What is the best ATMs for Travelers in Brazil?

Traveling in Brazil is an exciting adventure. However, managing your money while traveling can sometimes be a challenge, especially when dealing with currency exchange and ATM fees.

If you're planning a trip to Brazil, knowing how to handle your finances is essential, and in my opinion, one of the best and cheapest options for travelers in Brazil is using Bradesco ATMs.

In general, Brazilian currency exchanges offer poor exchange rates to tourists. Exchanging cash is therefore best to be avoided whenever possible. Withdrawing from an ATM is a better choice - however ATM fees can vary dramatically between banks. Many banks' ATMs, and particularly the generic ATM called Banco 24 hours, will charge you a high fee for use of the ATM.

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Why you should use the Bradesco ATM when travelling Brazil

Here’s why Bradesco stands out as the top choice for travelers looking to withdraw money or exchange currency in Brazil:

1. Brazil ATM Fees

Many ATMs in Brazil charge a fee of R$20, or more.

One of the biggest benefits of using Bradesco ATMs is that they generally don’t charge withdrawal fees. For travelers trying to avoid the extra costs that can add up quickly while withdrawing money abroad, this is a significant advantage. In contrast to many other banks, which apply extra fees for foreign cardholders, Bradesco ATMs provide a seamless way to access cash without the costs. Of course, your own bank at home may still charge you an overseas ATM fee.

2. Bradesco ATMs are (almost) everywhere in Brazil

Another major benefit of using Bradesco ATMs is their wide availability throughout Brazil. Whether you’re in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo or exploring smaller towns and tourist destinations, you’re likely to find a Bradesco ATM nearby.

Bradesco’s distinctive red ATMs are also easy to spot, and their presence across the country ensures that you won’t be stuck without access to cash, even in more remote areas. This convenience is great for travelers who prefer not to carry large amounts of cash with them and want the flexibility of withdrawing money as needed.

3. High Withdrawal Limits

For those who prefer withdrawing larger sums of money to avoid frequent trips to the ATM, Bradesco ATMs offer high withdrawal limits. Depending on your card and bank, you can withdraw up to R$2500 in a single transaction. This is particularly useful for travelers who want to minimize fees from their own bank by making fewer but larger withdrawals.

4. Safe and Reliable

In addition to their cost-efficiency and availability, Bradesco ATMs are considered secure and reliable. As a popular and well-established bank, Bradesco maintains a high level of operational security, meaning you can use their ATMs with confidence.

Tip: Always decline the offered exchange rate!

Whether you are using the Bradesco ATM, or any other foreign ATM, you’ll often be prompted with an option for the ATM to convert your currency for you. It’s important to always decline this offer and instead allow your home bank to handle the conversion.

By doing this, you ensure you receive an exchange rate much closer to the real market rate, which is a significantly better than the rate offered by the ATM itself. This simple tip can help you avoid unfavorable conversion rates and can result in substantial savings over the course of your trip.

Can I use my Debit Card in Brazil?

Many international debit and credit cards work in Brazil, especially Visa, Mastercard and American Express. When paying in stores or restaurants, remember to always select "credit" when using an international card, even if it is a debit card in your country.

Don't forget to notify your bank or card issuer before travelling to Brazil to avoid security blocks. Banks may also apply international transaction fees and dynamic currency conversion, so check the terms before departure.

What is the best Debit card to use in Brazil?

I personally use the Wise debit card for my travel in Brazil, and use it both to make card payments and to withdraw money from the ATM. The card has no international purchase fees, and offers much better exchange rates when paying by card than a regular bank card, closer to the real exchange rate.

The card also allows you to make free or cheap ATM withdrawals. The fees vary depending which country you're from, but they typically offer 2 free ATM withdrawals per month, up to a certain withdrawal value.

If you use Google or Apple Pay, Wise allows you to create digital cards that you can use with your digital wallets right away.

Ready to plan your trip to Brazil?

For travelers in Brazil, Bradesco ATMs are the clear winner when it comes to convenience, low costs, and favorable exchange rates. With no local fees, better rates through declining ATM conversion, high withdrawal limits, and wide availability, Bradesco offers a traveler-friendly banking experience. By choosing Bradesco, you can avoid the high fees and poor exchange rates often associated with currency exchange services and other ATMs, making your trip to Brazil more cost-effective.

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored article. Based on my personal experience, I believe Bradesco is a good option for most foreign travelers in Brazil. Exchange rates and fees charged on your transactions will always depend on your home bank - contact your bank directly for more information.

More resources for planning your trip to Brazil

• Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. Or, rent a car and give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.

• Find your perfect accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels

• You're not ready to travel until you have travel insurance. I recommend Safety Wing to my friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. Get a free quote

• Forgetting something? Read my packing check-list for Brazil, and my list of 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil