Question 1

What is the "Christ the Redeemer Fake Ticket Seller" scam in Rio de Janeiro?

Accepted Answer

Touts near the Cosme Velho cog train station sell admission tickets at inflated prices, claiming the official website is sold out or that their tickets include a faster entry option. Book tickets only at the official corcovado.com.br website. Ticket availability is manageable if booked a few days in advance.

Question 2

What is the "Timeshare "Free Hotel Tour" Scam" scam in Rio de Janeiro?

Accepted Answer

A well-dressed individual approaches tourists near Copacabana or at the airport and offers a complimentary hotel stay, resort tour, or free city tour claiming to represent a new property opening near the beach. Victims are taken to a timeshare or vacation club presentation and subjected to 4–8 hours of high-pressure sales tactics, being told they cannot leave until they hear the complete offer. Some reports mention credit card details being requested to "hold the free gift." Do not accept unsolicited offers of free accommodation, tours, or gifts from strangers at transport hubs or on the beachfront. Legitimate hotels do not solicit customers from the street. If you realize you are at a timeshare pitch, state clearly you are leaving and do so immediately.

Tour & Activity Scams in Rio de Janeiro

Christ the Redeemer Fake Ticket Seller

Timeshare "Free Hotel Tour" Scam

Experienced a scam here?