Reported scams include: Common scams — counterfeit soles as change, unofficial taxis, distraction theft. Not a complete list — stay alert.

Common scams in Lima

Street-level scams reported by travelers in Lima, each with the counter-move that defuses it.

Not a complete list — new scams appear all the time. Stay alert.

Common scams — counterfeit soles as change, unofficial taxis, distraction theft
Count your change for fakes; only book taxis by app
Check your change: fake 'soles' (and US-dollar) banknotes are widely passed to tourists, so feel for the raised print, hold notes to the light, and be wary of any driver or vendor who 'can't make change' or swaps your real note for a fake and demands another. Never hail a street taxi; book a Cabify, Uber or hotel car, because unmarked cars have been linked to 'express kidnappings' in which victims are driven between ATMs. In crowds and on public transport, distraction teams work in pairs — one may 'accidentally' spray or spill something on you and 'help' clean it while an accomplice lifts your bag; keep walking and hold your belongings.
Checked July 2026

Every Farovia trip carries intel like this — dated, sourced, and ready offline at the border.