Question 1

What is the "Medina Deliberate Disorientation" scam in Fez?

Accepted Answer

"Helpful" strangers in the Fez el-Bali medina (one of the world's largest car-free urban areas) offer to show tourists around after noting they look lost. They deliberately take tourists deeper into the maze, then demand payment to guide them out. Download offline maps of Fez el-Bali before entering (Maps.me works well). Hire an official licensed guide for the first visit — they charge around 150–200 MAD for a half day and prevent all street guide harassment.

Question 2

What is the "Medina Wall "Shortcut" Street Robbery Setup" scam in Fez?

Accepted Answer

Near the quieter sections of the Fez el-Bali walls — particularly along the stretch between Bab Guissa and the Merenid Tombs hillside — locals posing as helpful guides offer to show tourists a "shortcut" through an unmapped alley. The route leads into an isolated area where an accomplice creates a distraction and belongings are stolen. This type of incident increases after dark and during low-season when fewer tourists are present. Stick to well-trafficked main lanes within the medina after dark. Use only licensed guides arranged through your riad or the official tourist office near Bab Bou Jeloud. Do not follow strangers offering shortcuts.

Street Scams in Fez

Medina Deliberate Disorientation

Medina Wall "Shortcut" Street Robbery Setup

Experienced a scam here?