How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Rabat, Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Morocco
1. Chez Chegrouni
Traditional Moroccan restaurant with great food, but can be pricey. Avoid the touristy area near Kasbah des Oudaias.
- Authentic Cuisine: Serves traditional Moroccan dishes like couscous and tagine.
- Pricing: Prices are relatively high compared to other local restaurants.
- Location: Located near the touristy Kasbah des Oudaias area.
2. Mint Tea Shops in Medina
Many tea shops catering to tourists in Rabat's Medina offer overpriced and low-quality mint tea. Visit local cafes instead.
- Quality of Tea: Tea may be poor quality or watered down.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local cafes.
- Location: Found primarily in the Medina, near tourist attractions.
3. Touristy Souvenir Shops
Shops around Kasbah des Oudaias offer generic, overpriced souvenirs. Visit local markets for authentic items.
- Authenticity of Items: Souvenirs are mass-produced and lack uniqueness.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local markets.
- Location: Found primarily around Kasbah des Oudaias and other tourist areas.
4. Roman Ruins of Chellah
Chellah is a popular tourist attraction with high-priced food vendors. Pack your own lunch or explore the nearby local area.
- Pricing of Food: Food prices are significantly higher than average.
- Local Exploration Opportunity: Adjacent to local neighborhoods with authentic food and shops.
- Crowds: Can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
5. Local Cafes in Medina
Cafes near major attractions like the Hassan Tower can be more expensive and cater to tourists. Explore further into the Medina for cheaper, local options.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local cafes.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Offers a more authentic Moroccan cafe experience.
- Location: Located near major tourist attractions.
6. Overpriced Taxi Rides
Taxis around popular tourist areas may charge inflated prices. Use a reliable taxi service or negotiate the fare in advance.
- Reliable Transportation: Ensure the taxi is legitimate and registered.
- Fare Negotiation: Always negotiate fares before getting into a taxi.
- Pricing: Taxis may charge higher prices in tourist areas.
7. Camel Rides at Kasbah des Oudaias
Camel rides near Kasbah des Oudaias are often overpriced and contribute to animal cruelty. Opt for a walking tour instead.
- Animal Welfare: Camels may be mistreated and overworked.
- Pricing: Camel rides are significantly more expensive than walking tours.
- Alternatives: Walking tours offer a more immersive experience of the area.
8. Overpriced Restaurants near the Beach
Restaurants near Rabat's beaches often cater to tourists and charge higher prices. Visit local beachside cafes for cheaper options.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local restaurants.
- Authenticity: Offers a more authentic Moroccan dining experience.
- Location: Found near popular tourist beaches.
9. Guided Tours in Major Languages
Tour guides who offer guided tours in major languages may charge higher prices and not cover local neighborhoods. Seek out local tour guides for a more authentic experience.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than local tours.
- Authenticity of Experience: Local guides provide a more authentic Moroccan experience.
- Language Offered: Tour guides may only offer guided tours in major languages.
10. Overpriced Accommodations near Tourist Attractions
Hotels and riads near popular tourist attractions may charge inflated prices. Look for accommodations in local neighborhoods instead.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local areas.
- Authenticity of Experience: Offers a more authentic Moroccan experience in local neighborhoods.
- Location: Found near popular tourist attractions.
11. Fish Market Scams
Scammers may attempt to overcharge tourists at Rabat's fish market. Bargain hard and be wary of any unusual offers.
- Pricing: Prices may be significantly inflated for tourists.
- Scams: Unscrupulous individuals may attempt to cheat or scam unsuspecting tourists.
- Bargaining Skills: A strong bargaining skills are essential for getting a fair price.
12. Expensive Beach Vendors
Beach vendors may charge higher prices for drinks and snacks. Pack your own supplies or visit local markets before heading to the beach.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local markets.
- Alternatives: Pack your own supplies or buy them at a local market before heading to the beach.
- Location: Found near popular tourist beaches.
13. Touristy Hammam Baths
Some hammams in Rabat cater to tourists and charge higher prices. Visit local hammams for a more authentic experience.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local hammams.
- Authenticity of Experience: Local hammams provide a more authentic Moroccan experience.
- Location: Found in tourist areas, often near hotels and riads.
14. Touristy Riads
Some riads cater exclusively to tourists and charge higher prices. Opt for a local guesthouse or homestay instead.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local guesthouses or homestays.
- Authenticity of Experience: Local guesthouses and homestays provide a more authentic Moroccan experience.
- Location: Found in tourist areas, often near popular attractions.
15. Overpriced Carpet Shops
Carpet shops around Rabat cater to tourists and charge higher prices. Visit local markets for a better selection and price.
- Pricing: Prices are significantly higher than in local markets.
- Selection: Local markets offer a wider selection of carpets.
- Location: Found in tourist areas, often near popular attractions.