safest places to visit in morocco

10 Safest Cities in Morocco

Morocco is one of the most commonly visited countries in all of North Africa, providing visitors with a rich cultural melting pot that they are not going to find anywhere else.

With so many wondrous places to explore, potential visitors would be forgiven for forgetting all about the safety aspect of the equation.

While Morocco is safe from an overall standpoint, that does not mean that precautions should not be taken.

By taking the time to take a closer look at our helpful guide and by practicing a bit of common sense, your trip to Morocco will be an awesome one.

Be sure to read on and learn more….

Chefchaouen

Jebel toubkal, 1. keep personal belongings close, 2. avoid dark and isolated areas, 3. be smart about atm usage, 4. secure your hotel room, 5. utilize the buddy system, morocco safety overview, which cities are considered morocco’s safest, are there any cities to watch out for, what about the more remote locations, 10 safest cities in morocco.

Let’s start with a city that is a bit more off the beaten path.

Located at the edge of the Saharan sand dunes, Merzouga is a small town that is located in the Erg Chebbi region.

It offers visitors the unique opportunity to learn more about Bedouin life.

Many visitors will look to navigate this town by jeep or by camelback.

For these reasons and more, visitors will often head to Merzouga so that they can have the sort of desert adventure that they will not soon forget.

The dramatic natural surroundings offer an unforgettable experience and visitors do not have to worry about any safety concerns.

This surfer’s paradise is widely known as one of the safest cities in all of Morocco, especially from a tourist standpoint. 

Essaouira is also known as the Wind City of Africa, for good reason.

There are lots of surfing camps here and it is a great place to visit for anyone who plans to spend time backpacking in the North Africa region.

Those who seek a safe experience while traveling without shattering their budget will often choose this location in particular.

The months of April through November are the best bet, as this is when the surfing conditions here are at their best.

The medina is one of the primary attractions for visitors who are less interested in the surfing side of things.

Morocco has had a number of capital cities over the course of time and Fes once managed to hold onto that prestigious title for a whopping 400 years.

The medieval city is safe to explore on foot, as there is no shortage of historical buildings to take a closer look at.

The 9th Century walled town of Fes El Bali is an absolute must-see, as well as the Merenid Tombs.

History lovers will often decide to make a stop here so that they have the chance to truly appreciate all of the incredible diversity that Fes provides.

Google Maps is your friend when you are navigating these streets and it will keep you from getting lost.

This country was once ruled by Sultan Moulay and during his reign, Meknes served as the capital of Morocco.

It is a walled imperial city, where Sultan’s mausoleum still remains on full display.

In fact, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the present day.

Meknes is also a great choice for tourists that are looking for a vibe that is a bit more laid back.

Some of the other cities on this list (we’ll get to them soon enough) have a bit more hustle and bustle than some might like.

The ruins of Volubilis are another common attraction for visitors, which is a Berber/ Roman city that has been partially excavated.

This is one of the more picturesque locations in all of Morocco, a small town nestled in the Rif mountains.

It is well known for its striking color motif, with houses and structures that have been painted blue to provide a truly unique feel.

In fact, some might describe Chefchaouen as having a more surreal look to it.

Travelers who prioritize safety and wish to explore Morocco’s natural wonders from a more civilized location will choose Chefchaouen.

The best part of all?

There is a beautiful view of the mountains at the end of each street.

Hiking and swimming expeditions are common outings for visitors here as well.

Asilah occupies a unique place in the Moroccan consciousness, as it is a location that is equally beloved by locals.

This is what lets visitors know that the city is safe to spend time in.

If you head to this location during local holidays, you are sure to rub elbows with all sorts of locals who are looking to relax and get away from it all.

Portuguese history buffs also tend to love this city, as they are able to learn about customs that date all the way back to the 15th century.

The gorgeous coastline, the white-painted buildings, and the colorful murals that adorn many of the walls, what’s not to love?

Those who are looking to explore Spanish heritage will tend to put the fishing town of Sidi Ifni on their itineraries.

Since this town once existed as a Spanish territory, it is very easy to find evidence of this heritage today.

It’s a smaller town that does not have as many attractions as some of the major cities, though.

Tourists will favor this location because it remains warm all year round and provides a necessary level of safety.

There are beautiful beaches to be enjoyed and the atmosphere is very friendly.

To top it all off, Legzira Beach is one of the most iconic locations that the country has to offer.

Also known as the home to Toubkal National Park, Jebel Toubkal is a picture-perfect location for all of the hikers who are looking to challenge themselves during their North African jaunt.

The hike to Jebel Toubkal’s peak takes over 4,100 meters, but it is more than a worthwhile journey for visitors to take.

Once you have the chance to take in the amazing view from the Atlas Mountains’ highest point, you will see what all of the fuss is about.

Those who wish to remain ground-bound can explore the stunningly beautiful park itself.

Its location is adjacent to Marrakech , giving visitors the chance to avoid the hustle and bustle if they so choose.

Speaking of Marrakech, this is one of the most popular cities in the country and many consider it to be a gateway to the true Morocco experience.

It is vibrant and colorful and there is no shortage of history to be taken in.

You may even need to schedule a second visit, just so that you can take in all of the sights and sounds.

The Old Town is a must-see, with all of the eateries and tanneries that are designed to inflame the senses in the best possible way.

Looking for a truly authentic experience?

Remain within the city walls and visit the souks as well.

The souks have some of the best shopping in all of Morocco.

Bahia Palace is also well worth setting aside some time to explore.

Last but not least, we would be remiss if we did not discuss the capital city of Rabat.

It is the current capital of the country, making it a no-brainer destination for tourists.

The Old Town and the New Town are both well worth your time.

The New Town is perfect for those looking to do some shopping, hit up the bar, or spend time at a local cafe.

The Old Town is geared towards tourists that are in search of a more historical experience.

There are also plenty of markets in the Old Town, providing you with the chance to do some haggling and get some deals.

Chellah should also be part of your planning so that you can check out the ancient Roman ruins.

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Morocco

This one should be common sense.

Do not give thieves the chance to steal personal belonging by being overly careless with them.

Pickpockets and muggers will be on the lookout for foreign travelers who appear to be lost or stranded in dark and isolated areas, especially at night.

Avoid these situations at all times.

The last thing that you want to do is whip out a wad of freshly withdrawn cash in a public setting.

Try your best to use your debit or credit cards when you can or be sure to withdraw money in a safe location.

This means that you need to be placing all of your valuables in the room safely, even when you are going to be inside it.

Remain secure against intruders, whether you are in the room or not.

Solo travelers are like sitting ducks to potential thieves.

Don’t make the mistake of traveling alone.

READ THE FULL REPORT: Morocco Safety Review

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: HIGH
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Frequently Asked Questions

While all of the cities that we have listed provide the necessary level of safety, Marrakesh and Essaouira are top-notch tourist destinations in this regard.

Marrakech is widely considered to be the safest city in the country and Essaouira’s chill vibes are legendary.

Fes was listed as one of the safest locations in our guide, but there are lots of “salesmen” and “guides” in this city even if you do not have to worry as much about petty crime.

Use your common sense and avoid them at all times.

You are safe from pickpockets and petty crime in the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert because there is hardly anyone around.

Stick with your guide, though, as the dangers in these locations are more natural.

Additional Resources

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Popular destinations.

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

• M.... on Amman
• Anton on Jordan
• Silv on Odesa
• Anonymous on Afghanistan
• Seth on Chad

Popular US States

• Pennsylvania

Is Morocco Safe? 18 Useful Things to Know Before You Go in 2024

Are you worried about safety in Morocco? We’ll show you that Morocco is safe as long as you follow common sense. This article contains all the safety information you need to know about Morocco to enjoy your trip there in 2024.

Morocco is a country that I deeply fell in love with and that I keep going back to. From the first moment I stepped foot in Morocco five years ago, I was completely mesmerized by its culture, landscapes, and cities.

There are tons of fun activities to do like camping in the Sahara desert , visiting gorgeous waterfalls like the Akchour waterfalls near Chefchaouen or the Ouzoud waterfalls near Marrakech, and rock climbing in the Todra Gorges .

Answering the question ‘‘Is Morocco safe?” is quite easy. After going back to this country for years I can guarantee that Morocco is safe to travel to!

In 2019, just before the pandemic hit, more than 10 million people visited Morocco, making it one of the most visited countries in Africa. With such a high amount of visits, the amount of crime in Morocco is still low.

The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco

However, a low percentage of crime incidents in a country doesn’t mean that crime is not present. Crime in Morocco is mostly petty crime such as scams and pickpockets. It’s very unlikely that you’ll be assaulted or hurt as a tourist.

That being said, there are still a few things I wouldn’t recommend doing and some areas of Morocco that should be avoided. I’ll cover them all in this article and I’ll also tell you more about a few common scams you might encounter.

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Morocco Travel essentials and resources

• Morocco Travel Guide: 19 things you should know before you go
• Where to go: The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco
• Plan your trip: 3 itineraries to discover the best of Morocco
• Is Morocco safe: 18 useful tips to stay safe while traveling in Morocco
• Tours and experiences: Book a customized tour
• Where to stay : Find a room in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or desert camp
• Travel Insurance: Find the best travel insurance for Morocco
• Getting around : Rent a car in Morocco or travel by bus or train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Is Morocco safe for tourists?

Tourism in Morocco is growing at an incredible rate. Because of this, the level of security in the country is upgraded every year.

There is rarely violent crime in Morocco and it almost never targets foreigners. The Moroccans are very welcoming and love to share their traditions and culture with foreign tourists.

Moroccans love to meet foreigners and practice their English with them…

When I was living in Tangier , I would often meet young Moroccan students who were curious about where I was from and who would invite me for a coffee or a meal to talk about my adventures and practice their English.

If you’re worried about being harassed in Morocco, you shouldn’t. More touristic cities around Morocco such as Rabat , Marrakech , and Casablanca have a very good presence of touristic police.

This special task force is dedicated to the well-being of foreign tourists.

Moroccans tend to avoid confrontation with foreigners as much as possible. They are extremely hospitable, and tourists are well-received throughout the kingdom.

Even if an altercation with a foreigner would happen, they would try to de-escalate the situation as much as possible. A great example of this is a situation that happened a few weeks ago in the city where I live, Tangier .

A British vegan activist aggressively attacked a chicken vendor in one of the city’s souk.

She threw herself onto the cages containing live chickens, attempted to break open the lid, and bit and punched the vendor.

None of the Moroccan bystanders harmed her and they tried to calm her down instead of getting offended by the situation.

The situation goes to show that Moroccans are generally not combative and would rather have a peaceful outcome in any confrontation with foreigners.

That being said, tourists in Morocco should still be vigilant about the safety of their personal belongings, especially in big cities like Marrakech or Fez .

The big squares and markets of these Moroccan cities are sometimes frequented by petty thieves and pickpockets.

They can pick your pockets, snatch your purse, give you the wrong change, or scam you.

The sad part is that most victims don’t realize what happened until someone points out the ridiculous price they ended up paying for a product or when they realize that their phone isn’t in their bag anymore.

It’s a sad experience to feel cheated and it can change the happy mood of a trip pretty quickly.

The best solution to avoid being pick-pocketed is to stay very alert and aware of your belongings at all times.

You should leave all your important and valuable items at your hotel and walk around only with what is absolutely necessary.

Keep your wallet in your front pocket or carry a money belt . Another great option is to travel with a slash-resistant and lockable anti-theft bag . I would also recommend getting good travel insurance that covers theft .

12 common scams in Morocco and how to avoid them

2. Is Morocco safe for students and expats?

Because Morocco is a very affordable destination , it attracts students and expats from all over the world.

The country also has great and affordable universities, contributing to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

It is very normal to ask yourself the question of whether or not the country is safe for foreigners. I would say Morocco is a very safe country for students and expats.

Looking for reliable and affordable travel insurance for Morocco? Check out these 3 budget-friendly travel insurance companies!

Rabat is a beautiful and safe city for expats and students…

For expats planning to install themselves in Tangier , Casablanca , Rabat or Marrakech , I would recommend reading the following city guides:

• Marrakech: What to do in Marrakech – A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Red City
• Rabat: 10 Things to do in Rabat – A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Capital City
• Casablanca: What to see in Casablanca in two days – Top Things To Do in Casablanca
• Tangier: Top Things to Do in Tangier – The Ultimate City Guide

In each of these city guides, I cover the safety situation for expats and students in each of these particular Moroccan cities.

I would also recommend joining the following Facebook groups to talk and communicate with expats already well established in Morocco:

• EXPATS in MOROCCO
• EXPATS IN MOROCCO & MOROCCANS

There are thousands of expats and locals in these groups that can answer your questions concerning safety around the country and that can help you adapt to life in this North-African country.

Morocco Budget Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Morocco?

3. Is Morocco safe to travel for families?

If you’re wondering if Morocco is safe for children you shouldn’t worry. Moroccans love kids. For them they are sacred and they hold a very special place in their culture.

I would even say that you’ll enjoy the experience more if you travel with kids. You’ll see the generous and caring side of the Moroccan culture in their response to children.

Moroccan society is very family-oriented. Moroccans usually have big families and they are incredibly friendly to kids.

Because of this children can help break the ice and encourage contact with Moroccans who are generally very helpful and protective towards families.

Another good side of being a family in Morocco is that you’ll avoid the attention of scammers if you’re traveling with kids.

Here are a few recommendations I would have for families traveling to Morocco:

• Avoid tap water in Morocco 

While tap water in Morocco is generally considered safe (see below) I wouldn’t advise it for young kids. It takes a while for the body to adapt to the tap water of a new location.

To avoid buying plastic water bottles, I would recommend bringing a LifeStraw Water Filter Bottle .

This is a bottle that filters water using a filtration device. If you drink water using this bottle, any dirt, bacteria or parasites gets trapped in the filter, while the clean water passes through.

• Be up to date with your kid’s basic vaccination

Your children should be up to date with their basic vaccination before traveling to this country. As an adult, you don’t need any compulsory vaccinations to travel in Morocco.

However, vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended, especially if you are visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.

• Travel with a first-aid kit to Morocco

Scratches, cuts and small bruises can happen quickly and unexpectedly.

I would suggest bringing a first-aid kit that contains antiseptic wipes, compresses, and band-aids, as well as painkillers and anti-diarrhea medicine. This is the first-aid Kit I recommend .

Morocco has great cities to travel to with your family such as Marrakech , Rabat , and Chefchaouen . It’s also a great country for a family surfing holiday .

A Guide to Surfing in Morocco with the Best Surfing Places in the Country

4. Is Morocco safe for solo women?

With the increase of tourism in the country, it’s totally normal to wonder if Morocco is safe for female tourists.

Being a solo female traveler anywhere in the world comes with its own particular dynamics and risks. Morocco is no different.

So what should solo female travelers expect in Morocco?

Well, first of all, traveling as a woman alone in Morocco can be safe and a great experience but it’s important to be a bit more cautious than in other parts of the world.

Here are a few things that solo female travelers in Morocco will have to consider:

Catcalling is unfortunately very common in Morocco. It’s a country that is notorious for its high rate of street harassment.

In 2017, a survey reported that 73% of women in Morocco experience harassment in public spaces.

That’s a figure that is extremely high.

The majority of harassment will most likely just be men complimenting how beautiful you are. Just completely ignore any men approaching you and soliciting your attention.

It’s very important for solo female travelers to dress appropriately in Morocco. Avoid wearing clothes that are too revealing and cover your legs and shoulders to avoid garnering unwanted attention.

Read What to wear as a woman in Morocco for clothing suggestions.

Walking alone at night

It’s better to avoid walking alone at night. Especially in the suburbs of big Moroccan cities. Make sure you know ahead of time where you are going.

One of the typical scams that you might encounter as a solo woman in Morocco is the “nice guy showing the way” .

This scam consists of a Moroccan offering unsolicited help such as pointing out the way to a hotel or guiding you to a restaurant.

Once you arrive at the hostel the scammer will ask you for an overinflated tip in exchange for his service.

For example, while you’re walking with your backpack in the streets of the old medina of Marrakech , someone approaches you and suggests guiding you to your hostel.

Once you arrive there, he asks for 30 or 50 MAD for the five minutes it took to help you and will not leave until you give him a tip.

To find your way without problems around the Moroccan cities, I would recommend downloading Google Maps on your phone before your trip to Morocco.

One of the cool features of Google maps is that it can be used both online and offline. Connect to the wifi at your hostel and download a map of the part of the city you wish to explore.

This map works with the GPS chip in your phone so it will continue working, even when you’re offline.

I would suggest learning a few Moroccan Arabic sentences to ask for help if it’s absolutely needed.

I give a few of these helpful Arabic sentences at the end of this guide.

What to wear in Morocco – The Complete Packing List

5. Are Moroccan cities safe?

Big Moroccan cities such as Rabat , Marrakech or Casablanca are not more dangerous than any other city in the world.

Just like everywhere else, it’s important to keep a low profile and not attract unwanted attention as a foreigner.

Follow the following tips to stay safe in Moroccan cities.

