Scam in PeruTaxis
Taxi price quoted without a currency in Peru
How it works
A fare is given as a number without clearly stating whether it is in soles or US dollars. The difference can be substantial.
Warning signs
- The driver quotes only a number.
- The currency is missing from the agreed price.
How to avoid it
- Ask explicitly whether the fare is in soles or US dollars.
- Confirm the total and currency before entering.
- Write down the agreed price if there is any confusion.
If it happens to you
Show any written agreement and ask the company desk or your accommodation to help resolve the dispute safely.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone is threatening you, prioritise your safety over belongings.
- For immediate danger or injury, call emergency services. Avoid chasing thieves or confronting armed people.
- Block stolen cards and contact your bank about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone and secure affected accounts.
- Save receipts, booking messages and transaction details. Write down the time, location and any vehicle details you safely remember.
- Report the incident to police and ask how to obtain a report copy. Keep the report for insurance or a payment dispute.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement-document advice.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the taxi price quoted without a currency scam in Peru?
A fare is given as a number without clearly stating whether it is in soles or US dollars. The difference can be substantial.
How can I spot it early?
The driver quotes only a number. The currency is missing from the agreed price.
How do I avoid taxi price quoted without a currency in Peru?
Ask explicitly whether the fare is in soles or US dollars. Confirm the total and currency before entering. Write down the agreed price if there is any confusion.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Show any written agreement and ask the company desk or your accommodation to help resolve the dispute safely.
Where in Peru does this happen?
Lima airport taxi pickups. It has been reported in Lima.
How much can it cost me?
The example given is a quote of 25, which could mean S/25 or US$25.
How common is this scam in Peru?
Occasional. Petty theft is a concern in Peru, and armed robberies of tourists are described as fairly common. Taxi robberies, inflated fares, misleading touts and false money are the main risks to prepare for. Choose transport carefully, check prices before paying and keep valuables out of sight.
Are there similar scams in Peru?
Yes: taxi robbery or kidnapping, inflated taxi fares, taxi fare changed to a price per person.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: dial 911 for an emergency. The older number 105 can also connect you with police. Tourist police: ask tourist police for help in person. They are described as wearing white shirts and normally speaking English. They are present in downtown Arequipa. Police: report theft, robbery or fraud and request a report. To obtain a copy, the stated process requires paying S/3 at Banco de la Nación during working days. Serenazgo: in Lima and some larger cities, ask this local police service for help. It does not provide tourist-focused services. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block cards, report unauthorised transactions and ask about a dispute. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Use its official contact details. Travel insurer: contact the claims or emergency-assistance team. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses. Transport company, booking seller or shop: raise a complaint through the business's official contact channel. Provide your receipt, booking details and the price or service you agreed.
What number do I call in an emergency in Peru?
All emergency services: 911, Police, older number: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck