Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Curitiba, Brazil

All Topics about Curitiba All Cities in Brazil

1. Taxi Scam at Airport

Unlicensed taxi drivers may overcharge or take a longer route. Avoid this by only taking licensed taxis from the designated rank.

Designated Rank: Look for official taxi ranks at the airport
License Plate: Check for a valid license plate and look for a company logo on the vehicle
Fixed Rates: Ask for a fixed price before starting the journey to avoid unexpected charges

Some exchange kiosks or individuals may offer a lower rate. Use licensed exchange offices or banks for safe and fair transactions.

Licensed Office: Only use currency exchange offices with a valid license
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates among different providers before making the transaction
Secure Location: Exchange money in safe and crowded areas to avoid potential theft or distraction scams

Some street food vendors may use expired or substandard ingredients. Stick to popular and busy food stalls.

Popular Stalls: Look for busy, popular food stalls with a good reputation
Fresh Ingredients: Check that the ingredients used are fresh and well-prepared
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for their favorite street food stalls to ensure a safe and delicious meal

Unscrupulous sellers may provide faulty SIM cards or overcharge. Buy from authorized retailers or mobile service providers.

Authorized Retailer: Buy your SIM card from an official store of the telecom company
Check Coverage: Make sure the SIM card has coverage in the areas you plan to visit
Data Packages: Consider purchasing a data package to ensure you have internet access during your trip

Unlicensed tour guides may provide poor service or overcharge. Use only licensed and recommended tour guides.

Licensed Tour Guide: Look for a certified guide with a valid license
Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from your hotel, hostel or trusted online sources
Itinerary: Discuss the itinerary and cost upfront to avoid any surprises during the tour

Thieves may target travelers at crowded bus stations. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Secure Backpack: Use a backpack with lockable zippers or a slash-proof fabric
Awareness: Keep your belongings close and be aware of anyone who seems too interested in them
Valuables: Minimize the amount of valuables you carry, and keep important items hidden and secure

Skimmers may be placed on ATMs to steal your card information. Use only ATMs located in well-lit and busy areas.

Well-Lit Area: Use ATMs that are located in a well-lit and secure area
Check Machine: Inspect the ATM for any unusual attachments or modifications
Cover Screen: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent anyone from observing it

Fraudulent charity collectors may solicit money in the name of a fake organization. Research charities before donating.

Legitimate Charity: Donate to well-known and reputable charities
Check Registration: Verify that the charity is registered with the Brazilian government
Secure Transaction: Make donations through secure payment methods, such as bank transfer or credit card

Some tour operators may offer tours to non-existent attractions. Research and book tours with trusted providers.

Trusted Provider: Book your tours through reputable travel agencies or online platforms
Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers to ensure a quality experience
Official Information: Check official tourist information sources for accurate details about attractions

Some landlords may overcharge for short-term rentals. Research and compare prices before booking.

Reputable Rental Platforms: Book your accommodation through reputable rental platforms
Competitive Prices: Compare prices across different platforms to find the best deal
Location: Choose an accommodation that is close to tourist attractions and public transportation

Counterfeit tickets for events may be sold by unauthorized vendors. Purchase tickets from authorized venues or resellers.

Authorized Venue: Buy your tickets directly from the venue's box office or their official website
Reseller Reputation: Choose ticket resellers with a good reputation and positive reviews
Check Ticket Validity: Verify the ticket's validity by checking for holograms, security features, or barcodes

Some internet cafes may charge excessively high prices. Find affordable and reliable internet access.

Affordable Prices: Compare prices among different internet cafes to find the best deal
Reliable Service: Check for positive reviews about the speed and reliability of the internet connection
Secure Connection: Use a VPN to secure your connection and protect your personal information

Some massage parlors may be fronts for illegal activities. Only visit licensed massage parlors.

Licensed Parlor: Look for a massage parlor with a valid license
Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel
Check For Licensing Information: Look for signs of a valid license and check the establishment's credibility

Some restaurants may charge higher prices than usual. Find affordable and delicious dining options.

Affordable Prices: Compare prices among different restaurants to find the best deal
Local Cuisine: Look for restaurants serving traditional Paranaense cuisine
Recommendations: Ask locals or your hotel for recommendations on affordable and delicious dining options

Some souvenir shops may sell fake or low-quality items. Research and find reputable souvenir shops.

Reputable Shops: Choose souvenir shops with positive reviews and a good reputation
Authenticity: Check for quality and authenticity of the items before purchasing
Price Comparison: Compare prices among different shops to find a fair price