How it works:
- Non-violent:
- Version 1: thieves strike when you are asleep or will try to distract you.
- Version 2: some pose as bus employees, pretend to help by asking for your ticket and showing you to your seat. They then offer to help put your bag in the overhead compartment.
- Violent:
- Buses being held up and robbed at gunpoint.
Places to beware:
- Anywhere (e.g. routes: Quito and Banos, Quito and Tulcan, Quito and Guayas, Quito and Cuenca, Quito and Puyo, Cuenca and Ambato)
What to do:
- Timing: avoid traveling on buses at night, particularly in rural areas as chances of robbery are higher.
- Luggage: use one with reinforced zippers, as a pen can break zippers of most luggage. Add another layer of deterrence with a portable lock/strap.
- Valuables: store in an anti-theft bag with you instead of in your luggage (easy to break into).
- Travel insurance: get a good one that covers theft – check out the various travel insurance comparison platforms to find the best deal that works for you.
