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Some scams

Western Africa

Tourist scams in Burkina Faso

Travellers can face inflated taxi fares, overpriced goods and unwanted paid help with luggage. Pickpocketing, bag snatching and market touts are concerns, especially in Ouagadougou. This scam rating does not cover the separate dangers from civil unrest and extremist activity.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonInflated taxi faresDrivers may ask tourists for much more than the usual fare. In Ouagadougou, taxis have no meters, so the price must be agreed before boarding. Shared and private rides have different prices. Distance, luggage and late hours can also raise the fare.Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso 1Read
  2. 2 ShoppingCommonOverpriced tourist goodsVisitors may attract frequent sales approaches for tourist items or goods sold at inflated prices.Places where sellers approach visitors, in towns and villages. 1Read
  3. 3 On the streetCommonMarket touts and con artistsThe market has many touts and con artists. No specific story or payment trick is described, so do not assume that an approach is trustworthy simply because the person seems helpful.Ouagadougou 1Read
  4. 4 TheftCommonPickpocketingThieves take money or small valuables from pockets or bags. No particular distraction method is described.Ouagadougou 2Read
  5. 5 TheftCommonBag and purse snatchingThieves grab a bag or purse and take it away. Bags carrying cameras or other valuables can draw attention.Ouagadougou 2Read
  6. 6 Airport and borderCommonUnwanted paid luggage helpUniformed men offer to carry your luggage out and expect payment. The uniform does not mean that this help is free or required.OuagadougouRead
  7. 7 TheftOccasionalTheft inside shared green taxisGreen taxis can sometimes carry thieves. Shared rides may be crowded, leaving money and bags within reach of other passengers. No specific theft technique is described.OuagadougouRead

Where to stay alert

  • Grand Marche, OuagadougouMany touts, con artists and purse snatchers are reported. Trusted local assistance is recommended.
  • Ouagadougou Airport baggage carouselUniformed luggage helpers expect payment for carrying bags.
  • Ouagadougou Airport taxi pickup areaTaxi asking prices can be high. Confirm the ride type and negotiate before boarding.
  • Station taxi ranks, Bobo-DioulassoDrivers picking up visitors at stations may try to charge tourist prices.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree on the total fare, ride type and luggage charges before boarding.
  • Expect shared rides to cost differently from exclusive rides.
  • Keep bags and money secure inside the vehicle.
  • Avoid drivers who appear drunk and cars that look unsafe.

Money

  • Carry small CFA notes and exact change for small payments.
  • Compare prices before buying tourist goods.
  • Keep most of your cash hidden and separate from spending money.

Cards and ATMs

  • Know your card PIN before you need cash.
  • Ecobank ATMs accept Visa and MasterCard.
  • Do not rely on Banque Atlantique ATMs for a card issued by another bank.
  • Cover your PIN and put your cash away before leaving the ATM.

Your belongings

  • Carry fewer valuables and avoid a bag in Ouagadougou when practical.
  • Keep your phone, camera and wallet out of sight when not in use.
  • Visit Grand Marche with a trusted local person.
  • Keep copies of important documents separate from the originals.

Where you stay

  • Share your hotel or home address only with people you trust.
  • Foreign women should be especially careful about sharing where they are staying, as unwanted visitors may turn up.

Questions

What scams and theft should I watch for?

The main concerns described are inflated taxi fares, overpriced tourist goods, market touts, pickpocketing and bag snatching. Airport luggage help may also come with an expected fee.

Do taxis in Ouagadougou use meters?

No. Agree on the fare before boarding. Confirm whether the price is per person or for the whole car, and whether luggage is included.

How much should an airport taxi cost?

The airport fare guidance differs. A shared green taxi to central Ouagadougou is listed at up to CFA500, while other airport trips are listed from CFA1,500, with requests above CFA5,000. Confirm whether the ride is shared or exclusive and agree on the total first.

Is help with airport luggage free?

Do not assume so. Uniformed helpers at Ouagadougou Airport expect about CFA500 per bag. Decline before they take your bags, or agree on the fee first.

Should I visit Grand Marche alone?

Trusted local assistance is recommended. The market has many touts, con artists and purse snatchers.

How can I reduce the risk of bag snatching?

Carry fewer valuables and avoid a bag in Ouagadougou when practical. Keep any necessary bag close and closed, and keep cameras and phones out of sight.

Can theft happen inside a green taxi?

Yes, green taxis can sometimes carry thieves. Keep your purse and money secure, especially when the vehicle is crowded.

Can I withdraw cash with Visa or MasterCard?

Ecobank ATMs accept both. You need your PIN. Banque Atlantique ATMs are described as accepting only cards issued by that bank.

Does a friendly greeting mean someone is trying to scam me?

No. Greeting strangers is normal and polite. You can greet someone warmly while still declining a sale or unwanted help.

What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?

Get somewhere safe, block stolen cards and report the theft to police. Contact your embassy or consulate for a stolen passport, and tell your travel insurer.

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