Planning a trip to this vibrant destination? While it offers incredible experiences for visitors, being aware of common tourist scams will help ensure your trip remains memorable for the right reasons. This comprehensive guide covers the most frequent scams targeting tourists and practical strategies to avoid them.
Mexico City Airport Taxi Scams
Arriving at Mexico City's airports (MEX or NLU), tourists face multiple taxi scams.
Common tricks:
- Unauthorized drivers inside terminals offering rides
- Drivers claiming your hotel is in a "dangerous area" and suggesting alternatives
- Tampered meters or refusal to use meters
- Prepaid taxi booth operators charging inflated rates
How to avoid it:
- Use only official airport taxi services from authorized booths
- Book Uber/Didi from the designated pickup areas
- Never accept rides from people approaching you inside the terminal
- Have your hotel's exact address ready in Spanish
Teotihuacan Pyramid Tour Scams
Tours to the famous pyramids often include scam stops and inflated prices.
How it works: Cheap tours take you to obsidian factories, tequila tastings, or restaurants where guides receive commissions. The actual pyramid visit may be rushed. Some operators disappear after taking payment for next-day tours.
How to avoid it:
- Book through reputable tour companies with reviews
- Ask specifically about stops and whether they're optional
- Consider taking the public bus from Terminal del Norte
- Pay with credit card when possible for chargeback protection