Question 1

What is the "Currency Manipulation at Chilean Border" scam in Uyuni?

Accepted Answer

At the Bolivian-Chilean border crossing between Uyuni and San Pedro de Atacama, informal money changers offer to exchange Bolivian bolivianos for Chilean pesos or USD. Exchange rates offered are significantly below official rates and changers may use sleight of hand to pass counterfeit notes or short-change travellers completing a currency swap under time pressure from waiting transport. Exchange currency only at official exchange offices (casas de cambio) in Uyuni or San Pedro de Atacama before crossing. Carry sufficient local currency for each side of the border without needing to exchange at the crossing itself. Decline all approaches from informal changers.

Question 2

What is the "Chilean Border Crossing Unofficial Fee" scam in Uyuni?

Accepted Answer

At the Hito Cajon border crossing between Bolivia and Chile, used by tourists completing the 3-day Uyuni-Atacama jeep tour, unofficial individuals offer to expedite border paperwork or claim a new departure tax of USD 5 to 20 has been introduced. Bolivian immigration at this remote crossing is handled by a single official; the people demanding fees are private actors with no authority. The crossing itself is free for most nationalities and no intermediary is needed. Do not pay any individual outside the official immigration window at Hito Cajon. Only pay fees directly to the uniformed immigration officer through official channels. Ask your licensed jeep tour operator who crosses this border regularly if anything seems unusual.

Question 3

What is the "Short-Changing in Bolivianos" scam in Uyuni?

Accepted Answer

Bolivia's banknotes include multiple denominations that look similar to the unfamiliar eye. Market vendors and small shops in Uyuni take advantage of this by short-changing tourists, particularly when paying with larger notes. The practice is especially common in the Mercado Central and at bus ticket windows. Familiarise yourself with Bolivian banknotes before arrival. Count your change immediately and in front of the vendor. Carry small denomination notes to avoid the need for change in markets. Use the currency converter on your phone when in doubt.

Money & ATM Scams in Uyuni

Currency Manipulation at Chilean Border

Chilean Border Crossing Unofficial Fee

Short-Changing in Bolivianos

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