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Common in Morocco

Scam in MoroccoTours and guides

Free tannery tour with a forced payment in Morocco

Tanneries in the medina

How it works

Someone offers a free tannery visit, then aggressively demands money. They may also claim there is very little time left to visit or buy.

Warning signs

  • An unsolicited guide promises a free tour.
  • They claim the tanneries are only briefly open.

How to avoid it

  1. Decline unsolicited tours.
  2. The tanneries can be visited free.
  3. Go with others if you are worried about pressure.

If it happens to you

Move towards other visitors or a busy street. Seek help if you are intimidated or blocked.

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

What travellers report

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

More scams in MoroccoPaper hidden inside leather shoes: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the free tannery tour with a forced payment scam in Morocco?

Someone offers a free tannery visit, then aggressively demands money. They may also claim there is very little time left to visit or buy.

How can I spot it early?

An unsolicited guide promises a free tour. They claim the tanneries are only briefly open.

How do I avoid free tannery tour with a forced payment in Morocco?

Decline unsolicited tours. The tanneries can be visited free. Go with others if you are worried about pressure.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Move towards other visitors or a busy street. Seek help if you are intimidated or blocked.

Where in Morocco does this happen?

Tanneries in the medina It has been reported in Marrakech.

How common is this scam in Morocco?

Common. 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: false guides and shop detours, friendly stranger on a train or bus, expensive desert excursion that goes nowhere.

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.

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