You can wear whatever you want as a tourist in Morocco, but in the crowded markets and old medinas, you shouldn’t show off your wealth.

It’s important to not flash your expensive belongings in big crowds…

Because of the poverty rates in the country, many Moroccans wrongly assume that all foreigners who come to their country are rich.

It’s important not to feed that belief and attract the unwanted attention of thieves by flashing your expensive belongings.

Leave all your important belongings in your hotel room if possible.

I would also recommend not to walk alone at night in the suburbs of Moroccan cities as foreigners could become targets of mugging.

Is M a r r a k e c h Safe? Useful Things to Know before you go

6. Common scams in Morocco

Most Moroccans are honest and very helpful to travelers. However, the country is a very popular destination and just like in every other very touristic destination, scamming unwary travelers is quite a common thing.

You will find warm and friendly people all around the country but if you’re not careful, you could easily fall for a scam or a tourist trap.

7. Is it safe to hike in Morocco?

Hiking in Morocco can be done safely as long as you follow certain ground rules.

If you hike in Morocco never hike alone and make sure a Moroccan friend knows where you’re going and at what time you’ll be back.

Bring plenty of water, snacks, a GPS or a map and a first aid safety kit .

A hike in Morocco I would particularly recommend is the hike to Toubkal . It’s the highest mountain in North-Africa but the fact that you climb up the mountain with a local guide makes this hike a very safe one.

Another hike I would suggest doing while in Morocco is a beautiful hike in the mountains surrounding the Todra gorges .

This trek will bring you through beautiful Berber settlements. If you’re lucky, you might even get invited for a tea with the Berber people.

The Complete Trekking Guide to Imlil and Hiking Mount Toubkal in Morocco .

There are beautiful trails to hike in Morocco… 

8. Is it safe to go camel riding in Morocco?

Riding camels in Morocco is quite safe. These animals are very gentle and calm by nature. You may occasionally get one that is a bit nervous or tired but they are rarely dangerous.

If you do fall from your camel (which is extremely rare), you’ll fall on sand and you’re not likely to get hurt.

How to plan a desert trip to Merzouga, including the best things to do in the Sahara desert .

9. Is it safe to drive in Morocco?

Driving in Morocco is very safe. People generally don’t drive extremely fast. Except for the southern part of the country near Merzouga and in the high atlas mountains near Toubkal , the roads are generally good and well maintained.

If you have your own car, driving on countryside roads in Morocco is usually quite safe, however, if you drive in big cities like Rabat , Tangier , Casablanca or Marrakech , it can be quite challenging.

Driving in Moroccan cities can often feel very chaotic. You will definitely feel a big difference between the cities, the smaller towns and rural areas when it comes to driving.

On small Moroccan roads, it can sometimes take hours before you see a car passing by…

Moroccan cops are not as corrupt as in other countries we visited like Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan .

You’ll find that the road police in Morocco is very helpful towards foreign tourists. If you ever need assistance from the cops while driving around Morocco, don’t be scared to approach them.

Another thing worth noting is that in Morocco, red lights and stop signs are sometimes completely on the far right of the road, so they are super easy to be missed if you don’t pay attention.

Sometimes they can also be a bit hidden behind tree branches.

Renting a car in Morocco – Advice and useful tips

10. Is public transportation in Morocco safe?

City buses and petit Taxis in Morocco are generally safe. Grand taxis, however, are not the safest means of transport in Morocco. These are the taxis that connect towns and cities together.

They usually are old Mercedes Benz that lack rear seatbelts. For transport between cities in Morocco, I would recommend using buses from the companies CTM and Supratours .

They are the most reliable bus companies around the country and they have by far the most comfortable buses. They also have very similar prices and schedules.

You can buy your tickets online with both companies and their websites are very easy to navigate. The CTM website , for example, can be viewed in English.

As for city buses, they are usually safe but I wouldn’t recommend them for solo female travelers. I have heard a few female expats reporting being groped in public buses in Morocco.

Morocco T r a v e l G u i d e : 19 useful things to know before traveling to Morocco

Although public transportation is Marrakech is generally safe, an accident can always happen…

11. Is the food in Morocco safe?

The food in Morocco is not only safe, but it’s also extremely delicious! It’s one of the reasons why I fell in love with Morocco !

Moroccan dishes are super-rich in flavors, spices, and ingredients. They are not only tasty but also very healthy.

Most dishes contain a lot of veggies and whole grains, freshly prepared meat, spices and sweet fruit rather than refined sugar.

Moroccans also use couscous in a lot of their dishes which is much healthier than rice.

Morocco’s cuisine has been influenced by Andalusian Spain, Arabia, and France in a delicious combination of mouthwatering flavors that make it unique.

Moroccans love to eat tagines. It’s a succulent, stew-like dish full of flavor and traditional spices. It’s slow-cooked in traditional cookware that has, incidentally, the same name as the dish.

A tagine is a rich mixture of meat, poultry, or fish, and often includes vegetables or fruit. Vegetables may also be cooked alone in the tagine.

Moroccan food can also be very affordable. I generally start my day with a bowl of B’ssara.

It’s a rich bean soup traditionally served for breakfast. It’s topped with a swirl of olive oil and a sprinkling of cumin. It costs just a few pennies a bowl and I eat so many of them!

If you have a sensitive belly, however, it would be a good idea to take some precautions.

In Morocco, you’ll be exposed to completely new food, water, and bacteria.

If you want to fully enjoy your holiday and not have to run to the bathroom, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to bring some probiotics in tablets or powder.

Finally a small word of advice concerning eating street food in Jemaa el Fena square in Marrakech .

Jemaa el Fena square is an incredibly exotic place that will overwhelm all your senses. Stalls with Moroccan street food are a regular sight and eating there is an experience by itself.

I would ask you to reconsider it though. The hygiene of these food stalls is not the best and getting food poisoning there is not uncommon.

I would opt instead for a meal in one of the restaurants that surround the square.

Things to do in Marrakech – A Complete Guide to Morocco’s Red City

12. Is it safe to drink the water in Morocco?

It’s safe to drink tap water in Morocco but only if you know beforehand if the town or city properly filters its water.

Although a lot of major cities in Morocco have good filtering systems, some of them still don’t.

The Moroccan authorities are becoming more and more concerned about the pollution caused by plastic bottles of water. Many hotels will offer filtered water that is safe to drink to their guests.

Opt for bottled water or use a LifeStraw Water Filter Bottle to filter the tap water during your first days in Morocco as you don’t know how your body might react to the bacteria composition of the local water.

With a LifeStraw Water Filter Bottle, you’ll be able to drink water anywhere in Morocco…

Bottled water is available everywhere and if you want to be eco-friendly, bring a LifeStraw Water Filter Bottle . This is a bottle that filters water using a filtration device.

If you drink water using this bottle, any dirt, bacteria or parasites get trapped in the filter, while the clean water passes through.

These water filter bottles are very light to carry and super useful for when you go trekking in the mountains.

You can use them to drink the water in the middle of nature without worrying about becoming sick. Click here for more info and prices.

Visiting the Akchour Waterfalls in Morocco

13. How is healthcare in Morocco?

It’s important to visit Morocco with good health insurance . Hospitals in Morocco do not benefit from the same standards that would be found in Europe or North America.

Public hospitals in Morocco are not very good, and private hospital care in the country is very expensive.

If you need a modern hospital or clinic while in Marrakech , read this article to find out which clinic we recommend.

Here are other modern hospitals and private clinics we recommend in Morocco:

Private hospitals and clinics in Tangier

If you need a private clinic while in Tangier , the one we recommend is Clinique Assalam .

This is a private hospital of the highest standards in Tangier. You will find doctors speaking French and English at this private hospital.

This is the address of the clinic:

10, Avenue Abderrahman Youssoufi, 90000 Tanger

Private hospitals and clinics in Rabat

If you need a modern hospital or clinic while in Rabat , we recommend Clinique Agdal . It’s a central private hospital that’s recommended by expats living in Rabat.

This is where it’s located in Rabat:

6 place Talha, Avenue Ibn Sina Quartier de l’Agdal 10100 Rabat MAROC

Private hospitals and clinics in Casablanca

If you need a private clinic in Casablanca , we recommend Clinique Dar Salam .

This clinic offers quality services in French and English. Their emergency phone number is 0522 85 14 14.

728, Bd Modibo Keita Casablanca Maroc

14. Travel insurance for Morocco

Morocco rarely has violent crimes and these almost never target tourists. You can travel around the country with good peace of mind knowing that there is absolutely no chance you would get mugged or run into an altercation with someone.

The only crime that you might encounter in the country (although it’s very unlikely) is petty crime such as pickpocketing.

Consider getting travel insurance that covers the theft of personal belongings.

The one we recommend is  IATI .  This insurance covers medical assistance and unforeseen things that can happen while traveling.

The IATI Backpacker Plan  is one of the few policies that won’t require you to be in your home country to purchase, renew or extend your insurance.

If your trip happens to go on a little longer than planned, you can easily extend your plan online.

15. Are there areas of Morocco you should avoid?

Morocco is very safe but there is a part of the country you should avoid if you can. This is the Western Sahara near the Algerian and Mauritanian borders.

Don’t confuse the Sahara desert with the Western Sahara region of Morocco.

The Western Sahara is an area in the southernmost part of Morocco where the legal status of the territory and the issue of its sovereignty remain unresolved.

The northern border of the Western Sahara extends from the coast just north of Dakhla to the eastern border with Mauritania.

The area was for a long time the site of an armed conflict between Moroccan government forces and the POLISARIO Front, which is still seeking independence for the territory.

Another fact that makes this area a dangerous one for unwary travelers is that there are still thousands of unexploded mines buried in the Western Sahara.

Exploding mines have occasionally been reported, and they have caused death and severe injuries.

There have also been sporadic reports of violence in the cities of Laayoune and Dakhla stemming from sporting events and political demonstrations.

I suggest not traveling in this part of Morocco unless you are with someone who knows the area well.

If you absolutely have to transit through Western Sahara, stick to the main highway between Dakhla and the Mauritanian border.

16. Is there terrorism in Morocco?

A lot of governmental sources and online blogs give mixed reviews about terrorism in Morocco, and this can be really confusing. Here is what you need to know.

Morocco is not a country that is untouched by terrorism. But acts of terrorism in the country are few and far in between.

In 2011, a small cafe in the central square of Marrakech was the target of a terrorist bombing. The attack killed 17 people, most of whom were tourists.

Last year two Scandinavian girls were murdered near Toubkal in the Atlas mountains by Isis members and a lot of people were alarmed and wondering if Morocco is a dangerous place.

The Moroccan government has responded to this threat of terrorism with greater security measures over the years all across the country and today Morocco is much safer than it used to be.

That being said, Morocco is a much safer destination than a lot of other places around the world.

The low incidence of terrorism is corroborated by the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) .

Every year, this report ranks 163 of the world’s 195 countries according to how much they are impacted by terrorism.

Morocco scored “very low” on the 2018 report. With a ranking of 132, Morocco placed better than Norway (123), and Iceland (130).

Although terrorism has affected Morocco in the past, the country is now safer than ever and you can visit its beautiful landscapes and cities without having to worry.

Moroccans are very welcoming…

17. Helpful Moroccan Arabic phrases for emergencies in Morocco

Here are a few sentences that you could use in Morocco if you’re experiencing distress or if you need help:

waqaf! : Stop!

Sir faHalek! : Go away!

Sheffar! : Thief!

E-awennee afak : Help me please

A-ayt al boliss! : Call the cops!

A-ayt ela shee tabeeb! : Call a doctor!

Tsreqt : I’ve been robed

Sreq lee l-sak : Someone stole my bag

Sreq lee l-beztam : Someone stole my wallet

Breet na-hayt al seefara : I want to call my embassy

radee na-hayt al boliss! : I will call the police!

Fayn al Kommeesareeya? : Where is the police station?

For more useful sentences in Moroccan Arabic, read Tips and tricks to learn Moroccan Arabic .

If memorizing sentences is not your thing, I highly recommend getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook .

It is packed with all the essential words and phrases you will need on your trip to Morocco and will help you in every situation — from finding a hotel room to ordering tajine or joining the local festivities this book will cover almost every situation you could imagine.

18. Emergency phone numbers for Morocco

If you ever run into a dodgy situation in Morocco and need to call the police, you can do so by typing 190 or 112 in big cities.

If you’re outside the city, the number to call is 177 . This will contact the Royal Gendarmerie .

A few other useful numbers for when you travel around Morocco are 150 to call an ambulance and 15 for the fire brigade.

I hope you have an awesome adventure in Morocco and that this guide will help you stay safe and have a great time there.

Have you been to Morocco? Do you plan to go there soon? Let us know in the comments below or get in touch .

RElated Posts

19 Very Useful Things to Know for Backpacking in Morocco in 2024 – The Complete Travel Guide to Morocco

The 17 Best Places to visit in Morocco in pictures

The Honest Guide to Meknes Morocco and Volubilis – 9 best things to do and what to skip

16 Top Things to do in Marrakech Morocco – The Complete Guide to Morocco’s Red City

Is Morocco expensive – Morocco Budget Guide for 2024

11 Best Things to do in Rabat Morocco – The Complete Guide to Morocco’s Capital City

More morocco travel resources:.

• What you need to know before you go: 23 Travel Tips for Morocco
• Is Morocco Safe? Safety Guide to Morocco
• How to avoid the 12 most common scams in Morocco
• See the best of Morocco by following these 3 great travel itineraries
• Visit these beautiful 17 places in Morocco
• Tips for traveling to Morocco during Ramadan
• Morocco City Guides: Fez , Tangier , Essaouira , Chefchaouen , Rabat , Meknes , Marrakech , Casablanca , Agadir
• The best daytrips from Marrakech
• Fun things to do in the Sahara: how to plan a desert trip to Merzouga
• The Complete Guide to Imlil and Hiking Mount Toubkal
• Everything you need to know about visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Rock climbing and other fun things to do in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir
• How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen
• A guide to visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Surfing in Morocco – The best surfing spots in Morocco
• How to visit Paradise Valley in Agadir
• What to wear in Morocco: Complete packing list for Morocco
• Morocco photography tips: How to take portraits of people in Morocco
• Extend your stay in Morocco using one of these 3 ways to renew your Morocco visa
• Useful tips on how to take the ferry from Tangier to Spain
• Books about Morocco: 10 Great Novels set in Morocco

4 thoughts on “Is Morocco Safe? 18 Useful Things to Know Before You Go in 2024”

Thank you for the guide! I’m travelling to Morocco with my husband on the van, and I’m really scared about snakes. During our trip hiking will happen for sure, and… well, I don’t want to die because of the bite if some cobra or puff addler. Are there no-snakes-for-sure areas or areas to avoid?

Hi Ira, you have to be careful in the mountaineous areas.

There are sufficiently of cafes where men and women mutually go – it’s just less collective to find women. If you see a cafe that is all men, you may famine to just keep seeing to find one that has a variation of people.

Yes, that’s a good tip! There are a lot of cafes where you only see men. I went to have a coffee in a few and although I get a few funny looks, the men leave me alone. If you’re not feeling comfortable with this, it’s better to search for a cafe where you also see women 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Is Morocco Safe? 11 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit

Wandering around the Fez medina, I could feel the stares. “Where are you going? Want to go to the tanneries? I’ll take you. No money. Don’t worry!” the medina’s faux guides said as they chased me down the street.

“No, I’m fine,” I’d reply, trying to dodge them at every turn. Turning down side streets, stopping to look at a map, or admiring a view caused them and any nearby vendor to pounce and badger me, inviting me into stores, restaurants, and attractions.

There were moments when I would turn down streets only to have my spidey senses tell me to turn back. A few guys tried to corner me before I managed to slip into a store. Heck, a little kid even tried to pick my pocket.

And while other cities were not as intense as Fez, my visit to Morocco required a thick skin and a watchful eye.

Before my trip to Morocco, I queried a number of friends about their experiences. I’d heard horror stories of touts, harassment, pickpockets, and scams. While those can occur everywhere, Morocco travel seemed to take it to another level.

“Keep an eye out,” everyone warned.

After two weeks visiting Morocco (which is amazing — see this post, where I fawn all over it! ), I could understand why people say that you need to practice extra diligence when it comes to staying safe in Morocco.

Touts, scammers, and harassers abound, and while it wasn’t bad when I was with my group, when I was alone it was intense. As I settled into the famous and secluded Café Clock in Fez to relax, I messaged fellow writers online to ask if I was overreacting or if they felt the same way.

“No, it’s not just you,” was the universal reply.

So, while Morocco can be overwhelming, the big question I’m often asked is, “Is Morocco safe?”

In this post, I’ll answer all your safety questions and share some tips and advice to ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful — but hectic — country.

Table of Contents

• 11 Tips to Stay Safe in Morocco
• Is Morocco Safe for Solo Travelers?
• Are Taxis Safe in Morocco?
• Is the Tap Water Safe in Morocco?
• Can You Hold Hands in Morocco?
• Is There a Dress Code in Morocco?
• Can You Drink Alcohol in Morocco?
• Can Unmarried Couples Share a Room in Morocco?

How to Stay Safe in Morocco

Solo female travelers will need to watch out a little more carefully but, overall, you are still unlikely to encounter serious problems like violent crime.

Morocco travel requires extra vigilance because it’s easy to have something happen to you if you’re not paying attention. But you’re unlikely to ever be in any real physical danger in Morocco. For perspective, the violent crime rates in the U.S. (such as murder, sexual assault, gun violence, and total crime) are many times higher than Morocco’s crime rates .

Of course, petty crime and harassment do require you to stay on guard — more so than in other countries. However, if you follow a few rules, you can leave Morocco unscathed and without incident.

Here are my top tips on how to stay safe when you visit Morocco:

1. Don’t walk alone at night — While walking in well-lit and busy areas can be fine, be careful walking around at night. Petty crime is rampant here, especially against tourists. If you do go out at night, only bring what you need and leave the rest of your wallet in your accommodation.

2. Don’t walk alone if you’re a woman — A woman alone attracts a lot of unwarranted attention from men, an increased chance of being followed, and the likelihood of groping. Even when I was right there alongside the women on my trip, they got a lot of attention. I could only imagine how much worse it was when they were alone.

And, as a female, especially do not walk alone at night!

3. Dress conservatively — Morocco is a conservative Muslim country and it’s not appropriate to wear skimpy clothing. While there is no hard dress code, keep your arms, shoulders, and legs covered (especially if you are a woman) to avoid any unwanted attention and conform to local norms. The more you can fit in, the better. Wearing a scarf can be helpful for women because you can always cover your head to stand out a bit less and deter curiosity.

4. Avoid flashy jewelry — A good universal rule, this takes on more urgency in a country where theft is common. People will see the jewelry as a sign of wealth and therefore try harder to scam you in stores or rob you on the streets. Always keep your valuables (like your phone and wallet) secure and out of reach at all times as bag snatching can occur. Crimes of opportunity are the most common. Don’t give anyone the opportunity.

5. Don’t carry valuables — Since muggings and pickpockets are common, take the minimum you need when you leave your hotel or hostel. Don’t take your passport with you; leave it in the hotel. A few people on my tour carried it around with them and when my guide found out, he looked like he was about to have a heart attack! Always make photocopies of your passport and only carry it unless you’re absolutely required to have it to book transportation tickets, etc.

6. Avoid back alleys – The tiny alleys of the medina are beautiful to explore but sometimes they make you easy prey for scammers and thieves. Don’t venture too far away from the crowds.

7. Watch for scams — If someone asks you into their shop for tea, they are going to use that as a pretext to get you to buy something and, thanks to the ingrained psychological idea of reciprocity, you’ll probably give in. Don’t let anyone ask you to write a letter or read a postcard that their “cousin” sent to them in English/French/whatever your native language is. It’s a ruse to get you into their store and wear you down.

The same goes for letting someone put henna on your hand. Once these vendors have you, they will be relentless about you trying on clothes, buying something, or giving them money. Say “no thank-you” and walk away.

8. Say no to tour guides — The people insisting they will guide you for “no money” definitely want your money. They will try to get you into their shops or take you places and ask for money for the service. Be firm and tell them no. It doesn’t matter their age or how helpful they are, if they start walking with you, they will ask for money!

9. Always negotiate taxi prices up front — Always negotiate the price for taxis before you get in, as prices are going to be substantially inflated when you arrive at your destination.

10. Download the Prey app to your phone and laptop – If either device gets stolen, you’ll be able to track it and remotely turn on your camera to photograph the thief (you can also wipe the data and message the thief too). It costs just $1.10/month.

11. Buy travel insurance – I never leave home without travel insurance. You shouldn’t either. It will protect you against unexpected costs that might arise should something unfortunate occur. It’s just a few dollars per day (often less) and is worth the peace of mind.

I recommend SafetyWing for travelers under 70, while Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

While this is good advice for any country, Morocco is more intense than your average destination due to the sheer number of people who give you unwanted attention. It takes a lot of energy to always be on your guard in a place where the simple act of asking for directions often leads people to ask for money.

Is Morocco safe? Yes, for the most part. But visiting Morocco requires you to be a little tougher and keep an eagle out for problems. It requires you to be a little bit more skeptical.

I was insulated because I was on a tour, but when I was alone or with just a few people, people came out of the woodwork, catcalled my friends, grabbed at the women in our group, and blocked entrances to restaurants in order to accost us.

Even after a decade of travel, I found myself wishing I had a companion to share the mental burden and wanting to scream, “Leave me alone so I can just enjoy your country!”  

Morocco Safety: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Morocco safe for solo travelers?

My honest answer? If you’re a first-time visitor, it might be challenging. Especially if you’re new to travel in general. This was my first time in North Africa and it was an adjustment for me (and I’m a very experienced traveler). I was glad to be on a tour and have a guide.

If you don’t have a lot of travel experience or are a woman traveling alone, I’d suggest taking a group tour of the country first, instead of exploring solo.

Moreover, it is hard to get into the remote desert and mountains on the public transportation systems. I wouldn’t drive here either as everyone races around mountain curves.

That said, thousands of people come here alone and have no problems. If you’re OK in uncomfortable situations and a frenetic environment, you’ll be able to visit Morocco just fine!  

Are the taxis safe in Morocco?

Taxis are generally safe here, and overall a safer option than city buses . However, to avoid getting ripped off make sure you negotiate the price in advance if there is no meter (metered taxis are available in some cities). When in doubt, always ask your hotel/hostel staff how much a ride should be. You can also have them call a taxi for you so you get a reputable driver.  

Is the tap water safe in Morocco?

The tap water here is generally safe to drink but you should bring a reusable water bottle with a filter just in case. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.  

Can you hold hands in Morocco?

While public affection is generally frowned upon in the country, holding hands is fine. I’d refrain from any significant displays of affection while in public just to be safe, however. It should be noted that unfortunately, homosexuality is a criminal offense in Morocco so LGBTQ couples should keep this in mind when traveling here.  

Is there a dress code in Morocco?

Nope! The locals here don’t expect you to dress how they dress. That said, to avoid unwanted attention, it’s best to dress conservatively and in a way that doesn’t draw too much attention.  

Can you drink alcohol in Morocco?

Drinking alcohol is permitted in Morocco. It’s served in hotels, bars, and in tourist areas that have licenses to serve alcohol (you can also buy it at some supermarkets). Drinking alcohol in the street or anywhere that isn’t licensed is not permitted, however, and can lead to arrest.  

Can unmarried couples share a room in Morocco?

Premarital sex is actually illegal in Morocco, however, it’s incredibly rare for a hotel to turn away unmarried guests. While local Moroccans might have trouble booking accommodation if they are unmarried, foreigners won’t really have an issue.

If you’re concerned that you’ll be turned away, contact the accommodation in advance and ask if they require proof of marriage. That way, you’ll know in advance if you need to rebook. But, generally speaking, this isn’t really an issue for (heterosexual) foreigners.

Morocco was a battery on my senses — the food , the colors, the spices , the smells, and the scenery were unforgettable. (Also the doors — they have such ornate and colorful doorways in Morocco. I have dozens of pictures of doors).

I would 100% recommend to anyone that they visit the country, but make sure you keep an extra eye out (especially in Fez) and have a thick skin for all the people asking you to buy things.

Morocco won’t be easy but it’s worth the visit — and it’s a lot safer than you think!

Book Your Trip to Morocco: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Morocco? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Morocco for even more tips on how to plan your visit!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Africa » Morocco » Travel Safety

Is Morocco Safe for Travel? (Insider Tips)

A melting pot of Arabic, Berber and French culture Morocco is a North African country that packs a punch of unforgettable experiences. Famous for its storied old medinas, mint tea, ancient mosques, and delicious cuisine, there’s a world of wonder to discover in Morocco.

But you might be wondering… Morocco sure sounds amazing , but is Morocco safe?

Don’t worry, we are here to answer all of your questions! In this travel safety guide, you’ll find tips, advice, and an awesome coverage on how to visit Morocco safely.

Whether you are wondering if Morocco is safe to visit right now, or whether want to know if Morocco is safe for female tourists, traveling alone, or even to live in – this insider guide will answer all of your questions!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

How Safe is Morocco? (Our Take)

Is it safe to visit morocco right now, safest places in morocco , 17 top safety tips for traveling to morocco, is morocco safe to travel alone, is morocco safe for women, more about safety in morocco, faqs on morocco’s safety, so, is morocco safe.

Overall, Morocco is safe for travel.

But this doesn’t mean that crime doesn’t happen, and like anywhere else in the world, you’re going to want to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Morocco’s tourism numbers have been growing by the year and are projected to continue their impressive growth. And at the end of the day, growing tourism numbers typically indicate a safe country to travel in.

But do bad things happen in Morocco? Absolutely.

The most common complaints in Morocco are pushy people, petty theft (which can be common in the major cities), and poor treatment of women (which we’ll cover thoroughly in a bit).

But while both of these issues are unfortunate, there are ways to maximize your personal safety and ensure that your trip to Morocco is smooth sailing.

Some people have complained about getting lost in the winding streets of Morocco due to the ever-changing street names (from French and Spanish into Arabic), but google maps or maps.me should really do the job.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Morocco Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Morocco. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research , and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Morocco.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Yep, it is. Of course, travelling with a bit of caution and common sense can come a long way, but most trips to this beautiful country normally end in a full success.

Morocco is, in fact, the most politically stable country in North Africa. The government has been investing more in its infrastructure to be able to attract more tourists. Because at the end of the day, more tourism = more money.

There have been reports of increasing numbers of faux guides , which are unofficial guides that offer their service in front of attractions. While some of them actually know quite a bit and speak multiple languages, you can also fall into the hands of a total scammer. Luckily, tourist police have been handling this issue very well.

You rarely see any political demonstrations in Morocco, and if they do appear, they’re normally not harmful to tourists. Stay out of it, don’t actively engage in those protests and you’ll be more than safe.

With so much culture and history to explore and a generally relaxed and friendly atmosphere, a trip to Morocco right now should be pretty safe and fully worth it.

Some places in Morocco are safer than others. To make sure you’re having a successful trip, we’ve listed the safest, and the not-so-good areas below. 

It may not be the capital city, but Marrakesh is the number one tourist destination in Morocco, which is why we consider it to be one of the safest places in Morocco. Tourists are welcome and lots of places seem to be set up for visitors.

Marrakesh is best known for its amazing places like the central market and souks, all based around Jemaa el-Fna Square – a feast for the senses where you’ll smell spices and hear the shouting of the traders, but there are a number of other attractions around the city which are a little less hectic – including the Jardin Majorelle, Bahia Palace, and Koutoubia Mosque.

Keep in mind that with a lot of people come problems like pickpocketing and petty theft as well. Leave your valuables at home so you can explore the city without a worry of getting things stolen! 

Known as the Wind City of Africa and there’s one thing Essaouira is known for above all else – surfing! With lots of surf camps, plenty of backpacker accommodation, and a very chill vibe, the little city is one of the best places in Morocco if you want safety on a budget. The best time to visit is from April to November. That’s when surfing conditions (both wind and regular) are at their finest. However, if you’re not coming to surf then coming out of season means you can enjoy the medina and all of its attractions in this port town.

Atlas Mountains/Sahara Desert

If you’re a nature lover or outdoor enthusiast and looking for some adventure, then take a closer look at the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert. Both covering a vast area of land, you’ll need to spend a few days here to enjoy some of the most enticing activities in Africa including camel trekking, overnight camping, and hiking and biking in the mountains.

You’ll definitely be safe from pickpocketing and petty theft here, mainly because there’ll hardly be anyone around, but with being in such a remote area, you’ll experience natural dangers on the way. Protect yourself against the sun, stick with your guide, and drink enough water and you’ll be perfectly safe here.

Places to avoid in Morocco 

As in almost every country, there are areas that are better avoided than visited if you want to have a safe trip. Same goes for Morocco. While the crime rate is relatively low compared to other African countries, there is a present violent crime threat.

If you want to explore the country on your own, you’re best off asking locals for their inside knowledge and get a tour guide, just to be on the safe side. To make things a bit easier for you, we’ve listed a couple of no-go areas below: 

• Casablanca : Morocco’s economical capital, Casablanca, is a stunning city with quite a few problems. Statistically, this is Morocco’s most dangerous city due to drug traffic and organized crime. While it’s definitely not a no-go zone, you should still be aware of the situation and stay away from empty side streets and dodgy characters. 
• Fez : This is probably the most unique yet stressful city in Morocco. While Fez definitely has its own charm and attractions, you’ll really have to have thick skin to push your way through all the salesmen, scammers, and guides. That being said, the city is still incredibly beautiful and offers some stunning architecture and history. It’s often considered Morocco’s cultural center. 

Morocco Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

While we all agree that Morocco is largely safe, there are always ways to make sure you are extra -safe. By following these travel safety tips for Morocco, you’ll be able to travel there confidently and spend more time exploring and less time worrying!

• If you are approached and are uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to say ‘ no thank you ’ and move on.
• Make sure you’ve packed everything you may need. Nothing is worse than realizing you forgot half of the essentials and having to rush to the next supermarket. It’ll ruin your budget, and most likely the beginning of your trip as well.
• Book a real guide and don’t accept tours from strangers. Faux guides are common around the famous attractions, but it’s better to book your tour online or explore by yourself.
• Keep your valuables close and/or hidden. Pickpocketing is a real problem in Morocco, especially in the bigger cities. If you carry money or valuables with you, make sure they stell well-hidden or get your hands on a money belt .
• Carry small bills around so you don’t have to get out larger notes.
• Dress modestly – this is a conservative country. It’s best to adapt to the people around you. Watch what locals are wearing and choose your clothing accordingly. That way you won’t stand out as a tourist and you won’t be offending anyone.
• Buddy up with fellow travelers . Whether it’s people you met at the hostel or during a tour, it’s always safer in a group. Walking alone can make you a target.
• If someone says they recognize you, it’s a scam! Just ignore and keep walking. If they still insist on knowing you, reply with a firm but polite no.
• Be aware of people hanging around you at ATMs . If possible, only use ATM’s in your hotel or at the bank. Also, don’t withdraw too much money at once. Completely avoid getting cash out at night.
• Ask people before you take someone’s picture – they may demand money.
• Try memorizing routes (or drawing a map) to avoid having your phone out . If you want to use google maps or another application, it’s best to go into a shop.
• Drink filtered water and ask for drinks without ice. Just to be on the safe side, but more about that later!
• Be wary of your personal space as pickpocketing can happen. Also, don’t leave your belongings out of sight.
• Don’t wear anything flashy – you’re more likely to be targeted for a scam.
• Confirm the price of your taxi before you get in . Some drivers will try to rip you off completely. If the price seems way too high, get out and find a different taxi.
• Be prepared to haggle ; it’s expected and it’s normal. Morocco is actually a great country to improve your haggling skills .
• Take MASSIVE care when crossing roads . You don’t accidentally want to get run over by a truck.
• If somebody tries to do you any kind of unsolicited service such as offering directions, they will possibly want you to pay afterward.

Every year, thousands of solo travelers head to Morocco alone to soak in the desert and culture of this amazing country. With a great variety of hostels and cheap guesthouses, meeting other solo travelers is very easy. But that doesn’t mean that traveling solo in Morocco is a cake-walk.

Generally speaking, Morocco is safe to travel alone. However, things can happen anywhere in the world so keep your wits about you. It’s not necessarily a difficult place to travel by yourself, but you’ll have to learn a few things to ensure that you have a fun time on the road.

• Learning some basic Berber, Arabic, or Darija will help you in your travels, especially with taxis or haggling.
• If you are thinking about traveling alone in Morocco, get yourself a phone or sim card. This will help ensure you don’t get lost and gives you peace of mind knowing you can make an emergency call if need be.
• Making friends with fellow travelers along the way is always a good idea.
• Depending on where you go and what city you’re in, solo travelers won’t even need a tour guide, particularly the relatively easygoing Tangier. In other places, just for peace of mind as well as of course to get the best out of your experience, a guide may be a good idea. In this modern age, you can check TripAdvisor and read blog posts to assess what places are safe to stay, eat, and explore.
• Make sure you read recommendations and reviews of hostels and other accommodations. Knowing that other travellers enjoyed it will put your mind at rest.
• Plan a budget Include money for when things go wrong so that you have some financial peace of mind.
• Always keep someone informed about where you’re going. Whether that’s the hostel staff, a friend or family back home.

No matter where you go, traveling as a woman – solo or otherwise –  is always going to have its risks. Some countries, more so than others.

But having said that, traveling in Morocco as a woman can be very safe and 100% doable! You’ll just need to exercise more caution than you would in some other countries.  Some level of attention and minor harassment is, unfortunately, to be expected.

Keep an open mind and you’ll still have a great experience. It will feel a little intense at times traveling Morocco as a woman but just remember why you’re there: to explore the country to its fullest. Even Moroccan women themselves have to deal with hassle from the men – possibly even to a worse degree.

