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Zambia
9 scams
Not only is Zambia a safari paradise, the country is also home to one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders, a UNESCO Heritage site, fascinating wildlife and as well as colorful festivals.
The country is also safe to visit, though there are a couple of tourist targeted scams and crime to watch for.
Note: vast majority of trips are trouble free and there is no need to be paranoid. That said, it always pays to be aware, careful, and prepared.
Emergency number
- General emergency: 999
- Ambulance, police: 991
- Fire: 993
Travel guide
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ATM skimming in Zambia
2 0How it works: Situation: the vast majority of tourists would probably not fall for this but on the off-chance that you do, you need to know how to spot the…
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Money exchange scam in Zambia
2 1How it works: You may encounter unlicensed money changer touts on the streets, borders or at transportation hubs. They will first quote a very unfavourable rate. If you are aware…
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Pickpockets in Zambia
2 0How it works: They work in pairs/gang – one onlooker, one blocks, pushes, distracts, or engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a cover (e.g. jacket/newspaper)…
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Snatch thefts in Zambia
2 0How it works: Two versions: strike and run; distract and grab. Possible scenarios: Street, mall, shop, park, transportation hub: distracting and snatching from you, then escaping via a getaway car or…
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Taxi scams in Zambia
2 0How it works: You will likely get thronged by many taxi touts at transportation hubs, border crossings or at Victoria Falls. Some are fine but some will exploit you. As…
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Tour operator scams in Zambia
2 0How it works: You may encounter unlicensed/unofficial guides and tour operators in Zambia. This is not technically a scam unless they market themselves actively as one. Regardless, it is recommended…
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Victoria Falls scams in Zambia
2 0How it works: Version 1 (unofficial guide): there are many unofficial guides around who will offer to bring you around for inflated sums (e.g. USD 80). Version 2 (taxi): taxis…
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Visa scam in Zambia
2 0How it works: A trick played by rogue immigration officials is to write the expiry date of your visa as a few days earlier than your actual departure date. Next,…
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Corrupt police in Zambia
2 1How it works: You may encounter this as long as you are on the road, regardless if you are being driven on a bus/cab or driving your own car. Note…
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