9 Scarily Common Scams In Morocco (And How To Avoid Them)
Worried about the common scams in Morocco? No need. We’ll tell you exactly how to avoid them!
Morocco is a beautiful and diverse country, that we believe every traveller must visit at least once in their life. From the stunning sands of the Sahara Desert to the manic medinas of Marrakech, Morocco has so much to offer for every type of traveller.
When travelling to Morocco you will encounter a wide variety of people, and the vast majority of them will be highly hospitable and more than happy to help you. However, like many touristy locations around the world, there is a small proportion of individuals who like to target tourists in order to gain some extra money. It can leave you questioning whether Morocco is safe at all.
We spent a month exploring Morocco, and were at the end of many scam attempts. Though, after a bit of research before leaving, we’re very pleased to report we were not scammed once.
The best way to avoid a scam is to know what to look for and how to prevent being in a situation where you could be at risk of being taken advantage of. This post will highlight the most common scams that occur in Morocco, with tips on how to avoid them.
Most Common Scams In Morocco
Short on time and don’t have time to read the whole post? Here are the 3 most common scams in Morocco:
- Fake Guides. Solution: Decline, ask for directions from a nearby shop, hire a trustworthy guide in advance.
- Henna Scam. Solution: Steer clear and always say no to a tattoo.
- Taxi Fare scam. Solution: Never get in a taxi without a meter.
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Taxi Fare Scam
One of the first scams you are likely to encounter in Morocco involves taxi drivers. As you leave the airport you will likely be tired, then suddenly you will be bombarded with multiple taxi drivers who are all trying to compete for your attention.
However, these taxi drivers will likely try to overcharge you by not using the meter or taking unnecessarily long routes.
Another situation is that they might try to charge you a set fee, but only tell you that that fee is per person once you arrive at your destination.
The Solution
There are multiple ways in which you can avoid being overcharged and exploited by taxi drivers. Firstly, always insist on using the meter.
However, if they say their meter is ‘broken’ then either get out or say you will call the police. You’ll probably find their meter will magically work again!
It is illegal for petit taxis (the intracity taxis) to operate without a meter in Morocco.
With grand taxis (intercity taxis), you can agree on a fare before getting into the taxi. This shows the driver that you are more knowledgeable than the normal tourist and will allow you to know the price before stepping into the taxi.
However, make sure that it is clear that the price is for everyone and not per person.
Sadly, there is no set fee for a certain distance, as the price will depend on your location, time of day, amount of other taxi drivers, and many other factors.
If you want to agree upon a price beforehand then it is a good idea to ask your accommodation owner what the average price is for the journey.
Another method to avoid being ripped off is to book your taxi directly through your hotel or hostel, as they will already know what is a sensible price to pay and will use reputable taxi companies.
Fake Guides
Morocco is full of generous people who genuinely just want to help, however not all people will be as kind-hearted as you would like to believe.
Cities such as Marrakech or Fes have extensive souks, where it is very easy to get confused and lost within the labyrinth. Here you will likely encounter locals, or tour guides, who will ask where you are going and insist on giving you directions.
Whether or not you agree, they will take you to your destination where you will be expected to pay a ridiculously high amount of money, or your guide take you on a tour via their friend’s shop where you are pressured into buying something.
In the month we were travelling in Morocco, we often encountered people who insisted on showing us to a restaurant or carpet shop.
The most common place for these scammers to be is within the Medina, or by bus stations, as confused tourists will be desperate to try and find their riad while carrying a heavy bag.
After a while, we eventually discovered what to do if we were approached, and how to avoid the encounter altogether.
The Solution
If you do happen to get lost within the Medina, then go into a shop and ask the owner for help, or find a nearby police officer. Most likely they will give you directions as they are unable to leave their store and will want to leave a good reputation for if you come back.
When wandering the streets, try to look like you are confident in your navigational skills (even if you are not).
Tourists who look lost will be the prime targets for these types of scammers. Try not to stop in a place for too long when looking at your phone, as it is obvious you are lost. If you want to look at directions, have them on your phone already so you only need to look briefly.
No matter how confident you are in your navigational abilities you will eventually be approached by one of these ‘helpful’ locals and be asked where you are going.
When this happens either insist they don’t guide you, and be firm, or if you want to be shown the way agree on a price beforehand.
However, if you do want to be shown around we recommend hiring a guide through a licensed agency.
Fake Goods
When on your trip to Morocco you will inevitably want to buy something as a souvenir for either yourself or your friends and family. There are so many excellent choices, from a traditional hand-crafted Moroccan rug, some Argan oil, or Megan’s favourite Argan butter.
