Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar

All Topics about Antananarivo All Cities in Madagascar

1. Taxi Brousse Scam

Be wary of unlicensed 'taxi brousse' drivers offering rides at inflated prices. Always use the official taxi ranks.

Unlicensed Drivers: Avoid drivers without proper licensing and identification.
Inflated Prices: Be aware of higher than usual fares and negotiate prices before boarding.
Official Taxi Ranks: Use only official taxi ranks for safer and legitimate rides.

Beware of unofficial currency exchangers who offer lower rates. Use banks or licensed money exchange offices.

Unofficial Exchangers: Avoid street vendors and individuals offering currency exchange.
Lower Rates: Know the standard exchange rates to ensure you're not being shortchanged.
Banks and Licensed Offices: Transact at banks or licensed money exchanges for secure and fair transactions.

Avoid unlicensed guides who may overcharge or mislead. Always ask for a license before hiring a guide.

Unlicensed Guides: Be cautious of individuals offering guiding services without proper licensing.
Overcharging: Negotiate prices beforehand to avoid unexpected high fees.
Ask for a License: Request to see the guide's license and ensure it is valid.

Avoid street food vendors who do not follow hygiene standards. Choose well-known and clean restaurants.

Unhygienic Vendors: Avoid vendors with poor sanitation practices.
Well-Known Restaurants: Opt for established and reputable restaurants for safer dining experiences.
Cleanliness: Check the cleanliness of food preparation areas before eating.

Be cautious when using ATMs in unsecured locations. Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping malls.

Unsecured Locations: Avoid standalone ATMs that lack surveillance cameras and security features.
Inside Banks or Malls: Use ATMs located in secure environments for safer transactions.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Be aware of organized beggar groups who may distract you while others pickpocket. Keep a close eye on your belongings.

Organized Groups: Recognize when multiple people are involved in the scam.
Distractions: Be vigilant of attempts to distract you while others pickpocket.
Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables hidden and secure, especially in crowded areas.

Avoid overpriced souvenir shops. Haggle for fair prices or find local markets for better deals.

Beware of SIM card vendors offering pre-loaded phones. Always check the phone and SIM card before use.

Pre-Loaded Phones: Be wary of SIM cards inserted into used or pre-loaded phones.
Check Phone and SIM Card: Ensure the phone is in working condition and the SIM card is new before using it.
Official Vendors: Buy your SIM cards from official telecom service providers for security and quality assurance.

Be cautious of individuals posing as police officers asking for money or personal belongings. Always verify their identity.

Posing Police Officers: Recognize when someone is pretending to be a law enforcement officer.
Verify Identity: Ask for proper identification and contact the local police station to confirm their identity.
Stick with Official Business: Deal only with legitimate law enforcement officers in official capacities.

Be aware of drivers who may overcharge for rides. Agree on a price before beginning the journey.

Overcharging Drivers: Recognize when drivers are trying to charge more than standard prices.
Agree on a Price: Negotiate fares before boarding and agree on the price.
Know Standard Prices: Research common transportation prices to avoid being overcharged.

Avoid unlicensed accommodation providers who may charge more or provide poor quality rooms. Use online booking platforms or reputable agencies.

Unlicensed Providers: Be cautious of individuals offering accommodations without proper licensing.
Online Booking Platforms: Book your accommodation through reliable online platforms for secure reservations.
Reputable Agencies: Work with established travel agencies for safer and higher-quality accommodations.

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and hidden.

Crowded Areas: Recognize the risk of theft in busy tourist attractions or public transportation.
Secure and Hidden Belongings: Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables hidden and secure at all times.
Be Aware of Distractions: Be vigilant of attempts to distract you while others pickpocket.

Avoid fake charity collectors posing as local organizations. Donate to reputable charities or ask for proper identification.

Fake Collectors: Recognize when someone is pretending to collect for a charity but is actually a scammer.
Reputable Charities: Donate to well-known and established charities in the area.
Ask for Proper Identification: Request identification from collectors to ensure they are legitimate representatives of a charity.

Be cautious of restaurants that may add extra charges or provide poor quality food. Read menus carefully and ask for item prices.

Overcharging Restaurants: Recognize when restaurants are trying to charge more than the stated price.
Read Menus Carefully: Thoroughly review the menu and ask for item prices before ordering.
Ask About Extra Charges: Ensure you understand any service charges or hidden fees associated with your meal.

Avoid vendors selling low-quality gold and gemstones at inflated prices. Research authenticity and pricing before purchasing.

Low-Quality Items: Be aware of fake or low-quality gold and gemstones being sold.
Inflated Prices: Know the standard prices for gold and gemstones to avoid overpaying.
Research Authenticity: Learn about the authenticity of local gold and gemstones before purchasing.