Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Lubango, Angola

All Topics about Lubango All Cities in Angola

1. Taxi Scams in Central Market

Avoid overpriced or non-functioning taxis near the Central Market. Always negotiate price beforehand and use registered taxis.

Know the Regulated Rates: Familiarize yourself with official taxi rates to avoid overcharging.
Ask for Registration: Verify that the taxi you choose is registered and authorized to operate in Lubango.
Travel During Daylight: Prevent potential scams by traveling during daytime and in populated areas.

Beware of unfavorable exchange rates at unofficial currency exchanges. Use banks or authorized exchange offices.

Know the Official Exchange Rates: Stay informed about the current official exchange rate.
Choose Authorized Exchanges: Exchange your money only at authorized banks or exchange offices.
Use Credit Cards Wisely: Limit the use of credit cards for large transactions to minimize fees and potential fraud.

Avoid overpriced accommodations by researching rates and choosing reputable hotels or hostels.

Compare Prices Online: Check multiple online platforms for accommodation prices.
Read Reviews: Review accommodations based on traveler experiences to ensure quality and fair pricing.
Negotiate Directly: Contact accommodations directly for better deals or negotiations.

Choose registered tour guides and research their reviews to ensure a quality experience.

Verify Registration: Confirm that the tour guide is officially registered.
Check Online Reviews: Read reviews from previous clients to gauge the quality of service.
Negotiate Upfront: Discuss and agree upon pricing, services, and itinerary before starting your tour.

Be cautious when purchasing merchandise from street vendors, especially in popular tourist areas.

Know the Brands: Learn about well-known brands to avoid purchasing counterfeit goods.
Choose Licensed Stores: Purchase merchandise from licensed stores or shops.
Bargain Responsibly: Bargain fairly, but be aware of overly cheap prices that may signal counterfeit items.

Use ATMs located inside banks or secure areas to minimize the risk of skimming and fraud.

Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs that are well-lit, indoors, and have a security camera nearby.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account for any unusual activity or charges.
Limit Cash Withdrawals: Withdraw smaller amounts of cash at a time to minimize the risk in case of lost or stolen cards.

Research local transportation rates and agree on a price before boarding buses, minivans, or shared taxis.

Know the Regular Rates: Familiarize yourself with the regular prices for local transportation.
Negotiate Price Upfront: Ask about and negotiate the price before boarding any local transport.
Travel During Daylight: Prevent potential scams by traveling during daytime and in populated areas.

Stay calm and do not cooperate if approached by a suspicious individual posing as a police officer.

Verify Identification: Ask to see official identification, and contact local authorities for confirmation.
Stay Calm and Confident: Remain calm and assertive, and refuse to cooperate if the officer's behavior seems suspicious.
Gather Witnesses: Ask bystanders or other travelers for help if you feel threatened or are unsure of the situation.

Be cautious when accepting business cards from strangers, especially in tourist areas.

Know the Local Businesses: Research well-known local businesses to avoid fake or fraudulent offers.
Verify Information: Check the contact information and reviews for any suspicious business cards you receive.
Limit Sharing Personal Info: Avoid sharing personal information, such as your passport number or credit card details, with strangers.

Research restaurants and bars in advance to avoid overpriced menus, bad service, or fake drinks.

Check Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers about the quality of food, service, and pricing.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from locals or fellow travelers for reputable dining options.
Stay Alert and Pay Attention: Monitor your drinks and be aware of any suspicious activity, such as added ingredients or excessive pricing.

Take precautions to secure your belongings and report any lost or stolen items immediately.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep a close eye on your personal items, especially in crowded areas.
Use Secure Storage: Store valuable items in hotel safes or other secure locations when not needed.
Report Losses Immediately: Inform local authorities, your embassy, and credit card companies if any items are lost or stolen.

Negotiate prices for souvenirs when visiting temples and haggle to find a fair price.

Know the Fair Prices: Research average prices for souvenirs before visiting the temple.
Negotiate Responsibly: Bargain fairly, but be aware of overly cheap prices that may signal low-quality items.
Support Local Artisans: Choose souvenirs made by local artisans to support the community and promote cultural preservation.

Research spice prices before visiting markets to avoid overpriced or fake items.

Know the Average Prices: Learn about typical prices for various spices and compare them with market sellers.
Inspect Spices Carefully: Examine the quality of the spices, looking for signs of low-quality or fake items.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from local vendors or fellow travelers for reputable market sellers.

Be cautious of individuals who seem overly friendly and offer help or invitations, as they may be attempting to scam you.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Remain alert and observe your surroundings for any suspicious behavior.
Limit Personal Information Sharing: Avoid sharing personal information, such as your passport number or credit card details, with strangers.
Use Trusted Contacts for Assistance: Seek help from trusted locals, tour guides, or your hotel staff if you need assistance.

Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors to avoid overpriced or fake tickets for attractions.

Buy Tickets at Official Box Offices: Buy tickets directly from the official attraction box offices.
Check for Authorized Vendors: Verify that ticket vendors are authorized and affiliated with the attraction.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from locals or fellow travelers about reputable ticket vendors.