The best places to get these will be in the medinas of cities such as Marrakech and Fes.
However, be very careful where you buy your items to ensure they are of good quality, and you aren’t being charged an extortionate rate. Counterfeit goods are abundant, making genuine products difficult to find.
One of the most common scams in Morocco involves fake goods being sold as authentic local products. These items can range from rugs and leather goods to spices and souvenirs. Sellers in busy marketplaces often promote these goods aggressively, claiming they are genuine and of high quality.
The Solution
To avoid falling victim to this scam, it’s essential to do some research before you go shopping.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the characteristics of genuine Moroccan products. For example, authentic Moroccan rugs often have unique, hand-knotted designs and are made from natural fibres, whereas fake ones may feel synthetic or lack intricate patterns.
When it comes to Argan oil from Essaouira, make sure the packaging indicates it’s 100% pure, and always check for a reputable brand or certification. It should be a pale yellow to golden colour and non-greasy in texture.
If you’re buying a silver Moroccan teapot in Fes, make sure it has a stamp on the bottom to indicate it is real.
Additionally, buying from established, trusted stores or local artisans who have a good reputation can help ensure you’re getting authentic goods. If you’re in a market, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the origins of the products and request a certificate of authenticity for high-ticket items.
Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they often signal lower quality or counterfeit goods.
Finally, don’t hesitate to walk away if you feel pressured into a purchase or if something feels off. Remember, part of the joy of shopping in Morocco is finding unique, high-quality items—so take your time, compare prices, and enjoy the process!
Currency Exchange Scams
Whether you are visiting Morocco for a weekend or a month you will inevitably need to exchange some money. The local currency used in Morocco is called the dirham (MAD), with the typical exchange rate being around €1=10MAD.
Currency exchange scams are unfortunately a very easy and common way for scammers to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. These transactions can happen in the streets of busy medinas, or even in official exchange offices.
The scam works by a friendly local approaching you offering you a great exchange rate deal, better than the banks and official money exchange offices. This should be your first red flag.
Once your cash is in their hands, the scammer will then either return a portion of the money, potentially less than 50% of the actual value, or worse… Counterfeit money can be hidden within the real money, making you believe you have the correct amount, especially if you are in a rush or in a poorly lit area.
The Solution
Despite this scam being unsurprisingly common in Morocco, especially in large tourist cities, there are still several ways to avoid it and keep your money safe.
If you are going for a short weekend trip you can exchange the money you might need for the duration of the trip in your home country. The exchange rate may not be as good as in Morocco, but you are less likely to be exploited or risk losing your money.
Not wanting to carry large amounts of money around? Don’t worry there are still other options you can do. Stick to official exchange locations, including exchange offices, banks, or licensed ATMs. These locations are regulated so give a standardised and fair rate.
Make sure when using ATMs they are in well-lit locations with lots of other tourists, or inside banks. This can reduce the risk of your card being scanned and scammers stealing your bank details. And always cover your PIN when entering it.
Double-check the conversion rates. If you decide to exchange money at a bank or exchange office always check the conversion rate before arriving, this can be done through conversion apps, such as XE.
Finally, be aware of ‘friendly locals’ who offer you exchange rates that seem too good to believe. Because more often than not, they are not true. Make sure you know where you are getting your money from, and make sure you physically count the money while you are still at the exchange location.
Henna Scam
Marrakech’s medina of Jemaa El-Fnaa is the main location for the ‘henna ladies’ to lurk and take advantage of unknowing tourists.
Picture this… You are walking through a busy medina with hundreds of people around you who you are trying to avoid. Then all of a sudden someone grabs your arm or wrist and you feel something warm on your hand. The next thing you know this woman has drawn a rather rushed and messy henna tattoo on the back of your hand.
She offers to fix it, “for free”. If you accept, she’ll demand money. If you say no, she’ll demand money. It’s a very uncomfortable situation.
Plus, the henna that is used is often ‘black henna’ which contains the dangerous chemical para-phenylendiamine (PPD) which can cause severe allergic reactions, burns, blisters, and occasionally permanent scarring. Not good.
The Solution
The best solution for the henna scam is to avoid the henna ladies at all costs. Give them a wide birth. If you have to walk by, keep your hands raised or arms folded so they cannot ‘accidentally’ catch you with their henna.
If you do manage to get caught with a dot of henna on your hand, wipe it off and keep walking. Firmly say no if they try to fix it. For one, you’ll be charged an insane amount, and you also don’t know if they’re going to use the dangerous black henna.
If you can’t shake them, tell them you’re allergic. That always does the trick.
