Some travelers enjoy the thrill of exploring a new destination on their own, but even the most independent adventurers can benefit from the expertise of a tour guide. Tour guides offer fast-track access to popular attractions and share valuable insights about local culture and history. However, in 2025, travelers are facing an increasing number of scams, particularly involving travel agencies and tour guides. According to a report by the Mastercard Economics Institute, these entities account for a significant portion of payment-related fraud in major tourist destinations like Barcelona, Cancun, Delhi, and Hong Kong.
In Hong Kong, travel agencies and tour operators made up 70% of travel sector fraud, while the percentage was 64% in Delhi and Barcelona, and 48% in Cancun. These statistics highlight the growing threat that scammers pose to travelers. Falling victim to a tour guide scam can be a frustrating experience, costing both time and money, and eroding trust in the travel process. To help avoid such pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of common tactics used by unscrupulous guides to watch out for.
Your tour guide has fake or no credentials
Be cautious of tour guides who approach you at the entrance of a monument or historical site. While some scammers may not have the knowledge of professional guides, others are skilled at deception. For example, Matthew, an imposter posing as an Oxford graduate, led tours filled with humor and Harry Potter references, but lacked real historical knowledge. He had no business account, making it difficult for customers to report his actions. Another traveler shared how he was initially drawn in by the jokes but later felt it was a waste of time.
In some cases, fake tour guides can even put tourists in physical danger. In Poland, unauthorized climbers have led people on illegal ascents of the Tatra Mountains, prompting park authorities to warn visitors to only book with licensed guides. Trustworthy guides typically have licenses or certifications from their country’s tour guide associations. Before booking, always verify a guide’s credentials through their website, Google reviews, or local tourist centers.
Your guide says an attraction is closed and heads elsewhere
If your tour guide claims an attraction is closed, this is often a sign of a scam. They may then lead you to a different location, such as a gift shop or restaurant, where they earn commissions. This tactic is especially common around temples in Thailand, where guides trick tourists into thinking the temples are closed and take them to alternative spots with cheaper rates.
One Reddit user described being taken to a block printing and textile shop during a tour in India. The aggressive sales tactics and high prices were a wake-up call. “I went in 100% trusting due to my guide’s recommendation,” the user wrote. “I suppose my takeaway is to never lower my guard and always listen to my gut.”
If you find yourself in such a situation, simply walk away and avoid interaction. Scammers are likely to stop bothering you if you show disinterest. Always check the opening hours of attractions yourself to avoid falling for such tricks.
Your tour guide quotes expensive tours or upfront payments
Professional-looking websites, email confirmations, and images can easily be faked, so be wary of any tour that seems too good to be true. A couple in Sri Lanka paid hundreds of dollars for a safari with a popular tour guide, only to be met by a driver who took them to a restaurant and left them waiting for a guide that never arrived. The guide’s social media accounts blocked them, cutting off all contact.
Another heartbreaking case involved a senior citizen group that booked a South Africa tour two years in advance, paying $44,000 upfront. Unfortunately, the trip was taken by another group, and the buyers received no valid bookings. Credit cards were charged twice, and refunds were not fully returned. Scammers often ask for made-up fees, such as a “consultation fee” before booking.
A rule of thumb is to never pay money or provide credit card details to unverifiable contacts.
Your tour guide presents you with a vague or rushed itinerary
A vague or rushed itinerary is another red flag. If a guide’s description mentions “great views” or “a full tour” without specifics, this should raise concerns. Asking for more details can help you avoid a potential scam. Rick Steves advises travelers to distinguish between genuine travel enthusiasts and those who are only in it for profit.
An extremely packed itinerary is also a warning sign. For example, a four-city tour in five days is unlikely to allow for meaningful sightseeing. Instead, you’ll probably spend most of the time on a bus or van, rushing past monuments. One Redditor shared an experience in France where the guide promised a panoramic view, but the bus passed the spot at full speed, leaving them disappointed.
For more information on common scams in Europe, consider reading about the most frequent cons tourists should be aware of before visiting Paris.
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