign transaction fees to avoid any inconvenience.