Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Belas, Luanda, Angola

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced taxis by using registered taxi services or negotiate prices beforehand.

Know the Registration Number: Legitimate taxis display registration numbers on the vehicle.
Avoid Lonely Places: Avoid taking taxis from unpopulated areas to avoid potential scams.
Pre-negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price before starting your journey.

Inspect bills carefully for irregularities and exchange only at authorized dealers.

Check the Feeling: Genuine money has a rough, textured feel.
Inspect Security Features: Authentic notes have security features like watermarks and microprinting.
Avoid Private Exchanges: Exchange money only at authorized dealers or banks to avoid counterfeits.

Use registered tour guides or arrange tours through reputable agencies.

Check for Registration: Legitimate tour guides have a registration card or badge.
Research the Tour Company: Investigate the background of any tour company before booking.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals or your accommodation staff about reliable tour guides.

Buy only from reputable vendors and be aware of overpriced or poor-quality goods.

Ask for Prices upfront: Always ask for prices before buying to avoid hidden costs.
Buy from Established Vendors: Stick to well-established vendors with a good reputation.
Negotiate Prices: Haggle for prices to ensure you're not overpaying.

Be wary of individuals asking for donations and verify the authenticity of charities.

Inspect IDs: Ask to see identification from anyone collecting donations.
Check for Official Logos: Genuine charity organizations have official logos on their materials.
Research the Charity: Investigate charities before donating to ensure your contributions are going where intended.

Book accommodation in advance and compare prices with online resources.

Check Ratings and Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality of accommodations.
Compare Prices: Shop around for the best prices, but beware of deals that seem too good to be true.
Book Ahead: Make reservations in advance to secure reasonable rates and avoid overpaying.

Avoid eating at restaurants without menus or prices listed, and verify the cost of dishes before ordering.

Check for Menus: Restaurants should display menus with prices.
Ask for Prices upfront: Always ask for prices before ordering to avoid unexpected costs.
Stick to Well-Known Restaurants: Choose restaurants with good reviews and a reputation for quality food.

Buy SIM cards only from authorized dealers or at the official telecom operator store.

Check for Store Identification: Official stores have identification signs and uniformed staff.
Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying SIM cards from street vendors or unauthorized dealers.
Check for Data Packages: Ensure the SIM card comes with a data package and understand its limitations.

Use ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas and be cautious when using card readers.

Avoid ATMs in Isolated Locations: Choose ATMs located in well-populated, well-lit areas.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.
Check for Tampering: Look for signs of tampering, such as loose or damaged parts, before using an ATM.

Research rental companies and compare prices to avoid overpaying.

Check for Inclusions: Ensure the rental price includes insurance, taxes, and fuel costs.
Avoid Street Rentals: Rent cars only from reputable companies to avoid overpriced or unsafe vehicles.
Book Ahead: Make car rental reservations in advance to secure reasonable rates and avoid overpaying.

Avoid leaving valuable items unattended and be wary of strangers who offer to 'help' find lost items.

Keep Valuables Safe: Keep valuables, such as passports and wallets, in secure locations.
Be Wary of Offers to Help: Beware of strangers who offer help finding lost items, as they may be trying to steal from you.
Report Lost Items Immediately: Immediately report lost items to the police or your accommodation to increase chances of recovery.

Buy only from reputable vendors and be aware of overpriced or poor-quality goods.

Ask for Prices upfront: Always ask for prices before buying to avoid unexpected costs.
Buy from Established Vendors: Stick to well-established vendors with a good reputation.
Negotiate Prices: Haggle for prices to ensure you're not overpaying.

Exchange money only at authorized dealers or banks and verify the authenticity of exchange offices.

Check for Registration Number: Legitimate exchange offices display registration numbers.
Avoid Street Exchange Offices: Avoid exchanging money on the street to avoid fraudulent activities.
Research the Exchange Office: Investigate exchange offices before using their services.

Book shore excursions through cruise ships or reputable agencies to avoid overpriced or fraudulent tours.

Check for Certification: Excursion providers should have proper certification and licensing.
Compare Prices: Shop around for the best prices, but beware of deals that seem too good to be true.
Read Reviews: Research excursions by reading reviews from other travelers.

Avoid buying gold or precious stones without verifying the authenticity and quality.

Check for Certification: Genuine gold items should have certificates of authenticity.
Use Reputable Dealers: Purchase from reputable jewelers or dealers with good reviews.
Inspect Quality: Thoroughly inspect gold items for signs of poor craftsmanship or impurities.