Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Bangui, Central African Republic

All Topics about Bangui All Cities in Central African Republic

1. Taxi Scams at Airport

Avoid overpriced or unofficial taxis at Bangui M'Poko International Airport. Always use airport-regulated taxis for a safe and fair ride.

Regulated Taxis: Official taxis are clearly marked, wear uniforms, and carry identification
Fixed Rates: Airport-regulated taxis have fixed rates displayed on the meter
Safety: Using official taxis ensures a safer journey, especially for solo travelers

Be wary of receiving counterfeit money in Bangui. Check bills carefully and exchange only at reputable locations.

Reputable Exchange Locations: Exchange money at banks, hotels, or authorized money exchange booths
Check Bills Thoroughly: Counterfeit bills often have visible flaws; compare with genuine bills or use a UV light
Avoid Private Transactions: Do not accept counterfeit money during private transactions, as it could lead to legal issues

Beware of overpriced or fake gold and gemstones in the local markets. Always verify the authenticity before purchasing.

Professional Appraisal: Have jewelry appraised by a trusted professional or certified appraiser
Reputable Sellers: Purchase from established, reputable sellers with positive reviews and recommendations
Knowledge of Genuine Prices: Research the fair market value of gold and gemstones before making a purchase

Avoid unofficial currency exchange locations; only use authorized money exchange booths or banks for fair rates.

Authorized Money Exchange Booths: Look for official currency exchange kiosks, often found at banks and major tourist areas
Check Rates: Compare rates with other exchanges to ensure fairness
Secure Transactions: Exchange money in a secure location, and never hand over large amounts of cash without verifying the exchange rate

Avoid overpriced hotels or guesthouses by researching and booking accommodations in advance.

Online Reviews: Check online reviews for honest feedback on hotels, prices, and quality of service
Booking in Advance: Book accommodations ahead of time to secure a fair price and avoid overpricing
Bargaining Skills: Negotiate for a lower price, but be aware of reasonable prices in the local market

Choose tour guides wisely; only hire licensed, reputable guides with positive reviews for a safe and authentic experience.

Licensed Tour Guides: Ask to see the guide's license or certification before hiring
Reputable Recommendations: Choose tour guides with positive reviews and recommendations from other travelers
Customized Tours: Request a customized tour that caters to your interests and preferences

Avoid street food vendors that do not appear clean or have questionable hygiene practices.

Cleanliness: Look for vendors with clean workstations, fresh ingredients, and sanitary conditions
Avoid Sickness: Eating contaminated food can lead to illness or traveler's diarrhea
Street Food Reputation: Ask locals for recommendations on trustworthy street food vendors

Avoid overpriced souvenir shops by bargaining or seeking out local markets for fair prices.

Bargaining Skills: Negotiate for a lower price, but be aware of reasonable prices in the local market
Local Markets: Find local markets for authentic souvenirs at fair prices
Souvenir Quality: Inspect souvenirs carefully before purchasing to ensure quality and durability

Avoid scams in local markets by researching common scams and staying aware of your surroundings.

Research Common Scams: Learn about common scams that occur in the local markets before visiting
Stay Alert: Be cautious of pushy salespeople and keep your personal belongings secure
Negotiate Wisely: Negotiate prices wisely, but be aware of reasonable prices in the local market

Avoid overpriced drinks or unexpected additional charges by verifying prices before ordering.

Price Verification: Check the menu for drink prices or ask the server for the cost before ordering
Avoid Unexpected Charges: Be wary of hidden fees or additional charges on the bill
Safe Drinking: Ensure drinks are served in clean glasses and avoid suspicious beverages

Avoid scams at local attractions by researching admission prices before visiting.

Admission Prices: Check the official website or ask for admission prices before entering an attraction
Avoid Overpricing: Be wary of unofficial ticket vendors offering overpriced tickets
Safety Measures: Ensure that safety measures are in place, such as barriers or ropes at dangerous locations

Avoid scams on public transportation by verifying the fare before boarding.

Fare Verification: Check for posted fares or ask the driver for the cost before boarding
Safe Transportation: Ensure that the vehicle appears safe and is driven responsibly
Avoid Pickpocketing: Keep personal belongings secure, especially in crowded areas

Avoid scams at ATMs by using machines that are located in well-lit, secure locations.

Secure Locations: Use ATMs located inside banks or in well-lit, busy areas
Card Skimming Prevention: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent card skimming
Check Receipts: Always check the ATM receipt for accuracy before leaving the machine

Avoid scams at bureaux de change by using reputable locations and comparing exchange rates.

Reputable Locations: Use only reputable, well-established bureaux de change for your currency exchanges
Compare Rates: Compare exchange rates with other locations before making a transaction
Secure Transactions: Exchange money in a secure location, and never hand over large amounts of cash without verifying the exchange rate

Avoid scams with local friends by taking precautions and using common sense.

Trust but Verify: Trust your new friends, but always verify information before making decisions
Avoid Private Transactions: Do not accept gifts or money without understanding the value and implications
Stay Alert: Be cautious of suspicious behavior, especially when it involves your personal belongings or finances