Skip to content
Some scams

Middle Africa

Tourist scams in Congo

The main concerns for visitors are taxi fare disputes, higher prices for visitors at an artisan market, and poor exchange rates for British pounds. There is no clear basis for saying how often scams happen, and high prices alone do not mean someone is cheating you.
  1. 1 TaxisOccasionalTaxi fare disputesTaxis have no meters. If you start a journey without agreeing on the fare, you leave the price open to dispute. In Pointe-Noire, shared rides and direct trips have different prices, so make sure you agree on which service you want.Taxis across the country 3Read
  2. 2 ShoppingOccasionalHigher artisan prices for visitorsPrices differ by customer. A trustworthy local buyer may get the same item for half the visitor price or less. This creates a risk of paying a large visitor markup.Pointe-Noire 1Read
  3. 3 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor exchange rates for British poundsBritish pounds receive very poor exchange rates. This can leave you with much less local cash than expected. A poor rate is not by itself proof of fraud.Pointe-Noire 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Artisan village on Port Side Beach, next to Le Derrik, Pointe-NoirePrices vary by customer, and trustworthy local buyers may pay half the visitor price or less.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree on the fare and destination before departure. Taxis have no meters.
  • In Brazzaville, refuse a taxi that already has two or more people inside.
  • In Pointe-Noire, confirm whether you want a shared ride or a direct trip.
  • Ask your accommodation for help with French and fare negotiation.

Money

  • Carry local cash and small notes. Small change can be hard to find.
  • Check your change and decline torn or taped banknotes.
  • Do not rely on paying with US dollars; they are not widely accepted.
  • Confirm the final payout before exchanging money, especially British pounds in Pointe-Noire.

Cards and ATMs

  • Do not rely on card payments in Pointe-Noire. Many places do not accept cards.
  • Plan cash withdrawals ahead, as internationally linked ATMs are not common in Pointe-Noire.
  • Ecobank ATMs accept Mastercard and Visa for withdrawals.
  • Cover your PIN and decline help from strangers while using an ATM.

Nights out

  • Ask for drink prices before ordering. Beer prices vary widely by venue and neighbourhood.
  • Check what a cover charge includes before paying.
  • Budget for expensive drinks at Ram Dam, including bottled water.
  • Arrange your return journey and agree on the taxi fare before leaving.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in the Republic of the Congo?

There is no clear frequency estimate. The main concerns covered here are taxi fare disputes, visitor markups at an artisan market and poor exchange rates for British pounds.

Do taxis use meters?

No. Agree on the total fare before departure. In Pointe-Noire, also confirm whether the journey is shared or direct.

What should a taxi from Brazzaville airport cost?

The listed fare from the airport to the city centre is FCFA 3,000. Confirm the amount with the driver before getting in.

Is a shared taxi in Pointe-Noire suspicious?

No. Shared taxis are a normal service there. Shared trips are listed at FCFA 150–350, while direct trips are FCFA 700–1,000. Agree on the service before setting off.

Where should I watch for higher souvenir prices?

At the artisan village on Port Side Beach, next to Le Derrik in Pointe-Noire. Prices vary by customer. Compare offers or ask a trustworthy local person to help.

Should I exchange British pounds in Pointe-Noire?

Check the offer carefully because rates for pounds are very poor. Euros and US dollars are easier to exchange. Confirm how many CFA francs you will receive before handing over cash.

Can I rely on cards and ATMs?

Many places in Pointe-Noire do not accept cards, and internationally linked ATMs are not common there. Ecobank ATMs accept Mastercard and Visa. Plan access to cash ahead.

What should I check when receiving change?

Count it before leaving and decline torn or taped notes. Carry small notes because change can be scarce.

Are expensive drinks a sign of a scam?

No. Beer prices range from FCFA 500 to FCFA 5,000 depending on the venue and neighbourhood. Ask prices before ordering and check what any entry fee includes.

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

Get somewhere safe, freeze stolen cards and report the theft to local police. Keep a record for your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

Reviewed by