Scam in AlgeriaTaxis
Taxi overcharging in Algeria
How it works
Unofficial taxi drivers may charge too much. Some drivers in Algiers also charge tourists more than the normal fare. Most Algiers taxis have meters, so check that yours is being used.
Warning signs
- The taxi appears to be unofficial.
- A meter is fitted, but the driver will not use it.
- The fare remains unclear when there is no meter.
How to avoid it
- Use an official taxi. In Algiers, look for a taxi stand or book through Yassir or Heetch.
- Check for a meter once inside and insist that the driver uses it.
- If there is no meter, agree on the fare before the journey starts.
- If the driver will not make the fare clear, choose another taxi before setting off.
If it happens to you
Stay calm and ask the driver to explain the fare. If you feel threatened, put your safety first. Record the vehicle details when it is safe and report the incident to police.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist someone who threatens you.
- Check whether anyone is hurt. Seek urgent medical help if needed.
- Freeze stolen cards and secure affected accounts. If your phone is missing, use its remote lock feature if available.
- Save the details you have: time, location, receipts, booking records, vehicle details and a description of what happened.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a written report or reference number for insurance.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Report any app-booked ride through the booking service too.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/algeria2024Just paid 2000DA for a taxi from Algiers airport to the new mosque. How badly was I scammed?A traveller reported paying 2,000 dinars for an airport taxi ride, prompting commenters to describe the fare as inflated and recommend ride-hailing alternatives.Read on Reddit
- News2025Aéroport d’Alger : un Algérien de l’étranger dénonce les pratiques des taxisA returning Algerian reported being charged 3,000 dinars for a short airport taxi journey after boarding without agreeing on the fare.Read on News
Questions
What is the taxi overcharging scam in Algeria?
Unofficial taxi drivers may charge too much. Some drivers in Algiers also charge tourists more than the normal fare. Most Algiers taxis have meters, so check that yours is being used.
How can I spot it early?
The taxi appears to be unofficial. A meter is fitted, but the driver will not use it. The fare remains unclear when there is no meter.
How do I avoid taxi overcharging in Algeria?
Use an official taxi. In Algiers, look for a taxi stand or book through Yassir or Heetch. Check for a meter once inside and insist that the driver uses it. If there is no meter, agree on the fare before the journey starts. If the driver will not make the fare clear, choose another taxi before setting off.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stay calm and ask the driver to explain the fare. If you feel threatened, put your safety first. Record the vehicle details when it is safe and report the incident to police.
Where in Algeria does this happen?
Across Algeria. Algiers has a specific warning about drivers charging tourists more than the regular fare. Meter availability varies in other cities, including Oran.
How common is this scam in Algeria?
Common. Algeria has little tourist-scam culture, but taxi overcharging and unofficial guides can cause problems. Watch for theft on buses in Batna, and pickpocketing and theft by passing motorbike riders in Constantine. Robbery is also a concern in remote areas.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or suspected fraud. Give the location, time and any useful evidence. The police number listed for Algiers is 1548. Gendarmes: ask for help or local safety advice if you are unsure about your surroundings. No contact number is provided. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official app or contact number to freeze a stolen card and report any unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Algiers has many embassies. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence and the police report. Taxi booking service: if you booked through Yassir or Heetch, use the service's support channel and provide the trip details.
What number do I call in an emergency in Algeria?
Police — listed for Algiers: 1548, Fire department — listed for Algiers: 14, Paramedics — listed for Algiers: 0 213 23 54 44 28.
Reviewed by @snuck