If you really want to get a henna tattoo in Morocco, avoid getting one from Jemaa el-Fnaa at all costs. Ask your hotel owner where is reputable to get one and what a reasonable price to pay is, and always go with their advice.
The “It’s Closed” Scam
This is one of the scams we experienced the most in Morocco, particularly in Marrakech when we were walking to Bahia Palace.
This is very similar to the fake guide scam. You’ll be walking to your destination, when you hear someone shout at you that “it’s closed” or that the road is closed.
It threw us a bit the first time we heard it. We carried on walking, but were questioning whether to turn around and listen to them.
What would have happened had we listened?
The person who shouted that at us would direct us down a different route, or to a different place, and demand money for his services as a guide. Sometimes you’ll be led to a shop that their friend or family owns, only to be pressured into buying something from which they will receive a commission.
And they will also demand money…
The Solution
If you hear anyone shouting at you that something is closed, don’t trust them. Ignore them completely and keep walking. Don’t even glance their way. I mean, how do they know where you’re going anyway?
Make sure you check the official website of the place you’re going beforehand to be confident that it is actually open. This will just give you some extra peace of mind that you’re right to ignore these touts.
As always, if you’re nervous, consider booking a guided tour of the medina’s attractions. We recommend booking through GetYourGuide, as they ensure all tour guides are legit, and you will pay in advance, ensuring you won’t be scammed.
The Use Of Animals In Scams
This Moroccan scam makes us so sad and we refuse to engage in animal activities such as these no matter where we are in the world.
It is unfortunately pretty common for animals to be used as photo props in Morocco, particularly in Jemaa el-Fnaa.
You’ll likely see monkeys and snakes that can be placed over your shoulders for a photo. There are also snake charmers sitting in the square.
If you dawdle for too long, you might find one of these animals placed on your shoulders without you asking, or even being aware of what’s happening. The owner of the animal may encourage you to have your photo taken, and then charge you an extortionate amount for it (after he’s already taken it).
Alternatively, he may simply refuse to take the animal off until you pay him. That really does happen.
The third scenario is if you’re seen to be taking photos of videos of them, even from a distance. They will likely shout at you, and sometimes come after you, demanding money. This is particularly common with the snake charmers.
The Solution
Avoid. Avoid. Avoid.
Never engage in animal activities such as these. The animals are normally abused, mistreated, and not cared for properly. They’re kept in tiny cages, fed inappropriate food, and have their teeth knocked out to make them ‘safe’. It truly disgusts me.
The best way to avoid this scam is by not going anywhere near them. Certainly don’t have a camera out or pointed at them.
If you do find yourself with an animal plonked on your shoulders, shout at them that you’re allergic and they’ll take it straight off.
Distraction Techniques
Distraction techniques are another common scam tourists face in Morocco, particularly in crowded areas like the medinas.
These scams typically involve one or more individuals working together to distract you while another picks your pocket or swipes your valuables.
The scam often starts with an innocent approach—a friendly local might ask for directions, offer to take a photo of you, or engage you in casual conversation. While you’re focused on the interaction, another person may slip into your personal space and snatch your wallet, phone, or other valuables. In some cases, the distraction may be more elaborate, such as a spilled drink or a staged argument, giving the thief the opportunity to steal without you noticing.
The Solution
Whilst some people in Morocco are genuinely really lovely and do just want to have a conversation, trust your gut. We’re not saying don’t trust anyone, because how sad would that be? You would be on edge the entire time. No, just trust your gut.
If your instinct says that something doesn’t feel right, trust it. Politely decline a photo, or say you’ve got somewhere you need to be and head off.
Always, always, always keep an eye on your belongings. Don’t have anything of value that’s easily accessible. Keep your phone in the bottom of your bag or in a money belt hidden under clothing.
NEVER keep your phone or money in your pockets. If you have no choice, keep your hands in your pockets, holding your valuables.
These thieves are opportunists, so don’t give them the opportunity.
Fake Police
Fake police scams are another deceptive tactic used by criminals to target tourists in Morocco.
In these scams, individuals posing as police officers approach unsuspecting visitors, often in busy tourist areas, and claim that they need to check your passport or your money for counterfeit bills.
If you’re driving, they may pull you over for some supposed driving offence.
These “fake officers” may show you a badge or uniform, and they can look really legit, but their real intention is to intimidate you into handing over cash or valuables.
In some cases, they might demand a fine for supposed violations, even though no real offense has occurred. If you comply, you could end up losing a lot of money or personal belongings.
The Solution
To avoid this scam, always ask to see proper identification and remember that legitimate police officers in Morocco are required to carry official identification cards.
