Skip to content
Common in Myanmar

Scam in MyanmarTaxis

High taxi quotes for foreigners in Myanmar

Shopping centres and the bus station in Naypyidaw

How it works

Drivers quote foreigners high prices, even for short journeys. Fares need to be negotiated.

Warning signs

  • A high opening quote for a short trip.
  • The driver wants you to board before agreeing on the fare.

How to avoid it

  1. Agree on the total fare before boarding.
  2. Ask your hotel to help arrange a taxi.
  3. Check whether the quote covers the whole vehicle or each passenger.

If it happens to you

If you have not started the journey, decline the quote and seek another arrangement.

  1. Move to a safe place. Do not chase anyone or argue with a threatening group.
  2. If a cash transaction is still underway, stop and check the agreed price, note values and total payout. Ask calmly for the mistake to be corrected.
  3. Block stolen cards and secure affected accounts. Use your bank's official app or contact details.
  4. Save receipts, tickets, messages and transaction details. Write down the time, location and what happened.
  5. Report theft, robbery or fraud to police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
  6. Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Seek medical help promptly after injury or a suspect drink.
What it can costAsking prices can be US$5 even for relatively short journeys.
Where it happensShopping centres and the bus station in NaypyidawNaypyidaw

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in MyanmarTaxi drivers pressuring arrivals as a group: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the high taxi quotes for foreigners scam in Myanmar?

Drivers quote foreigners high prices, even for short journeys. Fares need to be negotiated.

How can I spot it early?

A high opening quote for a short trip. The driver wants you to board before agreeing on the fare.

How do I avoid high taxi quotes for foreigners in Myanmar?

Agree on the total fare before boarding. Ask your hotel to help arrange a taxi. Check whether the quote covers the whole vehicle or each passenger.

What should I do if it happens to me?

If you have not started the journey, decline the quote and seek another arrangement.

Where in Myanmar does this happen?

Shopping centres and the bus station in Naypyidaw It has been reported in Naypyidaw.

How much can it cost me?

Asking prices can be US$5 even for relatively short journeys.

How common is this scam in Myanmar?

Common. Tourists can face money-changing tricks, inflated transport prices and persistent sellers in Myanmar. Petty theft is also a concern, though the material describes reported crime levels as low. Check cash carefully and agree on prices before paying.

Are there similar scams in Myanmar?

Yes: taxi drivers pressuring arrivals as a group.

Who can I report it to?

Local police: report theft, robbery or fraud at a police station. Bring any receipts, transaction records and a written account. Ask for a report or reference number if available. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app, website or the number on your card to block a stolen card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact channels if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: use the insurer's claims or assistance service. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss. Business or transport operator: raise a disputed payment, missing change or questionable ticket with the business or operator. Show the receipt and agreed terms, if you have them.

Reviewed by