Here are a few female-specific safety tips for Morocco you need to bear in mind to ensure that you actually stay safe on your trip.

• You will most likely receive cat-calls in the medina, but the majority of harassment will most likely be ‘you’re beautiful’ . Don’t interact with people who come up to you – you can do things like pretend to be filming and talking on the phone. Don’t be afraid to completely ignore/shut down a man that approaches you.
• Book yourself into a female-only hostel dorm. Not only do you get to meet other female travellers, but you’re also adding an extra level of safety to your trip.
• If something feels sketchy or uncomfortable – get out of that situation! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Don’t open the door of your accommodation to strangers. if you’re not expecting any visitors, just ignore it.
• Dressing appropriately is CRUCIAL – especially when you’re not in tourist areas. Cover your legs and shoulders, even if it’s hot, with loose, long clothes; a scarf is always very handy. You’ll still get comments, but not nearly as many.
• Learn some basic Arabic phrases – ‘No, thank you,’ (La, shukran) is a good one – to gain the respect of locals. Always try and walk around confidently and keep your eyes forward. Know where you’re going, have maps preloaded (or best of all, memorized), and try not to look lost.
• Never walk around alone at night and listen to your gut: if something looks sketchy, it probably is. Have a local or international sim card so you can call people at any time.
• Hiring a local guide is a good idea, but by no means mandatory.
• Keep your phone charged and with you at all times. It’s also a good idea to keep your emergency contacts saved down, just in case…
• Speaking of your phone, stay in contact with friends and family back home. let them know what you’re up to. It won’t just put their mind at ease, but also ensures that someone always knows where you are.

So is Morocco safe for female tourists? The answer is yes. It’s an awesome place to travel, as long as you’re aware, follow our safety tips and don’t do anything to put yourself at unnecessary risk  – however, if you’re new to backpacking, Morocco may be a bit intense for your first experience so we wouldn’t recommend newbie solo female travelers start here.

We’ve covered the main questions already, but there is loads more to know about safety on Morocco. Read on for more detailed information on how to stay safe while visiting Morocco.

Is Morocco safe to travel for families?

Yes. Morocco is a family-friendly destination and a total blast for anyone traveling with kids! It’s going to be a family holiday that you’ll never forget.

Moroccans are used to having large families and traveling with children is a great way to connect with locals who’ll be friendly and helpful to family groups in their country. Booking yourself into family-friendly accommodation is a good idea.

before you go, just make sure your children are up to date with their vaccinations, that you have simple medications (rehydration sachets, diahorrea tablets), and make sure they don’t drink tap water.

Also be sure to advise against petting stray animals and don’t let your children stay in the sun for too long.

Is it safe to drive in Morocco?

If you are in the city, whilst you can rent a car or a motorbike, we don’t recommend it.

Morocco’s urban traffic is absolute chaos . These roads are filled with potholes, congested traffic, and super-aggressive drivers. In 2017 road accidents in Morocco accounted for 3.6% of all deaths in the country (compare that to 0.39% in the UK).

For these reasons, we’d advise only super confident and/or experienced drivers to drive in Morocco’s larger cities.

That said, if you are looking to drive outisde of the city, there are some incredible road trips to be had. If you find a reliable place to rent a car, and you’re in Marrakesh , you should head out for a road trip on the Tizi N Tichka Pass – it’s mostly empty and is an amazing way to see the countryside.

Is Uber safe in Morocco?

Uber launched in Casablanca in 2015. However, after some difficulties, Uber was forced to suspend its services in the country. As of Winter 2019, it is not expected to return to Morocco anytime soon.

With no Uber, this means that you’ll be relying on taxis…

Are taxis safe in Morocco?

Taxis are one of the most frequently used modes of transport in any given Moroccan city. There are two main types:

• petite (small)
• grande (large).

Buses do operate but most people hop into a petite taxi if they need to get anywhere in a city.

Taxis in Morocco are notorious for driving quickly and jumping traffic lights. Generally, they’ll get you from A to B without mishap – just be prepared for a wild ride.

Also, please be aware that taxi scams can be very common. Agree on a price upfront, haggle hard, and stick to your guns.

Petite taxis are supposed to charge by meter, but they’re known for pulling the old ‘ the meter is broken ’ scam. If this happens, point to the meter and say “ la ” (no) and if they refuse, take a picture with your phone – the thought of been reported to the licensing board may straighten them out.

They also might say they have no change (which is why small denominations are important) and also try and drop you at random places, so if possible try to keep a GPS app on your phone so you know where they’re driving you.

You may also have to share taxis. When it comes to the grande taxis, these will wait until they’re full with more people than they’ve got seats before they go. It can be squishy but it’s definitely an experience to add to your travel log. Grande taxis also charge per seat rather than by meter.

Learning a little bit of Arabic, Berber, or even French would also help a lot in any taxi based situation, but, at the end of the day, taxis in Morocco are quite safe… if not completely thrilling.

Is public transportation in Morocco safe?

Easy answer – absolutely!

There’s a train network in Morocco which is great for traveling long distances: it connects most of the major (tourist) cities nationwide. They’re fast, they’ve got air-con, they’re comfortable, and they’re safe. You can check times online, meaning you know when you’re going to arrive and plan accordingly.

Between Rabat and Casablanca, there are some pretty chic double-decker trains that will make you think differently about overnight train travel. For those nervous about overnight trains in general: fear not. Plenty of women travel solo on these trains, with children, too – and there are even women-only cabins.

Be aware that train stations are where you’ll find a lot of salesmen trying to get you in their taxis and on their tours before you’ve even had a chance to step foot around your point of arrival, so be prepared to say ‘no thank you’ a lot. But then again, there’s often a bus station right next to the train station, so transit to your destination should be surprisingly efficient.

The bus routes in Morocco are extensive. The CTM buses, which can be booked online, have Wi-Fi and extra legroom for a spot of luxury.

Then there are the older buses. More affordable, sure, but the routes are hard to figure out and they’re the type that just pick-up and drop-off as they go.

Unlike the trains, the conditions on the buses aren’t always the best: they’re overcrowded, and you may find yourself sat next to a dog or even a chicken. But generally buses in Morocco are safe, if a slightly colorful, way to travel.

Is the food in Morocco safe?

Moroccan food is absolutely incredible. A trip to this North African country will have you on a culinary journey that’ll have your taste buds tingling.

If you follow these guidelines you should be able to eat your way around the country no problem. And you might want to practice the Moroccan custom of the right hand for eating, left hand for… well, you know (cleaning your butt; it’s for cleaning your butt).

Eating Safety in Morocco

• Firstly, there are a lot of delicious-looking fruit and vegetables on offer at the markets. But you shouldn’t really eat these raw unless they’ve been thoroughly washed or peeled . Otherwise, cooking them should be ok.
• Salads should always be approached with caution; if you don’t trust the place you’re ordering the salad from – if it doesn’t look clean – be wary.
• Use your senses: if the food looks like it hasn’t been cooked properly, or if it’s been lying in the sun all day, try to avoid.
• A good rule (for anywhere in the world) is to eat at places where a lot of people seem to be eating – locals in particular. Popular restaurants are less likely to have sanitation issues.
• Eating at food stalls is another great idea because you can watch the food be prepared and cooked in front of you – no surprises!
• Even in supermarkets, check the sell-by date. Old food might not be allowed on the shelves in your home country, but in Morocco’s supermarkets, it seems things can slip through the net quite easily.
• And lastly, it’s an oldie but a goodie: wash your hands . Forever and always.
• Traveling with an allergy? Research ahead of time how to explain your allergy. Keep in mind that store owners and restaurant staff might not know all the foods that contain allergens, so it’s helpful to know the names of some of these too.
• If you’re gluten-free , pick up a handy Gluten-Free Translation Card with descriptions of Celiac disease, cross-contamination risk, and local Moroccan ingredients in Moroccan Arabic.

Can you drink the water in Morocco?

Technically, tap water is MOSTLY safe to drink in Morocco but it’s still recommended that you don’t risk it. The Prime Minister himself has stated that he drinks the tap water in Morocco and, generally, Prime Ministers (anywhere in the world) lie at a professional level. Regardless, the water is heavily chlorinated and treated.

That being said Morocco is scorching hot, and you’ll need to keep yourself hydrated. Do this by buying big bottles of water from supermarkets, streetside kiosks, and newsagents. Hotels usually have water filters for guests and we highly recommend you try to refill bottles rather than buying new bottles because plastic is the worst .

If you’re heading out for treks in the desert – or even if you’re just walking around a city – take a good quality water bottle and water purification tablets. The water bottle can be used for anything, not just water, which is great if you need a little bit of sugar to keep you energized.

Is Morocco safe to live in?

IIf you are thinking of making the move, don’t worry: Morocco is a safe place to live and work. The number of foreign nationals living in Morocco is rising every year.

It might be a little bit of a culture shock, and you may struggle – as with making any move to any new country – but Morocco is very safe to live in.

A great tip? Integrate yourself into the local community and don’t isolate yourself! Ideally, place yourself somewhere where you’ll find home comforts or at least European familiarities. Base yourself in Casablanca (home to the largest portion of expats) or Rabat – this is also where you’ll find the best jobs.

It goes without saying that learning at least some of the language, Arabic and/or French, is a must.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Is it safe to rent an Airbnb in Morocco?

Yes, renting an Airbnb is very safe in Morocco. You’ll not only be protected through the booking platform itself, but you’ll also get to choose from countless unique homes. Make sure to read the reviews and ratings before you book, so you can be 100% sure that your place will be safe.

Is Morocco LGBTQ+ friendly?

There are no LGBTQ+ rights in Morocco, which makes it a dangerous country for members of this community. It’s illegal to have same-sex relationships and you can get fined or put into prison for anything between six months to three years. We wouldn’t recommend visiting Morocco with partner if you’re a part of the LGBTQ+ community UNLESS you keep your affection and relationship well hidden.

Planning a safe trip to Morocco can get very overwhelming. To help you out, we’ve listed and answered the most frequently asked questions so you can have a safe trip to Morocco.

What should you avoid in Morocco?

These are the things that you shouldn’t do when visiting Morocco: – Disrespect ANY religion. Just don’t.  – Don’t wear beachwear anywhere else apart from the beach. – Don’t walk around by yourself at night  – Avoid walking in back alleys

Is Morocco safe for first-time travellers?

While Morocco is generally pretty safe, visiting as a first-time travellers can be completely overwhelming and stressful. You’ll need to know how to say no to people, use your common sense and spot a scam from miles ahead. Therefore we wouldn’t recommend Morocco for inexperienced travellers.

Is Morocco safe at night?

If you are a female travellers, this is a clear no. Male travellers can walk around the main tourist areas at night, but it’s still not recommended. If possible, stay at home or when going out, stick with a large group, and don’t wander off.

What are the safest cities in Morocco?

The safest cities in Morocco are Marrakesh and Essaouira. While both have their own unique safety issues, they’re overall very safe. Pickpocketing is common in Marrakesh and the strong waves in Essaouira might become dangerous to surfers and swimmers, but apart from that, there’s hardly anything to worry about.

Yes! Morocco is safe to travel. It is one of the most amazing, dazzling, (and sometimes frustrating) countries in the world.

Whether you are a solo female looking for a backpacking trip, a family looking for a weekend holiday, or are thinking about moving to Morocco, you will be pleased to know that while it has it’s downsides, Morocco is a safe and wonderful country to experience.

With the help of this safe guide for Morocco, you’ll be able to easily know exactly how to stay safe while visiting so you can spend less time worrying, and more time exploring this incredible destination.

Let us know in the comments below if you are heading to Morocco! And, if your heading to Marrakesh, we have a safety guide for there too!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

I have a wonderful trip with my friend during our stay in Morocco. We used Days Morocco Tours , for our desert excursion including different activities and visited many attractions. The hotels used were amazing and we really loved the overnight stay in the camp. The food was really tasty thanks to Mohamed and Said. I highly recommend this amazing experience!

The information you give about Fez and Casa being no go areas is ridiculous. I live here abs often go to both for work and to visit. As with all large cities there will be more petty crime as there are greater concentrations of people. Your descriptions of both as no go areas is misguided and unfair.

I have just read the article and we didn’t say that either Fez or Casablanca were no go areas. In fact, we said Casablanca is definitely NOT a no go area.

We try to make these Safety posts balanced and whilst we feel we have a certain duty to point out known dangers and reported problems, we almost always advise readers not to worry too much and to enjoy themselves which is exactly what we did here.

Half the words you stated as darija are either wrong or SMA

Oh no! It’s very likely the author misunderstood what he heard. Could you recommend some changes for us to incorporate? We sure don’t want to tell travelers to speak nonsense!

Thanks for these advices but I think there is no place on earth that is safe 100%. Everytime you visit a new place it’s a new adventure.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Is It Safe to Travel to Morocco?

Artur Debat/Getty Images

Imperial cities with colorful souks and medieval architecture. Astonishing landscapes that range from the surf-tossed beaches of the Atlantic coast to dramatic Sahara dunes and snow-capped High Atlas peaks. Friendly locals and world-famous cuisine . Whatever it is that most attracts you to Morocco, there are countless reasons to plan a trip there. However, for all its appeal, Morocco can be a bit of a culture shock for first-time visitors, and many worry about whether or not it is safe. Morocco is one of the safest destinations in Africa, and the vast majority of people visit without incident. However, there are issues to be aware of and precautions you can take to help ensure that your time there goes smoothly. Read on to find out what they are. 

Current State of Affairs

Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with both a king and a prime minister. Although political and social demonstrations do occur, they are typically non-violent, and the country boasts one of the most stable governments in North Africa. The most serious safety concern is terrorism, with attacks considered a risk throughout the Maghreb region. One of the most recent incidents involved the murder of two Scandinavian tourists by ISIS supporters in the Imlil Mountains near Marrakesh. 

Visitors should also be aware of instability in the Western Sahara, a disputed territory to the south of Morocco over which the country claims sovereignty. Although the armed conflict between government forces and the rebel Polisario Front reached a ceasefire in 1991 and UN peacekeeping forces remain active in the region, access to this area is closely monitored and controlled. Additionally, unexploded mines are a threat in the Western Sahara, and non-essential travel is best avoided. 

Latest Travel Advisories

The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for every country, with Level 1 being the safest and Level 4 the most dangerous. The current travel advisory for Morocco ranks it as a Level 3 destination, as of Sept. 2020.   The government recommends exercising increased caution due to the continued threat of terrorist attacks, which they say may happen with little or no warning and are likely to target tourist locations, transportation hubs, and buildings or facilities with a known association to the United States.

Ways that you can reduce your chances of being caught up in an attack include avoiding demonstrations and crowds and staying alert in places frequented by Westerners. Additionally, travelers are advised to sign up for the government’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program . This service issues up-to-date warnings and makes it easier to locate you in the event of an emergency.

Petty Crime and Scams

Although violent crime against tourists is relatively rare, petty crime is much more common in Morocco's major cities and tourist areas. The most frequently reported problems include pick-pocketing, aggressive panhandling, purse-snatching, and the theft of valuables from unattended vehicles. Generally, you can avoid becoming a victim by taking the same precautionary measures that you would in any busy city worldwide. For example:

• Keep your belongings in sight at all times in public areas, including at restaurants, train stations, on public transport, and in busy souks. 
• Don't flash expensive jewelry or cameras in crowded areas. Keep your cash concealed in a hidden pocket or money belt. 
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash. Carry copies of your passport and any other essential documents with you but keep the originals in your hotel safe. 
• Take extra care at ATMs. Do not accept help from strangers or allow yourself to be distracted when drawing money. 
• Don't walk alone in remote areas, or through the city at night. This is especially relevant for female travelers. 
• If you hire a car, make sure to conceal valuables properly or take them with you when you park. 

Scam artists are also frequently encountered in Morocco's tourist hotspots. Usually, their goal is to separate you from your money, and they are annoying rather than dangerous. Here are a few tips to remember: 

• Do not exchange money on the black market. Often the cash that you receive will be counterfeit. 
• Be wary of street vendors who offer gifts; usually, they will demand payment later. 
• Make sure only to use registered, official local guides. Even so, you will probably end up in a shop or restaurant owned by one of your guide's friends or relatives. If you don't feel comfortable purchasing what they're selling, decline politely and walk away. 
• Remember that marijuana is illegal in Morocco, despite its prevalence in areas like the Rif Mountains where it is widely grown. If you decide to smoke, be very careful about who you buy it from. Dealers often turn out to be undercover policemen or threaten to report you unless you pay them money once you have the drugs in your possession.

Driving and Transport Risks

Morocco has a relatively poor road safety record, with 3,485 people killed in traffic accidents in 2018. If you choose to hire a car, be wary of pedestrians and livestock crossing the road (even on highways), and try to avoid driving at night. Street lighting is often inadequate and can make it harder to see hazards in the road. If you choose to use public transport to get around , petit taxis are the safest option in the cities. These are smaller model cars painted in specific colors according to their location. Rarely metered, it’s a good idea to agree on a price before accepting a ride (don’t forget that like most things in Morocco, prices are negotiable). For inter-city travel, Morocco’s train network is cheap, efficient, and safe. 

