Skip to content
Few scams

Southern Africa

Tourist scams in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is generally welcoming, and most reported crime is opportunistic. The main concerns are theft of unattended belongings, expensive taxi fares, payment currency confusion, and occasional demands for bribes at checkpoints or border control. There is little detail on organised tourist scams, so stay alert without assuming that friendly approaches are dishonest.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonTaxi overcharging and unclear faresAirport taxis charge a fixed US$25 to the main hotels, described as expensive for the short journey. Drivers attribute this to airport fees. For other journeys, getting in without agreeing a price leaves the fare unclear. An expensive fixed fare alone does not prove fraud.HarareRead
  2. 2 TheftOccasionalOpportunistic theft of belongingsSomeone takes advantage of belongings that are unattended or easy to reach. No specific distraction trick or pickpocket method is described.Country-wide; extra care is needed at the hectic Mbare bus terminal in HarareRead
  3. 3 Fake officialsOccasionalDemands for bribes at checkpoints or border controlAn official may seek an unofficial payment. Most police officers are described as professional and polite, but incidents of corruption and bribery can occur.Police checkpoints and border controlRead
  4. 4 Cards and ATMsOccasionalUnexpected currency on a card paymentA card payment may be charged in a currency you did not expect. This is a payment risk; deliberate currency fraud is not established.Businesses accepting credit or debit cardsRead

Where to stay alert

  • Harare International AirportTaxis to the main hotels charge an expensive fixed US$25 fare. Confirm the price before boarding.
  • Mbare Terminal / Mbare Musika bus terminal, HarareThe terminal is described as hectic, confusing and dangerous. Finding transport can involve long walks through markets and alleys, so keep belongings secure.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree the full fare and payment currency before entering a taxi.
  • In Harare, use inDrive or Hwindi to check fares.
  • In Harare after dark, take a taxi or rideshare to restaurants, especially when the route passes poorly lit or high density suburbs.
  • Taxi drivers do not expect a tip.

Money

  • Carry small US dollar notes. Large notes can be difficult to use or change.
  • Check the amount and currency of your change. Change below US$1 may be given in Zimbabwe Gold.
  • Use banks or established exchange services rather than street currency deals.
  • Check restaurant bills for an included service charge before adding a tip.

Cards and ATMs

  • Check the amount and currency before approving a card payment.
  • Shield your PIN and keep your card in sight.
  • Keep receipts until you have checked your account.
  • Have a backup payment method because card acceptance varies and ATMs may issue large US dollar notes.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and close to your body in busy places.
  • Avoid leaving phones, wallets or bags unattended.
  • Keep a backup copy of important documents separate from the originals.
  • Pay extra attention to your belongings while navigating Mbare terminal.

Police and officials

  • Stay polite and firm if asked for a bribe.
  • Ask for a clear explanation and formal paperwork for any payment.
  • Uniformed front-line police generally have shoulder numbers; most police also carry a warrant card.
  • If arrested, ask for an interpreter if you cannot understand the questioning.

Questions

Are tourist scams a major problem in Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe is generally welcoming, and most crime described is opportunistic. Keep belongings secure, agree taxi fares and check payments.

How can I avoid paying too much for a taxi in Harare?

Agree the total fare and currency before getting in, or check a quote through inDrive or Hwindi. Airport taxis to the main hotels have a stated fixed fare of US$25.

Where should I take extra care with my bags?

Take extra care at Mbare terminal in Harare. It is hectic and confusing, and finding transport can mean walking through markets and alleys.

What should I do if an official asks for a bribe?

Stay calm, be firm and politely decline. Ask for the reason for any payment and formal paperwork. If needed, ask to speak with a senior officer.

How can I check a police officer's identity?

Uniformed front-line officers generally have shoulder numbers. Most police carry a warrant card and should be willing to show it under reasonable circumstances. Uniform colours can vary.

What should I check before paying by card?

Check both the amount and currency on the terminal before approving payment. Keep the receipt and compare it with your bank record.

What cash is easiest to use?

Small US dollar notes are useful. Large notes can be difficult to change, and ATMs may issue US$100 notes. Check any change given in Zimbabwe Gold.

Do I need to tip on top of a service charge?

Tipping is optional. Some hotels and restaurants include a service charge, usually around 10%, so check the bill first. Taxi drivers do not expect tips.

Is it sensible to walk back from dinner in Harare?

Take a taxi or rideshare after dark as a precaution. Avoid walking in poorly lit areas and high density suburbs at night.

What should I do first if my wallet or phone is stolen?

Get somewhere safe, then block stolen cards and secure important accounts. Report the theft to police and keep the report details for your insurer.

Reviewed by