Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Masvingo, Zimbabwe

1. Masvingo Bus Terminus Scam

Beware of fake bus conductors offering overpriced tickets or leading to unofficial terminals.

Official Terminal Location: Only use the main Masvingo Bus Terminus.
Avoid Unofficial Conductors: Insist on an official conductor and ticket from a registered bus company.
Check Ticket Price: Know the standard price for your destination beforehand.

Avoid exchanging money in unofficial locations offering poor exchange rates or keeping your money.

Use Bureaus de Change: Exchange your currency at official bureaus de change.
Check Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates before choosing a bureau de change.
Avoid Street Transactions: Never exchange money on the street or with individuals.

Be wary of unlicensed tour guides who offer poor service or overcharge.

Use Registered Guides: Book tours through registered and licensed tour companies.
Check Credentials: Ask to see their guide registration certificate before accepting their services.
Research Tour Costs: Know the average cost of tours in Masvingo beforehand.

Protect your bank card from skimmers by monitoring ATMs for suspicious devices.

Choose Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or secure locations.
Cover PIN: Always cover your PIN when entering it at an ATM.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly check your bank account for any unauthorized transactions.

Be cautious of fake lodge bookings offering poor service or non-existent lodgings.

Use Reputable Websites: Book your accommodation through reputable travel websites.
Check Reviews: Read reviews of the lodges before making a booking.
Contact Lodge Directly: Confirm your booking directly with the lodge.

Avoid overcrowded or substandard accommodation marketed as luxury.

Inspect the Property Beforehand: Visit the accommodation before finalizing your booking.
Read Reviews: Read reviews of the accommodation online to get an idea of its quality.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals or other travelers.

Avoid buying counterfeit goods that may not function properly or be illegal.

Avoid hiring cars at excessive prices from unlicensed operators.

Use Registered Car Rental Companies: Rent a car through registered and licensed car rental companies.
Check Rates: Compare car hire rates before choosing a company.
Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before driving off.

Avoid being overcharged for services by using established businesses.

Use Reputable Service Providers: Choose well-established and reputable service providers.
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price for services beforehand.
Ask for Receipts: Ask for receipts for all transactions.

Avoid eating street food that may be unsafe or overpriced.

Choose Established Restaurants: Eat at established restaurants with good hygiene practices.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy food from street vendors, unless the vendor has a clean environment and follows safety precautions.
Check Prices: Compare prices of meals with other restaurants to avoid overpayment.

Be wary of people pretending to be in distress or police officers asking for money.

Ignore Unsolicited Help: Ignore unsolicited help from strangers.
Verify Police Identity: Ask to see the police officer's identification before providing any information or money.
Contact Local Authorities: If in doubt, contact local authorities for assistance.

Avoid investing in gold scams offering low-quality or non-existent gold.

Research Gold Traders: Investigate the reputation and history of gold traders before making any investments.
Check Quality: Test the gold's quality by having it assayed at a reputable assayer.
Insist on Receipts: Request receipts for all transactions and keep them for future reference.

Be cautious of businesses charging tourists excessive prices.

Research Average Prices: Know the average cost for goods and services in Masvingo beforehand.
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices with businesses.
Use Comparison Websites: Compare prices of goods and services on comparison websites before making a purchase.

Avoid donating to fake charities that may not use the funds for their intended purpose.

Research Reputable Charities: Donate to well-established and reputable charities.
Check Registration: Ensure the charity is registered with local authorities.
Request Receipts: Ask for receipts for all donations made.

Avoid buying fake guidebooks or maps that may be inaccurate or misleading.

Buy from Reputable Sources: Purchase guidebooks and maps from well-known publishers.
Check Reviews: Read reviews of the guidebook or map online to ensure its accuracy.
Compare with Online Maps: Compare the contents of the guidebook or map with online maps for verification.