Taxi meter refusal and inflated fares in Morocco

Tourist areas, airports, train stations and bus stations

How it works

Drivers leave the meter off or quote a high fixed fare. Some hotels and transport agencies also quote inflated taxi prices. In Rabat, arriving visitors are directed towards expensive white airport taxis.

Warning signs

The meter is off.
The driver avoids agreeing on a fare.
Drivers approach you inside a station.

How to avoid it

Ask for the meter before getting in.
If the driver refuses, agree on the full fare first or choose another taxi.
Walk away from station taxi queues and hail a taxi on the main road.
Check regulated grand taxi rates with the tourist board in Fez.

If it happens to you

Ask the driver to explain the fare. If you feel threatened, move to a busy place and seek police help.

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 costMarrakech station taxis may ask 50–70 dirham for a daytime journey to Djemaa El-Fna described as about 12–13 dirham by meter; CTM station drivers may ask up to 100 dirham. Rabat airport white taxis quote 100–200 dirham or more, compared with nearer 30 dirham for a metered petit taxi. Agadir centre drivers may demand 30–50 dirham instead of the meter fare.

Where it happensTourist areas, airports, train stations and bus stationsMarrakech, Fez, Rabat, Agadir, Casablanca

What travellers report

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

More scams in MoroccoFalse guides and shop detours: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the taxi meter refusal and inflated fares scam in Morocco?

How can I spot it early?

The meter is off. The driver avoids agreeing on a fare. Drivers approach you inside a station.

How do I avoid taxi meter refusal and inflated fares in Morocco?

Ask for the meter before getting in. If the driver refuses, agree on the full fare first or choose another taxi. Walk away from station taxi queues and hail a taxi on the main road. Check regulated grand taxi rates with the tourist board in Fez.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Ask the driver to explain the fare. If you feel threatened, move to a busy place and seek police help.

Where in Morocco does this happen?

Tourist areas, airports, train stations and bus stations It has been reported in Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, Agadir, Casablanca.

How much can it cost me?

Marrakech station taxis may ask 50–70 dirham for a daytime journey to Djemaa El-Fna described as about 12–13 dirham by meter; CTM station drivers may ask up to 100 dirham. Rabat airport white taxis quote 100–200 dirham or more, compared with nearer 30 dirham for a metered petit taxi. Agadir centre drivers may demand 30–50 dirham instead of the meter fare.

How common is this scam in Morocco?

Very 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: taxi change and luggage tricks.

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