Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Saurimo, Lunda-Sul, Angola

Saurimo, Angola, Saurimo, Local Insights & Practical Info, Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Saurimo, Lunda-Sul, Angola

1. Taxi Scam at Saurimo Airport

Unlicensed taxi drivers may overcharge or lead to unsafe destinations. Always use official taxi services.
  • Official Taxi Service: Look for marked taxis and ask airport staff for help.
  • Pre-negotiated Price: Always agree on the price before starting the journey.
  • Safety Consideration: Choose a taxi with working seatbelts and well-maintained vehicle.

2. Fake Currency Exchange Scam

Counterfeit Angolan Kwanza notes may be offered in exchange transactions. Only use established currency exchange offices.
  • Established Exchange Offices: Look for licensed exchange offices with clear signs and many customers.
  • Check Quality of Banknotes: Inspect the notes carefully for any imperfections or inconsistencies.
  • Secure Your Money: Carry your money in a secure location and avoid displaying large amounts openly.

3. Overpriced Accommodation Scam

Hotel or guesthouse may overcharge tourists. Research and compare prices beforehand.
  • Online Research: Look for reviews, ratings, and prices online before booking accommodation.
  • Negotiate Price: Always negotiate the price before finalizing your reservation.
  • Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about any additional charges, taxes, or fees before making a booking.

4. Fraudulent Tour Guide Services

Unqualified tour guides may lead you to overpriced attractions or scams. Book through reputable agencies.
  • Reputable Agencies: Look for licensed, well-known travel agencies with positive reviews.
  • Check Credentials: Ask to see the tour guide's license and credentials before hiring.
  • Negotiate Tour Costs: Always agree on the cost of the tour, including all fees and tips, in advance.

5. Counterfeit Local Artwork Scam

Falsely labeled local art may be sold to tourists. Buy from recognized art galleries or artists.
  • Recognized Art Galleries: Look for galleries with a good reputation and positive reviews.
  • Meet the Artist: If possible, meet the artist and ask about their work and inspiration.
  • Check Authenticity: Look for unique characteristics or signatures that distinguish authentic pieces.

6. Bogus Charity Scam

Fraudulent charities may solicit money in the name of local causes. Research charities before donating.
  • Legitimate Charities: Look for charities with a proven track record, clear mission statements, and financial transparency.
  • Avoid Street Solicitors: Do not give money to street solicitors; instead, donate through recognized channels.
  • Check for Registration: Ensure the charity is registered and has the necessary permits to operate in Saurimo.

7. Bar Scam (Overpriced Drinks)

Bars may overcharge tourists for drinks. Compare prices with other establishments beforehand.
  • Competitor Pricing: Ask locals or compare prices with nearby bars.
  • Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price before ordering drinks.
  • Check for Happy Hours: Look out for happy hours or discounted drink periods to save money.

8. Gold Scam (Falsely labeled gold jewelry)

Counterfeit gold jewelry may be sold as authentic. Purchase from reputable jewelers.
  • Reputable Jewelers: Look for jewelers with a good reputation and positive reviews.
  • Check Gold Quality: Ask for a purity test, or check for the 14K, 18K, or 24K markings on gold items.
  • Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price before making a purchase.

9. Overpriced Local Crafts Scam

Locally made crafts may be overpriced for tourists. Compare prices with other shops.
  • Competitor Pricing: Ask locals or compare prices with nearby shops.
  • Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price before making a purchase.
  • Check for Authenticity: Look for unique characteristics or signatures that distinguish authentic pieces.

10. Unlicensed Guide Services Scam

Unqualified guides may lead you to overpriced attractions or scams. Book through reputable agencies.
  • Reputable Agencies: Look for licensed, well-known travel agencies with positive reviews.
  • Check Credentials: Ask to see the guide's license and credentials before hiring.
  • Negotiate Tour Costs: Always agree on the cost of the tour, including all fees and tips, in advance.

11. Street Food Scam (Contaminated or overpriced food)

Street food vendors may serve contaminated or overpriced food. Choose establishments with good reviews.
  • Established Street Food Vendors: Look for vendors with a busy location and many customers.
  • Check Hygiene Standards: Inspect the food preparation area and ensure it is clean.
  • Compare Prices: Ask locals or compare prices with nearby vendors.

12. Car Rental Scam (Hidden Charges)

Car rental companies may charge hidden fees or overpriced vehicles. Research and compare prices beforehand.
  • Online Research: Look for reviews, ratings, and prices online before booking a rental.
  • Check Contract Terms: Thoroughly read the contract and ask about any hidden fees or charges.
  • Inspect the Vehicle: Inspect the vehicle for damage before accepting it, and take photos as evidence.

13. Bus Scam (Overpriced or unsafe bus rides)

Unlicensed bus operators may overcharge or provide unsafe transportation. Use official bus services.
  • Official Bus Service: Look for marked buses and ask locals for help.
  • Pre-negotiated Price: Always agree on the price before starting the journey.
  • Safety Consideration: Choose a bus with working seatbelts and well-maintained vehicle.

14. Overpriced Local Transport Scam

Transport providers may overcharge tourists. Research local transportation costs beforehand.
  • Online Research: Look for reviews, ratings, and prices online.
  • Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price before starting the journey.
  • Safety Consideration: Choose a transport provider with working seatbelts and well-maintained vehicle.

15. Fake SIM Card Scam (Counterfeit or overpriced SIM cards)

Counterfeit SIM cards may be sold at inflated prices. Purchase from authorized dealers.
  • Authorized Dealers: Look for official telecom company stores or authorized retailers.
  • Check SIM Card Quality: Ensure the SIM card has a serial number and is properly packaged.
  • Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price before making a purchase.