Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

1. Pietermaritzburg Tourist Police

A specialized police unit dedicated to helping tourists. They can provide advice on common scams and ensure your safety.

Specialized Knowledge: Officers are trained to understand and address tourist-specific issues
Quick Response: Immediate assistance in case of an emergency or scam incident
24/7 Availability: Help is available round-the-clock for tourists' peace of mind

A local organization providing advice on tourism and helping tourists avoid scams.

Tourist-friendly Advice: Specialized guidance tailored to the needs of tourists
Community Outreach: Working with local businesses and communities to combat scams
Information Center: A one-stop resource for tourist information, including scam prevention tips

Placed throughout the city, these kiosks offer scam prevention advice and maps.

Accessibility: Kiosks are strategically located for convenience
Multilingual Support: Assistance available in multiple languages
Scam Awareness Brochures: Provide detailed information on common scams and prevention strategies

Reputable tour operators can help tourists plan their itinerary safely.

Experience and Expertise: Professional guidance in planning safe and enjoyable tours
Safety Measures: Companies prioritize safety and follow scam-free practices
Customer Reviews: Past clients' feedback helps in selecting a reliable tour operator

Advice on safely withdrawing cash and using ATMs while in Pietermaritzburg.

Secure Locations: ATMs situated in well-lit, busy areas for maximum safety
Card Skimming Prevention: Tips on protecting your card and PIN from skimming devices
Limiting Cash Withdrawals: Advice on keeping large amounts of cash to a minimum

Guidance for safe and reliable transportation options in Pietermaritzburg.

Legitimate Taxis: Information on licensed, reputable taxi services
Car Rental Safety: Tips for renting a car and avoiding scams related to rental vehicles
Walking Safety: Advice on safe walking routes and precautions to take while exploring the city

Help tourists find reputable accommodations and avoid scams.

Verified Listings: Only trusted, verified accommodations are recommended
Payment Protection: Guidance on secure payment methods and avoiding upfront fees
Customer Reviews: Past guests' feedback helps in selecting a trustworthy accommodation

Tips for safely enjoying local cuisine while avoiding scams.

Reputable Restaurants: Recommendations for reliable, trustworthy eateries
Food Safety: Advice on food preparation and handling to avoid illness or contamination
Beware of Overcharging: Tips for ensuring fair prices and avoiding overcharging scams

Guidance on purchasing authentic local artifacts and souvenirs.

Authentic Artifacts: Information on how to identify genuine, locally-made items
Bargaining Tips: Strategies for negotiating fair prices and avoiding overpriced scams
Supporting Local Artisans: Tips on supporting the local community by purchasing genuine items

Advice for interacting with street performers and avoiding charity scams.

Legitimate Performances: Tips on identifying genuine, local performances
Scam Warning Signs: Guidance on recognizing signs of scams and avoiding involvement
Charity Donation Safety: Advice on safely donating to legitimate charities or causes

Tips for using public computers and Wi-Fi safely while in Pietermaritzburg.

Secure Internet Access: Guidance on how to secure personal information and accounts
Malware Protection: Advice on avoiding downloading harmful software or viruses
Password Protection: Tips for creating strong passwords and keeping them secure

Help tourists avoid ticket scams or fraudulent events.

Verified Event Listings: Recommendations for reliable, trustworthy events
Ticket Purchase Safety: Guidance on purchasing tickets securely and avoiding scams
Event Venue Verification: Advice on verifying the legitimacy of event venues

Tips for exchanging currency safely while in Pietermaritzburg.

Authorized Exchange Locations: Information on licensed, reputable exchange locations
Fair Exchange Rates: Advice on recognizing fair exchange rates and avoiding overpriced scams
Money Exchange Security: Tips for securing your money during the exchange process

Reliable tour guides and escorts to help tourists avoid scams.

Certified Guides: Tour guides with proper certification and expertise
Safety Measures: Guides adhere to safety protocols and avoid scam areas
Knowledgeable Assistance: Guides offer insight into local customs, history, and safety tips

Access to up-to-date emergency services contact information for tourists.

Police and Medical Assistance: Contact information for the local police, hospitals, and ambulances
Fire Department: Information on reaching fire services in case of emergencies
Trusted Local Contacts: List of reliable local contacts for additional assistance or support