Scam in EthiopiaShopping
Higher tourist prices and market brokers in Ethiopia
How it works
Sellers may quote foreigners higher prices. Brokers steer you towards certain shops and receive a payment from the seller. Their involvement can make it harder to negotiate a lower price.
Warning signs
- A stranger insists on taking you to a particular shop.
- A broker pressures you to buy or keeps joining your negotiations.
- The opening price seems high compared with other stalls.
How to avoid it
- Compare prices at several stalls before buying.
- Negotiate directly with the seller.
- Walk away if someone pressures you.
- Consider shopping with a trusted local friend or guide.
If it happens to you
Before paying, stop the purchase if the price is unacceptable. If you have already paid, ask calmly for a receipt and a refund, but avoid a confrontation.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. If you are threatened or injured, seek emergency help. In Addis Ababa, the emergency number is 911.
- Check what is missing. Block stolen cards promptly and contact your mobile provider if your phone or SIM was taken.
- Record what happened while it is fresh. Save receipts, messages, booking details and any vehicle information you already have.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to the police. Ask for a report or reference number if available.
- Contact your card issuer, insurer or embassy as needed. Keep copies of reports and receipts, and avoid anyone who demands advance payment to recover your belongings.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the higher tourist prices and market brokers scam in Ethiopia?
Sellers may quote foreigners higher prices. Brokers steer you towards certain shops and receive a payment from the seller. Their involvement can make it harder to negotiate a lower price.
How can I spot it early?
A stranger insists on taking you to a particular shop. A broker pressures you to buy or keeps joining your negotiations. The opening price seems high compared with other stalls.
How do I avoid higher tourist prices and market brokers in Ethiopia?
Compare prices at several stalls before buying. Negotiate directly with the seller. Walk away if someone pressures you. Consider shopping with a trusted local friend or guide.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Before paying, stop the purchase if the price is unacceptable. If you have already paid, ask calmly for a receipt and a refund, but avoid a confrontation.
Where in Ethiopia does this happen?
Mercato It has been reported in Addis Ababa.
How common is this scam in Ethiopia?
Common. Tourists can face pickpocketing, distraction theft, inflated prices and commission-seeking touts in Ethiopia. Watch especially closely in busy parts of Addis Ababa, when agreeing transport fares, and when strangers offer invitations or help with bookings.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or fraud at a police station. Bring a short account of events and any receipts, messages or booking details. Ask for a report or reference number if available. Emergency services in Addis Ababa: call 911 for an emergency. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block a stolen card and report unauthorised transactions. Transport operator, booking service or accommodation: report a fare or booking dispute through the service that arranged it. Provide the agreed price, trip details and proof of payment. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police report, receipts and proof of loss. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Ethiopia?
All emergencies in Addis Ababa: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck