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Some scams

South America

Tourist scams in Ecuador

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.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketing in crowds and on public transportThieves take money, phones or other belongings while passengers and people in crowds are distracted.Quito 3Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonTheft of unattended belongingsThieves take bags or valuables that travellers leave unguarded.Country-wide, including beaches 3Read
  3. 3 ShoppingCommonHigher souvenir prices for touristsSellers may quote higher prices to visitors who are not local. Many items can be bargained over, and several stalls may sell similar goods.Quito 2Read
  4. 4 TheftCommonTheft by bus peddlersSome people who board buses to sell goods also steal from passengers. Their sales activity can draw attention away from belongings.Buses where sellers board briefly to offer goods 1Read
  5. 5 TaxisOccasionalTaxi fare overchargingStarting a ride without a clear fare can leave you facing an expensive demand at the end. In Quito, using the meter is often cheaper than negotiating a price.Quito 3Read
  6. 6 TaxisOccasionalUnlicensed taxi kidnapping riskAn unlicensed vehicle offers a taxi ride. Taking one can expose passengers to kidnapping.Country-wide 3Read
  7. 7 TheftOccasionalRobbery on remote hiking and climbing routesTravellers have been attacked and robbed on isolated parts of established routes. Sexual assaults have also been reported.Remote sections of well-known hiking and climbing routes 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Trolébus, QuitoCrowded services are specifically linked to pickpocketing.
  • El Mercado Artesenal, QuitoVisitors may be quoted higher souvenir prices. Comparing stalls and bargaining can help.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Check for a prominently displayed taxi licence number before boarding.
  • Agree on the fare or ask for the meter before the trip starts.
  • In Quito, the meter is often cheaper than a negotiated fare.
  • Clarify evening prices before boarding; rates are often double.

Money

  • Carry plenty of US$1 and US$5 bills so you can pay close to the exact amount.
  • Keep large amounts of cash out of sight.
  • Expect difficulty using US$50 and US$100 bills.
  • Compare shopping prices and agree on the total before paying.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and in front of you in crowds and on buses.
  • Watch your belongings when bus sellers board.
  • Never leave valuables unguarded on a beach.
  • Keep a separate record of important documents and card issuer contact details.

Where you stay

  • Ask hotel staff which nearby areas you should avoid.
  • Ask staff to help you identify a licensed taxi.
  • Leave valuables you do not need in secure storage when available.

Tours and guides

  • Avoid hiking alone on remote routes.
  • Go in a large group and stay together.
  • Ask about unsafe areas before setting out.

Police and officials

  • Ask tourist police, police officers or tourist information centres about dangerous areas.
  • Seek help from a safe public place after a theft or threat.

What travellers say about Ecuador

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

What is the main scam or theft risk in Ecuador?

Simple theft is the main concern. Watch your belongings in crowds, bus terminals and buses, and never leave them unattended on a beach.

How can I avoid paying too much for a taxi?

Agree on the full fare before getting in or ask for the meter. In Quito, using the meter is often cheaper than negotiating. Clarify evening rates before boarding.

How do I check whether a taxi is licensed?

Look for a prominently displayed taxi licence number. Taxis are generally yellow, but colour alone does not confirm a licence. Avoid unlicensed taxis because of the kidnapping risk.

Where should I be especially careful about pickpockets in Quito?

Be especially alert on the Trolébus and in crowded areas. Keep your bag closed and in front of you, with your phone and wallet out of easily reached pockets.

Can people selling goods on buses steal from passengers?

Yes. Some bus peddlers also steal. Keep watching your bag while sellers are on board, even if you are interested in what they offer.

Should I bargain when buying souvenirs?

Many prices can be bargained over, and visitors may receive higher quotes. Compare stalls, including at El Mercado Artesenal in Quito. A local person or fluent Spanish speaker may help you bargain.

Which cash denominations are easiest to use?

Carry plenty of US$1 and US$5 bills. Change can be difficult to get, especially on cheaper buses. Many businesses do not accept US$50 or US$100 bills.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Avoid solo hikes. Attacks and robberies have been reported on remote sections of established routes. Travel in a large group, stay together and ask about unsafe areas before leaving.

Can I leave my bag on the beach while I swim?

Do not leave it unguarded. Take turns watching belongings with someone you trust, or leave valuables in secure storage before going to the beach.

What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?

Get somewhere safe, block stolen cards and report the theft to police or tourist police. Contact your embassy or consulate for a stolen passport, and keep records for your insurer.

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