Currency
Colón (˘) (colloquially ‘Peso’) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of ˘200, 100, 50, 25, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of ˘1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 centavos. Due to the introduction of the US Dollar into the country, dollars have been accepted as dual currency since January 2001 and are now widely used and will eventually completely replace the Colón. Note: Visitors should reconvert all unspent Colones before entering Guatemala or Honduras, as they are neither exchanged nor accepted in these countries.
Note
Visitors should reconvert all unspent Colónes before entering Guatemala or Honduras, as they are neither exchanged nor accepted in these countries.
Currency exchange
Visitors are advised to change currency only at banks and official bureaux de change.
Credit & debit cards
American Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, whilst Diners Club has more limited use. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Travellers cheques
These may be cashed at any bank or hotel on production of a passport.
Exchange rate indicators
The following figures have been included as a guide to the movements of the Colón against Sterling and the US Dollar:
| Date | May '04 | Aug '04 | Nov '04 | Feb '05 | | £1.00= | 15.63 | 16.12 | 16.57 | 16.54 | | $1.00= | 8.75 | 8.75 | 8.75 | 8.76 |
Currency restrictions
No restrictions on import and export of local currency. Import of foreign currency is unlimited, but declaration is advised. Export of foreign currency is unlimited but limited to the amount declared on import for larger amounts.
Banking hours
Generally Mon-Fri 0900-1700; Sat 0900-1300.
Note
Most banks are closed for balancing on 29-30 Jun and 30-31 Dec. These dates may vary for individual banks.
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