Question 1

What is the "Belén Market Pickpocket Ring" scam in Iquitos?

Accepted Answer

The Belén floating-slum market is a major tourist draw but also pickpocket central — phones, wallets, and shoulder bags are lifted in the tight aisles. Organized teams use distraction (a dropped item, a request for directions) while an accomplice lifts the valuable. Go only with a licensed guide or on a small-group tour. Leave your phone at the hotel, carry only small cash in a front pocket, and keep bags in front of your body at all times.

Question 2

What is the "Counterfeit "Shaman" Souvenirs" scam in Iquitos?

Accepted Answer

Street vendors sell "authentic shipibo embroidery," "ayahuasca art," and dried medicinal plants at 3-5x market price. Much of it is machine-made in Lima or imported from China; some "medicinal" plants are regulated and illegal to export. Buy indigenous crafts from the Galería Alfredo Figueroa or cooperatives that display certificates of origin. Do not attempt to export plant material; it is seized at Lima airport.

Street Scams in Iquitos

Belén Market Pickpocket Ring

Counterfeit "Shaman" Souvenirs

Experienced a scam here?