Scam in MadagascarChanging money
Poor exchange rates on euro-priced services in Madagascar
How it works
Some services quote prices in euros. If the payment currency and conversion rate are unclear, a very poor exchange rate may be applied when settling the bill.
Warning signs
- The price is in euros, but the payment currency is unclear.
- The business will not explain the conversion rate before you agree.
How to avoid it
- Confirm which currency you will pay in before booking or accepting a service.
- Ask for the final total and conversion rate in writing.
- Check that the bill uses the agreed rate before paying.
If it happens to you
Show the agreed price or booking confirmation and ask for the calculation to be explained. Keep the bill and payment receipt if you need to dispute the charge.
- Move to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or let a payment dispute become physical.
- Check what is missing. If your phone was taken, use another device to secure important accounts and contact your mobile provider.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about any payments you did not authorise.
- Save receipts, booking messages, screenshots and details of the place, time and people involved.
- Report theft or fraud to the police. Ask for a report or reference number, especially if you will make an insurance claim.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement travel documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Madagascar2025Payment in the hotelsCommenters discussing euro-priced hotels warned that euro payments can cost more and that hotel conversion rates may differ from official rates.Read on Reddit
- WebWikivoyageMadagascar – Travel guide at WikivoyageThe community travel guide warns that hotels and other services quoted in euros may apply very poor exchange rates unless conversion terms are clarified.Read on Web
Questions
What is the poor exchange rates on euro-priced services scam in Madagascar?
Some services quote prices in euros. If the payment currency and conversion rate are unclear, a very poor exchange rate may be applied when settling the bill.
How can I spot it early?
The price is in euros, but the payment currency is unclear. The business will not explain the conversion rate before you agree.
How do I avoid poor exchange rates on euro-priced services in Madagascar?
Confirm which currency you will pay in before booking or accepting a service. Ask for the final total and conversion rate in writing. Check that the bill uses the agreed rate before paying.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Show the agreed price or booking confirmation and ask for the calculation to be explained. Keep the bill and payment receipt if you need to dispute the charge.
Where in Madagascar does this happen?
Hotels and other services used by travellers
How common is this scam in Madagascar?
Occasional. Madagascar is described as fairly safe, but pickpocketing is common in busy markets and on public transport. Visitors should also watch for high airport taxi quotes, poor currency conversion rates and unsolicited photo offers that lead to requests for money. Persistent begging happens, but asking for help is not itself a scam.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft or suspected fraud. Give the location, time, missing items and any evidence. Ask for a written report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Accommodation reception: ask for help finding police assistance, explaining a local payment dispute or arranging safe onward transport. Travel insurer: contact the claims service using your policy details. Keep receipts 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