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Very common in Kenya

Scam in KenyaShopping

Higher souvenir prices for visitors in Kenya

Markets, souvenir stalls and small shops. Nairobi's City Market and the tourist sales hall at Akamba Handicraft in Mombasa have higher prices than nearby alternatives.

How it works

Sellers often start with a much higher price for foreigners. Asking in English can also lead to a higher quote. Prices at Akamba Handicraft are higher in the tourist hall than on the wholesale side.

Warning signs

  • A high opening price with plenty of room to bargain.
  • Different prices for similar goods at nearby stalls.
  • Being directed only to a tourist sales area.

How to avoid it

  1. Compare prices before buying.
  2. Bargain before agreeing to a purchase.
  3. Use any Swahili you already know when asking prices.
  4. Consider buying directly from artisans.

If it happens to you

Ask calmly whether the seller will adjust the price. Do not assume a refund is available after agreeing and paying.

  1. Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase thieves or confront anyone with a weapon.
  2. Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
  3. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible. Ask your mobile provider to block the SIM.
  4. Save receipts, messages, booking details and transaction records. Write down what happened while you remember it.
  5. Report theft, robbery or threats to police. Ask for a report or reference number.
  6. Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate.
What it can costPrices quoted in English can be at least twice the normal price.
Where it happensMarkets, souvenir stalls and small shops. Nairobi's City Market and the tourist sales hall at Akamba Handicraft in Mombasa have higher prices than nearby alternatives.

What travellers report

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

More scams in KenyaInflated taxi and local transport fares: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the higher souvenir prices for visitors scam in Kenya?

Sellers often start with a much higher price for foreigners. Asking in English can also lead to a higher quote. Prices at Akamba Handicraft are higher in the tourist hall than on the wholesale side.

How can I spot it early?

A high opening price with plenty of room to bargain. Different prices for similar goods at nearby stalls. Being directed only to a tourist sales area.

How do I avoid higher souvenir prices for visitors in Kenya?

Compare prices before buying. Bargain before agreeing to a purchase. Use any Swahili you already know when asking prices. Consider buying directly from artisans.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Ask calmly whether the seller will adjust the price. Do not assume a refund is available after agreeing and paying.

Where in Kenya does this happen?

Markets, souvenir stalls and small shops. Nairobi's City Market and the tourist sales hall at Akamba Handicraft in Mombasa have higher prices than nearby alternatives.

How much can it cost me?

Prices quoted in English can be at least twice the normal price.

How common is this scam in Kenya?

Very common. Tourist overcharging, pushy touts and theft are recurring risks in Kenya. Pickpocketing is especially common in Nairobi and around Kisumu's Kibuye Market, while transport fares, souvenir prices and basic services can cost visitors much more than locals pay. Robbery is a more serious risk, especially after dark.

Who can I report it to?

Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud at a police station. Ask for a written report or reference number. Mombasa Central police station: visit Makadara Road or call +254 41 225501. Police on Mama Ngina Drive are also listed at +254 41 225501 and +254 41 222121. Kisumu police: call the provincial headquarters on +254 20 465767 or Kisumu division on +254 20 333151. The headquarters are on Nairobi Road near the long-distance bus terminal. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Transport company or airline: report fare disputes through the operator's official support channel. Report missing checked-bag contents to the airline promptly and keep your baggage tag. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.

What number do I call in an emergency in Kenya?

Emergency assistance; listed for Mombasa: 112, Police and fire emergency assistance; listed for Mombasa: 999.

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