Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Benguela, Benguela, Angola

1. Beachfront Scam

Watch out for locals offering to 'watch your belongings' on the beach. They might steal or damage them.

Some fishermen might sell low-quality or overpriced fish. Inspect your catch before payment.

Taxis might overcharge tourists, especially at night or from the airport. Use a reliable taxi service.

Pre-Arranged Transport: Organize transportation in advance with your hotel.
Fixed Rates: Negotiate a fixed rate before starting the journey.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Travel during daylight hours and avoid deserted areas.

Counterfeit Angolan Kwanza notes are common. Inspect bills carefully for irregularities.

Check the Security Features: Familiarize yourself with the security features of genuine notes.
Use ATMs: Withdraw money from banks or trusted ATMs.
Change Money Safely: Exchange money at authorized exchange bureaus.

Locals may befriend you to gain your trust, then ask for favors or money. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers.

Avoid Isolated Conversations: Avoid private conversations in isolated areas.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.
Stick to Public Places: Socialize in crowded, well-lit public places.

Vendors may overprice items at local markets. Know the market value of goods before shopping.

Some accommodations may not meet the standard advertised online. Check the accommodation thoroughly before booking.

Online Reviews: Read reviews from past guests on booking websites.
Visit Before Booking: If possible, visit the accommodation before committing to a stay.
Reputable Companies: Book through reputable online travel agencies.

Street food vendors may use contaminated ingredients. Stick to established, clean restaurants.

Avoid Street Vendors: Eat at reputable restaurants with proper food handling procedures.
Watch for Signs of Cleanliness: Look for clean kitchen areas and hygienic practices.
Cooked Food Only: Avoid food that has been sitting out for extended periods.

Unlicensed tour guides might offer cheap services but provide poor quality. Stick to licensed guides.

ATMs may be tampered with for card skimming. Use only well-maintained ATMs in secure locations.

Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs located inside banks or secure buildings.
Cover Your Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your account transactions for any unusual activity.

Some individuals may pose as police officers to extort money. Carry a copy of your passport and visa.

Ask for Verification: Politely ask the officer for identification.
Stay Calm: Remain calm and cooperative, but avoid giving them money or personal information.
Contact Embassy: If in doubt, contact your embassy for assistance.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods to support local economy and ensure quality.

Authentic Shops: Buy from reputable, authorized shops.
Quality Products: Inspect products carefully for irregularities.
Support Local Economy: By buying authentic goods, you contribute to the local economy.

Avoid areas known for criminal activity. Stay informed about potential risks and be vigilant.

Stay Informed: Research the city and ask locals about risky areas.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid traveling alone at night or in deserted places.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation.

Avoid accepting drinks from strangers or leaving drinks unattended in bars. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Stick to Established Bars: Choose reputable, busy bars with security personnel.
Avoid Drinks from Strangers: Don't accept drinks from strangers or accept open containers.
Stay Alert: Remain aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

Avoid swimming in unmarked or unguarded bodies of water. Stick to supervised areas.

Supervised Areas: Swim at beaches with lifeguards and warning signs.
Avoid Rough Currents: Stay away from areas with strong currents or underwater hazards.
Use Equipment Provided: Use life jackets and other safety equipment when needed.