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South America
Top travel scams in South America
Fraudulent tour operators in Bolivia
8 0How it works: There have been horror stories with unofficial, fraudulent tour operators, where tourists were overcharged and promises were not delivered. For instance, being stranded in the desert for…
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Ferry day tour scams in Colombia
7 0How it works: Opening: after you alight from a ferry, you may encounter touts offering cheap day tours with grand claims and promises. Set-up: after you pay however, you will…
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Pickpockets in Peru
7 2How it works: Version 1: they work in a gang – one onlooker, one blocks, pushes, distracts, or engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a…
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Longhauling taxis in Colombia
7 0How it works: Situation: in Bogota, a confusing tariff/pay band system (laminated sheet is provided) is used to determine the final fare. Set-up: as such, some drivers take a longer…
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Snatch thefts in Brazil
7 10How it works: Flash mob robbery: a crowd swarming an area stealing whatever they can. Beach, restaurants, bar: where tourists are relaxed, or when they head to the water. Bike/moped: riding…
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Pickpockets in Brazil
7 0How it works: They work in a gang – at the beach/shops, someone observes where you keep your cash when you pay for something. Local kids are then sent to…
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Christ the Redeemer transport scams in Brazil
7 0How it works: Situation: besides walking, there are two options to go up: (1) Cab to the Paineras car park (halfway up) and transfer to a van to reach the…
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Isla del Sol scams in Bolivia
7 0How it works: Situation: at the Isla del Sol trail, you only have to pay 10 bolivianos at the start and 5 at the end. Scam 1: however, locals along…
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Pirate taxis in Chile
6 0How it works: Version 1: At airports, you see touts carrying cards with the word “Oficial” or “TAXI” posing as official employees of the airport with official looking taxis. One…
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Fraudulent tour operators in Peru
6 1How it works: Operator overcharges, takes the money upfront, fulfils only part of their obligations and then disappears before the tour is over. Places to beware: Anywhere (e.g. in Puno;…
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