
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Pasto, Nariño, Colombia
1. Taxi Scam at Airport
Unlicensed taxis may charge exorbitant prices or take longer routes. Avoid this by only using authorized taxis from the airport booth.
- Price Control: Authorized taxis have set rates and cannot overcharge.
- Safety: Official taxis are licensed and safe for travelers.
- Time-Efficiency: Legitimate taxis will take the shortest route to your destination.
2. Counterfeit Money Exchange Shops
Some exchange shops provide counterfeit bills. Stick to banks or official exchange offices for currency exchanges.
- Authentic Currency: Banks and official exchange offices only deal with genuine bills.
- Insurance: In case of an issue, banks and official exchange offices offer protection.
- Better Exchange Rates: Official exchanges usually provide better exchange rates compared to unlicensed shops.
3. Overpriced Souvenirs
Some vendors overcharge for souvenirs in tourist areas. Bargain or visit local markets for cheaper prices.
- Affordable Pricing: Local markets offer lower prices due to less overhead costs.
- Authenticity: Locally-sourced souvenirs are of better quality and more authentic.
- Supporting Local Economy: Purchasing from local markets helps support the local economy.
4. Fake Tour Guides
Unlicensed guides may offer subpar services or take you to overpriced locations. Ask for a license and confirm the itinerary before hiring.
- Qualified Guide: Licensed guides have undergone training and are knowledgeable about Pasto.
- Proper Itinerary: Official tour guides will offer a well-planned itinerary with the best attractions.
- Cost-Effective: Licensed guides usually charge reasonable prices and do not lead to scams.
5. Coffee Shop Overbilling
Some coffee shops may overcharge tourists. Opt for well-known establishments or local favorites.
- Reasonable Pricing: Popular and reliable coffee shops have fair pricing.
- Taste Authenticity: Local favorites serve traditional Pasto coffee with the best flavors.
- Supporting Local Businesses: Choosing local coffee shops helps support small businesses in Pasto.
6. Dining Scams in Restaurants
Some restaurants may serve smaller portions or overcharge tourists. Look for popular eateries with good reviews.
- Quality of Food: Popular restaurants serve high-quality, delicious food.
- Fair Pricing: Reputable restaurants have competitive pricing and do not overcharge.
- Authentic Cuisine: Local dining options provide traditional Colombian dishes.
7. Lodging Scams in Hotels
Some hotels may offer subpar rooms or overcharge tourists. Choose well-reviewed accommodations and read descriptions carefully.
- Cleanliness: Reputable hotels maintain clean and comfortable rooms.
- Location: Good accommodations are situated near popular attractions.
- Affordable Rates: Highly-rated hotels offer competitive prices for their services.
8. Street Performer Scams
Some street performers may demand excessive tips or trick tourists into donating. Be aware and only tip for genuine performances.
- Legitimate Talent: Talented performers offer engaging, enjoyable shows.
- Fair Compensation: Avoid overtipping and only give what you feel is fair for the performance.
- Supporting Artists: Giving to talented performers helps support their craft and local art scene.
9. Public Transportation Scams
Some bus drivers may try to overcharge tourists or take longer routes. Use the TransMilenio system for reliable and affordable travel.
- Affordable Fares: TransMilenio offers reasonable fares compared to other transportation methods.
- Time-Efficiency: The TransMilenio system takes you directly to your destination without unnecessary detours.
- Safety: TransMilenio is a safe and well-maintained public transportation option.
10. Marketplace Overpriced Items
Some vendors may overprice items in the market. Bargain or visit less touristy areas for better deals.
- Affordable Prices: Less touristy markets offer lower prices due to less overhead costs.
- Authentic Products: Local markets provide a variety of traditional Colombian goods and produce.
- Negotiating Opportunities: Bargaining allows you to get better prices on items in the market.
11. Car Rental Scams
Some rental companies may hide damages or overcharge for insurance. Research and read reviews before renting a car.
- Transparent Contracts: Reputable rental companies have clear contracts with no hidden fees.
- Good Condition Vehicles: Well-reviewed rental companies provide well-maintained vehicles.
- Reasonable Prices: Highly-rated car rentals offer competitive prices and fair insurance rates.
12. Tourist Trap Restaurants
Some restaurants near tourist attractions may overcharge or serve poor-quality food. Seek out local eateries for a genuine dining experience.
- High-Quality Food: Local restaurants offer traditional Colombian dishes with high-quality ingredients.
- Fair Pricing: Local dining options have affordable prices compared to tourist traps.
- Supporting the Local Economy: Choosing local restaurants helps support small businesses in Pasto.
13. Fake Hostel/Hotel Reviews
Some online platforms may have fake reviews for accommodations. Read multiple sources and check for consistency.
- Accurate Information: Multiple reliable sources provide a more accurate representation of the accommodation.
- Reputable Platforms: Using well-established booking sites helps ensure honest reviews.
- Real Guest Experiences: Reading a variety of guest reviews helps gain insight into the accommodation's services and atmosphere.
14. Street Food Scams
Some street food vendors may use subpar ingredients or overcharge tourists. Stick to well-known stalls and follow local recommendations.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Popular street food stalls offer fresh, delicious food.
- Fair Pricing: Well-known street food vendors have reasonable prices and do not overcharge tourists.
- Local Recommendations: Asking locals for their favorite street food stalls helps ensure a great dining experience.
15. Unofficial Guides at Historical Sites
Some guides may provide inaccurate information or demand excessive fees. Only hire licensed guides at historical sites.
- Accurate Information: Licensed guides have undergone training and are knowledgeable about the historical site.
- Proper Itinerary: Official tour guides offer a well-planned itinerary of the historical site.
- Cost-Effective: Licensed guides usually charge reasonable prices and do not lead to scams.