Medical Concerns

Unlike many destinations in sub-Saharan Africa, Morocco is not plagued by mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever. However, you should make sure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. The CDC also recommends hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations for all travelers since both diseases may be transmitted through contaminated food and water in Morocco. Depending on where you’re going, how long you’re going for, and your intended activities, hepatitis B and rabies vaccinations may also be appropriate. Wherever you’re going, remember to pack any prescription medicines you need as well as a basic first aid kit . Diarrhea is the most common illness to befall travelers to Morocco. 

Tips for Women and LGBTQ Travelers 

Morocco is an Islamic country, and as such, Western women can expect to receive more attention than usual due to their less conservative way of dressing and behaving. Comments, stares, and catcalls are usually uncomfortable rather than physically threatening, but it’s a good idea to dress modestly to avoid being hassled. This means keeping your shoulders, upper arms, and legs above the knee covered in public. To limit the risk of more severe crimes, use petit taxis to get around at night and avoid walking alone through unknown areas. Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco and may be punished with a fine or up to three years in jail. LGBTQ travelers are therefore advised to avoid public displays of affection. 

U.S. Department of State - Bureau of Consular Affairs. "Morocco Travel Advisory." Aug. 6, 2020

Is It Safe in Sweden?

Is It Safe in Barbados?

Is It Safe in Egypt?

Is It Safe in Colombia?

2020 Travel Warnings for Countries in Africa

Is It Safe in Mexico?

Is It Safe in Iceland?

Is It Safe in Jamaica?

Is It Safe in Thailand?

Your Trip to Morocco: The Complete Guide

Is It Safe in Germany?

Is It Safe in Rio de Janeiro?

Is It Safe in Guatemala?

Is It Safe in Tanzania?

Is It Safe in Puerto Rico?

Is It Safe in Africa?

14 Crucial Morocco Safety Tips + Common Scams: Is Morocco Safe For Tourists To Visit?

Last Updated: March 30, 2021

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

… And I totally get it.

If you want to travel to Morocco, safety is of course a key concern that you should address. (Alongside what to pack and how many giant rugs your home really needs)

But comments like “MOROCCO IS A DANGEROUS COUNTRY AND THIS IS WHY I WILL NEVER TRAVEL THERE” or equally aggressive “THIS IS WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER TRAVEL IT’S NOT SAFE”? Yikes.

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

I find those sweeping statements not only harmful, but super upsetting because Morocco, in spite of recent safety scares, is a really beautiful country with a rich culture that I’d happily explore over and over.

BUT, and I say this with a big BUT, Morocco is not a country for the faint of heart. Unless you’re prepared for it, you might be sorely disappointed.

So that’s why this article will go in-depth into the safety of travel to Morocco, based on two experiences I’ve had both as a group of girls travelling to Morocco and as a couple. It’s a long one, so grab yourself a mint tea and snuggle up.

PS: For more travel in Morocco safety tips, be sure to read this article I wrote about important must-knows before you travel to Morocco as well.

Travelling to Morocco soon? You might also find these posts helpful…

A Guide on What to Wear in Morocco + a Free Packing List

18 Super Important Must-Knows Before You Travel to Morocco

The Glittering Magic of Morocco (in Photos)

1 Week in Morocco (Travel Diary)

Fes to Chefchaouen Day Trip Guide

Morocco Safety: General Overview

As I mentioned in the intro, I’ve been to Morocco twice, mainly flouncing around the hot tourist spots (Fes, Chefchaouen, Marrakesh, Essaouira and Ouzoud Falls).

I’ve never been to the desert or to smaller villages, but since the cities I’ve been to are the usual spots that people swarm to as first timers (thanks RyanAir !!!), I’m going to give you a run-down of what my experience has been in these places.

But first: remember that safety is a very subjective thing, and is influenced by a LOT of factors including your sex, sexuality, colour of your skin, etc.

As a straight, Asian, cis-female, I enjoy certain privileges when it comes to safety, but also face unique threats too.

With that in mind, here are some other perspectives and experiences from other travel bloggers, showing what it’s like to travel as a gay couple to Morocco , what it’s like to travel as a black woman in Morocco,  and travelling around Morocco in a wheelchair .

Anyways, based on my own personal experience, here’s my honest opinion about safety in Morocco: as a tourist, I consider Morocco totally safe… you just need to be well equipped to handle it.

It’s really that simple!

Sure, any Google search about safety for tourists in Morocco will inevitably yield horror stories and negative reviews, but that’s just the nature of the Internet.

People will more readily take to the interwebs to complain than to praise… but you need to understand this: Morocco is built for a certain type of traveler… the kind of traveler that goes with the flow and more readily laughs things off than let it bother them.

If you don’t have thick skin when it comes to dealing with travel troubles, I think you’ll probably hate Morocco to be honest. It’s rather inevitable that you’ll get swindled (or at least someone will attempt to swindle you) at some point, and too often, people will let this ruin their trip.

If that sounds like something you’d be able to get over, then read on. I’m going to quickly run down my experience with different types of safety in Morocco, before giving you my top Morocco safety tips. First…

Crime in Morocco

Crime in Morocco (from my own personal experience) is more opportunistic and focused around petty crime and scams rather than outright violent crime.

This isn’t to say such crime doesn’t happen (I’ve heard of some armed robberies for instance), but as a female traveler in Morocco, I have never felt I was in physical danger.

Instead, any perceptions around a lack of safety stemmed from good ol’ fashioned paranoia, either that people were trying to scam us, or (to a lesser extent) that we might get sick from the food.

That said, crime in Morocco does exist.

Pickpocketing is common in crowded spaces (as it is in any touristy city), and I’ve heard of some “bag snatchings” from motorbikes as well, so do keep your belongings close to you at all times and think about investing in a slashproof anti-theft bag.

They’ve come a long way these days and can be really cute and functional:

Food Safety in Morocco

I’ve personally never gotten ill from eating anything in Morocco, and trust me, I eat enough for five families, so those are great odds.

BUT people of course do get sick – it’s kind of an inevitable consequence of travel.

The level of hygiene can vary a lot in Morocco depending on where you eat, but as a general rule of thumb, stick to cooked foods only and bottled water (some say tap is fine but I wouldn’t risk it) OR even better – bring along a steri-pen to treat water as an extra safety measure.

I’d also read reviews on food stuff beforehand – often that’ll give you a good indication on their cleanliness.

NOTE: As much as we can try to avoid getting ill from food, it tends to happen in a frustratingly unpredictable way.

For example, a friend of mine ate street food for a solid week in Morocco, then got food poisoning after a meal at the nicest, fanciest restaurant of her whole trip… so sadly, it’s not predictable, but I find that if you stick to the main cities and visit reputable restaurants or touristy areas, you’re fine.

Road Safety in Morocco

One area that I have no experience in is driving in Morocco.

I’ve heard a few horror stories about getting pulled over and fined for very random reasons, or just about the general recklessness of Moroccan drivers.

I’ve also taken a few buses and know that the roads can be very bumpy.

All that said, driving is one of the most flexible and exciting ways you can explore Morocco, and I’ve heard of quite a few travellers doing this, so I know it’s possible.

If this sounds like your jam, my friend Nina wrote a great post about driving in Morocco which you can read here.

Terrorism and Civil Unrest in Morocco?

Lastly, because of recent events, people have become increasingly concerned about potential terrorist attacks in Morocco.

Unfortunately, this is a risk anywhere, even in some of the world’s most touristy cities like Paris or London. What I will say is that it is very very very   un common, but the risk is up to you.

As with any place, there’s always  some  risk, but if we went by that, we’d all just stay at home, crying into our buckets of popcorn while watching reruns on the Travel Channel…

So, is summary: Morocco safe? I think it is, if you’re smart about the way you visit. Below you’ll find some of my handiest tips around safety in Morocco for visitors.

Safety in Morocco for Tourists: My Most Important Tips

To maximize your safety in Morocco, and to ensure that you have a thoroughly enjoyable and unspoiled time, here are some of my top Morocco safety tips.

These will hold true in many of the cities that are popular with tourists (Marrakech, Fez, and to a lesser extent, Essaouira and Chefchaouen for example).

Now, I know this is a long list, and it might make Morocco seem more scammy or dangerous than it is. Trust me, Morocco is great! It really is! I just want you to be prepared. *laughs nervously* really.

Anyways… let’s get to them tips.

1. Make it clear that you’re not a dumb tourist

This is my number 1 tip for safety in Morocco:  make it evident to EVERYBODY (scammers, shopkeepers, hustlers, taxi drivers, etc.) that you’re a savvy tourist, and not a dumb one.

Really! The foundation of ALL the scams that happen in Morocco is the assumption that as a foreigner, you’re a walking ATM doofus and don’t know your right from your left in this foreign environment.

Inflated prices? You’ll get them because you don’t know the real prices. Fake tour guides? They’ll follow you because they think you can’t tell the difference.

So, what I’ve actually found is the BEST scammer-shield is to just make them aware that you know what they’re up to. It’s that easy.

Things like:

“I know the price you’re giving me is too high. This is my third day in the city and the other shopkeeper offered me x for the same product.”

“This is my 5th time in Morocco. I know the price of the taxi should only be x”

“I know that ____ isn’t closed yet. I have lived here for x years”

Emphasize that you know what they’re up to, and that basically this isn’t your first rodeo.

This is my top tip and it’s the best way to get scammers off your back.

As soon as they know you’re not just “another dumb tourist”, they’ll probably get off your back and peruse the hundreds of other dumb tourists who have just trickled in 😉

Related to this is you should dress appropriately ( here’s a packing guide for Marrakech ), and you should never look lost.

Walk with purpose, head held high, strutting your stuff through the mean streets of Morocco 😉

Trust me: looking like a lost kitten is a sure recipe for unsolicited help. If you need to stop and check a map, do it discretely, maybe duck into a shop or cafe.

This will minimize the amount of fake tour guides on your back.

2. Know that “La” means no in Arabic

While “no” is pretty universally understood, busting out the Arabic can make eager beavers disappear faster. LA LA LA.

If you want to be more polite, “la shukraan” is “no thank you”.

3. Be mindful of your surroundings and when crossing the street

Basic advice, but Moroccan cities are chaotic.

Even in the tiniest narrow streets, there are motorbikes whizzing by and trust me when I say they do NOT give a damn about tourists bumbling about.

I’ve heard of people getting knocked over by these bikes, only to have the driver whizz off without a care in the world… so remember, be mindful of your surroundings, get out of the way of vehicles and be very very careful when crossing the street.

FYI, in crowded spaces, pickpockets are also very common so be mindful of your belongings.

4. Remember: safety in numbers!

Even if you choose to visit Morocco solo, I highly advise you either book a tour, find a private guide or make friends at your hostel, riad, etc. that you go out and explore with.

This is especially true for female travelers.

I never explored solo during my time in Morocco, but even in instances when it was just me and a (female) friend, I felt much more intimidated by my surroundings vs. when I was in a group setting, certainly at night. On that note…

5. Don’t walk alone at night

This might be common sense, but particularly if you are staying in any maze-like parts of the city (think the medina of either Marrakech or Fes), you should avoid wandering around at night after everything has closed.

Not only is it harder to find your way around, this is prime time for a lot of “faux tour guides” to kind of lurk around, usually young men who ask you if you’re lost and try to lead you back to your hotel, demanding a fee at the end. And on that note, it’s important that you also…

6. Familiarize yourself with common Moroccan scams

Scams are as common in Morocco as fresh orange juice and glorious tagine comas.

Luckily, it’s the same scams that recur over and over, so if you are familiar with them, then you’re able to avoid them. I’ll detail some of the most common scams I’ve encountered down below.

7. Stick to the main streets

In pretty much every city there will be the big busier streets, even within the medinas.

I highly recommend you stay on these because you’ll at least be near other tourists and just people in general.

I’ve accidentally walked down “back alleys” a few times and it can be a little intimidating, certainly once in Essaouira when I was walking with a girlfriend of mine and this guy ran into a cafe to tell his buddies two honeys were walkin’ down the alley and literally a million men emerged from this tiny bar to stare us down. It was like ants coming out of an anthill, but pervy.

8. Don’t flaunt your wealth

I would leave any flashy jewelry, expensive watches, brand name clothes or bags, etc. at home.

This isn’t necessarily because someone might come yank it off you (which is possible) but it’s because appearing “rich” will make you a bigger target for any kind of scam.

In Morocco, even just saying you’re from Canada, the US, etc. will label you instantly as someone who has some dough to spend, which results in a higher likelihood of inflated prices, bait-and-switch scam tactics and more.

9. Avoid eye contact and ignore

If you do find yourself the victim of some kind of uncomfortable attention, whether that’s catcalling, overly aggressive shopkeepers or anyone else, I’ve found that it’s very rare they continue to pursue you even when you ignore them and avoid eye contact.

The worst thing you can do is give them any kind of attention, because even a “no” will invite further conversation.

The best thing to do in these instances (if you don’t want to be bothered) is to just avoid eye contact and keep walking. If they do happen to follow you, go for a firm “NO” or “LA (again, that’s no in Arabic).

PS: Sunglasses help with the whole avoiding eye contact thing too.

10. Negotiate prices for taxis beforehand, or get them to turn on the meter

Taxis are one of the easiest ways for you to get scammed in Morocco.

In sum, there are two types of taxis you can take in Morocco: the petit taxis (the small taxis), which fit 3 people max and the grands taxis (the big taxis) which can fit 6.

With grands taxis, rates vary and you pay per seat. The only advantage is they’re able to travel outside the city whereas petits taxis can’t. I’ve heard unanimously that you should take petits taxis whenever possible.

On that note, I’ve only ever taken the petit taxis, but with these ones, they are legally obligated to turn on the meter. Forcing them to do so will probably be the best way to ensure you don’t get scammed.

(Just make sure you have an idea on Google Maps of where you’re going so you can tell if they’re purposefully taking the wrong route to gauge you for more money).

Alternatively, you can agree on a fixed price BEFORE you get into the taxi.

If you’re getting a taxi from the airport, look for a big sign at the taxi stand with fixed prices and insist they stick to that OR save yourself the stress upon arrival and book a 5* shuttle transfer from the airport. It’s relatively inexpensive and you pay for ease of mind. Check out the options here.

A few additional notes:

Make sure you have small coins and exact change. Often they will pretend they don’t have the change you need so they can keep extra cash.

Check with your riad or hotel what a fair taxi rate would be to get there from main spots like the airport, central square, etc. so you have a rough idea of how much a set price should be

French is very helpful for conversing with taxi drivers – many are more comfortable with French than English. The meter in French is “le Compteur”.

11. Know that the initial price for anything in a market will be inflated

If you plan to do some shopping in the markets around Morocco, remember, every price you are initially given has a…. let’s call it a “foreigner’s tax”, AKA a hyper-inflated price they think you might pay because you’re a rich foreigner.

I feel a little torn about this. On one hand, I hate getting ripped off just because they know I’m from abroad.

On the other hand, I get that they’re just trying to run a business and make money. Relatively speaking, I do earn more than the average Moroccan, and so if I am able and willing to pay a certain price for my pretty scarf, why not pay a little extra?

Anyways, no matter where you stand on this issue, just know that the first price they give you is VERY high, maybe 7x higher than what they’re willing to sell for (really!) and it’s pretty expected that you haggle down.

There aren’t really any shops in the markets that are 100% unique anyway, so if you don’t like the price, you can just move on and that bag, scarf, etc. will probably be available elsewhere.

To test out how inflated the price is, just start walking away, they’ll begin to lower the price immediately.

You might also consider booking a private city guide to show you around on the first day so you can get insider info on appropriate prices, haggling strategies, etc. Click here to check out some highly rated options.

12. Be wary of entering small stalls

This sounds weird but I’m referring to the little stalls in the market that you can step into to look at bags, shoes, etc.

On two occasions, I’ve basically been “blocked” by the shopkeeper from leaving because the stall was so tiny. They never touched me or got physical but it was pretty intimidating.

13. Be careful around the stray cats

One of the very sad things about travelling around Morocco is the abundance of stray cats. It makes me really sad to see these kitties just roaming the streets and trust me, they’re everywhere.

That said, do not touch these cats – they may be cute but they potentially carry diseases. In extremely rare cases, you might even get bitten and contract rabies, as one tourist fatally did last year.

14. Be mindful of double pricing

This is kind of a niche tip, but if you love fresh juice as much as I do, you’re probably going to get drawn in by the MANY delicious fruit juice stands around the country.

I just want to warn you that the advertised price that they plaster everywhere (usually it’s very cheap) can often be for a “dine-in” price rather than takeaway.

As in, if you want to take it away in a cup and straw, you’ll pay extra. The small price is only for those who take a glass and drink it on the spot.

This is a little sneaky because sometimes they’ll automatically give it to you in the takeaway cup and straw, then just give you the higher price even though all the signs say one price.

A final note on booze and drugs

Alcohol in Morocco isn’t tough to come by (most hotels will have it, and select bars) but it’s really not that commonly consumed. If you want to have a few drinks during your vacation, go for it!

