Question 1

What is the "Drink spiking and drugged robbery in bars" scam in Banos?

Accepted Answer

Along the Calle Ambato nightlife strip, the wider Ecuadorian risk of drink-spiking applies: criminals use scopolamine ('burundanga') or other drugs to incapacitate and rob victims. The U.S. Embassy has listed Banos among Ecuadorian towns with reported scopolamine cases, and the drug can be slipped into drinks or even applied via offered food or samples. Never leave a drink unattended and don't accept drinks, food, cigarettes or 'samples' from strangers on the Calle Ambato bar strip. Go out with others, watch your drink being poured, and leave if you suddenly feel disoriented.

Question 2

What is the "Pickpocketing and unattended-item theft at the thermal baths and dorms" scam in Banos?

Accepted Answer

The crowded Termas de la Virgen pools beneath the waterfall, hostel dorms and cafe tables are the main spots where phones, wallets and bags vanish when left unattended. Thieves take advantage of changing-room chaos and distraction in the busy baths. Locals warn flatly that anything left out 'will be gone'. Use a locker or leave valuables at your accommodation rather than poolside at the Termas de la Virgen, and never leave phones or bags on cafe tables. In dorms use the provided lockers and keep documents and cash on your person.

Street Scams in Banos

Drink spiking and drugged robbery in bars

Pickpocketing and unattended-item theft at the thermal baths and dorms

Experienced a scam here?