Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in São Luís, Brazil

All Topics about São Luís All Cities in Brazil

1. Mercado do Mercês

Historic market famous for local crafts and seafood. Be wary of overpriced or counterfeit goods.

Price Comparison: Check prices at various stalls to avoid overpaying.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for advice on trusted vendors.
Official Certificates: Request official certificates or labels to ensure authenticity.

Baroque church housing a rich collection of gold and precious stones. Be cautious against pickpocketing.

Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items hidden and secure in a money belt or zipped pocket.
Trusted Tour Guides: Book tours with reputable companies for expert guidance and security.
Crowd Awareness: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially during peak hours.

Gourmet street offering delicious local dishes. Watch out for diluted or overpriced drinks.

Menu Prices: Compare prices on the menu with what's served to avoid unexpected charges.
Ask for Bill Before Ordering: Request a breakdown of costs before ordering to prevent bill shock.
Reputable Restaurants: Research popular and well-reviewed restaurants to ensure quality and fair pricing.

Impressive cathedral with distinctive twin towers. Be cautious of distract-and-grab thefts.

Zip Pockets or Money Belts: Store valuables securely in zip pockets or money belts.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas and avoid isolated spots for personal safety.
Photography Precautions: Be mindful of leaving cameras or phones unattended during photography sessions.

Cultural center showcasing local and international art. Be vigilant against theft in the gallery.

Lockers or Coat Check: Use lockers or coat check services to store personal items securely.
Travel with a Friend: Visit the gallery in a group for increased safety and companionship.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform staff about any suspicious activity to ensure a safe environment.

Vibrant carnival celebrations with elaborate costumes and music. Keep an eye on personal belongings during festivities.

Secure Storage: Use secure lockers or storage facilities for valuables during the festivities.
Travel in a Group: Stay with friends and family to minimize personal risk.
Avoid Isolated Spaces: Avoid dark or deserted areas during the carnival celebrations.

Historic street lined with beautiful houses and cobblestones. Be careful of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Zip Pockets or Money Belts: Store valuables securely in zip pockets or money belts.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings to prevent thefts.
Trusted Local Shops: Shop at established, reputable stores for peace of mind.

Beautiful park featuring waterfalls and trails. Practice caution against theft or muggings in isolated areas.

Travel in a Group: Explore the park with friends for increased safety.
Stay on Main Trails: Remain on marked trails and avoid secluded spots to reduce personal risk.
Avoid Visiting Alone at Night: Do not visit the park alone after dark for safety reasons.

Stunning lagoon with crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches. Be cautious of beach scams such as fake guides or overpriced services.

Research Reputable Tour Operators: Choose tour companies with positive reviews and a good reputation.
Negotiate Prices in Advance: Set prices for services beforehand to avoid surprises or overcharging.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals on reliable tour operators and service providers.

Iconic windmills offering panoramic city views. Be wary of overpriced souvenirs or services.

Shop Around for Souvenirs: Compare prices at various vendors to find the best deals.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals on affordable and authentic souvenirs.
Be Wary of Unofficial Guides: Decline unsolicited offers for guided tours to avoid potential scams.

Street famous for its colorful houses and vibrant nightlife. Exercise caution against pickpocketing or muggings.

Zip Pockets or Money Belts: Store valuables securely in zip pockets or money belts.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings to prevent thefts.
Trusted Local Bars and Clubs: Research popular, reputable nightlife venues for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Baroque church and convent with beautiful architecture. Be cautious against pickpocketing in the vicinity.

Zip Pockets or Money Belts: Store valuables securely in zip pockets or money belts.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas and avoid isolated spots for personal safety.
Official Guided Tours: Book official guided tours to ensure accurate information and security.

Central market offering local produce and food. Be aware of overpriced or counterfeit goods.

Price Comparison: Check prices at various stalls to avoid overpaying.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals on trusted vendors and authentic products.
Official Certificates or Labels: Request official certificates or labels to ensure product quality and authenticity.

Historic palace with beautiful gardens. Be vigilant against pickpocketing in the area.

Zip Pockets or Money Belts: Store valuables securely in zip pockets or money belts.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas and avoid isolated spots for personal safety.
Official Guided Tours: Book official guided tours to learn about the palace's history and ensure safety.

Traditional June festivals with food, music, and dance. Stay alert to prevent theft or harassment.

Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items hidden and secure in a money belt or zipped pocket.
Travel in a Group: Visit the festivals in a group for increased safety and companionship.
Avoid Isolated Spaces: Avoid dark or deserted areas during the festivities.