Scam in ParaguayTaxis
Inflated taxi fares in Paraguay
How it works
A driver quotes a tourist an inflated price for a short journey. Without agreeing on the fare before getting in, you may face a dispute at the end.
Warning signs
- The driver will not agree on a fare before departure.
- The price is much higher than your hotel estimated.
How to avoid it
- Ask your hotel concierge what the journey should cost.
- Agree on the full fare before entering a taxi outside Asunción.
- Bargain or choose another taxi if the quote seems too high.
- In Asunción, check that the fare is being calculated by the meter.
If it happens to you
Refer to the agreed price and keep the discussion calm. If you feel unsafe, prioritise reaching a safe place and seek help there.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing a thief or escalating an argument.
- Check what is missing. Freeze stolen cards and tell your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Secure affected accounts. If your phone was stolen, use available remote-lock tools and contact your mobile provider.
- Save evidence, including receipts, messages, transaction records, locations and descriptions.
- Report theft or fraud to police. Ask for a written report or reference number for insurance and payment disputes.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you need consular help. Notify your insurer and keep copies of all reports.
Questions
What is the inflated taxi fares scam in Paraguay?
A driver quotes a tourist an inflated price for a short journey. Without agreeing on the fare before getting in, you may face a dispute at the end.
How can I spot it early?
The driver will not agree on a fare before departure. The price is much higher than your hotel estimated.
How do I avoid inflated taxi fares in Paraguay?
Ask your hotel concierge what the journey should cost. Agree on the full fare before entering a taxi outside Asunción. Bargain or choose another taxi if the quote seems too high. In Asunción, check that the fare is being calculated by the meter.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Refer to the agreed price and keep the discussion calm. If you feel unsafe, prioritise reaching a safe place and seek help there.
Where in Paraguay does this happen?
Outside Asunción, where taxis do not have meters.
How much can it cost me?
Tourists have been asked for US$10 for a five-minute ride.
How common is this scam in Paraguay?
Occasional. Paraguay is generally safe, but visitors should watch for pickpockets, taxi overcharging and poor deals from street money changers. Police may also ask for bribes during stops, although most police in Asunción are described as not corrupt. Stay alert to your belongings in cities, especially Ciudad del Este.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft or fraud at a police station. Bring any evidence and ask for a written report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised transactions and ask about a payment dispute. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a threatening encounter involving officials. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact on your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and proof of loss. Seller or service provider: request a refund through a verified contact channel. Keep the receipt and a written record of the complaint.
Reviewed by @snuck