1. Surprise henna
How it works: A woman takes your hand and begins to draw, and then asks for payment.
How to avoid it: Keep your hands in your pockets, say no early and move on.
2. "The road is closed" guides
How it works: A friendly stranger says your street is closed, offers to show you another way and then demands a guide fee or leads you to a shop.
How to avoid it: Use an offline map, and walk away if someone insists.
3. Photo fees
How it works: Snake charmers and performers in the main square who charge for pictures.
How to avoid it: Agree the price first, or do not take the photo.
4. Taxi meters
How it works: Drivers who say the meter is broken.
How to avoid it: Ask for the meter, or agree the fare before you leave.
5. Souk pricing
How it works: Starting prices that are far above the final amount.
How to avoid it: Compare a few stalls, decide what an item is worth to you and be willing to walk away.
6. Restaurant touts
How it works: Touts pressure you into a restaurant in the main square.
How to avoid it: Look at the menu and prices, and choose by recent reviews.
Marrakech scam FAQ
Do I need a guide in the Marrakech medina?
Not necessarily. An offline map is enough for most visitors, and a licensed guide is useful if you want local stories.
Is bargaining expected in Morocco?
In souks, yes. In shops with fixed prices, no.
What happened in Marrakech this week?
Open WarnPack and read recent warnings from travelers, or post your own to help the next person.
More scam guides
Bali
Money changers, scooter-damage claims, ATM skimmers and fake portals.
Bangkok
"The palace is closed" detours, tuk-tuk shop stops, taxi meters and bar bills.
Hanoi
Fake taxi meters, shoe-repair tricks, photo-pole vendors and copycat tour brands.
Kolkata
Taxi fare disputes, station touts, unofficial guides and UPI collect-request fraud.