Question 1

What is the "Fake Safari Portal and Social Media Booking Fraud" scam in Arusha?

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent safari booking websites and Facebook/Instagram pages using stolen photos of legitimate Arusha-based operators solicit deposits via wire transfer or mobile money for Serengeti and Ngorongoro tours that never materialise. The operators often copy the exact names and logos of well-known Arusha companies and rank in paid search results. Victims lose deposits of $200–500 USD and receive no service. Verify any Arusha safari operator through the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) member directory at tato.or.tz. Call the operator on a number found independently from the website, and always pay by credit card rather than wire transfer or M-Pesa when possible.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Online Safari Booking Portal" scam in Arusha?

Accepted Answer

Fraudulent websites mimicking legitimate Arusha safari booking platforms collect deposits and full payments for Serengeti or Ngorongoro crater trips that never materialise. The sites use professional layouts, copied imagery from real operators, and fabricated TripAdvisor badge graphics. Victims receive automated confirmation emails and WhatsApp follow-ups to build confidence, then discover the company is untraceable once they arrive in Arusha. Losses typically range from $500 to $3,000 USD. Book only through operators listed on the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) website at tato.or.tz. Verify the company has a physical Arusha office address and call it before paying. Pay by credit card where possible to enable chargebacks, and avoid wire transfers or mobile money to individuals.

Online Scams in Arusha

Fake Safari Portal and Social Media Booking Fraud

Fake Online Safari Booking Portal

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