Scam in DjiboutiShopping
Inflated tourist prices in Djibouti
How it works
Some sellers charge visitors much higher prices for ordinary goods and food.
Warning signs
- The price is much higher than prices at other shops.
- The seller will not clearly confirm the total before payment.
How to avoid it
- Compare prices before buying.
- Agree on the full price before handing over money.
- Walk away if the price seems unreasonable.
If it happens to you
Calmly ask the seller to explain the charge and request a refund of any disputed amount. Keep any receipt. Leave if the discussion becomes threatening.
- Move to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or continue a threatening argument.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount and any description you remember.
- Save receipts, messages, booking records and payment evidence.
- If a card or phone was stolen, contact your bank or mobile provider promptly. Block affected cards and secure your accounts.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to the police. Ask for a report reference or written record.
- Contact your insurer if you need to claim. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need consular help.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Travel blog2023Djibouti travel guide: travel tips, adventures and highlights - Rok Around The WorldThe traveller reported being asked for extra money for transport back to Tadjoura after the driver disregarded their agreement and prioritised carrying goats.Read on Travel blog
- Travel blog2018Diving in Djibouti: my first wreck | Atlas & BootsThe author warned arriving travellers to check the airport's posted taxi fares to avoid being overcharged.Read on Travel blog
- Travel blog2008DJIBOUTILICIOUSThe traveller described visitors being overcharged by unmetered taxis without knowing the appropriate fare.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the inflated tourist prices scam in Djibouti?
Some sellers charge visitors much higher prices for ordinary goods and food.
How can I spot it early?
The price is much higher than prices at other shops. The seller will not clearly confirm the total before payment.
How do I avoid inflated tourist prices in Djibouti?
Compare prices before buying. Agree on the full price before handing over money. Walk away if the price seems unreasonable.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Calmly ask the seller to explain the charge and request a refund of any disputed amount. Keep any receipt. Leave if the discussion becomes threatening.
Where in Djibouti does this happen?
Tourist-oriented shops; no specific locations are named.
How common is this scam in Djibouti?
Occasional. The main tourist traps described in Djibouti are inflated shopping prices and poor conversion rates when paying in US dollars. Their frequency is unclear, and street money changers are generally described as honest. Banditry is a separate risk outside the capital.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report robbery, theft, threats or fraud. Ask your accommodation to help you find a police station if needed, and request a written record. Bank or card issuer: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block a stolen card or report an unauthorised payment. Travel insurer: use the claims contact in your policy. Keep receipts, evidence and any police report. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance.
Reviewed by @snuck