Scam in TanzaniaShopping
Fake ebony souvenirs in Tanzania
How it works
Wooden souvenirs are sold as ebony even though they are cheaper wood darkened with shoe polish. Much of the ebony offered in tourist markets is described this way.
Warning signs
- A seller calls a carving ebony but cannot explain its origin.
- The purchase depends on a claim about the wood that you cannot check.
How to avoid it
- Do not pay an ebony premium unless you can verify the material.
- Buy a carving for its appearance if you cannot confirm the wood.
- Ask where the carving was made; genuine ebony and mpingo carving is associated with Makonde makers in the far south-east.
If it happens to you
- Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or resist an armed attacker.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed. For an emergency, call 112.
- Block stolen cards and contact your bank about unauthorised payments. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save tickets, receipts, messages, booking details and a short written account. Record times and locations.
- Report the incident at the nearest police station and ask for a report reference or copy. Avoid gathering a crowd around a suspected thief.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement guidance.
Questions
What is the fake ebony souvenirs scam in Tanzania?
Wooden souvenirs are sold as ebony even though they are cheaper wood darkened with shoe polish. Much of the ebony offered in tourist markets is described this way.
How can I spot it early?
A seller calls a carving ebony but cannot explain its origin. The purchase depends on a claim about the wood that you cannot check.
How do I avoid fake ebony souvenirs in Tanzania?
Do not pay an ebony premium unless you can verify the material. Buy a carving for its appearance if you cannot confirm the wood. Ask where the carving was made; genuine ebony and mpingo carving is associated with Makonde makers in the far south-east.
Where in Tanzania does this happen?
Markets selling tourist souvenirs across Tanzania.
How common is this scam in Tanzania?
Very common. Persistent touts, inflated taxi fares and petty theft are the main problems visitors may face in Tanzania. Dar es Salaam has frequent muggings and several pickpocket hotspots, while Arusha has persistent touts and theft risks on minibuses and around nightlife. Bus-ticket fraud, fake ebony souvenirs and unexpected fees also need care.
Are there similar scams in Tanzania?
Yes: tourist prices in markets.
Who can I report it to?
Police: go to the nearest police station when safe. In Dar es Salaam, a major station is at Salendar Bridge on Ocean Road. Ask for a written report or reference. Emergency services: call 112 for an emergency. If you can safely reach a police station, going there directly may be more useful. Card issuer or bank: use the emergency contact in your banking app or on the bank's official website. Freeze stolen cards and report unauthorised transactions. Bus operator, airline, travel agent or venue: contact the business directly using independently checked contact details. Provide the ticket, receipt or booking record and explain the problem. Travel insurer: use your policy's claims or assistance contact. Keep receipts and the police report. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help after passport theft or a serious incident.
What number do I call in an emergency in Tanzania?
Emergency services: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck