Question 1

What is the "Express Kidnapping via Unofficial Taxis" scam in Guayaquil?

Accepted Answer

Express kidnapping — where victims are taken by unofficial taxi drivers to ATMs and forced to make maximum withdrawals before being released — is a documented and serious crime in Guayaquil. Criminals pose as taxi drivers, sometimes with fake taxi markings, and target tourists hailing rides from the street. Victims are typically released unharmed after the withdrawals but can be held for several hours. Never hail a taxi from the street in Guayaquil under any circumstances. Use only registered radio taxi companies called by phone, or ride-hailing apps (Cabify, InDriver, Uber). Ask your hotel to call a radio taxi for you. Do not share a taxi with strangers.

Question 2

What is the "Airport Taxi Overcharging" scam in Guayaquil?

Accepted Answer

The journey from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport to the city centre is approximately 10–15 minutes. Unlicensed drivers at the arrivals exit quote fares of USD 20–30 for a trip that should cost USD 5–8 on the meter. Some drivers use tampered meters that run faster than the official rate. The combination of overcharging and the express kidnapping risk makes unofficial airport taxis the single biggest hazard for new arrivals. Book a taxi through your hotel in advance or use the official airport taxi counter inside the terminal with a printed receipt. Rideshare apps are a reliable alternative. Do not accept any approach from a driver inside the arrivals hall.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Guayaquil

Express Kidnapping via Unofficial Taxis

Airport Taxi Overcharging

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