Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Nairobi, Kenya

1. Matatu Scams

Avoid overcharging or pickpocketing by matatus (minibuses) in Nairobi. Always agree on a fare before boarding.

Know the Standard Fare: Research common routes and their standard fares.
Travel During Daytime: Avoid traveling alone at night to minimize risk of theft or mugging.
Stay Aware: Keep your belongings in sight and be vigilant during travel.

Avoid fake guides or donation requests at Jamaa Mosque. Stick to guided tours if necessary.

Join a Reputable Tour: Choose a reputable tour operator for a hassle-free experience.
Respect Cultural Norms: Dress appropriately and remove shoes when entering the mosque.
Be Aware of Unsolicited Offers: Decline unsolicited help or offers from strangers within the mosque.

Avoid fake park rangers or guides in Nairobi National Park. Book tours through official channels.

Book Through Official Channels: Book tours and guides through the park's main entrance or online.
Carry Essential Items: Bring water, snacks, and a map for self-guided exploration.
Stay Informed: Research common animals found in the park to avoid encountering dangerous ones unknowingly.

Avoid overselling or faulty sim cards at street vendors. Buy from authorized retailers instead.

Buy From Authorized Retailers: Look for licensed stores with clear signage.
Check the SIM Card: Ensure the SIM card has data and voice bundles before leaving the store.
Secure Your Device: Install security apps to protect your phone from theft or unauthorized access.

Avoid overpriced items, counterfeit goods, or switching of real items at markets and shops.

Negotiate Prices: Haggle for prices and ask for discounts when shopping.
Check the Quality: Inspect items carefully before purchasing to ensure their quality.
Stay Informed: Research common prices for items in Nairobi markets.

Avoid distraction theft or pickpocketing at malls. Keep belongings secure and aware of surroundings.

Stay Aware: Keep your belongings in sight and avoid leaving them unattended.
Use Secure Storage: Take advantage of coin-operated lockers or ask security personnel to watch your belongings.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform mall security if you witness any suspicious activity.

Avoid fake taxis or overcharging. Use apps or official taxi stands instead.

Use Reputable Apps or Taxis: Book taxis through popular ride-hailing apps or use licensed taxis.
Agree on Fare Beforehand: Discuss and agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Stay Informed: Research common taxi rates in Nairobi to avoid overcharging.

Avoid card skimming or cash traps at ATMs. Use well-lit, secure ATMs during daytime.

Use Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs located in busy, well-lit areas.
Protect Your PIN: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.
Check Your Account Regularly: Monitor your account transactions regularly for any unusual activity.

Avoid food contamination or overpricing at street food vendors. Choose reputable stalls.

Choose Reputable Stalls: Look for clean, busy stalls with fresh ingredients.
Avoid Street Food at Night: Avoid eating street food after dark to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Check Prices: Compare prices with other vendors before making a purchase.

Avoid being tricked into giving money to fake beggars or scammers.

Avoid Giving Money Directly: Donate to reputable charities instead of giving cash directly.
Stay Aware: Be cautious when approached by individuals asking for help.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid isolated areas and crowded places with a high concentration of beggars.

Avoid hotel room keycard duplication or overcharging. Keep your valuables secure.

Keep Your Valuables Secure: Use in-room safes or request for a safety deposit box.
Check the Room Beforehand: Inspect the room before settling in for any suspicious devices.
Settlement Procedure: Understand the hotel's check-in and settlement procedures to avoid being overcharged.

Avoid keyloggers or unsecured Wi-Fi at internet cafés. Use your own hotspot if possible.

Use Your Own Hotspot: Connect to your personal mobile hotspot when using your laptop.
Check the Security: Look for cafés with password-protected Wi-Fi or use a VPN.
Secure Your Devices: Install security apps to protect your devices from malware.

Avoid being cheated on exchange rates or receiving counterfeit money at currency exchange shops.

Research Exchange Rates: Check the current exchange rate online before exchanging money.
Choose Reputable Shops: Look for authorized currency exchange shops with clear signage.
Check Bills Carefully: Inspect the received bills carefully before leaving the shop.

Avoid romance scams on dating apps or websites. Be cautious and verify identities.

Verify Identities: Request video calls or meet in public places to confirm the person's identity.
Stay Aware of Red Flags: Be wary of individuals asking for money, gifts, or personal information early in the relationship.
Use Secure Channels: Communicate through official dating app channels instead of personal emails or text messages.

Avoid ticket scams, overpriced merchandise, or pickpocketing at festivals and events.

Buy Official Tickets: Purchase tickets from authorized sources to avoid duplicates or fake ones.
Stay Aware: Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Check Prices: Compare prices for merchandise at different stalls to avoid overpricing.