Police
133
Ambulance
131
Tourist Police
133
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The "Fast Meter" Taxi Scam
Taxi drivers, particularly those operating near tourist hubs, use rigged meters that run excessively fast or take unnecessarily long routes to inflate the fare significantly. They may also claim the meter is broken and demand an exorbitant flat rate.
Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, Cabify) or pre-booked, authorized airport transfers. If using a street taxi, agree on the price before getting in or closely monitor the route on a GPS app.
The Fake Change Bill Switch
When a tourist pays with a large denomination bill (e.g., 10,000 or 20,000 Chilean Pesos), the taxi driver or vendor quickly switches it for a smaller, often older or counterfeit, bill of the same color/denomination. They then claim the tourist paid with the smaller bill and demand the full fare again.
Always carry small bills for transactions. Inspect the bill you hand over and announce the amount. Keep your eyes on the bill until the transaction is complete.
The Unofficial Airport "Helper" Scam
Scammers, often dressed in official-looking attire (jackets, lanyards), approach arriving tourists at Santiago International Airport (SCL) offering "help" with luggage or transport. They lead the tourist to an unlicensed taxi, which then overcharges, uses a rigged card machine, or is involved in a "express kidnapping" for forced ATM withdrawals.
Only use official, pre-booked transport services or the authorized taxi/transfer desks inside the terminal. Ignore anyone who approaches you unsolicited.
The "Bird Poo" Distraction Theft
A scammer sprays a substance resembling bird droppings onto a tourist's clothing. A "helpful" accomplice then points it out and offers to clean it. During the cleaning process, the accomplice or a third person pickpockets the distracted tourist's wallet, phone, or bag.
Immediately and firmly refuse help from strangers who get too close. Walk away to a safe, well-lit area to clean yourself. Keep valuables secured in an inside pocket or a cross-body bag.
The ATM Skimming and "Express Kidnapping"
Criminals install skimming devices on ATMs to steal card data and PINs. In a more violent variation, "express kidnapping," victims are forced into a vehicle and driven to multiple ATMs to withdraw their daily limit.
Use ATMs inside banks or major shopping centers, not on the street. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Be aware of your surroundings and never resist if confronted by armed criminals; comply and report immediately after.
The Phony Tour Operator
Unscrupulous or non-existent tour companies sell tours, often at a discount, but fail to deliver the promised service (e.g., poor transport, substandard accommodation, or the tour is canceled with no refund).
Only book tours through reputable, well-reviewed agencies (check TripAdvisor, Google Reviews). Avoid paying in full upfront, and use a credit card for payment protection.
The "Student Poet" Begging Scam
A well-dressed individual, often a young person, approaches tourists with a creative story, such as being a student needing funds for tuition. They may read a poem or offer a small item in exchange for a "donation." While not a direct theft, it is a form of emotional manipulation for money.
Politely but firmly decline. Do not engage in a conversation that allows them to build a rapport.
The Nightclub Drink Spiking
In bars and nightclubs, particularly in the Bellavista and Barrio Lastarria areas, drinks are spiked with drugs (like scopolamine) to incapacitate the victim. The victim is then robbed of all valuables, and in some cases, assaulted.
Never leave your drink unattended. Do not accept drinks from strangers. Go out with a trusted group and watch out for each other.
The Credit Card Skimming in Taxis/Shops
Taxi drivers or small shop vendors use a portable, unauthorized card reader (skimmer) to clone the tourist's credit or debit card details during a transaction. Fraudulent charges appear shortly after.
Pay with cash whenever possible. If using a card, keep it in sight at all times and inspect the card machine for any suspicious attachments. Use a credit card with fraud protection instead of a debit card.
The Restaurant Bill Inflation
Restaurants, particularly those in tourist-heavy areas, present an inflated bill, sometimes claiming the menu prices were outdated or adding unrequested items. They rely on the tourist not checking the bill or not wanting to cause a scene.
Always check the bill line-by-line before paying. Take a photo of the menu prices if you are concerned. Only pay the amount listed on the menu.
The Fake Police/Plainclothes Officer
Scammers pose as plainclothes police officers, often working in pairs. They approach tourists, flash a fake badge, and ask to see their passport and wallet, claiming they are checking for counterfeit money or drugs. They then steal cash or credit cards during the "inspection."
Legitimate police officers in Chile will be in uniform. Never hand over your wallet or passport to an un-uniformed person. Ask to see their ID and offer to walk to the nearest police station (Comisaría) to verify their identity.
Safe Attractions
San Cristóbal Hill
Hill with panoramic views and a statue of Virgin Mary.
Plaza de Armas
Main square of Santiago.
Sky Costanera
Observation deck in the tallest building in South America.
La Chascona
One of Pablo Neruda's houses.
Santa Lucía Hill
Small hill in the centre of Santiago.