Scam in UruguayAirport and border
Airport shuttle unavailable, expensive taxi offered in Uruguay
How it works
A private company offers both taxis and a shuttle that supposedly leaves when enough people buy tickets. The shuttle is described as repeatedly unavailable, leaving the more profitable taxi as the offered option.
Warning signs
- The shuttle has no firm departure time.
- Staff say the shuttle cannot run and direct you to a taxi.
How to avoid it
- Check the shuttle departure time before paying.
- Compare the taxi price with the airport buses.
- For a bus, check whether it goes to Rio Branco Terminal or Tres Cruces.
If it happens to you
Ask for a refund if you paid for a shuttle that will not run. Compare other transport before accepting the taxi.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- If there is immediate danger, call 911 or 999. If you need an ambulance, call 105.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any disputed payments. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, payment records, messages and any useful details. Report theft or fraud to police and ask for a report reference.
- Contact your travel insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate about a replacement.
Questions
What is the airport shuttle unavailable, expensive taxi offered scam in Uruguay?
A private company offers both taxis and a shuttle that supposedly leaves when enough people buy tickets. The shuttle is described as repeatedly unavailable, leaving the more profitable taxi as the offered option.
How can I spot it early?
The shuttle has no firm departure time. Staff say the shuttle cannot run and direct you to a taxi.
How do I avoid airport shuttle unavailable, expensive taxi offered in Uruguay?
Check the shuttle departure time before paying. Compare the taxi price with the airport buses. For a bus, check whether it goes to Rio Branco Terminal or Tres Cruces.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for a refund if you paid for a shuttle that will not run. Compare other transport before accepting the taxi.
Where in Uruguay does this happen?
Carrasco International Airport It has been reported in Montevideo.
How much can it cost me?
The private airport taxi is quoted at US$60.
How common is this scam in Uruguay?
Occasional. Uruguay has theft and robbery risks, especially in Montevideo, while Punta del Este and most rural areas have lower crime levels. Visitors should also watch for an airport shuttle sales trick and poor exchange rates. High prices, taxi fare charts and confusing currency symbols do not by themselves mean a scam.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 911 or 999 for a security emergency. For a theft or fraud report after the danger has passed, contact police and provide the time, place and available evidence. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorised payments. Business or transport operator: for a fare, exchange or service dispute, keep the receipt and ask the operator to explain the charge or correct an agreed service that was not provided. Accommodation staff: tell reception about a room theft, damaged lock or signs of entry. Ask for help contacting police. Travel insurer: use the contact details in your policy. Keep receipts and the police report reference for a claim. Embassy or consulate: if your passport is lost or stolen, use your country's official embassy or consulate contact details to request replacement travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in Uruguay?
Security emergency: 911, Security emergency, alternative number: 999, Firefighters: 104, Ambulance: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck