Scam in MoroccoHotels and rooms
Unwanted hotel directions for payment in Morocco
How it works
Touts intercept visitors near their accommodation. They claim routes are closed or GPS does not work, then lead you a short distance to your hotel and expect money.
Warning signs
- Someone asks for your hotel's name.
- They insist you cannot find it alone.
- They start leading you without a price agreement.
How to avoid it
- Do not give unsolicited helpers your hotel's name.
- Save arrival directions before setting out.
- Call your accommodation if you need help.
If it happens to you
Stop following them and contact your accommodation. Seek help in a busy place if they become aggressive.
- 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.
Questions
What is the unwanted hotel directions for payment scam in Morocco?
Touts intercept visitors near their accommodation. They claim routes are closed or GPS does not work, then lead you a short distance to your hotel and expect money.
How can I spot it early?
Someone asks for your hotel's name. They insist you cannot find it alone. They start leading you without a price agreement.
How do I avoid unwanted hotel directions for payment in Morocco?
Do not give unsolicited helpers your hotel's name. Save arrival directions before setting out. Call your accommodation if you need help.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stop following them and contact your accommodation. Seek help in a busy place if they become aggressive.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Medina streets with many places to stay
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: room-service robbery.
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