Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia

All Topics about Bogotá All Cities in Colombia

1. Gold-plated Fake Coin Scam

Watch out for gold-plated fake coins being passed as legitimate currency in some areas. These coins may not be accepted elsewhere.

Recognition: Learn how to identify the weight and texture of real Colombian coins.
Vigilance: Always keep an eye on your change, especially in crowded or touristy areas.
Education: Know the exchange rate and stick to official currency exchange services.

Some taxi drivers may try to overcharge tourists. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Bargaining: Negotiate a fair price with the driver before getting into the taxi.
Registration: Only use registered taxis with visible company logos and meters.
Awareness: Research the average taxi fare for common routes before your journey.

Some money exchange shops may offer you fake bills. Stick to reputable and official exchanges.

Location: Exchange your money in banks or at the airport.
Verification: Check the authenticity of your bills using a pen that changes color when in contact with real banknotes.
Research: Research exchange rates beforehand to avoid being taken advantage of.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer their services but lack the knowledge and may lead you into dangerous areas.

License Check: Ask for a guide's official license before embarking on a tour.
Reputation: Choose a reputable and well-reviewed tour company.
Knowledge: Look for guides who know the local language, history, and customs of Bogotá.

Be cautious in crowded places like markets, public transportation, and festivals. Keep your belongings close and secure.

Vigilance: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep essentials in a hidden money belt or pouch.
Awareness: Stay aware of your surroundings and any suspicious activities.
Security: Use hotel safes for storing valuables when not needed.

Some individuals may pretend to be police officers and ask for your belongings or money. Always check their identification.

Identification: Legitimate police officers will always carry official ID.
Police Station: If in doubt, ask the officer to take you to a nearby police station for verification.
Common Sense: Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to seek help if something feels off.

Some souvenir shops may charge inflated prices for common items. Bargain or compare prices before purchasing.

Bargaining: Always attempt to negotiate a lower price.
Research: Find out the average prices of souvenirs before shopping.
Market Exploration: Visit local markets for a wider selection and lower prices.

Some bars and clubs may try to offer drugs. Stay away from such establishments.

Avoidance: Avoid accepting drinks or offers from strangers in nightlife areas.
Reputation: Choose reputable bars and clubs recommended by locals or your hotel.
Knowledge: Understand local drug laws to avoid any legal issues.

Some cable car operators may attempt to overcharge or provide counterfeit tickets. Purchase your ticket at the official booth.

Official Tickets: Always buy tickets from the official Monserrate ticket office.
Avoidance: Don't accept offers from individuals claiming to sell discounted or fake tickets.
Knowledge: Research the standard ticket price for Monserrate before your visit.

Some individuals may offer you a free map or city guide but ask for money afterward. Stick to official maps or guides.

Avoidance: Decline offers from strangers offering maps or city guides.
Official Maps: Purchase official maps or download digital ones before your trip.
Awareness: Be cautious and attentive when interacting with strangers in tourist areas.

Some restaurants near popular attractions may overcharge for food. Find affordable eateries nearby.

Research: Look up affordable eating options in the area before visiting.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat near tourist spots.
Avoidance: Stay away from restaurants targeting tourists with high prices.

Some individuals may ask you to sign a petition but instead swipe your signature from the form. Avoid signing petitions from strangers.

Avoidance: Refuse to sign any petitions offered by strangers.
Knowledge: Understand the common scams in Bogotá and be wary of suspicious activities.
Vigilance: Keep an eye on your belongings when interacting with strangers.

Individuals may find a lost item of yours and claim to return it if you pay them a reward. Be cautious when handing over money.

Caution: Think twice before giving any money for returned items.
Verification: Ask for verification, such as a police report, before handing over money.
Awareness: Understand common scams and be vigilant when traveling.

Some photographers may ask for payment after taking your picture in tourist spots. Politely decline and take your own photos.

Awareness: Understand common scams and be cautious when interacting with photographers.
Self-Photography: Use selfie sticks or ask fellow travelers to take your picture.
Avoidance: Ignore photographers who demand payment for taking pictures.

Some individuals may claim to be charity collectors but are actually scammers. Donate only to reputable and official charities.

Research: Find out which charities are legitimate and well-known in Bogotá.
Avoidance: Refuse to give money to individuals who seem suspicious or pushy.
Official Charities: Only donate to charities with a visible presence and official ID.