Scam in HaitiOn the street
Charge for picking up a shell in Haiti
How it works
Children walking with visitors may try to charge them for picking up a shell from the flats. Visitors do not have to pay this requested charge.
Warning signs
- Children accompany you while you explore the flats.
- You are encouraged to pick something up without any price being discussed.
How to avoid it
- Leave shells where they are.
- Clarify any proposed charge before accepting an activity.
- Politely decline activities you do not want.
If it happens to you
Politely decline the requested payment and move on if it is safe. Avoid an argument.
- Get to a secure place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were stolen, contact your card issuer and secure your accounts as soon as possible.
- Write down what happened, including the place, time, amount and any vehicle details you already have. Keep receipts and messages.
- Report the incident to police when it is safe and practical. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need urgent support. Outside help may be very limited.
- Contact your insurer or booking provider if relevant. Keep copies of reports and expenses for any claim.
Questions
What is the charge for picking up a shell scam in Haiti?
Children walking with visitors may try to charge them for picking up a shell from the flats. Visitors do not have to pay this requested charge.
How can I spot it early?
Children accompany you while you explore the flats. You are encouraged to pick something up without any price being discussed.
How do I avoid charge for picking up a shell in Haiti?
Leave shells where they are. Clarify any proposed charge before accepting an activity. Politely decline activities you do not want.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Politely decline the requested payment and move on if it is safe. Avoid an argument.
Where in Haiti does this happen?
The saline flats on Gonâve Island
How common is this scam in Haiti?
Occasional. Visitors can face inflated shopping prices, high airport taxi quotes, pushy sellers and unexpected charges for photos or small activities. Pickpocketing and mugging are also risks, but there are no reliable figures here on how often scams happen. Violent crime, kidnapping and civil unrest are much more serious concerns, and outside help may be very limited.
Are there similar scams in Haiti?
Yes: unexpected payment requests for photos.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud when safe and practical. Ask your accommodation or a trusted local contact to help you find a reporting route. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or a trusted contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for passport loss or urgent consular advice. Assistance may be very limited. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance details in your policy. Keep receipts and any police report. Hotel or transport provider: tell the provider if the incident involved transport it arranged. Share the agreed price, receipt and journey details.
Reviewed by @snuck