Having cash available for purchases such as food/drink, gifts-souvenirs, tips, emergencies, or any extras will certainly come in handy. Therefore, it is a good idea you carry some local currency during your travels in Guatemala. The Guatemalan currency name is the ¨Quetzal¨ (kɛtˈsɑl, ˈkɛtsəl), named after Guatemala´s national bird. Symbol = Q or GTQ.
Here are some recommendations for exchanging U.S. dollars in Guatemala?
BANKS:
International tourists can go to a bank to exchange U.S. dollars for Guatemalan Quetzales. *Must present original passport. Be prepared for an estimated wait-time / process of 15-30 minutes depending on how busy the bank is.
AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINES (ATM):
Guatemala´s banks offer a network of ATM´s across the country that can be used to withdraw currency directly. *Note that most ATM´s have a maximum withdrawal limit – usually Q2,000.00 per day (about $265.00) so don´t be alarmed if you try to withdraw more and the ATM´s will give you an error message. Also, a ¨withdrawal fee¨ will likely be applied by the local bank as well as your bank.
HOTELS OR EXCHANGE HOUSES
In many hotels, international tourists can exchange American dollars for Guatemalan Quetzales. You can ask at the front desk whether the hotel can offer currency exchange, or recommend the location of a retail bank, exchange house, or a nearby ATM. Exchange houses can be found at airports, or larger cities. *Note that exchanging currency at your hotel or at an exchange house is probably the easiest and swiftest method…but they will not give you a favorable exchange rate.
COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS
Most restaurants, stores, and other establishments have electronic payment systems so that tourists can pay for any purchase or service with a debit or credit card with no restriction. *Note that while some stores and restaurants will accept US Dollars, they will not give you a very good exchange rate.
*DON´T FORGET TO INFORM YOUR BANK ABOUT YOUR TRAVEL PLANS.
