Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

All Topics about Dar es Salaam All Cities in Tanzania

1. Taxi Scams at Airport

Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge or take circuitous routes. Avoid this by agreeing on a price before starting the journey.

Pre-negotiated Price: Avoid unexpected high prices
Official Taxi Service: Use authorized taxi services for safety and regulation compliance.
Knowledgeable Guide: Ask a local or hotel staff to recommend a trustworthy driver.

Traders may offer counterfeit notes. Inspect bills carefully and only use currency from reputable sources.

Bright Light: Examine bills under good lighting to detect any inconsistencies.
Feel the Notes: Authentic Tanzanian Shillings have a rough feel compared to counterfeits.
Trusted Exchange Service: Use reputable exchange services for currency exchanges.

Some market vendors may overcharge tourists. Haggle respectfully to reach a fair price.

Research Prices: Know the going rates for items before shopping.
Negotiate Skillfully: Politely bargain to get a reasonable price without offending the vendor.
Shop Around: Compare prices at multiple vendors before making a purchase.

Some people may pose as guides to offer tourist services. Check credentials and do research to ensure authenticity.

Certified Guide Service: Ensure the guide is registered with Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO).
Verification from Trusted Source: Ask hotel staff or other reliable sources for recommendations.
Reviews and Testimonials: Check online reviews and ask for references from previous clients.

Street food can be a culinary delight but may also harbor diseases. Stick to popular and clean-looking food stalls.

Clean Environment: Ensure the cooking area is clean and hygienic.
Fresh Ingredients: Look for vendors that use fresh ingredients instead of pre-prepared items.
Busy Stalls: Popular food stalls usually have a good reputation for quality and safety.

Some hotels may overbook or provide subpar service. Book in advance and research reviews to avoid this.

Advance Booking: Reserve a room well in advance.
Reputable Service: Choose hotels with good online reviews and ratings.
Check-in Time: Arrive at the hotel during normal check-in hours to avoid last-minute issues.

Some children may be part of organized begging rings. Be cautious when giving money to avoid inadvertent support.

Donation to Reputable Organizations: Support organizations that provide education, food, and shelter for children.
Avoid Giving Money Directly: Instead, buy them food or supplies.
Stay Away from Unsupervised Children: Be wary of children who approach you without adult supervision.

Keep valuables secure to avoid theft. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Secure Storage: Use hotel safes or wear concealed money belts.
Avoid Distractions: Stay alert and aware of your belongings in crowded places.
Copy Important Documents: Keep photocopies of essential documents such as passports and travel insurance.

Some tour operators may offer poor-quality services or scam tourists. Research providers thoroughly before booking.

Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from friends, online reviews, or trusted sources.
Check License and Registration: Ensure the tour operator is registered with Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB).
Read Reviews and Testimonials: Verify that the provider has a good reputation.

Scammers may illegally obtain control of your phone number and access personal data. Protect your SIM card and monitor account activity.

Lock your Phone: Use strong passwords or biometrics to secure your phone.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account for unauthorized access.
Contact Service Provider: Immediately contact your service provider if you suspect sim swapping.

Some individuals may create fake profiles to scam tourists. Be wary and verify the authenticity of potential partners.

Video Calls: Ask for a video call to confirm their identity.
Meet in Public Places: Meet in public places and let friends or family know about the plans.
Verify Identity: Request verification of their identity, such as a passport or driver's license.

Some bars may overcharge or serve watered-down drinks. Choose establishments with a good reputation.

Check Reviews and Ratings: Research bars online before visiting.
Ask for the Bill Upfront: Request to see the bill before ordering drinks.
Stick with Trusted Drinks: Order drinks from reputable brands to avoid contaminated or diluted liquors.

Some individuals may befriend tourists to gain access to their valuables. Be cautious and maintain your personal boundaries.

Maintain Personal Boundaries: Be selective about who you share personal information with.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut and avoid the person.
Keep Valuables Secure: Store valuables in a safe place to prevent theft.

Buying from illegal street vendors may support organized crime. Purchase items only from reputable sources.

Legal Sellers: Buy from registered and licensed sellers.
Check for Registration: Ask vendors for their licenses or permits to operate.
Support Local Businesses: Purchase from local shops and businesses that contribute to the community.

Some charities may be fraudulent or inefficient. Research organizations before donating.

Check Charity's Reputation: Research the charity online to verify its authenticity and effectiveness.
Verify Registration: Ensure the charity is registered with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).
Donate Directly: Avoid intermediaries and donate directly to the charity.