Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Salta, Salta, Argentina
1. Tourist Trap Restaurants
Overpriced and low-quality food in areas heavily frequented by tourists.
- Hidden Costs: Watch out for service charges or 'tourist taxes' hidden on the bill.
- Authenticity: Seek local recommendations to find truly authentic cuisine.
- Location: Avoid restaurants in tourist hotspots for better deals.
2. Falsified Taxi Services
Illegal taxis posing as legitimate ones to overcharge or rob passengers.
- Regulation: Always use regulated taxi services, such as Radio Taxi or Sitio Taxi.
- License Check: Check for a visible taxi license and make sure the meter is functioning correctly.
- Payment Method: Avoid paying in cash whenever possible; use credit cards or apps like Cabify.
3. Counterfeit Money Exchange Shops
Dishonest exchange shops selling fake bills.
- Reputation: Use well-known money exchange services like Banco Nación or Cambios oficiales.
- Multiple Exchanges: Exchange larger amounts in fewer transactions to minimize risk.
- Security Measures: Check for security cameras and observe if the transaction area is secure.
4. Street Vendors Scams
Fraudulent vendors selling overpriced or fake goods.
- Haggling: Always negotiate prices and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right.
- Location: Purchase goods from established markets like Mercado Central or San Francisco.
- Knowledge: Learn about the average price of common items before shopping.
5. Fake Guides and Tours
Unlicensed guides offering subpar or dangerous tours.
- Verification: Check for a government-issued guide's license before booking any tour.
- Recommendations: Book tours through reputable providers like Salta Turismo or CicloTours.
- Itinerary: Be wary of guides who alter the itinerary unexpectedly or refuse to show the route in advance.
6. Street Performers Extortion
Performers using aggressive tactics for excessive tips.
- Appreciation: Offer a tip based on the quality and length of performance.
- Assertiveness: Be firm but polite when declining excessive demands for tips.
- Awareness: Observe the behavior of other tourists to gauge appropriate tipping amounts.
7. Beware of Pickpockets
Thieves targeting valuables in crowded areas.
- Security Measures: Use a travel pouch or neck wallet to secure valuables.
- Awareness: Stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover lost items.
8. Overpriced Accommodation
Hotels overcharging tourists for subpar services.
- Research: Compare prices and read reviews on multiple booking platforms.
- Location: Choose accommodation in safer, less-touristy areas to save money.
- Discounts: Negotiate for discounts if staying for an extended period.
9. Shady ATMs and Bank Cards
ATMs skimming cards or charging excessive fees.
- Secure Locations: Use ATMs located inside banks or well-known businesses for added security.
- Credit vs Debit: Prefer using credit cards for better fraud protection.
- Transaction Fees: Check your bank's international withdrawal fees before traveling.
10. Unfair Bargaining in Markets
Vendors using aggressive tactics to get the highest price.
- Patience: Take your time and be patient when bargaining.
- Knowledge: Learn about the average price of common items before shopping.
- Persistence: Be persistent in your bargaining efforts, but remain reasonable.
11. Friendly Scams
Locals pretending to be friendly to gain trust and take advantage.
- Skepticism: Maintain a healthy level of skepticism when meeting new people.
- Local Knowledge: Avoid asking for directions or advice from strangers.
- Trusted Resources: Seek help from hotel staff, tour guides, or trusted locals instead.
12. Dangerous Nightlife Venues
Bars and clubs that overserve alcohol or have unsafe conditions.
- Reputation: Choose well-known, reputable bars and clubs.
- Safety Measures: Look for venues with security personnel, working CCTV cameras, and safety exits.
- Responsible Drinking: Stay aware of your drink intake and never leave drinks unattended.
13. Counterfeit Souvenirs
Sellers offering fake or low-quality souvenirs.
- Reputation: Purchase souvenirs from reputable shops or vendors.
- Knowledge: Learn about the origin and characteristics of genuine souvenirs.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices with similar items in multiple shops to avoid overpriced fakes.
14. Photography Scams
Locals asking for photos and then demanding money.
- Permission: Always ask permission before taking someone's photo.
- Documentation: Carry a printout of your travel itinerary or hotel information to show locals if asked.
- Awareness: Be aware that this scam is common in tourist areas and remain cautious.
15. Fake Police Officers
Impostors posing as police officers to extort money or valuable items.
- Legitimacy Check: Ask for identification and verify it with local law enforcement agencies.
- Safety First: Never hand over personal belongings or money to strangers claiming to be police officers.
- Trusted Resources: If in doubt, find a trusted local or hotel staff member for assistance.