Scam in MoroccoOn the street
Snake photo payment pressure in Morocco
How it works
A snake charmer puts a snake around your neck for a photo and expects payment.
Warning signs
- A handler approaches with a snake.
- They start arranging a photo before agreeing on payment.
How to avoid it
- Keep your distance unless you want to pay.
- Agree on the price before any photo or contact.
If it happens to you
Stay calm and ask the handler to remove the snake. Resolve any payment dispute in a public place.
- 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 travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Travel blog2019Scams in Morocco and Marrakech: The most common frauds and rip-offsThe author describes snake handlers placing animals on tourists and demanding substantial payment for photographs.Read on Travel blog
- Travel blog2018MARRAKESH TRAVEL GUIDE: Budget Itinerary, Things to DoThe authors warn that snake charmers and monkey handlers at Jemaa el-Fnaa demand money after tourists photograph them.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the snake photo payment pressure scam in Morocco?
A snake charmer puts a snake around your neck for a photo and expects payment.
How can I spot it early?
A handler approaches with a snake. They start arranging a photo before agreeing on payment.
How do I avoid snake photo payment pressure in Morocco?
Keep your distance unless you want to pay. Agree on the price before any photo or contact.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stay calm and ask the handler to remove the snake. Resolve any payment dispute in a public place.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Snake-charmer displays It has been reported in Marrakech.
How much can it cost me?
20 dirham is the expected payment described.
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