Unofficial Taxi Overcharging
Meter Tampering or Refusal
In cities like Tehran and Isfahan, taxi drivers often refuse to use the meter, claiming it's broken, and demand fixed fares in tomans (e.g., 300,000 IRR or 30,000 tomans for a 10-minute ride from the airport to a hotel), or they tamper with the meter to run faster, adding extra charges for tourists unfamiliar with local routes.
- Use ride-hailing apps like Snapp or Tapsi, which show fixed prices in IRR and are widely available.
- Agree on the fare in advance and convert it using official exchange rates, but always opt for metered taxis at official stands.
- Carry a local SIM card for navigation apps to verify distances and avoid isolated areas at night.
Fake Currency Exchange
Street vendors in busy areas like Tehran bazaars offer to exchange foreign currency at rates better than banks (e.g., claiming 500,000 IRR per USD instead of the official 420,000 IRR), but they provide counterfeit notes or shortchange by switching bills during the transaction.
- Exchange money only at licensed bureaus or banks, which display official rates and use secure counters.
- Count bills carefully and check for security features like watermarks specific to Iranian rials.
- Avoid exchanges in crowded markets and use ATMs with your card, withdrawing in smaller amounts to minimize loss.
Imposter Tour Guides
Unofficial Site Guides
At national sites like Persepolis or Golestan Palace, individuals posing as official guides approach tourists, offering 'free' or discounted tours (e.g., charging 200,000 IRR for a group), then demand extra payment for 'tips' or lead to overpriced shops where they earn commissions on souvenirs.
- Hire guides only through official tourism offices or licensed operators, who wear badges and charge standard rates around 150,000 IRR per hour.
- Verify guide credentials with site staff and avoid unsolicited offers, especially in less crowded areas.
- Book tours in advance through hotels or apps, and learn basic Persian phrases like 'Daram rahnamaye rasmi' (I want an official guide) to assert boundaries.