Regional Guide
Tourist Scams in North Africa — Safety Guide 2026
North Africa has 167+ documented tourist scams across 14 destinations in 3 countries. Scam activity is rated moderate overall. The most common risks are tour & activities, street scams, other scams.
Overall risk
Moderate
Scams documented
167+
Destinations
14
Countries
3
All 14 covered destinations in North Africa
Most common scam types in North Africa
Tour & Activities
37 reports
Street Scams
33 reports
Other Scams
23 reports
Money & ATM Scams
19 reports
Taxi & Transport
17 reports
North Africa travel safety questions
Is North Africa safe for tourists?
North Africa is one of the world's most-visited travel regions and is generally safe with proper preparation. Our database documents 167+ tourist scams across 14 destinations in 3 countries. Scam activity is rated moderate overall. The most common risks are tour & activities, street scams, other scams scams. Reviewing specific warnings for your destination before travel significantly reduces your risk.
What are the most common tourist scams in North Africa?
The most frequently documented scams across North Africa are Tour & Activities, Street Scams, Other Scams, Money & ATM Scams, Taxi & Transport. Cairo has the highest documented scam count in the region with 19 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.
Which destination in North Africa has the most tourist scams?
Cairo (Egypt) has the highest number of documented tourist scams in North Africa with 19 recorded incidents in our database. Other high-risk destinations include Marrakech, Morocco and Aswan, Egypt.
How can I stay safe from scams in North Africa?
The most effective protection in North Africa is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each destination you plan to visit.
Editorial note: Scam warnings for North Africa are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →
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