Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced taxis by agreeing on the fare before starting your journey.

Fixed Fare Knowledge: Knowing the standard price for common taxi destinations.
Pre-negotiated Price: Agreeing on a fare before you get into the taxi.
Trusted Taxi Services: Using reputable taxi services like 'Ethio-Taxi' or 'GetMeTaxi'.

Check the quality of Ethiopian Birr notes for authenticity. Be wary of overly eager sellers.

Knowing Authentic Notes: Familiarize yourself with the features and feel of genuine Ethiopian Birr notes.
Check for Flaws: Look for common flaws in counterfeit currency, such as poor print quality or misaligned text.
Safe Transactions: Transact in well-lit and populated areas to minimize the risk of fraud.

Avoid overpriced SIM cards by purchasing them at official retailers or mobile operator stores.

Official Retailers: Purchasing SIM cards from authorized Ethio-Telecom, Ethio-Telkom, or Zoorex retailers.
Verification Process: Ensure that the vendor follows the official SIM card registration process.
Pricing Transparency: Ask for price lists and compare them with known market prices.

Bargain for fair prices when shopping at local markets. Be mindful of inflated prices.

Average Prices: Research the average price of goods in Addis Ababa's markets before your visit.
Persistent Bargaining: Negotiate prices with vendors and don’t accept the first offer.
Trusted Marketplaces: Shop at established markets like Merkato or Mereket Yekatit 12 to find good deals.

Verify the quality of gold and jewelry before purchasing from unfamiliar vendors.

Quality Testing: Use a simple acid test to check the purity of gold items.
Certified Dealers: Purchase gold and jewelry from established, certified dealers.
Knowledgeable Assistance: Ask for help from knowledgeable locals or guides when shopping for jewelry.

Verify the legitimacy of charities before donating. Some may take advantage of your generosity.

Reputable Charities: Donate to established, reputable charities in Addis Ababa.
Verification Resources: Use resources like the Ethiopian Charities and Societies Agency website to check the legitimacy of a charity.
Donation Receipts: Always request a receipt for your donation, as it may be necessary for tax purposes.

Research and book hotels in advance to avoid overpricing or substandard accommodations.

Online Booking Platforms: Use trusted online booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or Agoda.
Reputable Hotels: Stay at well-established hotels with good reviews and ratings.
Room Inspections: Inspect the room upon arrival for any damages or discrepancies.

Avoid overpriced food by eating at local eateries instead of tourist-focused restaurants.

Local Eateries: Eat at traditional, local eateries found in areas like Yerga Chefe or Meskel Square.
Average Prices: Research the average price of meals in Addis Ababa before dining out.
Street Food: Try street food, which is often cheaper and delicious!

Exchange currency at banks or authorized money exchangers to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.

Banks and Authorized Exchangers: Exchange currency at Ethiopian National Bank branches or licensed money exchangers.
Current Exchange Rates: Check the current exchange rate before making transactions to avoid being overcharged.
Card Payments: Use credit or debit cards for payments when possible, as they often offer better exchange rates.

Research and book licensed tour guides in advance to ensure a safe and informative experience.

Licensed Tour Guides: Book tour guides registered with the Ethiopian Tourism Organization.
Reputable Companies: Use reputable tour companies that have positive reviews and ratings.
Knowledgeable Guides: Ask guides about their qualifications and experience before booking a tour.

Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers to minimize the risk of skimming devices.

Bank and Center ATMs: Use ATMs inside banks, hotels, or shopping centers.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account to detect any unauthorized transactions.
Secure PINs: Be cautious when entering your PIN, and avoid using obvious combinations like birthdates.

Book tours with licensed tour operators to ensure a safe and informative experience.

Licensed Tour Operators: Check for tour operator licenses issued by the Ethiopian Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Reputable Companies: Use reputable companies that have positive reviews and ratings.
Knowledgeable Guides: Ask guides about their qualifications and experience before booking a tour.

Use reputable internet cafes or hotels to avoid overpricing.

Reputable Cafes and Hotels: Use well-established internet cafes, hotels, or coffee shops.
Pricing Transparency: Ask for price lists before using the internet services.
Online Access: Consider using your mobile hotspot if available, to avoid high prices.

Be wary of individuals who follow you or insist on accompanying you. Avoid giving money directly.

Avoid Direct Money Giving: Instead, donate to reputable charities that support the local community.
Crowded Areas: Stay in well-populated areas and avoid secluded, dark alleys at night.
Body Language Awareness: Be aware of body language and persistence, as some beggars may try to scam you.

Avoid overpriced traditional coffee ceremonies by researching authentic experiences.

Authentic Experiences: Find coffee ceremonies in local homes or cultural centers.
Fixed Prices: Ask for the price before participating in a coffee ceremony.
Quality Control: Ensure that the coffee is fresh and of good quality.