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Some scams

Northern Africa

Tourist scams in Algeria

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.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonTaxi overchargingUnofficial 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.Across Algeria. Algiers has a specific warning about drivers charging tourists more than the regular fare. Meter availability varies in other cities, including Oran. 2Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonPickpocketing and bus theftThieves steal belongings from passengers on buses in Batna. Pickpocketing is also a concern in Constantine. A theft may happen without you noticing at the time.Batna, Constantine 2Read
  3. 3 Tours and guidesOccasionalUnofficial guidesUnofficial guides may approach visitors. The exact pitch, payment demand and method are not specified.Across Algeria. They are less of a problem in Constantine and are found mainly around the city. 1Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalTheft by passing motorbike ridersA thief on a passing motorbike steals a visitor's belongings and rides away.Constantine 1Read
  5. 5 TheftOccasionalRobbery in remote areasTravellers face a heightened risk of robbery in remote areas. No particular robbery method is described.Rural, mountainous, border and remote desert areas. The southern border carries a specific warning against travel. 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Taxis in AlgiersSome drivers charge tourists more than the regular fare. Check that the meter is used.
  • Buses in BatnaTheft on buses is described as common.
  • ConstantinePickpocketing and theft by passing motorbike riders are concerns.
  • The area around ConstantineUnofficial guides are found mainly around the city, though they are less of a problem here than elsewhere in Algeria.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Avoid unofficial taxis.
  • In Algiers, use taxi stands or book through Yassir or Heetch.
  • Check for a meter and insist on its use where fitted.
  • If there is no meter, settle the fare before the journey starts.

Money

  • Plan for a largely cash-based trip. Many establishments do not accept cards.
  • US dollars and euros are easier to exchange than other currencies. Bring clean, undamaged notes.
  • Check the rate and count the dinars before completing an exchange.
  • Street exchange is widespread, but it is technically illegal. An introduction to someone's usual changer is not, by itself, a sign of a scam.
  • Split your cash between secure places and avoid displaying large amounts.

Cards and ATMs

  • ATM withdrawals and card payments use the official exchange rate. That rate difference is not itself fraud.
  • Many ATMs do not accept foreign cards. A Société Générale ATM may be a better option if you need one.
  • Cover your PIN and put your card and cash away before leaving the machine.
  • Keep access to your card issuer's app or contact details so you can freeze a missing card.

Your belongings

  • Keep valuables out of sight, especially in Constantine.
  • On Batna buses, keep your bag closed and within view.
  • Carry bags away from passing traffic and avoid using your phone at the roadside.
  • Carry only the cash you need for the outing, with the rest stored securely.

Tours and guides

  • Arrange a guide deliberately and agree on the service and price before starting.
  • Decline unwanted guiding politely and firmly.
  • Avoid travelling alone on foot at night in Constantine.
  • Use flights to reach Saharan Algeria if you lack desert-driving experience or knowledge of local roads.

Police and officials

  • Ask police or gendarmes for advice if you are unsure about an area.
  • Keep a copy of your passport and travel documents separate from the originals.
  • If a dispute becomes threatening, seek help instead of arguing in the street.

What travellers say about Algeria

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams widespread in Algeria?

Algeria has little tourist-scam culture. Taxi overcharging is the clearest scam concern. Theft still needs attention, especially on Batna buses and in Constantine.

How do I avoid being overcharged in a taxi?

Use an official taxi. In Algiers, most taxis have meters, so insist on using one. If there is no meter, agree on the fare before the journey starts. Yassir and Heetch are also available in Algiers.

Is an introduction to a street money changer a scam?

Not by itself. People often introduce visitors to their usual changer, who earns money through the difference between buying and selling rates. Street exchange is widespread, although technically illegal. Check the rate and count your money.

Is a poor ATM exchange rate a sign of fraud?

Not by itself. ATMs and card payments use the official exchange rate, which differs from the street rate. Many ATMs also do not accept foreign cards.

Do I need to watch my belongings on buses?

Yes. Bus theft is described as common in Batna. Keep your bag closed, hold it where you can see it and keep your wallet and phone secure.

What theft risks should I watch for in Constantine?

Pickpocketing and theft by passing motorbike riders are concerns. Hide valuables, carry your bag away from traffic and step back from the road before using your phone.

Should I accept an unsolicited guide?

Choose a guide deliberately and confirm the service and price first. Unofficial guides are mentioned across Algeria, though they are less of a problem in Constantine. Decline unwanted help calmly.

Are remote road journeys a concern?

Yes. Remote areas carry a heightened robbery risk and may have little help nearby. Avoid the southern border, minor roads and travel after dark. Fly where possible, especially if you lack desert-driving experience.

Who should I contact after a theft?

Report it to police and ask for a report or reference number. The police number listed for Algiers is 1548. Also contact your card issuer, insurer and, if your passport was stolen, your embassy or consulate.

What should I do if a driver or guide becomes threatening?

Stay calm and move to a public place when you can. Put your safety ahead of recovering money or belongings. Seek police help and record useful details only when it is safe.

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