Where to Exchange Money at Ezeiza Airport (EZE)

When arriving at Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires, one of the first things you’ll need to do is exchange some money to cover initial expenses. While Argentina’s currency exchange system is unique and offers several exchange rates, there are official options available right at the airport. Below is a guide to help you navigate the money exchange options at Ezeiza Airport.

If you’re looking to exchange money at Ezeiza Airport, the safest and most reliable option is through the Banco de la Nación Argentina (BNA), the country’s official government bank. The exchange office operates at the official exchange rate, which is regulated by the Argentine government.

The Banco de la Nación exchange office is conveniently located next to the arrivals hall, on the left side, and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This makes it a practical choice for travelers arriving at any time of the day or night. You can exchange US dollars, euros, and other major currencies here, but be aware that the rates are not as favorable as those in the street markets of Buenos Aires.

While the official exchange rate at Banco de la Nación is reliable, there are some downsides to using this option. For one, the rates may not be as competitive as what you could get in Buenos Aires city, especially with the blue dollar rate, which is often much higher. Additionally, if several flights arrive around the same time, you might face long lines, so plan for potential wait times.

For those who prefer to withdraw cash directly rather than exchange money at a counter, ATMs are available at Ezeiza Airport. The ATMs are located near the Banco de la Nación exchange office, with an additional ATM located in the domestic arrivals terminal. These ATMs allow you to withdraw Argentine pesos directly using your international debit or credit card.

One advantage of using ATMs is convenience. It’s quick and easy, and there’s no need to wait in line for an exchange service. However, there are also some notable downsides. Many Argentine ATMs charge relatively high withdrawal fees, and your bank may impose additional international transaction fees. In addition, withdrawal amounts may be limited by both the ATM’s daily limits and your bank’s policies, which means you may not be able to withdraw as much as you would like at once. Moreover, the exchange rate you receive will depend on your bank’s own rates, which may not be the best available.

While exchanging money at Ezeiza Airport is certainly convenient, it may not always be the best option if you’re looking for the most favorable exchange rates. It’s often recommended to exchange only a small amount of money at the airport to cover immediate expenses, such as transportation to your hotel or the city. For larger amounts, you can explore better rates in Buenos Aires itself.

It’s important to note that larger denominations of US dollars, especially $100 bills, tend to fetch better rates in Buenos Aires. These bills are in high demand due to their stability in the exchange market. If you’re looking to get the best rate, it’s also worth considering the “blue dollar” exchange rate, which can be significantly better than the official rate. You’ll find more favorable rates at unofficial exchange offices in the city, so it’s often worth waiting until you arrive in Buenos Aires to change larger sums.

When it comes to exchanging money in Argentina, there are a few things you should keep in mind. It’s advisable to bring USD 100 or €100 notes, as these tend to give you better rates in unofficial exchanges in Buenos Aires. Avoid exchanging money at random kiosks, as they may offer unfavorable rates or even scam tourists. Instead, look for trusted exchange offices or casas de cambio for better deals.

If you’re planning to stay in Argentina for a while, consider using a credit card for many of your purchases. International credit cards often receive a more favorable exchange rate known as the MEP rate, which is closer to the blue dollar rate. Additionally, you might want to use ATMs sparingly due to their fees, and only exchange a small amount of cash at the airport if necessary.