Street Scams in Asunción, Paraguay
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Asunción — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Valparaíso, Mendoza, and Salvador.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
2
Street Scams Scams
8
Total in Asunción
How it works
Mercado 4 is Asunción's largest informal market and one of South America's biggest street markets, drawing large crowds daily. Pickpockets and distraction thieves operate in the densely packed aisles, often working in pairs — one engages the target while the other lifts wallets, phones, or bag contents. Bag slashing has been reported on the outer perimeter of the market.
How it works
Street sellers near tourist sites sell old or novelty guaraní coins as rare collectibles or genuine historical currency, often claiming significant monetary or collector value. The coins are typically worthless novelty items or common low-denomination pieces with no collector market. Some sellers use fake certificates of authenticity.
See all scams in Asunción
8 total warnings across all categories