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Lots of scams

Middle Africa

Tourist scams in Central African Republic

Checkpoint bribery and armed road robberies are common risks in the Central African Republic. Police may hold belongings until money is paid, and pickpockets outside Bangui airport may pose as helpers. Violent crime is also common in Bangui, even during daylight, so the risks go well beyond tourist scams.
  1. 1 Fake officialsCommonCheckpoint bribe demandsPolice at checkpoints demand money. Repeated demands can add up to hundreds of US dollars or euros on the journey from the Cameroon border to Bangui.Police checkpoints across the country, including the route from the Cameroon border to Bangui 3Read
  2. 2 Fake officialsCommonBelongings held for paymentPolice take an item, such as a passport, camera or watch, and demand money to return it.Police checkpoints across the country 1Read
  3. 3 TheftCommonArmed road robberyArmed robbers target people travelling by road. Banditry and theft can affect bus journeys too. Armed groups also set up roadblocks that disrupt travel.Roads across the country, including intercity travel routes 3Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalAirport pickpockets posing as helpersPickpockets operate outside the terminal. Some claim to be offering assistance, giving them a reason to approach you and your belongings.Bangui 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Bangui M'Poko International Airport terminal exteriorPickpockets operate outside the terminal, including people who claim to provide assistance.
  • Kilometre 5 bus station, BanguiViolent crime is particularly common around the station, including during daylight.
  • KM-5 district, BanguiThe district has a particularly high crime rate.
  • Road route from the Cameroon border to BanguiRepeated police checkpoint demands have reportedly cost travellers hundreds of US dollars or euros.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree the fare before a taxi leaves. Taxis in the capital have no meters.
  • Make sure everyone understands the total price and destination.
  • Arrange minibus rides yourself and negotiate the price before travelling.

Money

  • Keep most of your cash hidden.
  • Carry a small amount separately for ordinary payments.
  • Count money discreetly and check your change before leaving.

Cards and ATMs

  • Shield your PIN and keep your card in sight.
  • Turn on transaction alerts if your bank offers them.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your wallet.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and within reach outside Bangui airport.
  • Do not hand belongings to someone offering unwanted help.
  • Keep cameras, watches and phones out of sight when possible.
  • Take particular care around KM-5 and the kilometre 5 bus station. Daylight does not remove the danger.

Nights out

  • Keep your alcohol intake low so you can make clear decisions.
  • Keep your distance from intoxicated people.
  • Arrange your journey back before drinking.

Tours and guides

  • Use an experienced guide when planning travel beyond the capital.
  • Discuss road security and checkpoints before departure.
  • Allow extra time for difficult journeys, especially during the rainy season.
  • Treat bus travel as exposed to road crime too.

Police and officials

  • Keep calm during checkpoint stops.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
  • A colour passport photocopy can be certified at Bangui's Hotel de Ville for a few dollars.
  • Keep the original passport secure when it is not needed. Do not assume a copy will meet every official requirement.

What travellers say about Central African Republic

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

Questions

How serious are the risks for a first-time visitor?

The risks are high and extend beyond scams. Police bribery and armed road robbery are common, and violent crime occurs in Bangui even during daylight.

Do taxis use meters?

Taxis in the capital have no meters. Agree the fare before departure. Minibus prices also need to be negotiated. Negotiation alone is not evidence of a scam.

What should I expect at police checkpoints?

Police may demand bribes. Demands are reported at no less than US$5, and repeated stops between the Cameroon border and Bangui can add up to hundreds of US dollars or euros.

What if police keep my passport or camera?

Police may hold belongings and demand money to return them. Stay calm and do not try to seize the item back. Contact your embassy once safe if your passport is kept.

Should I accept help outside Bangui airport?

Be cautious with help you did not request. Some pickpockets outside the terminal claim to provide assistance. Keep your bags under your control and valuables out of easy reach.

Which parts of Bangui need particular care?

The KM-5 district has a particularly high crime rate. Violent crime is especially common around the kilometre 5 bus station. Daylight does not make these areas safe.

Is taking a bus enough to avoid road robbery?

No. Buses can also face banditry, theft and disruption from armed roadblocks. Plan routes with an experienced guide and check security before setting out.

Can I carry a passport copy?

A colour photocopy can be certified at the Hotel de Ville in Bangui for a few dollars. It reduces the need to carry the original, but do not assume it will satisfy every official requirement.

What should I do if my wallet is stolen?

Move somewhere safe, freeze your cards and check for unauthorised payments. Record what is missing, report the theft when safe and contact your insurer.

How can I reduce risks when drinking?

Limit alcohol, keep your distance from intoxicated people and arrange transport back in advance. Staying alert helps you protect your belongings and make safer decisions.

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