Scam in MoroccoFood and drink
Watered-down juice in Morocco
How it works
Vendors dilute juice with tap water. You receive less juice, and the water may upset your stomach.
Warning signs
- You see water being added to the juice.
How to avoid it
- Watch the juice being prepared.
- Decline juice diluted with tap water.
- Choose a sealed drink if you are unsure.
If it happens to you
Stop drinking it. Seek medical help if you become seriously unwell.
- 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 blog202615 Scams in Marrakech to Avoid and How to Beat Them | Morocco GuideThe authors describe vendors adding water to freshly squeezed juice behind displays that obscure preparation.Read on Travel blog
- TripadvisorMarrakech Forum2020Fresh juices in the Medina square - ripoff - Marrakech ForumA participant reports juice mixed with water alongside undisclosed pricing and cup charges.Read on Tripadvisor
Questions
What is the watered-down juice scam in Morocco?
Vendors dilute juice with tap water. You receive less juice, and the water may upset your stomach.
How can I spot it early?
You see water being added to the juice.
How do I avoid watered-down juice in Morocco?
Watch the juice being prepared. Decline juice diluted with tap water. Choose a sealed drink if you are unsure.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stop drinking it. Seek medical help if you become seriously unwell.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Street juice stalls 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: complimentary food added to the bill, food-stall blocking and false friendship, orange juice price switch.
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