That said, know that getting too drunk (and roaming about) will probably put you at risk of things like pickpocketing or just falling for the scams we’ve chatted about.

Drugs are a different story. If you’re backpacking through Morocco, odds are at some point you’ll be offered hashish (AKA kif), which is like marijuana. While smoking hashish is often done among locals (and is actually seen as an incentive for some backpackers to visit), it is technically illegal, so remember that.

While I’ve not witnessed this happening, I’ve heard of scams where undercover “cops” try to sell foreigners hashish then get a bribe from you to cover up your crimes… I’ve also heard anecdotes of tourists who were caught and then sent to prison (you can get up to TEN YEARS for it!)

So…. what I’m saying is: buying drugs in Morocco is NOT a great idea.

Morocco Tourist Safety: Moroccan Scams to Watch Out For

Okay, so with all those Morocco safety tips out of the way, let’s tackle some common Moroccan scams.

Again, when it comes to travel safety in Morocco, the #1 thing that you should be wary of is the abundance of scams that are out there so that you can avoid them. If you successfully dodge the following, I promise you’ll have an amazing time:

1. Bad & deceptive tours

I’m listing this as #1 because it can literally ruin your vacation.

I’ve never had this experience as I don’t book that many tours, but several friends of mine have booked tours to go camel riding or do an overnight in the Sahara, only to find super rude guides, deceptive itineraries, and overall just really terrible experiences that left them feeling cheated and disappointed because they were such huge bucket list items for them.

My friend Yishyene describes her terrible experience with “ Marrakech Desert Expeditions ” in this Instagram highlight here.

While I sadly don’t have any tours I personally recommend, a few tips for booking a reliable tour would be…

Read reviews. As many as you can. This will give you a starting point. My rule of thumb is if I read even one very negative experience, I’ll avoid it. Browsing on a trustworthy platform like GetYourGuide is a good idea because you can check out reviews and a lot of tours at once. Click here to compare tours and reviews.

Get first-hand recommendations from friends. If you know someone who did the experience you’re interested in, ask them. This is the best way to get first-hand honest information.

Read detailed reviews from travel bloggers. Haha, I know easy to say coming from a travel blogger 😉 But of course blog posts are MUCH more detailed than reviews on Tripadvisor, and also they aren’t as easily manipulated as other platforms (fake reviews can be purchased easily, FYI). Remember to also read the COMMENTS of said blog post, because this is where others might chime in with their experiences too.

2. The “place is closed” scam

This is a very common scam. If you hear the words “___ is closed”, run for the hills – these guys are trying to lull you into insecurity so they can guide you somewhere else.

The most innocent variation of this is they actually bring you back to your riad or hotel then demand a (big) tip for their services, but they might also take you to their friend’s business and attempt to coerce you into buying something.

This almost happened to be in Marrakesh – a group of us were walking to the Jardin Marjorelle and this random guy insisted that it was closed and that he would take us to a better “local” spot that wasn’t known amongst tourists.

As soon as he turned into a sketchy alley we knew we had to leave.

3. The fake guide scam

Similar to the above, many of the most touristy places in Morocco are filled with fake, unlicensed guides who will want to help show you around.

This can be as innocent as a young boy asking if you’re lost then helping you find your way to your riad, then demanding a tip at the end, or it can be more sophisticated – guys who actually look like they could be tour guides claiming you need a guide to access certain areas, like the Fes tannery.

The best way to avoid these guys is to just ignore them and keep walking.

Any kind of contact (even just a no) will usually get them to follow you for a while, which can be a bit uncomfortable.

Unfortunately, I’ve found that locals approaching YOU in English are very rarely trying to help you out of the goodness of their hearts, and are inevitably expecting a little tip at the end for their services.

If you do need directions, try asking someone who is tethered to their location (e.g. a shopkeeper) because asking a random on the street might turn into them “guiding” you to your destination, which (as you might have guessed) costs $$$.

4. The henna bait and switch

This happened to a friend of mine on my first trip to Morocco , near the Jemma el-Fnna in Marrakesh.

A friend of mine was walking around the square when a woman waved her over for henna. While she wasn’t particularly interested, the woman was giving a very very cheap price, so my friend caved.

5 minutes later, this woman had doodled a ridiculously elaborate henna design on my friend’s arm, sprinkled it with glitter, and then demanded a new price that was like 10x what she had originally said.

When we called her out, she said the small price was for a basic simple design (which she pointed out in her design book) and that my friend got the works, glitter and all so it would be more expensive.

My friend was pissed and paid her maybe half of what she asked then stormed off.

Weirdly enough, my friend then got an allergic reaction to the henna (she said it felt like burning) and rubbed it all off after 15 minutes anyway.

Moral of the story: don’t trust the henna ladies! Unless you’re actually interested in getting henna done, don’t let them lure you in with a cheap price because it’s likely a scam.

Another variation of this common Moroccan scam is (if you get too close) some of the henna women will pretend like they accidentally got a bit of henna on your hand, then they’ll offer to fix it and give you a full design “for free”. As you can expect, this won’t actually be free in the end and you can expect for them to demand payment.

5. The menu bait and switch

I haven’t had this personally happen, but there are some restaurants who apparently have a “cheap” menu at the door to get you inside, then when you go to pay, there’s a new menu with inflated prices.

Another related restaurant scam is sometimes they’ll start bringing you random things you didn’t order, and while unassuming tourists might assume they’re just freebies on the house, they end up charging you for it.

I only had this happen once and it was very small – I think they charged me for bread I didn’t order and the amount was so negligible I couldn’t be too angry. They even showed me on the menu that bread was on there. Just be wary of this!

MY TIP: Always check up on reviews before you eat at a place. People will usually be veryyyy vocal and happy to leave a review if they’ve ever been ripped off.

6. The photo opp scam

Another common scam in Morocco is the photo opp scam.

Although, to be fair, it’s not exactly a scam , it’s more like an unexpected ‘paid attraction’ of sorts.

Basically, you should know that any “super special” photo opp involving elaborate costumes or (sadly) animals does not come free. If you want a photo, then you should expect to pay something.

A good rule of thumb to follow is if someone is beckoning you over for a photo, odds are they will demand money after.

In Jemma el-Fnna Square for example, there are lots of guys with poor monkeys that they’ll want you to take photos with, and also snake charmers and guys holding big snakes too.

If you want a photo, that’s your perogative, but know that they’ll be demanding some dough for it afterwards…!

NOTE: If you hand over your phone to one of the guys to snap the photo for you, odds are good that they won’t return the phone until you give them the amount of money they’re asking for. Just FYI.

7. The paid toilet scam

Public washrooms in Morocco are free.

That said, some opportunists will linger around these toilets and ask for money, assuming that you, a silly tourist, won’t realize it’s not needed. This won’t cost you much, but just something to be mindful of – you are under no obligation to pay for public toilets.

SIDE NOTE: There is often no toilet paper in public toilets, so make sure you have a packet of tissue on you. If there’s an old lady selling tissues outside, she’s not a scammer, just a smart little hustler. I’m always happy to give the toilet paper ladies money – they’re usually super nice.

8. The fake/poor quality goods scam

I’ll be honest with you: the stuff in Morocco is gorgeous to gawk at, but for many of the goods, the quality isn’t spectacular and (sadly) many are mass-produced.

For example, my boyfriend bought a leather bag that he has never ever used because to this day, 2 years after our trip, it still smells like pigeon crap.

Also, two beautiful ceramic bowls I bought chipped immediately and cut me while I was trying to use them for the first time.

And while that’s not really scammy (just something to be mindful of), there is a darker (less common) scam I’ve heard of, where a shopkeeper might sell you on something expensive, like a rug, and then distract you when it’s being packed up so they can ultimately hand you a swapped product of inferior quality.

Beware of that, and don’t let your guard down after you’ve paid.

9. The local love scam

Last but not least, I’ve heard so many sad stories of women getting tricked by local men, even tour guides they’ve met, to thinking they had fallen in love, only to get scammed out of lots of money.

The pattern is usually they’ll convince the woman they’re in love, get the woman to pay for gifts, for hotels, for rent, even to wire them money to help their families, only to ghost them or break up with them when they’ve gotten enough.

This is heartbreaking for obvious reasons, but especially because these guys are SO good at it.

Many women report feeling like it was the real deal, even living with their scammers for long periods of time, meeting their families, etc. when in reality they were playing several women at the same time.

NOTE: This isn’t to say that finding local love in Morocco is impossible… my favourite blog about Morocco is Maroc Mama who fell in love, got married and moved to Morocco for a local man! She’s doing great! But if you think something might be too good to be true, trust your gut and do some research online. If your relationship matches any of the patterns mentioned by other women, then you should be careful.

For men as well, this is a scam that I’ve heard happening a lot online – local women who solicit them online and ask for money transfers, beckoning them to visit and bring gifts, etc. Just something to be wary of…

What about solo female travel in Morocco?

In my honest opinion, I wouldn’t recommend solo female travel in Morocco, particularly if you want to explore solo by yourself, without the company of new friends or a guide.

Morocco as a solo female traveller would be a challenge, for sure.

As I’ve mentioned before, catcalling and street harassment is very common in big cities.

There are a lot of causes to this issue, a few being that Morocco has more rigid and traditional gender roles, and as a whole it’s more of a patriarchal society, but also I’ve heard it’s because for a lot of Moroccan men, their perception of Western women is limited to what they see in things like porn, so they perceive foreign women as more sexually open and scandalous… regardless of what they’re wearing.

It’s a big, complicated and messy issue, but the end result remains the same: travelling around Morocco as a woman means you’ll inevitably get catcalled and in some extreme cases, followed or sexually harassed physically.

But hey, if you’re interested in visiting Morocco as a solo female traveler, it’s definitely not impossible.

I’ve met many women who have done it. I would suggest trying to make friends on the road and keeping solo explorations to a minimum, but you shouldn’t let being solo stop you from experiencing this beautiful country.

I do think that this would not be a place for a beginner solo female traveler, and certainly not if you lack the thick skin it takes to ward off aggressive “suitors”.

In addition to the many tips above, I’ll add that to ward off unwanted advances, you should wear a ring on your ring finger and mention your husband a lot.

Moroccan men do not really respond to things like “boyfriend” or “fiancee”, HUSBAND seems to be the keyword.

Even if you don’t have a husband or if he’s not there, mention him and pretend like he’s nearby.

A final note on the safety of Morocco

Remember, everything in this article comes from my own personal experience and can’t necessarily be generalized to every single person and experience.

I visited primarily the very touristy cities that have had tourism for years – and as a young female I was more at risk for certain types of aggression (e.g. catcalling and verbal harassment) while I was less of a target for others (e.g. violent crime, muggings, etc.)

And while scams suck and nobody likes to be swindled, I have to remind you that it happens to everyone and you shouldn’t let them ruin your vacation.

Morocco really is a beautiful country – the landscapes are unreal, the architecture is beautiful and the food is delicious. Hospitality here (when it’s genuine and not scammy) is unmatched.

I strongly urge you to come here prepared (with all these Morocco safety tips in mind), but if something negative does happen, don’t let it taint your experience!

At the end of the day, even when you get scammed, often the amount is negligible compared to how much you’d pay somewhere else to travel.

Any other questions about Morocco, safety, and travel?

Remember: when travelling in Morocco, safety comes first! Let me know if you have any more questions about safety for tourists in Morocco, or about travelling to Morocco in general. Have a safe trip 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

19 thoughts on “14 Crucial Morocco Safety Tips + Common Scams: Is Morocco Safe For Tourists To Visit?”

Whoa, this is such a thorough guide, Christina! It literally addresses all my doubts about traveling in Morocco as a female traveler. And it’s timely: I’m planning now my trip to Marrakesh, Fes, and Chefchaouen during fall (I think the weather will be cooler then). Bookmarking it!!

This is a great article. I’m traveling to Morocco this summer and knowing what to be aware of really helps. Thank you for sharing!

With the amount of scams and safety issues out there, my husband and I were thinking of taking tours in Morocco. We will be booking them online via Get your guide or something similar. The paper toilet bit reminds me of Cuba. Tons of great information here – thank you for sharing. We are heading there in August – cant wait!

This is an amazing detailed post. I have wanted to visit Morocco for some time now. I’ll be honest in saying that reading this gave me a bit more nerves about the trip than I initially had. However, it also does make me feel more informed and a little wiser. Thanks!

Found you on BPS at FTB and am now a new follower of your blog!

Goodness what an excellent and thorough post! I wish I had seen this before we visited Morocco a few years ago!!

We were scammed a couple of times. The worst one was the henna lady. I kept telling her I didn’t want any henna, as I have really sensitive skin… But she grabbed my arm and wouldn’t let go. I struggled with her for a while so she couldn’t do much, but she still demanded a huge price $60 for a tiny bit of henna that I’d repeatedly said I didn’t want. I was so pissed off, but in the end I paid her something to let go of my arm!

I loved the Atlas mountains and the smaller villages, but I was not a fan of Moroccan larger cities. I’m just not keen on the constant scam worry when I’m on holiday! Its one of those places that isn’t right for everyone…

Having just returned from Morocco, I couldn’t agree more. Some awesome tips in here that are right on the money!

I agree. Morocco can be a trying experience and you need thick skin to survive it. I went to Morocco by myself and spent days walking the souqs alone. As a solo female traveler, I will say that Marrakesh was the hardest place to handle. But, like you say, look like you know where you’re going, say no in Arabic and with a smile, and the harassment goes way down. I found other cities in Morocco much easier to wonder alone in.

I’m going on a tour in Morocco in a couple of weeks, so this is very timely! Another tip I’ve heard for women who are out and about on their own is to wear a headscarf so you don’t stand out so much. I’ll definitely be packing a scarf! But otherwise I’m really excited to finally visit!

Morocco looks amazing. Thanks for sharing your experience. I don’t feel so nervous about visiting now.

SIGH. We spent three weeks in Morocco and never felt unsafe, but WHY WHY WHY of all the countries do shady people have to make traveling there such an unpleasant experience for tourists? We felt pretty much the whole time like the locals had zero interest in us beyond our wallets. Everyone was out to cheat and scam us. WHY?

In the course of a year we visited more than a dozen other countries and basically everyone else all over the world was so much more pleasant and less interested in scamming us. I have a really hard time recommending Morocco to other travelers because, while there’s plenty of cool and interesting stuff to do there, the unethical culture toward visitors is just sorely disappointing and unnecessary. We probably would have spent more money in the country if we’d felt less taken advantage of.

Wow! This is so eye-opening! Everyone should read this before visiting Morocco. I thought I knew about some of the scams and safety tips, but you really opened my eyes to several more! I still want to go, but I’m so glad I read your post!

I went to Morocco years ago (before it exploded as a destination on instagram) with a gay male friend and we had such a bizarre array of safety experiences (we explored some separately and some together). I actually felt safer as a solo woman than with my friend (everyone presumed we were a couple) — yes there was catcalling, but local women were also way more open toward me. When I was with my friend we had a few just strange experiences, most notably on the beach in Tangier when a local guy hung out with us all afternoon, ignored several attempts we made to get him to leave, asked us all kinds of super weird and invasive questions (like “how much money do you have?”), and then invited us to a “party” with his friends. When we left we expected him to follow us, but he totally left us alone. I’m honestly not sure if he was sketchy or just super friendly. We also got into trouble with a pretty aggressive guy who tried to rob us in a quiet alley in Marrakech — he shoved my friend up against a wall and physically threatened him when we said we had no money (which happened to be true — we had literally zero cash and no atm cards between the two of us). Overall we had some great experiences in Morocco but it’s definitely not a place I’m dying to go back to.

This is a great, detailed article. I went to Morocco last year on a field trip for university and we definitely got caught out by some scams. Two guys ended up paying the equivalent of £10 for a tube of Pringles and some LIDL nuts in a little shop we went to – that’s the tourist price for you. My boyfriend and I definitely got caught out at one of the food stalls in Marrakesh when they just started bring us lots and lots of food – I advise being very specific in what you want and checking the price before they bring it out. Steer well clear of the people with monkeys on leashes – a few times they tried to put them on the shoulders of some of group when we weren’t even paying attention to them. All of that said, Morocco is a beautiful country, it was great to explore something completely different, and I felt very safe most of the time (the only time we didn’t was when we accidentally ended up in the tanning district trying to follow Google Maps to somewhere and it was clear we were the only tourists there).

This is an amazing guide! My husband (boyfriend at the time) and I went to Marrakech a few years ago, and I was totally overwhelmed by much of what you’ve said above (also, a lot of culture shock). Ultimately, we figured these things out and ended up loving the city, but it’s so important to look past those barriers! Can’t wait to read more of your stuff!

Wonderful photos and very useful. This place looks so exciting makes me want to go and walk around city ❤️❤️

Christina, thank you for featuring my blog and my perspective of a traveling black woman in Morocco! I 1000% agree with the points you made in your article. I hope that people read this to stay informed and take that wisdom with them as they travel to Morocco and perhaps other places around the world that may seem a bit sketchy or scary from a media/tv angle. Happy traveling!

