Destinations › Peru › Cusco › Scams
Cusco, Peru
11 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Cusco, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Drinks are sometimes spiked in nightlife settings, followed by theft — more associated with Cusco than most other Peruvian cities.
Unofficial "guides" and ticket resellers near major Inca sites selling inflated or invalid entry passes.
Pickpocketing and phone snatching in crowded markets and the main Plaza de Armas during festivals.
Unmetered taxis quoting inflated flat fares, especially from the airport or bus terminal, sometimes steering passengers toward a specific shop, ATM, or tour.
Locals ("bricheros") build a romantic connection with foreign travelers to be treated to nights out, sometimes leaving the tourist with the bill.
Unlicensed operators offer "exclusive" Machu Picchu tours or package deals at suspiciously low rates that turn out to include non-existent or fake access.
Counterfeit QR-code tickets sold near popular sites fail to scan at the gate; legitimate tickets are also resold at 2–4x face value by unofficial agents.
Market vendors selling mass-produced textiles marked up as authentic handwoven alpaca goods.
Vendors deceive tourists about change owed or claim a genuine note is counterfeit to justify a worse deal.
Restaurants in tourist areas adding unlisted charges or a "tourist menu" markup not shown upfront.
Women in traditional dress with alpacas or llamas invite tourists for a photo, then demand payment.
