The United States embassy in Santiago has issued a warning to North American tourists regarding unauthorized taxi services at national airports in Chile. Recent crimes committed by drivers against visitors have prompted the embassy to advise travelers not to use taxis or car services not authorized by the airport.
Reports of theft of belongings and excessive transportation fares have led to constant alerts being received by the US embassy in Chile. In response, the embassy has issued a statement providing guidance on how to avoid falling victim to such crimes.
Travelers are advised to use travel apps and official taxis at official airport stands, avoid using unmetered taxis and unauthorized services outside airports, and not physically resist any attempted robbery. It is also recommended to keep a low profile, be aware of your surroundings, not leave personal items in the taxi, review personal safety plans, and carry proper identification.
Additionally, tourists are urged to carefully review the amount that will be charged before presenting a card for payment and to scrutinize the amount displayed on portable card machines, including the number of zeros on the screen.
This cautionary message comes as a reminder for visitors to be vigilant and take necessary precautions when navigating transportation in Chile to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.