Scam in EcuadorShopping
Higher souvenir prices for tourists in Ecuador
How it works
Sellers may quote higher prices to visitors who are not local. Many items can be bargained over, and several stalls may sell similar goods.
Warning signs
- Similar items have different prices at nearby stalls.
- You are being asked to buy before you have compared prices.
How to avoid it
- Compare prices at several stalls before buying.
- Bargain and agree on the final price before paying.
- Shop with a local person or someone fluent in Spanish if possible.
If it happens to you
If you have not paid, decline the price or keep bargaining. If you have paid, you can ask for a refund, but do not assume one will be offered.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or risk injury over belongings.
- Check for injuries and seek medical care if needed.
- Block stolen cards through your card issuer. Secure accounts and remotely lock a stolen phone if possible.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, payment records and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report the incident to police or tourist police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Travel blogThe Three Markets of Otavalo EcuadorThe authors report that Otavalo market sellers initially quote tourists souvenir prices two or three times the items’ actual value.Read on Travel blog
- Travel blogOtavalo Market in Ecuador: How to Visit South America’s Largest Market – The Pedal ProjectThe author describes buying crafts at Otavalo and explains that initial prices are commonly inflated because bargaining is expected.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the higher souvenir prices for tourists scam in Ecuador?
Sellers may quote higher prices to visitors who are not local. Many items can be bargained over, and several stalls may sell similar goods.
How can I spot it early?
Similar items have different prices at nearby stalls. You are being asked to buy before you have compared prices.
How do I avoid higher souvenir prices for tourists in Ecuador?
Compare prices at several stalls before buying. Bargain and agree on the final price before paying. Shop with a local person or someone fluent in Spanish if possible.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If you have not paid, decline the price or keep bargaining. If you have paid, you can ask for a refund, but do not assume one will be offered.
Where in Ecuador does this happen?
Shopping areas, including El Mercado Artesenal in Quito It has been reported in Quito.
How common is this scam in Ecuador?
Common. Theft is the main concern for visitors to Ecuador, especially in crowded places and on public transport. Tourists may also face higher shopping prices, taxi fare disputes and theft by people selling goods on buses. Unlicensed taxis and remote hiking routes carry more serious risks.
Who can I report it to?
Police or tourist police: report theft, robbery, kidnapping or threats once you are safe. Give the location, time and a clear account of what happened. Ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block stolen cards and report any unauthorised payments. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through your policy details. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence for a claim.
Reviewed by @snuck