Free henna followed by a high bill in Morocco

Tourist areas

How it works

A trader offers a free henna tattoo, then demands a very high payment. Some henna is also mixed with chemicals such as PPD to make it darker, which can cause serious allergic reactions.

Warning signs

The tattoo is offered as free.
No full price is agreed before work starts.
The henna is unusually dark.

How to avoid it

Refuse free henna offers.
Agree on the full price before any application.
Avoid unusually dark henna.

If it happens to you

Move to a public place and seek help if pressured. Get medical help promptly if you develop a reaction.

Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or physically resist a robbery.
If you are hurt or suspect drugging, seek medical help immediately.
Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down what happened, where and when.
Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
Contact your insurer, booking provider or embassy as needed. Use the evidence you saved when requesting help or a refund.

What it can costDemands can be up to 10 times what locals would pay; no cash amount is given.

Where it happensTourist areasMarrakech

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in MoroccoSnake photo payment pressure: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the free henna followed by a high bill scam in Morocco?

A trader offers a free henna tattoo, then demands a very high payment. Some henna is also mixed with chemicals such as PPD to make it darker, which can cause serious allergic reactions.

How can I spot it early?

The tattoo is offered as free. No full price is agreed before work starts. The henna is unusually dark.

How do I avoid free henna followed by a high bill in Morocco?

Refuse free henna offers. Agree on the full price before any application. Avoid unusually dark henna.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Move to a public place and seek help if pressured. Get medical help promptly if you develop a reaction.

Where in Morocco does this happen?

Tourist areas It has been reported in Marrakech.

How much can it cost me?

Demands can be up to 10 times what locals would pay; no cash amount is given.

How common is this scam in Morocco?

Occasional. Morocco is generally safe, but tourists often face persistent touts, false guides and inflated prices. Marrakech needs extra care, while Fez has elaborate guide and tour scams; pickpocketing and taxi overcharging also occur in several cities.

Are there similar scams in Morocco?

Yes: closed street or closed attraction claims, directions followed by a payment demand, student or translation request leading to a shop.

Who can I report it to?

Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud. Give the location, time and any receipts or messages. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Djemaa El-Fna, Marrakech: approach a patrol for help with harassment, intimidation or a disputed food-stall bill. Airport security at Marrakech-Menara Airport: ask for help if an airport ATM retains your card. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments or question undisclosed ATM fees. Accommodation, booking provider or tour business: report the problem through the official reception desk or booking channel. Provide the agreed price and evidence of what was delivered. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and medical records. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.

What number do I call in an emergency in Morocco?

Police — listed for Marrakech: 19, Ambulance / Fire — listed for Marrakech: 15.

Reviewed by @snuck