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

All Topics about Lobito All Cities in Angola

1. Beachfront Scam

Watch out for locals offering guides or souvenirs at the beach. Some may overcharge or lead you to a scam shop.

Price Check: Always ask for prices before agreeing to anything.
Go with the Crowd: Stick with trusted groups or guides when exploring unfamiliar areas.
Bargain Smartly: Negotiate prices fairly, but be aware of when you're being taken advantage of.

Unlicensed taxis may overcharge or drive you to unwanted destinations. Avoid this by using only registered taxis.

Registered Taxis: Always check for a valid license on the taxi.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from your hotel or trusted locals for reliable taxis.
Fixed Rates: Agree on a fixed price before starting the journey to avoid unexpected charges.

Some fishermen may offer fresh fish at inflated prices or sell low-quality fish. Buy from reliable sources instead.

Check the Fish Quality: Inspect the fish before buying to ensure it's fresh and of good quality.
Negotiate Prices: Bargain for a fair price. If the price seems too high, it probably is.
Ask Locals: Ask locals where they buy their fish to find reliable sources.

Beware of counterfeit bills. Use only banks or reputable exchange offices for currency exchange.

Check the Quality: Feel and inspect the bills carefully to spot any irregularities.
Exchange at Banks: Exchange currency only at banks or reputable exchange offices.
Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, trust your instincts and double-check the bills.

Some ATMs may skim cards or charge high fees. Use only bank-operated or well-known ATMs.

Check the Machine: Inspect the ATM for any unusual features or signs of tampering.
Limit Daily Withdrawals: Set daily withdrawal limits to minimize potential losses from skimming.
Use Bank ATMs: Prefer bank-operated or well-known ATMs whenever possible.

Some souvenir shops may sell counterfeit goods or overcharge. Research prices beforehand and bargain.

Research Prices: Check online for average prices of desired items to avoid being overcharged.
Bargain Smartly: Negotiate prices fairly, but be aware of when you're being taken advantage of.
Check Quality: Inspect items carefully to ensure they are genuine and of good quality.

Some bars may overcharge drinks or serve watered-down alcohol. Stick with popular or recommended bars.

Check Prices: Ask for price lists before ordering to avoid unexpected charges.
Go with the Crowd: Stick with popular bars or those recommended by locals or your hotel.
Check Alcohol Quality: Ask for recommendations on quality drinks to ensure a good experience.

Some restaurants may serve low-quality food or overcharge. Research restaurants and ask locals for recommendations.

Check Reviews: Research restaurants online before visiting to check reviews and prices.
Ask Locals: Ask locals for recommendations on good, affordable restaurants.
Check Prices: Look at the menu prices before committing to a restaurant to avoid unexpected charges.

Some accommodations may not deliver on promises or overcharge. Research and book through reputable channels.

Check Reviews: Read reviews online to ensure the accommodation is reliable.
Book Through Reputable Channels: Book accommodations through trusted platforms or agencies.
Check Inclusions: Clearly understand what is included in the room price to avoid unexpected charges.

Some tour guides may overcharge or lead you to scams. Book tours through reputable agencies.

Check Reviews: Read reviews of tour guides and agencies online.
Book Through Reputable Agencies: Book tours through trusted travel agencies or directly through the attraction if possible.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from your hotel or locals for reliable tour guides.

Some street performances may ask for donations, then aggressively solicit more money. Be cautious and only give when satisfied.

Watch Performances Carefully: Observe the performance before deciding to contribute.
Set a Limit: Decide on a limit for donations in advance.
Avoid Aggressive Solicitation: Do not engage with performers who aggressively ask for money.

Some vendors may overcharge at Lobito Bay or sell low-quality goods. Bargain and research prices beforehand.

Research Prices: Check online for average prices of desired items to avoid being overcharged.
Bargain Smartly: Negotiate prices fairly, but be aware of when you're being taken advantage of.
Check Quality: Inspect items carefully to ensure they are genuine and of good quality.

Some local transport options may overcharge or drive an inefficient route. Use registered taxis or public transportation.

Registered Taxis: Always check for a valid license on the taxi.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from your hotel or trusted locals for reliable transport options.
Fixed Rates: Agree on a fixed price before starting the journey to avoid unexpected charges.

Some markets may sell counterfeit goods or overcharge. Research prices and bargain.

Research Prices: Check online for average prices of desired items to avoid being overcharged.
Bargain Smartly: Negotiate prices fairly, but be aware of when you're being taken advantage of.
Check Quality: Inspect items carefully to ensure they are genuine and of good quality.

Some exchange bureaus may offer unfavorable exchange rates. Use banks or reputable exchange offices.

Check Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates online to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
Use Banks or Reputable Offices: Exchange currency only at banks or reputable exchange offices.
Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about any additional fees before exchanging money.