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Some scams

Southern Africa

Tourist scams in Namibia

Theft is a concern in Namibia, and pickpockets can target visitors. Travellers should also watch for shared-taxi overcharging, ATM card traps and robberies involving taxi drivers. Exact scam frequencies are not available.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalPickpocketingThieves steal belongings from your pockets or bag. Carrying a bag can also make you stand out as a tourist.While walking in public places; no specific location is identified. 3Read
  2. 2 TaxisOccasionalShared-taxi fare overchargingShared-taxi fares are regulated and are not open to bargaining. Some drivers charge tourists more because they do not know the standard fare.Shared taxis within towns and between towns. 2Read
  3. 3 TheftOccasionalTaxi-linked robberySome taxi drivers identify vulnerable tourists and coordinate with robbers by phone. Sharing your exact accommodation can also reveal your likely route.Just outside city centres, where most reported robberies take place. 3Read
  4. 4 Cards and ATMsOccasionalATM card trappingAn ATM appears to swallow your card and does not return it after you enter your PIN. Treat an unexpectedly retained card as a possible scam.ATMs; no specific location is identified. 2Read
  5. 5 Cards and ATMsOccasionalWatching your ATM PINSomeone watches you enter your PIN. This exposes information that could be used if they also gain access to your card.ATMs throughout the country. 3Read
  6. 6 TheftOccasionalCarjackingRobbers threaten a driver to take the vehicle. Clearly visible rental-company markings may help show that the car belongs to a rental business.Across the country 2Read

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Check the regulated shared-taxi fare before travelling.
  • Confirm the taxi type and price before getting in.
  • Dedicated radio taxis can cost 5–10 times as much as shared taxis for the same ride. A higher fare alone does not prove a scam.
  • Avoid travelling alone by taxi after sunset.
  • Do not hail a taxi where stopping would be unsafe.

Money

  • Use Namibian dollars or South African rand. Both are legal tender at equal value.
  • Do not rely on paying with US dollars or euros.
  • Keep ATM receipts as proof of where your cash came from.
  • Consider exchanging leftover Namibian dollars for rand at a Namibian bank before leaving. Banks offer this exchange without a charge or paperwork.

Cards and ATMs

  • Prefer an ATM with a uniformed security guard.
  • Shield your PIN and make sure nobody is watching.
  • Treat an unexpectedly retained card as urgent and contact your card issuer.
  • Plan cash withdrawals in towns. Most villages do not have an ATM.

Your belongings

  • Keep valuables in secure pockets and carry only what you need.
  • Avoid displaying cash, phones or other valuables.
  • Avoid walking alone after sunset.
  • Do not give strangers your exact accommodation or planned route.
  • Keep a separate copy of important documents.

Nights out

  • Arrange your journey home before going out.
  • Avoid visiting townships alone or after dark.
  • Be especially alert around payday, the last day of the month, when more people may be drunk.
  • Stay alert around traffic on weekend evenings because drink-driving is a serious problem.

What travellers say about Namibia

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

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Namibia?

Exact scam frequencies are not available. Theft is a concern. Watch for pickpockets, shared-taxi overcharging, ATM problems and taxi-linked robbery.

How do I avoid being overcharged in a shared taxi?

Check the standard fare before travelling and confirm it before getting in. Shared-taxi fares are regulated and are not open to bargaining.

Is it safe to walk or take a taxi alone at night?

Avoid doing either alone after sunset. Arrange transport through your accommodation and travel with someone when possible.

What should I do if an ATM keeps my card?

Contact your card issuer immediately to freeze or block it. Tell bank staff if the bank is open. Do not enter your PIN again at a stranger's request.

How should I carry my valuables?

Carry only what you need and use secure pockets. A visible bag can make you stand out as a tourist. Keep your phone and wallet out of sight when possible.

Should I tell people where I am staying?

Keep it vague in casual conversations. Saying 'in town' or 'at some B&B' avoids revealing your exact accommodation and likely route.

Can I pay with South African rand?

Yes. South African rand and Namibian dollars are both legal tender at equal value. Change will usually be given in Namibian dollars. Do not rely on paying with US dollars or euros.

Should I bargain when shopping?

Shop prices are fixed. Prices at open markets and street vendors are open to bargaining. Agree on the price before paying.

What should I do during a carjacking?

Do not resist. Once you are safe, contact police and the rental company. Do not try to recover the car yourself.

Who should I contact after a theft?

Report it to police. Contact your card issuer for stolen cards, your embassy or consulate for a stolen passport, and your insurer for a claim.

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