Fake Official Demands
Bogus Roadblocks
Scammers impersonating police or government officials set up unauthorized roadblocks on major roads like Route Nationale 1, demanding bribes from travelers under the pretense of fines for fabricated offenses, such as improper documentation. They often target foreigners in shared vehicles or taxis, escalating demands from 500 HTG (about $4 USD) to 5,000 HTG ($37 USD) by claiming additional fees, exploiting Haiti's history of instability and real checkpoints.
- Only travel with licensed drivers who know official procedures, and avoid isolated roads after dark.
- Keep embassy contact information handy and call them if stopped at an unscheduled checkpoint.
- Politely ask for official identification and the reason for the stop, as genuine officials should direct you to a station rather than demand cash on the spot.
Phony Immigration Scams
At border areas or airports, individuals posing as immigration or customs agents approach travelers, claiming missing paperwork and demanding payments of 1,000-3,000 HTG ($7-22 USD) to 'process' it on-site, often near Port-au-Prince's Toussaint Louverture International Airport. They exploit confusion from Haiti's bureaucratic processes and language barriers, using Creole phrases like 'Ou pa gen papye?' (You don't have papers?) to pressure victims.
- Use official airport shuttles and ignore unsolicited offers for help; official agents wear identifiable uniforms and don't solicit money.
- Have all documents ready and verified in advance through the Haitian government's online portal.
- Learn basic Creole phrases like 'Mwen bezwen wè yon ofisyèl otorize' (I need to see an authorized official) to assert your rights.
Overcharging Vendors
Exaggerated Street Sales
In markets like the Iron Market in Port-au-Prince, vendors inflate prices of handicrafts or food items, quoting 500 HTG ($4 USD) for a souvenir that typically costs 150 HTG ($1 USD), then claiming it's a 'special tourist rate' due to Haiti's economic hardship, often using aggressive bargaining tactics rooted in local haggling culture.
- Research average prices in advance using local apps or guides, and start negotiations low while walking away if pressured.
- Shop in established stores rather than street stalls, and pay with exact change to avoid fake currency sleight-of-hand.
- Engage local guides from reputable organizations for fair pricing insights, mentioning phrases like 'Sa a pri regilye?' (Is this the regular price?) to verify costs.