Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Cape Town, South Africa

1. Table Mountain Cableway Scam

Beware of ticket sellers offering discounted or fake tickets for the cableway. Always buy from authorized vendors.

Authorized Vendors: Only purchase tickets at the Lower Cable Station and online via the official website.
Fake Tickets: Avoid tickets without holograms, barcodes or issued by unofficial vendors.
Cableway Security: Report any suspicious activity to the Cableway staff or local authorities.

Stay alert during hikes on Lion's Head for unofficial guides who may overcharge or lead you into danger.

Hike in Groups: Always hike with a group and use marked trails.
Official Guides: Use only licensed guides, ask for identification before starting the hike.
Safety First: Always inform someone about your plans and carry essential supplies like water and a mobile phone.

Beware of fishermen who offer to sell you fresh fish that may be already stolen. Only buy seafood from licensed vendors.

Licensed Vendors: Purchase seafood only from designated and regulated food areas.
Freshness Guarantee: Ensure the fish is fresh and properly stored, avoid fish that smells bad or looks discolored.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform V&A Waterfront security personnel about any suspicious behavior.

Avoid unlicensed tour operators who may overcharge or take you to fewer attractions. Use registered tour companies for the best experience.

Registered Companies: Research and book tours with recognized and registered tour operators.
Overcharging: Ask for a clear itinerary, price list, and cancellation policy before finalizing the booking.
Attraction Visits: Ensure that your chosen tour covers all the must-see locations such as Cape Point, Boulders Beach, and Simon's Town.

Stay vigilant during public transportation rides and avoid showing valuable items to minimize the risk of robberies.

Avoid Distractions: Keep your belongings close, avoid using headphones, or reading materials that may distract you.
Sit Near the Driver: Choose a seat near the driver for better visibility and easier access to help in case of an emergency.
Trust Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or sense danger, trust your instincts and get off the vehicle at the next stop.

Watch out for sunscreen vendors selling poor quality or fake products on Cape Town beaches.

Authorized Vendors: Buy sunscreen at grocery stores, pharmacies, or from authorized beach vendors only.
Sunscreen Quality: Check the expiration date and look for reputable brands to ensure good quality sunscreen.
Report Unauthorized Sellers: Inform lifeguards or local authorities about unauthorized beach vendors.

Be cautious when using taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber. Verify the vehicle details before entering and monitor fares during the trip.

Registered Taxis: Only use licensed taxis with visible registration plates and official decals.
Uber Safety Tips: Ensure the driver's name, license plate number, and vehicle details match those shown in the app before entering.
Monitor Fares: Use the meter or fare estimator provided by the service to compare actual costs during your trip.

Avoid restaurants that serve overpriced food or charge hidden fees. Research the restaurant's reputation before dining.

Reputable Restaurants: Choose established and well-reviewed restaurants for a good dining experience.
Hidden Fees: Ask about service charges or hidden fees before ordering to avoid unexpected costs.
Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with other restaurants offering similar dishes to ensure reasonable pricing.

Be wary of accommodation offers that seem too good to be true. Research the property and its reviews before booking.

Online Reviews: Check online reviews on platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb for honest feedback from previous guests.
Property Verification: Ensure the property address and details match those provided by the booking site.
Payment Methods: Use secure payment methods offered by reputable online travel agencies to protect yourself from fraud.

Beware of unauthorized mobile operators selling SIM cards with incorrect prices or offering poor quality service.

Authorized Retailers: Purchase SIM cards only from official retail stores of the network provider.
Check Before Activation: Ensure the SIM card has the correct price and validity period before activating it.
Network Coverage: Verify network coverage in your travel areas to avoid poor reception issues.

Be cautious when using ATMs and watch out for skimming devices or fake machines. Use well-lit and busy areas for transactions.

Well-Lit Areas: Choose well-lit, secure, and busy locations to minimize the risk of tampering.
ATM Security Features: Check the ATM for any signs of tampering or unusual devices before using it.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account activity and report any suspicious transactions to your bank immediately.

Be aware of performers who may distract you while someone else picks your pockets. Keep your belongings secure and maintain situational awareness.

Awareness and Vigilance: Stay alert to your surroundings and avoid distractions during busy or crowded areas.
Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables hidden and close to your body, using a zippered bag or pouch.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities or security personnel if you notice any suspicious activity related to street performers.

Be cautious when participating in wine tastings. Some establishments may use low-quality wines or overcharge for tastings.

Reputable Wineries: Research the winery's reputation and reviews before visiting.
Wine Quality: Ask about the quality of the wines being served, especially if it seems too cheap compared to other tastings.
Tasting Prices: Compare tasting prices with other wineries in the area to ensure fair pricing.

Beware of overpriced or low-quality goods at markets. Haggle for prices and avoid buying from unauthorized vendors.

Authorized Vendors: Shop only at official market stalls and verify that the vendor has a valid permit.
Haggle for Prices: Negotiate prices with vendors to get a fair deal, but be reasonable in your expectations.
Check Quality: Inspect goods carefully before purchasing and ask for guarantees or warranties when needed.

Avoid street food vendors that may use poor quality ingredients or overcharge. Look for busy, popular stalls with good reviews.

Popular Street Food Stalls: Choose busy and well-reviewed street food vendors with visible health certifications.
Health Certifications: Ensure the vendor has a valid food handling permit or certification to guarantee cleanliness and safety standards.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other street food vendors in the area before making a purchase.