Menu
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…
Read more…
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…
Read more…
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…
Read more…
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…
Read more…
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…
Read more…
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…
Read more…
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…
Read more…
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…
Read more…
Sacsayhuaman horse ride scam in Peru
6 0How it works: Opening: on the way up to Sacsayhuaman, touts armed with professional brochures will offer to bring you to all the ruins on a horse tour. Set-up: however,…
Read more…
Bird poo scam in Argentina
6 0How it works: Opening: someone bumps and spills mustard/ketchup/chocolate milk/or even a semi-liquid that looks like bird poo onto you. Set-up: next, they or their accomplices will appear and help…
Read more…