I’m afraid this is quite common.

There are two types of cabs in Morocco: “small cabs”, usually small Fiat 127s or Dacias that can carry up to four people within a city, and “big cabs” that drive long distances, can carry six people (or eight in some really big cars) and are usually Mercedes. Cabs are numbered and color coded depending on the city, so for example in Fez the small cabs are red and in Marrakech they are light brown. Be aware that prices are slightly higher after 8pm.

• Fake cabs. Sometimes a white van or a three-wheeled platform car will offer to give you a ride for a fair price. These are all illegal and scammers who ask for ridiculous prices. Just say no.
• “My meter is broken.” No, it’s not broken. It’s a scam to get you to pay more money through negotiation. Small cabs are required by law to have working meters. Sometimes the driver “forgets” to turn on the meter and then can charge you as much as he wants when you arrive at your destination. So make sure he turns on the “computer” before you start your trip.
• “I don’t have change.” This may be a lie, but it is quite difficult to prove. Always make sure you have plenty of change and smaller denomination bills when you are about to take a cab.
• Grand Taxis. Sometimes they just put up the price. Grand Taxi stands should have lists of fares for the most popular destinations posted, and you can also ask the Mul-taxi, the person who controls the cabs in the area. The prices are fixed, so find out what they should be.

Counterfeit goods

• As soon as they start telling you that the item is a hundred years old, or that it can be sold for more in your country, or that it’s from a remote Berber village, run.
• Argan oil is best bought in Agadir or Essaouira, as it is often counterfeited or mixed with other oils in other cities, but it will cost more.
• Saffron is very expensive at the best of times, but beware of fakes. Never buy it in an airtight package, as the real spice can be recognized by its distinctive aroma.
• Fossils and gemstones. Morocco is rightly famous for its wonderful fossils and minerals. But there are many fakes. Unless you are a professional geologist, it will be almost impossible to tell the difference. Buy something because it looks beautiful by all means, but don’t expect a rare fossil at a low price. Always haggle. Beware of purple-colored quartz that looks like amethyst and jodas with added dye or glitter.

Pickpockets

There are usually pickpockets in major cities, especially in the huge medinas of Fez and Marrakech. Be careful, especially in crowds. They often steal wallets, bags and passports, but can also snatch phones and jewelry. Sometimes they work in gangs. Just keep everything in a safe place, don’t be boastful and be vigilant. Buy a money belt or anti-theft bag that is knife-proof and lockable. Make sure your travel insurance covers theft.

Fake beggars

There are quite a few beggars in Morocco, and many of them are genuinely needy. But there are also scammers: women who take a small child or infant for a day of begging; children who are taught to pretend to be sick; adults who pretend to be blind, sick or disabled. Young children should never be given money or candy or stylo (pens) to beg, as this will encourage them not to go to school. Similarly, young children should not be encouraged to try to sell packs of tissues.

It is probably best not to give to beggars at all, as the locals will realize who is really in need and help them. If you give money, it may attract even more unwanted attention.

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