Traveling to Morocco is an unforgettable experience. The energy of Marrakech, the warmth of locals, the vibrant souks and the landscapes from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert make it one of the most exciting destinations in the world. Most visitors travel safely and enjoy their trip, but like any popular tourist destination, there are a few common scams to be aware of so you can travel with confidence.
This guide will help you understand the most common scams in Marrakech and across Morocco, how to avoid them, and how to react if anyone becomes persistent.
Taxi Overcharging
Taxis are convenient, but some drivers try to increase prices when they notice tourists.
What to look out for
- Drivers refusing to turn on the meter
- Prices that change at the end of the ride
- Claims that the fare is fixed when it is not
How to avoid it
- Ask for the meter before entering
- If they refuse, choose another taxi
- Ask your hotel for average prices
Important
If you feel harassed or scammed, you can go directly to the nearest police station. Police in tourist areas take taxi scams seriously and often help tourists resolve the situation quickly.
Fake Guides in the Medina
Some locals offer to “guide” you inside the medina and later demand money.
How to avoid it
- Politely say no and continue walking
- Use Google Maps or ask shop owners
- Hire official licensed guides only
If someone refuses to leave you alone and keeps following you, walk into a nearby store or approach the nearest police officer. Police in medina entrances are usually present.
Henna Artists in Jemaa el Fna
Some henna artists grab your hand quickly and start drawing before agreeing on a price.
How to avoid it
- Move your hands away from artists walking toward you
- Only get henna from reputable salons
- Confirm the price clearly
If an artist pressures you or blocks your path, the police station is right by Jemaa el Fna and they will assist immediately.
Market Overpricing and Pressure Selling
Souk vendors sometimes start with very high prices.
How to avoid it
- Bargain politely
- Compare prices in different shops
- Walk away if you feel uncomfortable
You are not obligated to buy anything. If someone becomes aggressive or tries to block you from leaving, look for the nearest police presence. They are usually inside or around the medina gates.
Fake Argan Oil and Local Products
Argan oil scams can happen in many cities.
How to avoid it
- Buy from women’s cooperatives
- Avoid unusually cheap products
- Ask for the source
The Closed Attraction Trick
Some individuals may tell you that a palace or museum is closed to lead you to a shop.
How to avoid it
- Check opening times online
- Continue walking to verify
- Do not follow strangers
Hidden Costs in Tours and Activities
Some street sellers offer tours with unexpected additional fees.
How to avoid it
- Book with trusted agencies like Simply Morocco
- Ask for a clear itinerary
- Avoid street sellers offering very cheap tours
Street Performers in Jemaa el Fna
Snake charmers and monkey handlers often demand high fees after taking photos.
How to avoid it
- Agree on a price before taking any photo
- Avoid interacting if you do not want to pay
Animal Photo Scams
Animal photo scams are common in popular areas like Jemaa el Fna in Marrakech. Some performers use snakes, monkeys or other animals and ask tourists to take a picture, then demand high payments afterward.
What to look out for
- Someone placing an animal on your shoulder or arm without permission
- Asking you to take a photo, then raising the price after the picture is taken
- Pressure to pay even if you said no
How to avoid it
- Do not take photos with animals in tourist squares
- Walk away if someone approaches you with a snake or monkey
- Agree on a price clearly before taking any picture
Shoe Shining Scam
Someone may splash something on your shoes and insist on cleaning them for money.
How to avoid it
- Politely refuse and keep walking
Fake Charity Requests
Some people may ask for donations with fake stories or printed papers.
How to avoid it
- Support official charities
- Decline politely
If Someone Harasses You or Scams You
This is very important.
Morocco has tourist police in many cities, especially Marrakech. If someone continues to follow you, pressures you, or scams you, you can walk directly to:
- The nearest police station
- A uniformed officer at medina entrances
- The tourist police unit in central areas
Police are friendly, helpful, and used to dealing with these situations. Taxi scams, shop pressure and harassment are taken seriously. Reporting it often solves the issue immediately and protects other travelers.
Helpful Tips For Safe Travel in Marrakech and Morocco
- Keep valuables secure
- Trust your instincts
- Avoid following strangers
- Book tours and transportation with professionals
- Learn simple phrases like La shukran
- Research prices before buying anything
Final Thoughts
Morocco is a welcoming and beautiful country and millions of visitors travel safely every year. Being aware of a few common scams helps you enjoy the culture, food, people and experiences with peace of mind. With simple precautions and confidence, your trip to Marrakech and across Morocco will be unforgettable.
If you want a professionally planned itinerary with private guides and safe transportation, Simply Morocco is ready to help you create your perfect journey.