Hello .thank you for this insight.my daughter is on honeymoon there at the min…while it has put my mind at ease a bit .its opened a lot more questions I get the feeling if they think you have not read the guidelines on THERE country then its our own fault. Luckly my daughter read what I could find on the place..but to me a holiday somewhere so beautiful like marroco why hide it behind a wall and call it a complex. She has been told its at there own risk if they want to leave the complex .the son in law has just informed me they was asked if they wanted to buy HASHISH yesterday.thank goodness due to them not having a clue what it was they sad no.I’ve just told them what your arrival said shocked is an understatement for them both. Thank you for your blunt honest Lisa ( a worried mum)

I’ve just returned from traveling throughout Morocco. I referred to your posts many times before and during our trip. I agree with everything you’ve written above. We definitely felt the least safe in Marrakech. After a very close call with a pickpocketer (his hand was literally in my front pants pocket) we decided that if one of us needed to use our phone or wallet, we’d huddle together. We also found it useful to ask our Airbnb host lots of questions, like what’s a fair price for the taxi? Where is a safe place to change money? etc. Airbnb was great because it gave us local contacts. Be mindful while traveling with luggage- someone tried to steal our luggage from the trunk of our parked taxi while we paid our driver. All that said, I’d go back because the pros definitely outweighed the cons.

My family and I will be going to Morocco very soon, so I am glad I came across this particular article. This article was very helpful and had great details about what scams are present and how to deal with them. I am very much so looking forward to visiting Morocco, and now I am much more well informed. Thanks!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Morocco Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, morocco - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Morocco due to  terrorism .

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Morocco. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Morocco.

If you decide to travel to Morocco:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Morocco.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, morocco map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Morocco Travel Guide

Stunning interior gardens, courtyards, and delicious tajines, spanning from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara.

Best time to visit Morocco

Rent a car in morocco, best places to visit in morocco, sahara morocco: visit the merzouga desert on a 3-day tour, 9 best things to do in chefchaouen, morocco, 11 things to do in fes, morocco (complete guide), map of morocco, weather in morocco.

Morocco's weather is primarily dry year round, with mild winters, and intensely hot summers. Springtime, from March to May, is the most beautiful time to visit as landscapes bloom. September to November are also very pleasant months, ideal for exploring.

Destinations in Morocco

Things to do in marrakech, morocco: a 3-day guide, how to rent a car in morocco, best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Morocco via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Morocco worth visiting?

Morocco is an incredibly stunning and diverse country, full of wonder. Home to the Sahara desert, the Atlas Mountains, stunning architecture, lively medinas, calming hammams, bustling souks, and tranquil gardens, it’s a destination that’ll overload your senses but captivating to explore. 

Is Morocco cheap to visit?

Enjoy this Moroccan charm without breaking the bank! While there are some very luxurious hotels and experiences in Morocco, it tends to be a very affordable travel destination; with tempting stalls selling delicious food for $5 and quaint riads starting at $20 a night, there are options for everyone.

Can I drink tap water in Morocco?

While most locals will drink tap water, it’s recommended to avoid it as a traveler. Stay hydrated by using a reusable water bottle with a filter system, or purchase a large bottle that you can refill from during your trip.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Morocco?

Good news! Most travelers can explore Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Check your country’s specific entry requirements before your trip, and when entering the country, make sure to get your passport stamped on arrival.

What language do they speak in Morocco?

Moroccan Arabic is the native language of Morocco, amongst other languages, depending on the area. Virtually all Moroccans will be able to speak French, and in the main tourist areas, English is also widely spoken, so you should have no problems getting by. 

Do I need travel insurance for Morocco?

While traveling around beautiful Morocco, unforeseen circumstances may arise, like lost belongings and medical emergencies. Having travel insurance will keep you protected on the go and ensure peace of mind.

Is Morocco safe?

Morocco is a safe country to travel to, with friendly locals keen to chat. Petty crime does exist, so it’s always a good idea to exercise caution, leave valuables out of sight, avoid back alleys, and make sure not to walk alone at night. However, for the most part, Morocco is a beautiful place to explore worry-free!

What power plug type does Morocco have?

The standard plug used in Morocco is the two round pin plugs, known as plug type C and E. Make sure to bring your adapters or purchase one at the airport to keep connected during your trip.

Why do people love Morocco?

Morocco is loved for its incredibly diverse experiences and sensory delights. One moment, you can be experiencing sunrise on a camel in the Sahara Desert , the next enjoying a delicious tagine on a rooftop in Marrakesh, or wandering the blue streets of Chefchaouen. Morocco has it all!

Travel in Morocco 

A mesmerizing land of diversity, Morocco guarantees to enlighten all your senses. From majestic mountains, serene beaches, and quaint gardens to bustling medinas, camel riding in the desert, and tea with Berbers, a vacation in Morocco promises to be full of surprises.

How to plan your trip to Morocco

Use our Morocco travel guides to create the ultimate adventure! Whether you’re planning a weekend break to Marrakech , keen to get lost in the ‘Blue Pearl’ city of Chefchaouen , or looking for a breathtaking Sahara desert experience, our guides have you covered with all you need to plan the perfect Morocco holiday . 

Backpacking around the country? 10 days in Morocco gives you a great amount of time to experience the best places in Morocco . 

Best time to visit Morocco 

Heading on vacation to Morocco ? Before your trip, it’s essential to pick the best season to explore this bustling destination!

Spring and Autumn (March – May, September – October): The best time to visit Morocco is in Spring and Autumn, between March and May and September and October. This period brings warm temperatures between 20°C – 30°C and sunny skies, making travel throughout the country very pleasant. Spring is also when the landscape starts to bloom, making it incredibly beautiful! 

Winter (November – February): Morocco rarely sees any rain, so while winters are colder, they’re still dry and great for exploring cities, ranging between 16°C and 21°C. The months of November and February can be amazing times to visit; tourist hotspots are quieter, and the temperature is still warm, with only a light jacket needed for your trip. While the rest of Morocco remains relatively mild, if you’re looking for snowy adventures, head to the Atlas Mountains, where you’ll have the opportunity to go skiing and snowboarding. 

Summer (July and August): July and August are the height of the summer and the hottest months of the year. We’d recommend avoiding these months as the heat can become extremely unpleasant in the cities. The coast can be a little more bearable, so this may be the best time to visit Morocco if you’re planning on a relaxing beach vacation. 

Other than the summer months, which may be too hot for most, Morocco’s weather is typically beautiful and sunny year-round, perfect for exploring or even doing some snowy activities! 

Coastlines and beaches in Morocco

Morocco might not be the first place that pops to mind when you think of sun, sea, and sand, but with nearly 2,000 km worth of coastline, Morocco has some incredible and unique beaches to explore. 

One of the most laid-back coastal towns is Essaouira, a vibrant fishing port and medina, home to a long stretch of golden sand perfect for watersports. For a more unique experience, head to Legzira Beach, home to natural piercing red rock arches — a mesmerizing sight to behold. If you’re looking for the best places in Morocco to surf, the relaxed fishing village of Taghazout is home to amazing waves, with Devil’s Rock Beach becoming a hot spot for surfers worldwide. 

From sunbathing on the Mediterranean sand to surfing the chilly Atlantic waves, there’s something for everyone, offering a calming escape from the hustle and bustle of Morocco’s lively cities. 

Food, culture, and religion in Morocco

From the divine aromas of Moroccan cuisine to the calming calls of prayer and the vibrant colors of the medinas, Morocco is a place where food, culture, and religion beautifully intertwine, creating a uniquely immersive experience. 

Food: The heart of Moroccan culture lies in its cuisine, bursting with aromatic flavors and spices. Delicious dishes like tagines, couscous, and m’hanncha take you on a journey with your taste buds filled with different spices, unique to whoever created them. Tea also plays a huge part in Moroccan life, taking great care of every step of the brewing and pouring process. This tradition gestures hospitality and friendship, sharing alluring stories along the way. 

Culture: Moroccan culture is also vivid in its intricately designed architecture and artwork, with palaces covered in elaborate styles and souks showcasing craftsmanship through woodwork, textiles, and ceramics; each piece of art tells a story. 

Religion: Religion plays a significant role in Moroccan life, with most of the population following Islam. As you travel Morocco , you’ll see and hear this influence through the magnificent mosques and soothing calls to prayer, the daily routines of locals, and their customs.

Why you should travel to Morocco

Morocco is a wonderfully chaotic yet beautifully quiet country. Journey through the bustling medinas of Fes and Marrakech to the tranquil Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. The diverse experiences Morocco has to offer promise unforgettable memories. 

There’s something for everyone in Morocco. For the backpacker looking to immerse their senses, the labyrinthine streets and souks will have you in awe, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life. For those looking to unwind on their Morocco holiday , the numerous exquisitely designed riads will offer you your own tranquil paradise away from the hustle and bustle. Alternatively, choose the Agafay and the Sahara Desert , with their awe-inspiring landscapes, for epic, adventurous activities and clear, starry nights. 

The unique experiences, incredible landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm locals of Morocco are truly something special. 

Safety and travel advice Morocco

Traveling Morocco, a tantalizingly mysterious country in Africa, can be a challenging yet rewarding place to visit. Taking necessary precautions will help you get the most out of your trip. 

Crime and safety in Morocco: Crime rates are relatively low, but like many tourist destinations, scam artists, overly persistent vendors, and pickpocketers can be expected in popular tourist areas. When visiting busy cities like Marrakech and Fes , you’ll find many touts trying to sell you things or unlicensed tour guides offering to show you where to go for “no money”, but then demanding payment once they’ve taken you there. In this case, simply provide a polite ‘no’ and walk away. It’s always a good idea to exercise caution, leaving valuables out of sight, and at night, making sure not to walk alone. 

Solo female travelers: While Morocco is relatively safe to travel as a solo female, it’s always safer to travel with someone else if you can do so, particularly if you’re not an experienced traveler. As a Muslim country, it’s worth respecting local customs by dressing modestly (consider wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers your knees and shoulders to avoid unwanted attention). Also, refrain from walking alone, especially at night and within quieter areas. 

Natural Disasters: Although natural disasters occur infrequently, Morocco is in an earthquake zone. Typically, earthquakes are minor and will go unnoticed, but there are cases of more significant incidents, with the last happening in September 2023. While this shouldn’t put you off visiting, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake and stay informed during your trip by registering with your embassy. 

Driving in Morocco: Renting a car in Morocco allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Traffic in the major cities can be challenging, whereas driving in the countryside is extremely quiet, and most main roads are generally well maintained. Don’t be afraid of using the car horn, as it’s seen as a form of communication. Additionally, never leave your passport with the rental company while you hire the vehicle, and always keep your documents close to you, as there are many police checkpoints.

Travel Insurance: Don’t forget travel insurance for your vacation in Morocco! This will cover you for unexpected incidents such as medical emergencies, flight delays, and theft, ensuring you have a worry-free trip. Find the best travel insurance for you .

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now? Latest travel advice

Here is everything we know about travelling to Morocco amidst the conflict in Israel

As the  Israel-Hamas conflict  rumbles on, many travellers are worried about the safety of visiting destinations such as Egypt , Jordan and Morocco. It’s worth noting that Morocco is around 3,555km away from Gaza – about as far from Gaza as the UK is. However, travellers might be concerned about visiting the country in a climate of political instability and following the September 8 earthquake in Morocco . Here is everything we know about travelling to Morocco and Marrakech right now.

Is it safe to travel to Morocco at the moment?

Morocco is open to international visitors and is generally regarded as safe to visit. 

What about Marrakech?

Despite the recent earthquake severely impacting Marrakech, the city is now considered safe to visit. As is the case with most major cities, travellers are advised to be wary of pickpockets and petty crime.

What has the Foreign Office said?

The UK Foreign Office does not currently advise against travel to Morocco, though on October 16 it did update its advice to exercise caution and avoid political demonstrations.

Has Morocco been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Geographically speaking, Morocco is very far away from Israel. However, as is the case in many countries across the world, Moroccans have taken to the streets to protest the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Read all the latest travel advice for Jordan , Türkiye , and Egypt and Israel .  For all the information about helping those affected by the conflict in Israel, read  our guide on charities and organisations providing vital aid and where you can donate .

Stay in the loop: sign up to our   free Time Out travel newsletter   for all the latest travel news. 

• Grace Beard Travel Editor

Share the story

An email you’ll actually love

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

18 things to know before traveling to Morocco

Oct 15, 2023 • 7 min read

It helps to learn a little lingo: here's what to know before your trip to Morocco © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images

I am originally from the UK and have been living in Morocco since 2018. There are things I wish I'd known before jumping headfirst into the seemingly lawless world of Moroccan taxis and bargaining in the souqs.

Morocco reveals the full spectrum of real life: the good, the bad, the ugly and the oh-so beautiful. For some visitors, Morocco can be a huge culture shock. But with some awareness and understanding, it is possible to appreciate these differences, connect more deeply and see the country through a different lens without trying to change it.

1. Plan your itinerary loosely and allow for changes

Research the places in Morocco you’d like to visit but leave wiggle room for changes along the way and enjoy the spontaneity that Morocco allows. While it’s possible to pre-book tours and activities, it’s usually just as easy to reserve them when you arrive in the country.

2. Take public transport, especially in cities

Driving in cities such as Casablanca and Marrakesh is best left to the locals. Getting around Morocco is easy, even without a car. An excellent train network links many cities, including Africa’s first high-speed train, Al Boraq , between Casablanca and Tangier . A comfortable and reliable bus network connects towns big and small. Book train and bus tickets a day or two in advance to ensure the travel time you'd like.

3. Book professional guides

To get the most out of your trip to Morocco, use a guide who has in-depth expertise and speaks your language. In cities, check with the local tourism office or your accommodations for recommendations for licensed guides in the area. If you’re surfing, check ISA’s directory of certified instructors .

Hiking guides are mandatory for climbing Mt Toubkal in the High Atlas. Check with Bureau des Guides .

4. Understand the written and unwritten rules of the road

In Morocco, you drive on the right side of the road and seatbelts are mandatory, even though some taxis don't have them. Car horns are used often - not in an aggressive way, but as a means of communication. 

Watch out for people, bicycles, motorcycles and animals coming from all sides. Avoid driving at night because some vehicles do not have or use their lights. Take notice of the speed limits and the roundabouts that have stoplight systems. If you’re stopped for speeding – police speed checks are common – or other penalties, having cash on you to pay fines (usually between Dh150 ($15US) and Dh300) is preferable to going to a local police station.

5. Practice the art of haggling 

Haggling is a game and part of the shopping experience in Morocco . Try not to get frustrated – the ideal scenario is that both sides come away feeling like they got a fair price. 

For big purchases, do your research, have a price in mind or shop around until you do. Sometimes vendors say to pay what you feel like, so if you don't have a price, ask some questions: how many hours did it take to make? Where did the materials come from and at what price?

The souqs are filled with fake tennis shoes, which are just that: fakes. Many Moroccans don't care whether their Nikes are original; they just want the best price for the latest styles.

6. Cash or card?  

The Moroccan dirham is a closed currency, which means you cannot use or get it outside the country. Morocco’s rural areas still operate on a cash economy, but cards are widely accepted in towns and cities.

7. Learn some of the lingo 

A mixture of French, Arabic, Amazigh and English is spoken in Morocco, depending on where you are in the country. Don't expect everyone to speak English. Apps like Google Translate can be useful, but learning some basic Arabic phrases will reward you with feeling more connected and engaged with people you meet.

8. Respect the motto of ‘God, king and country’

These words are etched on hills around the country. Islam is the state religion, and the rules of Islam are applied to personal matters in the same way that state law works in other countries. It is illegal to speak disrespectfully about religion or the king. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter mosques or cemeteries, except the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca . Friday is a holy day across the country, and most people take a few hours off in the afternoon to go to the mosque and eat couscous with their families afterward. Check business opening times before you visit if you're heading to a particular place on a Friday.

The holy month of Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid offer a different cultural experience, and during these times many places will be closed.

9. Things to know before going to Marrakesh

Marrakesh is the most popular city in Morocco for visitors, so pre-book entrance tickets to major attractions such as Jardin Majorelle and Musée Yves Saint Laurent online to avoid waiting in line. The Marrakesh medina comes to life around 5 p.m., but the 'pink city' is more than just the medina – spend time exploring Gueliz and step off the main boulevards onto the leafy side streets to discover pretty street cafes, bistro restaurants and small indie boutiques.

10. The dress code depends on where you are

To visit the Hassan II Mosque and other religious sites, visitors – both men and women – must cover to their shoulders and knees. Dress modestly in cities and towns to avoid unwanted attention. At bars and nightclubs, almost anything goes, but in rural areas, cover up and be respectful of the local customs. 

At the beach, you can wear shorts, dresses, vest tops and swimwear including bikinis. Pack comfortable footwear that’s suitable for uneven roads and a scarf to cover your shoulders.

11. Ask before taking photos of people 

No matter where you are in the world, it’s best to ask permission before taking someone’s photo. Many people are fine with it, but others aren’t. Some may ask for money. Do not take photos of military or government buildings. Drones are not allowed in Morocco without special permission. 

