Skip to content
Lots of scams

Middle Africa

Tourist scams in Angola

The main risks described in Angola are theft, robbery, police demands for money, and motorcycle taxi overcharging. Luanda has pickpocketing, muggings and carjackings, but there is no clear measure of how often tourists face scams. Plan transport ahead, keep valuables hidden, and carry an authorised copy of your passport.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketingSomeone takes money or belongings without you noticing. Even areas described as safer from violent crime still have pickpocketing.Luanda 2Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonMugging and robberyA criminal uses threats or force to take your belongings. Visible wealth and unfamiliar surroundings can make a visitor an easier target.Luanda 2Read
  3. 3 Fake officialsCommonPolice fines and passport withholdingPolice may demand an on-the-spot payment if you cannot show identification. They may also keep an original passport until you pay a claimed fine.Luanda 1Read
  4. 4 TaxisOccasionalMotorcycle taxi overchargingA driver quotes a visitor more than the usual fare because the visitor does not know local prices.HuamboRead
  5. 5 TheftOccasionalCarjackingCriminals use threats or force to take a vehicle. No specific approach or setup is described.Luanda 3Read
  6. 6 On the streetOccasionalCrowding after giving money to beggarsGiving money to one person can lead to several others surrounding you and asking for money. This is a pressure situation; deception or theft is not established.Luanda 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Colonial part of LuandaPickpocketing and muggings remain a concern, despite this area being described as safer from violent crime.
  • Aeroporto Albano Machado, HuamboMotorcycle taxis wait outside, and visitors are warned about overcharging.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree the destination and full fare before setting off.
  • For Quatro de Fevereiro Airport, Afritaxi is described as reliable, with clearly marked white vehicles and daylight-only service.
  • Eco Tur airport transfers need advance booking.
  • In Huambo, compare motorcycle taxi quotes and check the bike and helmet before boarding.
  • Keep vehicle doors locked and avoid travelling alone after dark.

Money

  • Check your change and watch for old notes and coins.
  • Ask a bank or trusted local for help if you are unsure about a note.
  • Carry small amounts for daily spending and store spare cash separately.
  • Plan for cash payments: many restaurants and small hotels do not accept foreign cards.
  • Check prices locally because inflation can make older fare guidance unreliable.

Cards and ATMs

  • Plan withdrawals ahead because ATMs can have long queues or run out of cash.
  • Choose an ATM in a staffed, well-lit place where possible.
  • Cover your PIN and decline help from strangers.
  • Put cash away before leaving the machine.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details available separately from your wallet.

Your belongings

  • Keep phones, jewellery and other valuables out of sight.
  • Use a money belt for spare cash.
  • Keep bags closed and within reach.
  • Dress simply and avoid displaying wealth.
  • Avoid unfamiliar areas and going out alone at night.

Tours and guides

  • Consider a trusted, knowledgeable local guide for travel within Angola.
  • Ask your accommodation or another trusted contact to help check a guide.
  • Confirm the route, price and return transport before leaving.

Police and officials

  • Carry a certified passport copy or national identification card.
  • Keep your original passport secure and use the authorised copy for routine identification.
  • In Luanda, look for a police identity number on an armband near the shoulder.
  • Stay respectful and note details of any abuse when it is safe.

What travellers say about Angola

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

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Angola?

There is no clear measure of tourist scam frequency. The main concerns described are theft, robbery, police demands for money and motorcycle taxi overcharging.

Is Luanda's colonial area safe from theft?

Pickpocketing and muggings still happen there. Keep valuables hidden and avoid walking alone at night.

How can I avoid being overcharged by a motorcycle taxi?

In Huambo, compare quotes, ask a trusted local about the fare, and agree the full price before boarding. Older published fares may no longer be reliable.

What should I carry for police identity checks?

Carry an authorised or certified passport copy, or a national identification card. Keep your original passport securely stored.

What if a police officer keeps my passport?

Stay calm. If safe, note the officer's identity number and the details of the encounter. Contact your embassy or consulate and report the abuse.

Can I rely on foreign cards and ATMs?

Many restaurants and small hotels accept only cash or Angolan cards. ATMs may have long queues or run out of cash, so plan withdrawals ahead.

Which airport transfers are described as reliable?

For Quatro de Fevereiro Airport, Afritaxi's marked white vehicles are described as reliable and operate during daylight. Eco Tur offers transfers booked in advance.

Should I give money to people begging in Luanda?

Giving money can cause more people to gather around you. Keep your wallet out of sight, decline calmly and keep moving.

What should I do during a mugging or carjacking?

Put your safety first. Do not resist a violent demand for belongings or a vehicle. Move to safety afterwards, seek medical help if needed, and report the incident.

Is bargaining at Benfica Handcrafts Market a scam warning?

No. Bargaining is accepted and recommended there. Confirm the final price before paying.

Reviewed by