Question 1

What is the "Forced Item Scam" scam in Chefchaouen?

Accepted Answer

Vendors place scarves, argan oil, or spices in tourists' hands and insist they are gifts. Once you hold the item, they pressure you to buy it or demand payment for the "gift." Do not accept anything handed to you without an agreed price. Return items immediately and firmly if placed in your hands without request.

Question 2

What is the "Pickpocketing in Crowded Medina" scam in Chefchaouen?

Accepted Answer

Narrow lanes and busy market areas in the medina are used by pickpockets who work in groups, targeting tourists distracted by taking photos of the photogenic blue walls. Keep phones and valuables in front pockets or a crossbody bag while photographing. Travel with a companion through the medina's more isolated back lanes.

Question 3

What is the "Fake "Local" Photography Assistant Scam" scam in Chefchaouen?

Accepted Answer

In the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen's medina, strangers approach tourists offering to take photos with their camera or phone, then demand payment of 50–200 MAD for the "service." Some position themselves near the most photogenic corners along Rue Ras el-Maa and around the central plaza, making themselves appear helpful before turning aggressive when no payment is forthcoming. Politely decline any unsolicited offer to take your photo and never hand your camera to a stranger. Use a tripod or ask fellow tourists for photos instead.

Street Scams in Chefchaouen

Forced Item Scam

Pickpocketing in Crowded Medina

Fake "Local" Photography Assistant Scam

Experienced a scam here?