Most common scams in Morocco

@Cheryl

1. Fake tour guides
2. Overpriced taxis
3. Counterfeit items like "authentic" Argan oil, carpets, or leather goods sold at high prices.
4. When you rent a house forget about the advance you paid, while renting they will be the sweetest people but once they know you are leaving they transform into vampire 🧛‍♂️
5. Last but not least " True love'' 😉

@Heart Collector

In terms of renting do you mean the owner will not return your advance deposit?

@RobeD

Correct or he will deduct most of it

Hello Heart Collector,

Thanks for your input. 😀

When it comes to counterfeit items, how can newcomers avoid falling into these traps?

Are there certain places or situations they should be especially cautious about?

Also, do you think the language barrier makes it easier to get scammed?

Cheers,

Cheryl

@Cheryl

I tried to seek help from a close friend to get pure argan and olive oil and about language barrier, unfortunately, the moment they realize you’re a foreigner, they start imagining you're a chicken laying golden eggs.

watch out in Marrakech for Herbs and spices shops.

Hello Popolushka,

Thanks for your message.

I have heard a lot about the herb and spice shops as well.

Where would you say is the safest place to purchase these products?

Cheryl

@Cheryl everything in Morocco is based on relationships. Establish friendships with locals and through those genuine relationships, you will open up the possibilities. A shop keeper is going to sell you what he has, a guide will take you where they get a kickback, a local friend will point you to the person they trust.

We recently participated in an Argan making workshop, cracking the nut, hand grinding and hand extracting the oil. Only came away with 50ml but buying a liter from same source because we know the purity.

@Cheryl

they scam as they add more weight when y ou dont pay attention. I am talking about shops in Marrakech. plus my partner was scammed in Argan oil cooperative shop. in other parts of Morocco it was OK.

If you interested in purchasing herbs and spices you should go out shopping with a local.

Hi everyone, I’m from Marrakech and I’ve seen a few situations where expats get taken advantage of, especially when it comes to prices or renting apartments. Sometimes people charge way more just because they think you don’t know the local rates. It’s always a good idea to ask around, take your time before making any deal, and if possible, get help from someone you trust. I think the most vulnerable are people who are new here or don’t speak the language well. Just staying calm, friendly, and a bit cautious can go a long way.