Question 1

What is the "Casbah Fake Guide Maze Scam" scam in Algiers?

Accepted Answer

Strangers near the main entrances of La Casbah on Rue de la Casbah and around Place des Martyrs approach tourists offering to guide them through the medina's labyrinthine derb alleys. Once deep inside the maze — far from any recognizable landmark — the "guide" either demands a large cash payment to lead you back out, or disappears and sends associates to demand fees. Prices quoted are rarely mentioned upfront and can reach DZD 3,000–6,000 for a short walk. Book licensed guides through your hotel or the Office National du Tourisme (ONT) only. If approached at a medina entrance, politely decline all unsolicited guide offers. Download an offline map of La Casbah before entering and note the GPS of entry points.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Sahara Tour Operator" scam in Algiers?

Accepted Answer

Street-level touts in central Algiers near Rue Didouche Mourad and around budget hotels in the Bab El Oued district pose as licensed tour operators offering heavily discounted packages to the Sahara Desert, Tassili n'Ajjer, or Tamanrasset. Deposits of EUR 100–300 are collected, with the remaining balance due "at the meeting point." Tourists who pay arrive at designated meeting points to find no transport, no guide, and no means of recourse. Book Sahara tours only through operators registered with the Algerian Ministry of Tourism, verifiable through the ONT office on Rue Mohamed Belouizdad. Request a signed contract with company registration number before paying any deposit. Use hotel concierge referrals rather than street contacts.

Question 3

What is the "Unlicensed Tour Guide Commission Kickback" scam in Algiers?

Accepted Answer

Unofficial guides approach tourists near Martyrs' Square (Place des Martyrs) and outside the National Museum of Fine Arts, offering free or low-cost Casbah walking tours. The tour inevitably passes through a friend's carpet shop, leather workshop, or tea house where visitors face intense pressure to purchase overpriced goods. The guide receives a commission of 30–50% on any sale. Hire guides only through licensed tour agencies or your hotel. If approached by a street guide, politely decline and arrange your own transport to sites. Legitimate guides carry official identification from the Office National Algérien du Tourisme.

Tour & Activity Scams in Algiers

Casbah Fake Guide Maze Scam

Fake Sahara Tour Operator

Unlicensed Tour Guide Commission Kickback

Experienced a scam here?