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Some scams

Eastern Africa

Tourist scams in Djibouti

The main tourist traps described in Djibouti are inflated shopping prices and poor conversion rates when paying in US dollars. Their frequency is unclear, and street money changers are generally described as honest. Banditry is a separate risk outside the capital.
  1. 1 ShoppingOccasionalInflated tourist pricesSome sellers charge visitors much higher prices for ordinary goods and food.Tourist-oriented shops; no specific locations are named. 3Read
  2. 2 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor dollar conversion at tourist shopsA shop accepts US dollars but uses a very poor conversion rate. You pay more than the price in Djiboutian francs would suggest.Tourist-oriented shops accepting US dollars; no specific locations are named.Read
  3. 3 TheftOccasionalBanditry outside the capitalTravellers outside the capital face a risk of robbery by bandits. No particular method or route is described.Outside Djibouti's capital city. 1Read

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • At Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport, look for the billboard showing expected taxi fares as you exit.
  • Confirm the full fare before getting in.
  • Fares can increase by 50% after dark. A higher night fare alone does not show a scam.

Money

  • Check the exchange rate before changing cash or paying in US dollars.
  • Street money changers in the Djiboutian market area are generally described as honest. Still confirm the rate and count your money before leaving.
  • Compare shop prices and confirm the currency and total before paying.
  • Use your phone calculator to check conversions and change.

Your belongings

  • Keep cash and valuables out of sight.
  • Carry only the cash you need and keep a backup separately.
  • Keep copies of important documents somewhere you can access if your bag is stolen.
  • If threatened during a robbery, put your safety first and avoid resistance.

What travellers say about Djibouti

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

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Djibouti?

There is no clear frequency estimate. The main tourist traps described are inflated shopping prices and poor dollar conversion rates. Treat the frequency labels as cautious indicators, not measured rates.

How can I avoid paying an inflated shopping price?

Compare prices at a few shops and agree on the full price before paying. Walk away if the price seems unreasonable.

Is paying in US dollars a good idea?

Larger department stores accept US dollars, but tourist shops may use poor conversion rates. Ask for the franc price and check the dollar calculation before paying.

Can I use street money changers?

Those in the Djiboutian market area are generally described as honest. Check the rate first, confirm the amount you will receive and count the cash before leaving.

How do I check an airport taxi fare?

Look for the expected-fare billboard as you exit Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport. Confirm the full fare with the driver before getting in.

Does a higher taxi fare after dark mean I am being scammed?

No. Fares can increase by 50% after dark. Confirm the night fare before the trip.

What is the main theft concern outside the capital?

Banditry is a stated risk outside the capital. Check current travel advice and plan your route and transport carefully. If threatened, do not resist.

Are any specific scam hotspots named?

No specific shops, streets or attractions are identified as scam hotspots. Tourist-oriented shops are linked to overcharging, without named locations.

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

Move to safety, block stolen cards and report the theft to police. Keep the report details for your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen.

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