Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Hargeysa, Somalia

1. Overpriced Taxi Scam

Avoid overpaying for taxi rides by negotiating the fare before getting in. Use a trusted taxi service or ask locals for advice.

Know the Fare: Know the average fare to avoid overpaying
Use Trusted Services: Avoid unofficial taxis and use services recommended by locals or hotels
Negotiate Beforehand: Always negotiate the fare before starting the journey

Be vigilant when handling cash and check the authenticity of Somali shillings before accepting them.

Check the Security Features: Familiarize yourself with the security features on Somali banknotes
Inspect Thoroughly: Thoroughly inspect bills for any inconsistencies or imperfections
Use Reputable ATMs: Only use ATMs located at banks or reputable establishments

Bargain with market vendors to get a fair price for goods. Be aware of common overpricing tactics.

Know the Market Price: Research the average prices for goods before shopping
Bargain Aggressively: Don't hesitate to bargain and walk away if the price is too high
Trust Local Advice: Ask locals for advice on fair prices and trusted vendors

Book guided tours through reputable agencies to avoid being overcharged or led to scams. Research the guide's credentials beforehand.

Research Reputable Agencies: Choose an agency with good reviews and a proven track record
Verify Guide's Credentials: Check the guide's qualifications, licenses, and affiliations
Negotiate the Fee Upfront: Always negotiate the fee for a guided tour before committing to it

Book accommodation through reputable channels or agencies. Inspect the property thoroughly before committing to a stay.

Use Reputable Channels: Choose booking platforms with good reviews and verified listings
Inspect the Property: Visit the property before committing to a stay, if possible
Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about any additional fees or charges upfront

Protect your SIM card and personal information to avoid sim swapping scams. Use a password for your SIM card and keep it secure.

Use a Password: Set a unique password for your SIM card
Keep Your Information Secure: Avoid sharing personal information unnecessarily
Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your accounts and report any suspicious activity immediately

Be cautious when making new friends in Hargeysa. Don't share personal information or money with strangers easily.

Limit Sharing Personal Info: Don't share sensitive personal information with strangers
Avoid Giving Money Easily: Be careful about lending money or giving gifts to new acquaintances
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels suspicious, trust your intuition and avoid the situation

Protect your bank card when using ATMs. Cover the keypad while entering your PIN and avoid using suspicious-looking machines.

Cover the Keypad: Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN
Choose Reputable ATMs: Use ATMs located at banks or reputable establishments
Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your accounts and report any suspicious activity immediately

Be careful when using internet cafes in Hargeysa. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts and keep your personal information secure.

Avoid Sensitive Logins: Don't log into sensitive accounts like banking or email
Secure Your Devices: Use a VPN and keep your device secure when using the internet cafe
Choose Reputable Internet Cafes: Select busy, well-managed internet cafes with good reviews

Use reputable money exchange services in Hargeysa. Always count the exchanged currency and verify the rate beforehand.

Choose Reputable Services: Ask locals for recommendations or use established money exchange offices
Verify the Rate: Always compare the exchange rate with reliable sources beforehand
Count Your Money: Count the exchanged currency carefully to ensure accuracy

Be cautious when eating street food in Hargeysa. Choose stalls with clean surroundings and busy crowds.

Choose Clean Stalls: Look for clean surroundings, fresh ingredients, and well-prepared food
Avoid Empty Stalls: Choose stalls with busy crowds as a sign of good food quality
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated and avoid stomach problems

Be aware of unfair bargaining tactics in Hargeysa's markets. Research prices beforehand and stand firm during negotiations.

Know the Market Price: Research average prices for goods before shopping
Negotiate Firmly: Don't be afraid to negotiate and stand firm on your price
Avoid Overpriced Items: Be wary of items priced significantly higher than others

Avoid giving money to beggars in Hargeysa. Instead, donate to reputable charities or organizations.

Donate to Reputable Organizations: Research and donate to established charities or organizations
Avoid Giving Money Directly: Avoid giving money directly to beggars
Be Aware of Fake Beggars: Some beggars may be part of organized scams, so be cautious and vigilant

Avoid participating in street art auctions. The quality of the artwork may be poor or fake.

Avoid Street Auctions: Don't participate in street art auctions, especially if it seems suspicious
Check the Quality: Inspect the artwork thoroughly before making a purchase
Research Local Artists: Learn about local artists and their work to make informed decisions

Be wary of counterfeit souvenirs in Hargeysa's markets. Look for genuine products with authenticity certificates.

Look for Authenticity Certificates: Check for authenticity certificates or labels on souvenirs
Research Local Crafts: Learn about traditional Somali crafts and their characteristics
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or shopkeepers for recommendations on reputable vendors