Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Piura, Piura, Peru

1. Tourist Taxis Scam

Avoid overpriced or dishonest taxi rides by using licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Licensed Taxis: Official, regulated taxis are easily identified and reliable.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Uber provide a safe, predetermined fare and driver details.
Avoid Street Taxis: Street taxis may overcharge or take longer routes to increase the fare.

Be vigilant when exchanging money and check bills for authenticity.

Exchange in Reputable Locations: Use banks, hotels, or official exchange houses to avoid counterfeit bills.
Check Bill Features: Authentic Peruvian Sol (PEN) bills have specific security features like watermarks and holograms.
Count Your Money: Count your money immediately to ensure you received the correct amount.

Avoid unlicensed guides and make sure they are certified by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

Certified Guides: Official, certified guides have proper identification and insurance.
Peruvian Ministry of Culture: Guides must be registered with the Ministry of Culture to operate legally.
Research Beforehand: Research guide companies online and read reviews from past clients.

Negotiate prices for souvenirs in Piura's markets to avoid being overcharged.

Market Research: Research the average price of items before negotiating.
Negotiate Prices: Start with a lower offer and work up to reach an agreement.
Buy Multiple Items: Ask for a bulk discount if purchasing multiple items from the same vendor.

Choose reputable restaurants and check bills carefully to avoid being overcharged.

Research Restaurants: Read reviews from past diners and ask locals for recommendations.
Check Bill Before Payment: Examine the bill carefully before making a payment to avoid extra charges.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for your records and as proof of payment.

Avoid beach vendors who pressure you to buy goods or services.

Decline Pressure Tactics: Politely decline unwanted offers without feeling obligated.
Negotiate Prices: If interested, negotiate prices with beach vendors before making a purchase.
Know the Real Costs: Research average costs of goods and services in Piura's beaches.

Book accommodations through reputable platforms or agencies to avoid fraud.

Reputable Platforms: Use booking websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia.
Agency Recommendations: Book through local travel agencies for added protection.
Read Reviews: Review accommodation listings and read past guests' experiences.

Be wary of strangers who claim to need help, offering assistance in exchange for money.

Avoid Unsolicited Help: Decline help from strangers and offer assistance to those in need.
Contact Authorities: Inform authorities if you suspect a scam or encounter potential danger.
Travel in Groups: Avoid traveling alone and stick with others when exploring Piura.

Use ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas to minimize the risk of skimming devices.

Bank ATMs: ATMs inside banks are less likely to have skimming devices.
Well-Lit Areas: Poorly lit areas may make it easier for scammers to install skimming devices undetected.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.

Avoid donating to street performers as it may encourage more scams.

Don't Encourage: Refrain from giving money to discourage future performances.
Enjoy the Performance: Appreciate the performance without offering financial support.
Report Suspicious Behavior: Inform authorities if you witness any suspicious or aggressive behavior.

Book accommodations in advance to avoid being overbooked and left without a place to stay.

Advance Bookings: Make reservations early to secure your accommodation.
Confirm Reservations: Double-check that your booking has been confirmed before arrival.
Have a Backup Plan: Have alternative accommodations or backup plans in case of overbooking.

Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables hidden to avoid pickpocketing.

Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of your surroundings.
Hidden Valuables: Store valuables in a secure location, such as a neck pouch or money belt.
Leave Valuables at Home: Carry only essential items to minimize the risk of theft.

Inspect rental cars thoroughly before driving off and return them in good condition.

Thorough Inspection: Check the car for damage before accepting it.
Return Car Carefully: Return the rental car without damaging it to avoid additional fees.
Choose a Reputable Company: Rent from well-known companies with good reviews for reliable service.

Never share personal or financial information via email or unsecured websites.

Secure Websites: Look for the padlock icon and 'https' in the URL before entering sensitive data.
Don't Share Information: Avoid sharing personal or financial information with unknown sources.
Use Strong Passwords: Create complex, unique passwords for all accounts to minimize the risk of account takeover.

Be cautious when using water sports equipment rented from beach vendors.

Inspect Equipment: Check the condition of the equipment before using it.
Choose Reputable Vendors: Rent from well-established beach vendors with good reviews and safety certifications.
Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a life jacket when engaging in water activities to stay safe.