What is the local currency?

US dollars are used both in mainland Ecuador and on the Galapagos.
Traveler’s checks are accepted with 4% fee over the total amount and can be safer than cash. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs with VISA and MASTERCARD only.
Banking hours are: Mon – Fri 9:00am – 16:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am to 12:00 noon.