If you feel uncomfortable or suspicious, politely refuse and ask to go to the nearest police station. It is well within your right to do this, and if it’s a real police officer, they will be happy to escort you.
It’s also a good idea to report any suspicious behavior to actual law enforcement, who will be able to assist you.
When To Trust And When To Walk Away
Knowing when to trust someone and when to walk away can be key to avoiding scams in Morocco.
While the majority of Moroccans are friendly and eager to help, there are some who may see you as an opportunity for a quick profit. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
Here are the 4 key signs that you may be about to be scammed:
- You’ve received an offer that’s too good to be true: If a deal seems unusually generous—such as an exceptionally low price for a tour or souvenir—it’s often a red flag.
- Aggressive behavior: Scam artists tend to be very persistent. If someone is pressuring you to make a quick decision or buy something right away, take a step back and think it over. Tell them you’ll come back later (and never do).
- Unexpected interactions: Be wary if someone suddenly approaches you, especially in places like the medina or busy tourist sites. They may offer unsolicited help, such as a guided tour or directions, which can quickly turn into an attempt to scam you.
- Vague or inconsistent information: If a vendor or guide provides inconsistent details about a product or service or seems hesitant to answer basic questions, it could be a scam.
On the other hand, you can always trust your hotel or riad. They can recommend licensed guides and tour agencies to you. They are also the best people to ask for a taxi, and how much things should cost in the souks. You can also ask shop owners for directions, or other travellers as they’re very unlikely to have a hidden agenda.
What to Do If You Are Scammed
Whilst it is unlikely, especially if you follow the advice above, there is a chance you may fall victim to a scam. If you do, it’s important to stay calm.
The first thing you should do is try to assess the situation. Gather any evidence you can, including a description of the individual – even better if you can grab a photograph.
If you’ve had your belongings stolen, report it to the police straight away. You can contact the tourist police or head to the nearest police station to file a report.
If your passport, credit cards, or other essential documents are stolen, immediately contact your embassy or consulate. They will help you with the process of obtaining emergency documents, such as a temporary passport, to get you back home. If money or valuables were involved, try to cancel your credit cards or bank accounts to prevent further losses.
Remember to remain polite but firm when dealing with authorities or vendors. Most scams can be resolved with some persistence, and knowing the right steps will make the situation less stressful.
The Importance of Travel Insurance
We always live by the philosophy that travel insurance is essential for any trip, no matter the length. While travel insurance might not prevent scams from happening, it can offer vital protection if you do fall victim to one.
A good travel insurance policy can cover the costs of lost or stolen belongings, including money, electronics, or important documents.
If you’re involved in a scam that leaves you stranded or without access to funds, travel insurance can help you recover some of the expenses or assist with emergency travel services.
Many policies also provide medical coverage if you get hurt or sick during your trip.
It’s always a good idea to check that your policy includes coverage for theft, scams, and other mishaps that may occur during your travels. We use and trust SafetyWing, and highly recommend taking out a policy with them before your trip.
Essential Contact Information
If you do find the worst has happened, it is important to know who you can contact, and how.
Here are some numbers and resources to have on hand during your trip:
- Local Police: Dial 190 to reach the Moroccan police in case of an emergency or if you need to report a scam.
- Tourist Police: In major cities like Marrakech and Fes, the Tourist Police (Service de la Police Touristique) can be helpful in dealing with scams targeting tourists.
- Embassy or Consulate: If you lose your passport or encounter serious issues, contact your embassy. It’s a good idea to look up your country’s embassy or consulate information before you travel.
- Medical Emergency: If you have a medical emergency and need an ambulance, dial 150.
- Your Hotel: The staff at reputable hotels often have firsthand experience with scams and can assist in guiding you through the process of resolving an issue.
Make sure to save these contacts on your phone or write them down, so they’re easily accessible in case you need them.
We also recommend purchasing an eSIM in advance in case you need to look up directions, call any of these numbers, or research your country’s embassy.
Wrap Up: Avoid Being Scammed In Morocco
Morocco is one of our favourite countries in the world, and whilst scams do exist, they are relatively rare. They can be avoided with just a little preparation and awareness. We spent a month in the country and are pleased to report we were not scammed once.
You can rest assured that the vast majority of locals are incredibly welcoming and friendly, and Morocco is a very safe destination for tourists.
By staying alert, and saving this post for reference, you can have an unforgettable experience in this incredible country. Don’t let the possibility of scams deter you – Morocco has so much to offer and with a little awareness you can enjoy it all with peace of mind.
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