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

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,…
Read more…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…
Read more…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…
Read more…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…
Read more…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)…
Read more…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…
Read more…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…
Read more…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…
Read more…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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