Regional Guide
Tourist Scams in South America — Safety Guide 2026
South America has 237+ documented tourist scams across 22 destinations in 9 countries. Scam activity is rated high overall. The most common risks are street scams, tour & activities, money & atm scams.
Overall risk
High
Scams documented
237+
Destinations
22
Countries
9
All 22 covered destinations in South America
Most common scam types in South America
Street Scams
69 reports
Tour & Activities
34 reports
Money & ATM Scams
32 reports
Taxi & Transport
31 reports
Other Scams
29 reports
South America travel safety questions
Is South America safe for tourists?
South America is one of the world's most-visited travel regions and is generally safe with proper preparation. Our database documents 237+ tourist scams across 22 destinations in 9 countries. Scam activity is rated high overall. The most common risks are street scams, tour & activities, money & atm scams scams. Reviewing specific warnings for your destination before travel significantly reduces your risk.
What are the most common tourist scams in South America?
The most frequently documented scams across South America are Street Scams, Tour & Activities, Money & ATM Scams, Taxi & Transport, Other Scams. Valparaíso has the highest documented scam count in the region with 20 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.
Which destination in South America has the most tourist scams?
Valparaíso (Chile) has the highest number of documented tourist scams in South America with 20 recorded incidents in our database. Other high-risk destinations include Mendoza, Argentina and Salvador, Brazil.
How can I stay safe from scams in South America?
The most effective protection in South America is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each destination you plan to visit.
Editorial note: Scam warnings for South America are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →
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