How to avoid getting scammed in Cairo, Egypt
Cairo is one of the ancient cities and there are simple ways to explore the city. Like many other cities, Cairo is also prone to scams. This article mentions different possibilities of scams and how to avoid getting scammed.
Street Vendors
Yes you already know this, so did I. Yet I fell for this biggest rule of scams. Nothing is Free. This was at the Pyramids. But it could happen anywhere. These sellers approach and sweet talk, as if you look like one of their relatives or that you remind them of someone.
This lady in the below picture gave me a scarf and though I said I have no money on me. She said keep it, because I look like someone they know and she hugged me and wrapped the scarf on my head before I realized what was happening. This was the only time I was not with my tour guide as I was exploring the surroundings myself. There, I fell for the lie believing it was their hospitality because of another experience in Alexandria. I roamed around for 15-20 minutes by the pyramids. Never saw her again until I was about to get onto my car. She stopped the car mid of traffic and asked to pay for the scarf. I should have just given her the scarf back but instead paid for it to not interrupt the traffic.
To avoid getting scammed: Nothing is free. Smile and walk away. Or even better, avoid eye contact. They might follow you a little but eventually will give up.
Bargaining
Bargaining may not be everyone’s style, but in many parts of the world it’s how things work. Tried bargaining on a broken pyramid at a gift ship which was at full price and they happily gave it at the asked price. One street vendor outside the Sphinx was selling light weighted wooden figurines of the pyramids. Our tour guide mentioned they are available for 30 cents if we go to a store. The vendor priced it for 5$ each. When mentioned of it’s price at the store, he sold 5 for 5$ which was still higher than what the store offers but he was totally fine lowering them.
To avoid getting scammed: No harm in asking for a lower price. Sellers often start high, especially when they spot a tourist because they expect you to negotiate. Go for it.
Perfume/Spice/Tea
When a local, stranger or even a guide invites you to a perfume or spice shop, it is not as simple as it sounds. They might give an excuse as they need to perform a prayer or they may assure you there’s no pressure to buy, but once you’re inside, it quickly turns into a full-on sales pitch.
To avoid getting scammed: Be clear upfront that you’re not interested. If it is a stranger, walk away. If you’re with a tour guide, tell them clearly that you’d rather skip the stop in the itinerary or mention you have allergies and prefer to wait in the car.
Papyrus Stores
Since the tourist market has risen abundantly, the locals know what the tourists are after and would find to make money out of anything they can. Papyrus is one such business. Many stores sell fake Papyrus, purchasing them is illegal.
To avoid getting scammed: Do your research on where you are planning to buy a papyrus. Government endorsed shops are safe.
Bills/Receipts
Wherever you are paying for shopping or food at restaurants, you can choose to pay with cash or card. And when you use your credit card which most of us do, they is so much scope for them to charge higher than the actual amount.
To avoid getting scammed: Ask to review the charges when using a card. Especially on larger transactions and you should be good to use your card. If you see a difference ask them right away.
Tips
There are places like restrooms at the museums where they have a sign clearly stating not to tip anyone working at the premises. As soon as people notice you tipping, others nearby will approach expecting the same.
To avoid getting scammed: If possible try to avoid tipping where it is advised not to. If you hired a tour guide, check with them on the tipping limits for drivers or anyone you personally want to give for their service. Tip how much ever you want. No amount is too less. It is up to you. Tips are not mandatory.
Camel Ride Vendors
This is probably the more intense scam I have seen happen. Camel vendors just don’t let go off people when anyone shows interest or demand money while you are still on the camel. Sometimes they even do not complete the distance or time they agreed on.
To avoid getting scammed: Book official tours. If you have decided to take one on the spot from a camel vendor on the premises, be clear on the time, distance and price before getting on to the camel. Be confident and also make sure you have the exact change of the price you have agreed on. Pay after the ride is complete, not ahead.
Fake Officials
Some local dress up or pretend to be police or government official and ask for your items like the phone or passport. Once you do, they start demanding money to return your belongings. Some vendors are in line with some local officials to take advantage of the tourist.
To avoid getting scammed: Always ask for identification. Do not hand over any of your belongings- personal or not to them. Call the officials/embassy in front of them to confirm. Again, be confident.
Taxis
Uber is an option, but not always reliable, especially if you arrive at odd timings. We had all Ubers cancelled on us when we tried booking one after we headed out. We hired a taxi outside the airport. The minute we entered the premises of the hotel we were going to stay in, he started asking for more money till he dropped us at the entrance. His argument, if we can afford to stay at that hotel, we should be able to afford to pay him more. Commuting late at night in a taxi without any tracking or accountability can be risky.
To avoid getting scammed: Book an airport transfer prior to your arrival. During the day you can use Uber to get around to different sites. In case you could not book one in advance, there are official taxis at the airport, you can use them. They are safer than hiring one outside the airport. For advance booking options, viator has private transportation tours from and to the airport, reasonably priced. You can also check with the hotel you stay at if they can arrange airport pick up.
Airport Porters
If they think you are from the western countries they will tell the current president’s name and the one before. If they think you are South Asian, they tell some Bollywood actors names. And then lift our bags in this process and place it on the belt of customs check or whichever part of the security process you are in the airport and demand money for it. With a huge line backing up, it would seem easier to just give them the money. And they know that.
To avoid getting scammed: You need help with luggage, be prepared to tip. If not, state clearly you do not need their help. Even then, they might sometimes ask for money. Say no and go on with your process. Sometimes you cannot walk away when you are standing and waiting in line, avoid eye contact. Be aware of your surroundings and who approach you.
In short, don’t trust strangers who are extra nice or friendly, avoid eye contact and walk away. Book in advance or agree on a price ahead of the activity – Taxis to camel rides. Be confident. Hire a tour guide if you can, less scam opportunity with a tour guide around.