Street Scams in Lima, Peru
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Lima — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Buenos Aires, Medellín, and Cusco.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
3
Street Scams Scams
11
Total in Lima
How it works
Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers approach tourists in central Lima and Miraflores, claiming to be investigating counterfeit currency or drug trafficking. They demand to inspect your wallet and passport as part of a supposed check, then palm cash or replace your genuine bills with counterfeits while appearing to verify them. Peru is the world's largest producer of counterfeit US dollars per the US Secret Service, making this pretext highly convincing to tourists.
How it works
In Miraflores near Parque Kennedy and along the Larcomar restaurant strip, individuals approach tourists claiming a substance — mustard, bird droppings, or paint — has landed on their back or bag. While one person gestures to help clean it, an accomplice steals bags, phones, or wallets set down during the distraction. The tactic is also used on pedestrians on Av. Diagonal and near the Huaca Pucllana archaeological site.
How it works
Despite being in upmarket Miraflores, Parque Kennedy is a tourist hotspot with pickpocket activity, particularly after dark and during busy weekend craft markets.
See all scams in Lima
11 total warnings across all categories