Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Santiago del Estero, Argentina

All Topics about Santiago del Estero All Cities in Argentina

1. Taxis without meters

Unregulated taxis may charge exorbitant prices. Always use radio taxis or app-based services with visible meters.

Visible Meter: Ensures fair pricing based on distance traveled.
Regulated Service: Official, regulated taxis ensure driver safety and adherence to local laws.
App-Based Services: Provides a record of your journey and can help in case of any issues.

Unauthorized tour guides may offer inflated prices or scam tourists. Stick to registered guides and tours.

Registration: Ensures the guide is licensed and qualified.
Recommendations: Choose guides recommended by reputable sources or previous tourists.
Tour Company Reviews: Check reviews of the tour company to ensure quality and reliability.

Beware of street vendors selling counterfeit products. Support local businesses and buy authentic items.

Support Local Economy: Buying from local businesses helps stimulate the economy.
Legal Concerns: Purchasing counterfeit goods can lead to legal issues.
Quality Assurance: Authentic items often come with warranties and quality assurances.

Criminals may install skimmers on ATMs to steal your card information. Use secure ATMs and monitor your account for suspicious activity.

Secure ATMs: ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas are less likely to be targeted.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions.
Card Protection: Cover the ATM keypad when entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.

Some service providers may try to overcharge tourists. Research prices for common services beforehand.

Some street performers may use distractions to steal from tourists. Be cautious when interacting with them.

Crowded Areas: Performers are more likely to operate in busy, touristy areas.
Valuables Safety: Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuable items openly.
Reporting Incidents: If you notice suspicious behavior, report it to local authorities.

Some restaurants may charge higher prices for tourists. Research popular dining spots and ask locals for recommendations.

Local Reviews: Check online reviews from locals to find authentic, affordable dining options.
Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with other restaurants before making a decision.
Word of Mouth: Ask fellow travelers and locals for their favorite dining spots.

Some websites may offer fake or subpar accommodations. Book through reputable platforms and read reviews.

Reputable Platforms: Book accommodation on well-known, trusted online platforms.
Reviews: Check reviews from previous guests to ensure quality and reliability.
Location: Choose accommodation located in safe, tourist-friendly areas.

Drinking untreated local water may cause stomach problems. Stick to bottled or treated water.

Bottled Water: Purchase bottled water from reputable sources.
Water Treatment: Use water treatment drops or a filter if you plan to drink tap water.
Avoid Ice: Avoid consuming ice made from local water sources.

Eating street food without proper precautions may lead to foodborne illnesses. Be selective when choosing street food vendors.

Vendor Reputation: Choose popular, well-established street food vendors with good hygiene practices.
Cooking Practices: Look for vendors who cook food at high temperatures and handle it properly.
Reviews: Check online reviews from other travelers for recommendations.

Some exchange services may offer unfavorable exchange rates. Research fair exchange rates beforehand and use reputable providers.

Fair Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates with other providers to ensure fairness.
Secure Transactions: Use secure, well-lit exchange services and keep your belongings close.
Location: Exchange money in safe, tourist-friendly areas rather than isolated locations.

Using your credit card carelessly may lead to fraud. Use secure methods of payment and monitor transactions.

Secure Transactions: Make purchases at reputable businesses with secure payment systems.
Card Security: Keep your card safe and never share your PIN or CVV code.
Transaction Monitoring: Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions.

Scammers may use social media to target tourists. Be cautious about sharing personal information online.

Privacy Settings: Use strong, unique passwords and enable privacy settings on your accounts.
Personal Information Sharing: Avoid sharing personal information like home addresses or phone numbers online.
Security Apps: Install security apps on your devices to protect against malware and unauthorized access.

Scammers may pretend to be friendly locals to gain your trust. Maintain a healthy level of skepticism when interacting with strangers.

Skepticism: Trust your instincts and be cautious when meeting new people.
Avoiding Isolation: Stick to well-populated, tourist-friendly areas and avoid isolated locations.
Reporting Suspicious Activity: If you encounter suspicious behavior, report it to local authorities or embassy staff.

Some car rental companies may charge hidden fees or provide subpar vehicles. Research providers and read reviews before renting.

Reputable Providers: Rent from well-known, trusted car rental companies.
Reviews: Check online reviews from previous renters for insight into the company's reliability.
Hidden Fees: Carefully review the contract to ensure there are no hidden fees or charges.