Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Monrovia, Liberia

All Topics about Monrovia All Cities in Liberia

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by negotiating fares before starting the journey or using reliable meters.

Knowledge of Local Rates: Be aware of standard taxi rates in Monrovia to avoid overpricing.
Safe Taxis Only: Choose registered and identifiable taxis for a safer journey.
Avoid Late-Night Travels: Avoid late-night travels as much as possible to reduce the risk of scams.

Examine notes carefully before accepting change or accepting bills larger than necessary.

Beware of Fake Notes: Learn the differences between authentic and counterfeit Liberian dollars.
Check Bill Quality: Examine notes for signs of poor printing or irregularities to identify counterfeits.
Use ATMs Safely: Withdraw larger amounts from trusted ATMs and avoid using them at night.

Confirm the credentials of your guide before hiring to ensure you are not being led into scams or unsafe areas.

Licensed Guides Only: Check if your guide is licensed and registered by the Liberia Tourism Authority.
Ask for References: Request references or reviews from past clients to ensure credibility.
Don't Share Personal Information: Never share personal information with your guide, such as bank details or travel plans.

Bargain and negotiate prices in markets to avoid being charged exorbitant amounts.

Know Market Prices: Ask locals about fair market prices to set a reasonable bar for negotiations.
Barter Skills: Develop your bartering skills to get better deals in markets.
Be Polite but Firm: Maintain a polite and friendly demeanor while negotiating, but remain firm on your budget.

Ask for itemized bills to avoid overcharging and ensure you're being charged fair prices.

Avoid Hidden Fees: Inspect the menu before ordering to identify any hidden charges.
Check Prices in Menus: Confirm the prices of your order with the server before eating.
Pay Attention to Change: Count your change carefully to ensure it matches what you should receive.

Buy sim cards from registered vendors to avoid getting scammed or locked into high-cost plans.

Find Registered Vendors: Locate authorized cell phone retailers or ask your hotel for suggestions.
Check Sim Card Prices: Ensure the price of the sim card and credit is reasonable.
Be Wary of Helpful Strangers: Be suspicious if a stranger offers to sell or help with your sim card, as this could lead to scams.

Compare prices online and negotiate with hotel staff to get a fair deal.

Research Online Prices: Check multiple travel websites for accommodation deals.
Negotiate with Hotel Staff: Discuss your budget with hotel staff and ask if they can provide a better rate.
Read Reviews: Read reviews of the accommodation to ensure you're getting a fair deal.

Support verified charities and avoid giving money to beggars on the street.

Research Local Charities: Find reputable local charities and donate directly.
Avoid Street Donations: Instead of giving money, consider buying food or supplies for those in need.
Stay Alert and Aware: Be cautious when approached by strangers asking for help.

Stick to daylight hours and use reputable vendors to avoid scams and potential theft.

Know Market Hours: Check the opening and closing times of night markets.
Ask for Recommended Vendors: Ask locals or hotel staff for trusted vendors at night markets.
Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Stay in well-lit and busy areas of the market to minimize the risk of scams and theft.

Compare prices at multiple internet cafes before deciding on a location.

Research Internet Cafe Prices: Check the average prices of internet cafes in Monrovia.
Ask for Recommended Cafes: Seek suggestions from locals or hotel staff for good and affordable internet cafes.
Check Equipment Quality: Ensure the computers and equipment are functioning properly before using them.

Compare prices from multiple car rental services to avoid being overcharged.

Research Car Rental Prices: Check online for standard car rental rates in Monrovia.
Ask for Recommended Companies: Request suggestions from locals or hotels for reliable car rental services.
Check Vehicle Condition: Inspect the car before renting to ensure it's in good working condition.

Avoid purchasing pirated DVDs or counterfeit goods to support local businesses and avoid legal issues.

Support Local Businesses: Purchase goods from reputable stores to support the local economy.
Avoid Legal Problems: Buying pirated DVDs or counterfeit goods can lead to legal issues, fines, and potential imprisonment.
Maintain Integrity: Supporting ethical practices helps maintain the integrity of Monrovia's economy.

Bargain and negotiate prices in souvenir shops to avoid being charged exorbitant amounts.

Know Souvenir Prices: Ask locals about fair market prices for souvenirs.
Barter Skills: Develop your bartering skills to get better deals in souvenir shops.
Be Polite but Firm: Maintain a polite and friendly demeanor while negotiating, but remain firm on your budget.

Use well-lit, secure ATMs located near banks or shopping centers to avoid scams and skimming devices.

Find Secure ATMs: Look for ATMs located in well-lit areas with security cameras.
Check ATM for Skimming Devices: Inspect the ATM before using it for any unusual devices attached to it.
Limit Cash Withdrawals: Withdraw smaller amounts of cash at a time to minimize your exposure in case of skimming or fraud.

Exchange money only at authorized exchange bureaus and banks to avoid receiving counterfeit bills.

Use Authorized Exchange Bureaus: Exchange money at official exchange bureaus or banks in Monrovia.
Check Bill Quality: Examine bills for signs of poor printing or irregularities to identify counterfeits.
Count Your Money Carefully: Count your exchanged money carefully and report any discrepancies immediately.