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Top scam stories in South America
Bird poo scam in Argentina
7 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…
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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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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 3How 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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Machu Picchu scams in Peru
7 0How it works: Scam 1: some companies sell fake train tickets to get here and fake entry tickets online. Scam 2: guides and operators will claim that you cannot enter…
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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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Fraudulent tour operators in Bolivia
7 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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Hotel double tax scam in Bolivia
6 0How it works: There is a 13% IVA hotel tax in Bolivia. However, hotels only have to pay this for Bolivian guests and not for foreigners. However, there have been…
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Fraudulent tour operators in Chile
6 0How it works: There are fly by night operators or operators whose businesses have already closed down but still collect payments for non-existent trips. Places to beware: Anywhere What to…
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Shoe shine scam in Colombia
6 0How it works: Situation: there are plenty of shoe shiners in the cities. Some areas are fine while others are out to scam. Opening: when you enquire about the price,…
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