Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil

All Topics about Manaus All Cities in Brazil

1. Taxis from Airport Scam

Unregulated taxis at Eduardo Gomes International Airport often overcharge tourists. Always use the official taxi stand.

Souvenir shops may sell counterfeit or low-quality items. Research popular souvenirs before purchasing.

Check Authenticity: Look for authenticity seals and holograms on souvenir products.
Ask Locals: Ask local residents about reputable shops for souvenirs.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other shops to avoid overpaying.

Unauthorized tour guides may approach tourists offering services. Always book tours through reputable agencies.

Agency Booking: Book tours through a reputable travel agency.
Check Credentials: Check tour guide's credentials and ask for identification.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Never accept tours offered by street solicitations.

Unauthorized currency exchange shops may offer lower rates. Use banks or authorized exchange offices.

Authorized Exchange: Use only authorized currency exchange offices.
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates with other shops and banks before finalizing the transaction.
Avoid Street Transactions: Never exchange money on the street or with unauthorized individuals.

Some Bureau de Changes may overcharge tourists for currency exchange. Research the current exchange rate before visiting.

Current Exchange Rate: Know the current exchange rate to avoid being overcharged.
Avoid Rush Transactions: Avoid exchanging money in a rush, as it may prevent you from checking rates and finding the best deal.
Check Multiple Shops: Compare exchange rates at multiple shops before making a decision.

Some hotels may overcharge tourists or offer poor services. Research hotels thoroughly before booking.

Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and ratings of the hotel online to ensure quality.
Location Verification: Verify the location of the hotel before booking to avoid potential scams.
Booking Directly: Book directly with the hotel to avoid third-party scams or hidden fees.

Some restaurants may overcharge tourists or serve low-quality food. Research restaurants and ask locals for recommendations.

Some market vendors may sell low-quality or overpriced items. Research popular markets and their products before shopping.

Some attractions may charge inflated prices or offer subpar experiences. Research attractions before visiting.

Reputable Attractions: Visit reputable attractions known for quality experiences.
Ticket Prices: Compare ticket prices with other attractions and online sources to avoid overpaying.
Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and ratings of the attraction online before visiting.

During Manaus Carnival, some vendors may overcharge or offer low-quality costumes. Research costume rentals and plan ahead.

Reputable Rental Shops: Rent costumes from reputable shops known for quality.
Cost Comparison: Compare costume prices with other rental shops to avoid overpaying.
Costume Quality: Ensure the costume is well-made and durable for the festivities.

Some street performers may demand unnecessary payment or pressure tourists for money. Be aware of the performance and its costs.

Understand Performance Costs: Ask about the performance cost beforehand to avoid unexpected charges.
Appreciate Without Payment: Enjoy performances without feeling obligated to give money unless you wish to do so.
Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: Do not allow yourself to be pressured into giving money, and walk away if necessary.

Some beggars may use deception or intimidation to solicit money. Be aware of the situation and trust your instincts.

Safe Environment: Avoid isolated areas and stay in well-lit, populated places.
Don't Feed False Hope: Do not encourage begging by providing money or food without understanding the situation.
Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your instincts and avoid situations that feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Some tour buses may offer misleading information about destinations or overcharge tourists. Research bus companies and their routes before booking.

Reputable Companies: Book with reputable tour companies known for quality service.
Route Information: Research the route and destinations of the bus before booking to avoid any surprises.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other tour companies and online sources to avoid overpaying.

Some Rio Negro river cruise operators may offer subpar experiences or overcharge tourists. Research companies and their services before booking.

Reputable Companies: Book with reputable cruise companies known for quality service.
Cruise Information: Research the cruise's duration, destinations, and activities before booking.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other cruise companies to avoid overpaying.

Some Amazon jungle tour operators may offer low-quality experiences or overcharge tourists. Research companies and their services before booking.

Reputable Companies: Book with reputable tour companies known for quality service.
Tour Information: Research the tour's duration, destinations, and activities before booking.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other tour companies to avoid overpaying.