Destinations › Ethiopia › Addis Ababa › Scams
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
13 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Addis Ababa, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Bills in the nightlife districts carrying rounds and covers that were not ordered, particularly where a visitor has been brought in by a new acquaintance.
Men presenting as plain-clothes police or immigration officers asking to inspect documents and currency, and levying an on-the-spot cash fine.
Organised pickpocketing in Merkato and on the light rail, working in groups in the crush.
Bole airport drivers quoting in US dollars at several times the local fare, and refusing to use the meter within the city.
Black-market currency exchange offering rates far above the official one, settled with counterfeit or short-counted notes, and illegal for both parties.
The 'student friend' approach: a warm conversation leading to a coffee ceremony or bar, where the bill arrives at many times the going rate and departure is obstructed.
Drivers steering passengers to souvenir, coffee and textile outlets that pay them per head, offered as a stop on the way to somewhere else.
Tourist-area restaurants applying undisclosed service and 'cultural show' charges to the bill.
Shoe-shine and street services performed without being requested, with a large fee demanded afterwards.
Imported religious crosses and 'antique' manuscripts sold as Ethiopian Orthodox artefacts.
Trekking and Danakil tour operators collecting full payment for permits, vehicles and guides that are downgraded or absent on the day.
Unofficial 'guides' at the museums and churches who attach themselves and charge for commentary that is included in the ticket.
Collectors with laminated documentation and a donation book working restaurant entrances and the approaches to the churches.
