Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Astana, Kazakhstan
1. Taxi Scams at the Airport
Avoid overpriced or unofficial taxis at Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport. Use only licensed taxis or pre-book for peace of mind.
- Licensed Taxis: Taxis displaying a license plate and logo are official
- Pre-booked Taxi: Arranging your taxi in advance ensures reliable service
- Airport Information Desk: Ask for assistance at the airport information desk if unsure
2. Counterfeit Money Exchange Shops
Be cautious when exchanging money in unofficial shops or on the street. Use banks or reputable exchange centers.
- Banks: Exchange money at licensed banks for peace of mind
- Reputable Exchange Centers: Choose exchange centers with good reviews and a professional appearance
- Check Bills: Inspect received bills for authenticity before leaving the counter
3. Overpriced Tourist Attractions
Avoid overpriced attractions like the Bayterek Tower. Research ticket prices online beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
- Online Research: Search for verified information on official attraction websites
- Ask Locals: Ask locals or your accommodation staff for advice
- Buy Tickets at Official Kiosks: Purchase tickets from official kiosks or booths to avoid scams
4. Street Food Scams
Be cautious when eating street food. Choose busy areas with multiple vendors and avoid food that looks old or suspicious.
- Busy Areas: Eat in busier, more popular areas for better safety
- Multiple Vendors: Choose vendors with many customers to ensure food is fresh
- Suspicious Food: Avoid foods that look old or have an unusual appearance
5. Fake Guides and Tour Operators
Be wary of unlicensed guides or tour operators. Ask for identification and research companies before booking tours.
- Ask for Identification: Legitimate guides will have a guide's license
- Check Reviews: Research companies online and read reviews before booking
- Official Tourist Information Centers: Book tours through official tourist information centers for peace of mind
6. Fraudulent Police Officers
Be cautious around police officers who ask for money or personal belongings. Always request to see their identification and contact your embassy if needed.
- Check Identification: Legitimate police officers will carry identification
- Contact Embassy: Contact your embassy for assistance if you feel threatened or unsure
- Remain Calm and Assertive: Stay calm, assertive, and avoid panic situations when dealing with police officers
7. Overpriced Accommodation
Be careful of overpriced accommodation. Research hotels online, compare prices, and book in advance.
- Online Research: Search for verified information on hotel booking websites
- Compare Prices: Check multiple websites to find the best deals
- Book in Advance: Reserve accommodation early to secure the best rates
8. Bogus Charity Collectors
Be cautious when approached by charity collectors. Verify their affiliation with a reputable organization before donating.
- Check Affiliation: Ask for identification and verify the collector's association
- Research Charities: Research charities online to ensure their legitimacy
- Donate at Official Locations: Donate directly at official charity locations or their websites
9. Dining & Drinking Establishment Scams
Be aware of overpriced drinks or food in restaurants. Check menus carefully and compare prices with other establishments.
- Check Menus: Thoroughly review the menu before ordering to avoid unexpected charges
- Compare Prices: Research prices for similar dishes at other restaurants
- Ask Locals: Seek recommendations from locals or your accommodation staff
10. Unauthorized Market Vendors
Be cautious when buying items from unauthorized vendors at markets. Choose official market stalls and inspect goods carefully.
- Official Market Stalls: Purchase items only from authorized vendors
- Inspect Goods: Examine goods carefully before making a purchase
- Check for Quality: Ask locals about the quality of items and vendors
11. ATM Scams
Be cautious when using ATMs. Only use machines in well-lit, secure locations and avoid machines with suspicious modifications.
- Secure Locations: Use ATMs located in well-lit, safe areas
- Avoid Modifications: Check the machine for any tampering or unusual modifications
- Limit Daily Withdrawals: Limit your daily withdrawals to minimize potential losses
12. Fraudulent Money Exchange Rates
Be cautious when exchanging money. Compare exchange rates online and negotiate beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
- Compare Online Rates: Research current exchange rates on multiple websites
- Negotiate Beforehand: Discuss the exchange rate with the vendor before finalizing your transaction
- Check the Exchange Center: Choose reputable exchange centers and avoid street exchanges
13. Cyber Scams and Wi-Fi Security
Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi. Avoid accessing sensitive information and use a VPN for added security.
- Avoid Sensitive Information: Avoid logging into bank accounts or other sensitive websites
- Use a VPN: Install and use a VPN for added security when connecting to Wi-Fi networks
- Secure Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts
14. Car Rental Scams
Be cautious when renting a car. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before signing the contract and take photos for documentation.
- Thorough Inspection: Inspect the car carefully, taking note of any damage or issues
- Take Photos: Document the car's condition with photos for evidence
- Read Contract Carefully: Understand the rental agreement terms and conditions before signing
15. Fraudulent Insurance Policies
Be cautious when purchasing insurance policies. Research companies online and compare prices to find the best deal.
- Online Research: Research insurance companies on their official websites
- Compare Prices: Evaluate the prices of multiple insurance policies before making a decision
- Check Coverage: Ensure the policy covers your specific travel needs and risks