Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Arequipa, Peru

All Topics about Arequipa All Cities in Peru

1. Taxis from the Airport

Be aware of unofficial taxi drivers at the airport who might overcharge. Use only authorized taxis with a yellow license plate.

Official Taxis: Recognize yellow-plated taxis as official, regulated vehicles.
Overcharging: Know the approximate cost of a taxi ride from the airport to the city center.
Authorized Taxi Stands: Wait in authorized taxi stands or use prepaid booths at the airport for safety and convenience.

Be cautious when exchanging money on the streets. Use authorized exchange offices with visible prices.

Authorized Exchange Offices: Find exchange offices in banks, hotels, or recognized exchange booths.
Visible Prices: Ensure that the exchange office displays clear and visible prices.
Exchange Rates: Familiarize yourself with current exchange rates to avoid being deceived.

Avoid eating street food that looks unappealing or is served by unsanitary vendors. Stick to popular and well-known spots.

Popular Spots: Choose street food stands that are busy and have good reviews.
Unsanitary Conditions: Check if the food is being handled properly and the area is clean before purchasing.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on good street food options.

Choose reputable tour guides and agree on prices before starting the tour to avoid any disputes.

Reputable Tour Companies: Research tour companies online, read reviews, and check for certifications.
Agreeing on Prices: Negotiate prices beforehand to avoid any surprises during the tour.
Licensed Guides: Ensure that your guide has a valid license from the Ministry of Culture.

Be aware of overpriced or counterfeit items in local markets. Bargain reasonably and compare prices with other vendors.

Bargaining: Ask for a lower price without being too aggressive.
Counterfeit Items: Check for signs of poor quality or inconsistencies in the item's labeling.
Multiple Vendors: Visit several vendors to compare prices and find the best deal.

Avoid bars with no visible prices or inflated drink costs. Stick to well-known establishments and watch your drinks carefully.

Visible Prices: Check for clear price lists before ordering.
Reputable Bars: Choose well-known bars or those with good reviews.
Watch Your Drinks: Keep an eye on your drinks to avoid being overcharged or drugged.

Use ATMs located in banks or well-lit, busy areas to avoid potential skimming devices. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Bank ATMs: Preferably use ATMs located in banks or secured areas.
Skimming Devices: Inspect the ATM for any unusual attachments before using it.
Keypad Coverage: Cover the keypad with your free hand when entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.

Buy SIM cards only from authorized retailers and avoid street vendors. Read the terms and conditions before use.

Authorized Retailers: Purchase SIM cards from mobile operator stores or approved resellers.
Terms & Conditions: Thoroughly read and understand the terms and conditions before activating the SIM card.
Street Vendors: Avoid buying SIM cards from street vendors to avoid potential fraud or poor service.

Check the hotel's reputation online before booking. Be aware of hotels that offer incredibly low prices for high-quality accommodations.

Online Reputation: Read reviews and check ratings from reliable sources before booking.
Incredibly Low Prices: Be cautious of hotels that offer prices significantly lower than the market average.
Location: Choose a hotel in a safe and convenient location for easy access to attractions and amenities.

Avoid giving more change than necessary when using public transportation. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Change Management: Keep the right amount of change to avoid being given too much.
Pickpocket Awareness: Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in crowded areas.
Timing: Travel during peak hours to ensure reliable service and less chance of encountering scams.

Book bus tickets from reputable companies. Be cautious when boarding and avoid giving more money than necessary.

Reputable Companies: Research the company's reputation online before booking.
Board Carefully: Verify your seat assignment with the bus company representative before boarding.
Money Management: Double-check the change you receive to avoid being given too little or overcharged.

Avoid giving more money than necessary when using city buses. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Change Management: Keep the right amount of change to avoid being given too much.
Pickpocket Awareness: Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in crowded areas.
Timing: Travel during off-peak hours to reduce the risk of pickpocketing.

Negotiate a fare before getting into a tuk tuk. Be aware of drivers who may try to charge excessive prices.

Fare Negotiation: Set a fare before starting the journey.
Excessive Prices: Ask locals for advice on reasonable prices for tuk tuk rides.
Safe Drivers: Check that the driver has a valid license and is wearing a helmet (if applicable).

Be cautious when meeting people online. Do not share personal or financial information and meet in public places.

Personal Information: Never share sensitive information like passwords, bank details, or home addresses.
Financial Transactions: Avoid sending or receiving money to/from someone you just met online.
Public Meetings: Meet in public places and let someone know where you are going.

Be wary of street performers who ask for excessive amounts or forceful beggars. Only donate to reputable charities.

Reputable Charities: Research charities before donating to ensure they are legitimate.
Excessive Amounts: Avoid giving large amounts of money to individuals on the street.
Forced Begging: Do not engage with or donate to anyone who appears forced or intimidated.