Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Lubumbashi, Congo (Kinshasa)

All Topics about Lubumbashi All Cities in Congo (Kinshasa)

1. Grand Marche Central Scam

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas like the Grand Marche Central. Keep your belongings secure.

Crowded Market: The market attracts many tourists, making it a prime target for pickpockets.
Distraction Techniques: Thieves often use distractions to steal from unsuspecting visitors.
Secure Your Belongings: Always keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Avoid overpriced taxis at the Gare de Lubumbashi train station. Negotiate the fare before getting in.

Overpricing: Some taxi drivers take advantage of tourists by overcharging.
Negotiation: Always negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi to avoid overpaying.
Official Taxis: Use official taxis from the taxi stand to ensure a fair price and safe travel.

Stick to reputable currency exchange offices. Avoid street exchanges with no clear affiliation.

Reputable Offices: Reputable offices are licensed and regulated, ensuring fair exchange rates.
Street Exchanges: Street exchanges often offer unfavorable exchange rates or may even be fraudulent.
Check Reviews: Check reviews and ask locals for recommendations on reliable currency exchange offices.

Avoid unsolicited guides offering services at attractions. Ask for official guides or research beforehand.

Unsolicited Guides: Unsolicited guides may overcharge or provide misleading information.
Official Guides: Official guides are licensed and knowledgeable, providing accurate information.
Research Beforehand: Research attractions before visiting to learn about the best guides and tours available.

Be cautious of restaurant reviews online. Ask locals for recommendations or try popular eateries.

Online Reviews: Some online reviews may be fake, leading to a poor dining experience.
Local Recommendations: Locals can provide recommendations for authentic and delicious restaurants.
Popular Eateries: Popular eateries tend to have good food, service, and hygiene standards.

Avoid the counterfeit goods market. Purchase items from reputable stores instead.

Counterfeit Goods: Items at the market may be counterfeit, low-quality, or even dangerous.
Reputable Stores: Reputable stores sell authentic and high-quality goods at fair prices.
Check Labels: Always check labels for country of origin and quality certifications.

Stay at reputable hotels to avoid hotel scams. Check online reviews before booking.

Reputable Hotels: Reputable hotels provide good service, safety, and amenities.
Online Reviews: Online reviews can help you choose a hotel that meets your needs and expectations.
Book in Advance: Booking in advance ensures availability and can sometimes secure better rates.

Ask for identification when approached by police officers. Don't hand over belongings or money without verifying their identity.

Fake Police Officers: Some individuals may pose as police officers to commit fraud.
Verification of Identity: Legitimate police officers will always show identification upon request.
Avoid Handing Over Belongings: Do not hand over belongings or money unless you are certain of the officer's identity.

Be wary of individuals claiming to represent charities. Research legitimate organizations before donating.

Legitimate Charities: Donations to legitimate charities make a difference in the community.
Research: Research charities to ensure they are reputable and their funds are used effectively.
Don't Give Cash Directly: Avoid giving cash directly to individuals claiming to represent a charity.

Beware of overpriced or fake gold at the Kamitondo market. Research and negotiate before purchasing.

Overpricing: Gold prices in Lubumbashi may differ from global market rates.
Negotiation: Always negotiate the price to ensure a fair deal.
Check Certifications: Look for certifications and ask for appraisals to confirm the quality of gold items.

Only buy bottled water from reputable sources. Check the seal and label before purchasing.

Reputable Sources: Reputable sources ensure the water is safe to drink.
Check the Seal: A sealed bottle indicates that the water has not been tampered with.
Check the Label: The label should indicate the brand, production date, and country of origin.

Choose reputable internet cafes to avoid having your personal information stolen. Use a VPN for added security.

Reputable Internet Cafes: Reputable internet cafes have good reviews, safety measures, and privacy policies.
Use a VPN: A VPN encrypts your data and protects you from cyber threats.
Protect Your Password: Never share your password with anyone, and avoid logging in to sensitive accounts on public computers.

Rent cars from reputable car hire companies. Check the vehicle for damages before driving off.

Reputable Car Rental Companies: Reputable car rental companies offer reliable vehicles and good service.
Check for Damages: Always inspect the vehicle for damages before driving off to avoid being charged later.
Familiarize Yourself with Local Driving Rules: Knowing the local driving rules will help you navigate safely and avoid accidents.

Use ATMs in well-lit and busy areas. Cover the keypad to prevent keylogging devices.

Well-Lit and Busy Areas: ATMs in well-lit and busy areas are less likely to be tampered with.
Cover the Keypad: Covering the keypad prevents keylogging devices from capturing your PIN.
Check for Unusual Transactions: Regularly check your bank account for unusual transactions and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Avoid exchanging money at the airport. Use reputable currency exchange offices in town instead.

Reputable Currency Exchange Offices: Reputable offices are licensed and regulated, ensuring fair exchange rates.
Avoid Airport Exchanges: Airport exchanges may offer unfavorable exchange rates or even be fraudulent.
Check Reviews: Check reviews and ask locals for recommendations on reliable currency exchange offices.