Question 1

What is the "Colca Canyon Tour Overcharging" scam in Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed tour operators clustered near Plaza de Armas and the Miraflores district sell Colca Canyon two-day tours at prices well above licensed agencies, often omitting the mandatory Boleto Turístico de Colca entry fee, guide certification, and adequate equipment for the high-altitude canyon (3,200m+). Tourists discover the omissions only when they arrive at canyon checkpoints. Book Colca Canyon tours exclusively through agencies certified by Peru's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR). Confirm the package explicitly includes the Boleto Turístico de Colca, a certified bilingual guide, and transport with adequate heating for cold canyon mornings. Compare three certified agencies before booking.

Question 2

What is the "Unofficial Guides at Santa Catalina Monastery" scam in Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

Individuals posing as official guides approach tourists outside the Santa Catalina Monastery entrance on Calle Santa Catalina offering private tours at rates above the monastery's own certified guide service. Some claim the monastery's audio guide is broken or insufficient and that only their private tour accesses certain areas. These individuals have no affiliation with the monastery. The Santa Catalina Monastery operates its own certified bilingual guides available at the ticket office inside the entrance. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages. Decline all approaches from individuals outside the entrance claiming to be official guides.

Question 3

What is the "Fake Alpaca Weaving Workshop Fee" scam in Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

Locals near the Santa Catalina Monastery and Yanahuara viewpoint invite tourists to watch a "free" traditional alpaca weaving demonstration, then present a large bill at the end or pressure guests aggressively to buy overpriced items. Some operators charge a workshop entry fee that was not disclosed upfront. Ask clearly before entering any demonstration whether there is a fee. If the invitation is from a stranger on the street rather than your hotel, treat it as commercially motivated. Buying a small souvenir is fine if the price is agreed in advance.

Tour & Activity Scams in Arequipa

Colca Canyon Tour Overcharging

Unofficial Guides at Santa Catalina Monastery

Fake Alpaca Weaving Workshop Fee

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