12. Learn how to deal with the hassle

Simply ignore people who offer goods that you do not want. There's no need to be polite to everyone who wants to sell you something. By not reacting, they'll get bored and walk away. 

In some places you may receive comments and, at worst, inappropriate behavior, but shouting ‘Police!’ will send these people away. In Marrakesh, there's also a high chance you will alert the undercover tourist police.

13. Can you drink alcohol in Morocco? 

Even though alcohol is forbidden by Islamic law, it is widely available and sold in licensed wine shops and international grocery stores. Not all bars and restaurants serve alcohol. 

14. Eat with your right hand

Moroccan cuisine such as tagines and grilled fish are traditionally eaten with bread using your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean because it’s typically the hand used when going to the toilet. 

15. It’s okay to get lost

Getting lost is part of the joy of exploring Morocco with its unmarked roads, the maze of souq alleys and areas of no cell phone reception. Relax but be aware of your surroundings and ask for help if you need it.

In medinas, it’s helpful to know that if the street sign is a hexagon, it's a dead end. If it’s a square, it’s a through street.

16. Don’t drink the tap water

Morocco’s tap water is not safe to drink. Bring a water bottle with a filter to avoid buying plastic.

17. Bring tissues for public toilets

Some public toilets do not have toilet paper. Unless you are comfortable using water to clean yourself, keep a pack of tissues and some anti-bacterial hand gel or wipes on you.

18. Street cats and dogs are everywhere and part of the community 

It’s best not to feed street animals from your table because they might not leave, but you can keep leftovers and feed them elsewhere on the street.

See whether a rescue center is set up in the communities you’re visiting and show your support with donations or by volunteering your time.

Explore related stories

Festivals & Events

Mar 11, 2024 • 5 min read

Morocco is a fantastic year-round vacation destination, but the best time of year to travel will depend on your interests and holiday needs.

Feb 7, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 31, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 27, 2024 • 15 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Nov 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 24, 2023 • 8 min read

Nov 20, 2023 • 5 min read

Oct 11, 2023 • 7 min read

Is it safe to travel to Morocco?

Morocco is a safe country to travel to as long as you understand its laws and cultural customs and adhere to the status quo. Its crime rates are relatively low but be aware of scam artists and pickpockets which can be common.

Morocco has seen a huge rise in foreign visitor numbers in recent years, as many tourists are looking for an adventurous and unique travel experience. When travelling to a country that ticks these boxes, other aspects, such as public safety and societal norms, may be different to what you're used to.

Tourist hotspots, like Marrakech, Fes and Essaouira, are considered safer than rural and remote regions like the Atlas Mountains as they see tourists regularly, but unique challenges and threats are present for many people across the country. Morocco is a conservative Islamic country, so if you are a solo traveller, a female traveller and/or a person who identifies as LGBTQIA+, you may face extra challenges. It is important, whoever you are, to be extra diligent when travelling through Morocco, to understand the risks that you may face and know how to avoid or deal with them.

Much of Morocco's economy is dependant on tourism, and many locals have decided to prey on visitors with scams and 'tourist traps' that can catch even a seasoned traveller by surprise. 

Petty crime and pickpocketing is a common problem in Morocco, especially around souqs and medinas. Keep your valuables safe by carrying small amounts of cash, not wearing expensive jewellery, and keeping money or valuables out of sight and easy-to-reach pockets. When purchasing goods at markets, be prepared for aggressive begging and selling tactics from vendors, especially if they are aware that you have a lot of cash on you. An aggressive approach to begging is also quite common around ATMs in tourist hotspots. Above all, leave your passport and spare cash locked securely in your hotel safe.

When sightseeing around tourist hotspots in Morocco's main towns and cities, you may come across people who say they are official 'tour guides' or a 'helpful local'. Be wary of these services – there are many unlicensed tour guides, especially in Fes and Marrakech, who will offer to take you – at an inflated price – to establishments where they make commission on any purchases made. Do your research on city tours, and if you do get approached on the streets, be firm and direct in declining their offer. Sometimes, they may still demand payment even if they just followed behind you for a section of your sightseeing. They may say 'no money', but they'll want to be paid.

Taxis in Morocco, like many countries around the world, are often a tourist trap. When travelling by taxi in Morocco, always negotiate a price up front, as many drivers will inflate the price substantially when you arrive at your destination.

Morocco is not a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers who wish to openly express sexuality and/or gender identity outside of a very rigid, heterosexual binary. LGBTQIA+ travellers who want to visit Morocco should exercise caution and avoid engaging in even mild public displays of affection such as hand-holding. 

In many areas of Morocco, particularly at night, women may feel uncomfortable with the approaches or attention from locals. Unfortunately, verbal harassment on the streets is relatively common in Morocco and women can be specifically targeted if walking alone at any time of the day. Female travellers, especially if by themselves, can attract unwanted attention from men on the streets and have an increased chance of being followed, accosted and sometimes assaulted. If possible, travel in groups of three or more and keep to well-lit streets when on the move.

Part of Intrepid’s travel ethos involves respecting local cultures and sensibilities. In Morocco, it is important to be more conservatively dressed than what you may be used to, especially in and around religious sites such as mosques. Consider clothing that covers the knee and shoulder for day-to-day travel, and when visiting mosques, ensure that your clothing covers elbow to ankle. It's also important to cover your hair with a scarf.

It's a good idea to be cautious even when in private spaces in Morocco. At your accommodation, lock your door even when you are inside, and avoid being alone in your room with hotel staff. If hotel staff need access to your room for any reason, for your safety, request they attend to the issue while you are out, or wait at reception while they complete any cleaning or repairs. Ensure your valuables are all accounted for and either kept on your person or locked securely in your hotel safe. When you leave the hotel, take a hotel card with you so you know the address and contact numbers.

Travel as a small group when walking and sightseeing, especially at night

Lock away your valuables

Do your research on city tours and rural stays

Respect local dress codes and customs

Avoid drinking the tap water

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Is it safe to visit Morocco? Latest travel advice

F ollowing the outbreak of war in Israel and Gaza and the recent escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran, some people may be concerned about the safety of travelling to Morocco or other areas in North Africa and the Middle East right now.

Here’s everything you need to know about travel to Morocco, whether it is safe to visit, and your rights if you do decide to cancel your upcoming holiday.

What does the FCDO say about travel to Morocco?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not issued any blanket advisories against travel to Morocco. This means that travel insurance will be valid when visiting the country.

However, the FCDO has updated its advice to say: “On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. On 19 April, there have been reports of explosions in Iran, and unconfirmed reports of explosions in Syria and Iraq. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.”

You can see the full Morocco FCDO advice here .

Are flights still operating as usual to Morocco?

Yes. Flights from the UK to Morocco do not go in the vicinity of the Middle East. Morocco is 2,500 miles away from Tel Aviv as the crow flies. By way of comparison, London is closer: 2,200 miles from Israel. So geographical proximity alone should not be a consideration for any upcoming travel plans.

Is Morocco impacted by the Israel-Hamas war?

To date Morocco has not been impacted by the conflict, although large-scale pro-Palestine marches have taken place in the country. The FCDO warns: “There is currently a heightened chance of demonstrations and protests occurring across the country. You should avoid these gatherings, and be aware of the potential for protests to occur spontaneously. Protests can happen at short notice and are generally heavily policed. Demonstrations are mostly peaceful but there has been isolated violence. Demonstrations and protests may lead to increased travel disruption in affected areas.”

Is Morocco still recovering from the 2023 earthquake?

On September 8, 2023, a 6.8–6.9 magnitude earthquake struck the Marrakesh–Safi region of Morocco. The epicentre was 45 miles (73km) southwest of Marrakesh, near the small town of Ighil and the Oukaïmeden ski resort in the Atlas Mountains.

Some 3,000 people were killed and more than 6.6 million Moroccans were affected by the earthquake, according to the Moroccan government.

There was considerable devastation across the remote mountain communities of the Atlas Mountains, and Marrakech, a city popular among tourists, experienced significant damage including building collapses. In some parts of the country the rebuilding process continues, but Marrakech’s airport is open and the country is very much open for tourism once again.

On the subject of earthquakes in Morocco, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) says: “Morocco is in an earthquake zone. Minor earthquakes happen occasionally. The last major earthquake was in 2023, which killed almost 3000 people. Familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake and take note of any instructions in hotel rooms.”

Is terrorism a risk in Morocco?

In 2018, two tourists were murdered while hiking near Mount Toubkal, and the FCDO advises: “Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco.”

The FCDO adds: “There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells.”

Places at higher risk include crowded areas, government installations, transportation networks, businesses with Western interest, and areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather.

“Be vigilant in these areas and follow any specific advice of the local security authorities,” the FCDO adds.

What if I want to cancel my holiday?

If you have booked a package holiday to Morocco and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any formal advice against travel to Turkey, there is no guarantee you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

This story was first published in October 2023 and has been revised and updated.

Sign up to the Front Page newsletter for free: Your essential guide to the day's agenda from The Telegraph - direct to your inbox seven days a week.

Is Morocco Safe for Americans? Unpacking the Truth

We use affiliate links, and receive a small commission if you make purchases through them. Find out more here .

Unlock the Ultimate Guide to Airline Luggage Allowances

Don’t get caught off guard by unexpected baggage fees! With this comprehensive eBook, you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

For many Americans, the allure of Morocco’s ancient cities, flavorful cuisine, and colorful markets is hard to resist. Yet, whispers of safety concerns can sometimes dim this allure. Let’s dive deep and uncover the real situation on the ground.

TL;DR: Morocco Safety at a Glance

• U.S. Department of State gives Morocco a Level 2 Travel Advisory.
• Most common crimes: simple theft and fraud.
• Experts, including World Nomads, suggest using common sense and following local customs for a safe experience.

Deciphering the Safety Numbers

Statistics don’t lie, but they often need context. According to the U.S. Department of State , Morocco sits at a Level 2 Travel Advisory. This essentially means travelers should be vigilant, mainly due to potential terrorism threats. However, it’s worth noting that many countries, including several European destinations, share this same advisory.

Crime in Morocco: Perception vs. Reality

The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) pegs Morocco’s crime rate as medium, with theft and fraud leading the charts. Like in any other country, bustling marketplaces and crowded transit points are hotspots for pickpockets. Still, violent crime remains relatively rare, especially against tourists.

Expert Speak: World Nomads Chimes In

World Nomads, a trusted voice in travel, sheds a positive light: “ Morocco is a safe place to visit if you follow the local laws and customs. ” Their emphasis? Common sense! Steering clear of late-night alleys, respecting local customs, especially in more conservative areas, can make all the difference.

Flora’s Insider Tips for a Safe Moroccan Adventure

While Morocco is overall a welcoming destination, Flora Goodwin shares some golden nuggets to ensure a hitch-free journey:

• Local Etiquette: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and during religious festivities.
• Bargain, but with Respect: Haggling is a sport in Moroccan markets, but always keep it friendly.
• Stay Updated: Government advisories are good, but real-time traveler forums offer up-to-the-minute insights.

Navigating the Nuances of Moroccan Culture

One of the undeniable attractions of Morocco is its rich tapestry of culture and tradition. However, understanding the nuances of Moroccan etiquette can play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. A couple of insights can make the difference between a faux pas and a warm interaction with the locals.

For starters, the Moroccan greeting ritual can be quite elaborate. It’s customary to engage in some light conversation before delving into the main topic of discussion. Ask about family, health, or even the weather – it’s a sign of respect and goodwill.

The Moroccan Tea Ritual

Then, there’s the famous Moroccan mint tea, often referred to as “Moroccan whiskey” because of its importance in local culture. If you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s customary to be offered this sweet beverage. It’s not just a drink; it’s a ceremony. The tea is poured from a height to create a frothy top, and it’s often enjoyed in three rounds, with each having its distinct flavor. Declining the offer could be seen as impolite, so even if you’re not a tea aficionado, it’s best to accept graciously.

Furthermore, while Moroccans are known for their hospitality, they also value privacy. High walls often surround houses, keeping the interiors hidden. It’s a stark contrast to the bustling streets and markets outside, emphasizing the distinction between public and private spaces. So, if you’re curious about the stunning Riads or traditional houses, it’s best to wait for an invitation rather than intruding.

In Conclusion: Morocco Awaits, with Caution

For the intrepid American traveler, Morocco offers an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. Safety? It’s about balance and awareness. By taking a few precautions and respecting the local culture, Morocco’s charm can be fully embraced.

What’s the general attitude of Moroccans towards American tourists?

Friendly and welcoming! Many Moroccans value the economic and cultural exchange tourists bring.

Is it safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, with caution. Dress modestly, avoid late-night outings, and always inform someone about your whereabouts.

Any specific areas to avoid?

Like any nation, certain areas might be less tourist-friendly. Always check up-to-date travel advisories and forums for detailed information.

• U.S. Department of State – Morocco Travel Advisory
• Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) – Morocco 2020 Crime Report
• World Nomads – Morocco Travel Safety Guide

This post is also available in: English

You Might Also Enjoy

One response to “Is Morocco Safe for Americans? Unpacking the Truth”

Deborah Green, your post really resonated with me! As an avid gardener, I’ve found that adding coffee grounds to my soil works wonders just like you mentioned. Have you tried this with indoor plants as well? I’d also suggest readers to consider using eggshells as a natural fertilizer. They provide a great calcium boost! I’ve personally seen a significant growth in my tomato plants since I started using them. What’s your take on this? 🍅🌱

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Featured in

GET CONNECTED

Follow Clever Journey on social media for travel tips, packing hacks, and latest updates!

SUB TO NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest travel tips, packing hacks, gear reviews, and bargain deals straight to your inbox. We hate spam, so we’ll send only the most important stuff.

Accessibility Links

Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now? Latest travel advice

Here is the latest foreign office advice following iran’s military attack on israel.

O n April 19, Israel reportedly launched a retaliatory attack on Iran , in response to missile and drone attacks on Israel on April 13. The UK Foreign Office’s advice for Morocco has not changed following this, however it has highlighted that the situation is “changing fast”, and that visitors should monitor its advice before their trip. Additionally, it advises visitors that it’s more important than ever to get travel insurance and check that it provides sufficient cover before visiting the country.

Just three hours’ flight away with an hour’s time difference, Morocco is a short-haul option that offers holidaymakers endless variety at often incredibly affordable prices. The earthquake in the Atlas Mountains in September 2023 has deterred some tourists, but there are still plenty of reasons to visit. In cities like Marrakesh and Rabat, magnificent examples of Arabic architecture can be found in mosques, schools and historic sites, while expansive souks offer up the equivalent of Aladdin’s cave, filled with trinkets, carpets and handmade furniture. A bohemian vibe permeates its west coast, especially in Essaouira, where surfers flock for the reliable waves and affordable hotels. And then there are the mountains and desert for those looking for adventure.

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Morocco?

The UK Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to any part of Morocco. However, it does state that terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks. In particular, there is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups.

The places highlighted as being at heightened risk include crowded areas, government buildings, transport networks, businesses with Western interests, and areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather. You should stay vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities, the Foreign Office advises.

• Best hotels in Morocco • Best hotels in Marrakesh

Advertisement

Has morocco been affected by the israel-hamas conflict.

Geographically speaking, as Morocco is very far from Israel it’s not directly affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

At the end of December 2020, Israel and Morocco also signed a normalisation agreement, which means both nations recognise each other’s sovereignty and are committed to establishing normal diplomatic relations.

However, within Morocco there is significant support for Palestinians with rallies taking place in the capital Rabat. The Foreign Office advises avoiding any kind of political protests.

• Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? • Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now?

Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?

There’s no reason not to travel to Morocco, but there are some safety considerations to bear in mind.

Although there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign nationals, the UK Foreign Office warns that this cannot be ruled out in advice that also applies to other countries in northern Africa. The threat comes from terror groups from Libya, Mauritania, and the Sahel, who use it for financial or political gain.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and drive-by motorcycle theft are common in Morocco, particularly in tourist areas such historic quarters and beaches. There have also been occasional reports of violent crime where weapons such as knives have been used against tourists in street attacks and burglary. The Foreign Office advises avoiding quiet areas after dark and not to carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.

Which areas were affected by the 2023 earthquake?

Close to 3,000 people died in Morocco after a devastating earthquake hit a remote area of the Atlas Mountains on September 8, 2023. Most of the deaths and injuries occurred in the mountain villages, which are often remote and difficult to access.

In Marrakesh, the nearest tourist hub, some buildings collapsed or were damaged as a result of the earthquake. Most of the damage was in the medina, a Unesco world heritage site and the oldest part of the city. Many of the buildings here are historic, and were not built to withstand natural disasters like earthquakes.

Agadir and Essaouira also experienced some superficial damage to buildings but were otherwise unaffected by the earthquake.

The country is, however, open to tourism, and the income from tourism is certainly appreciated by those affected by the earthquake.

• Best riads in Marrakesh • Best villas in Morocco

What are Morocco’s entry requirements?

British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Morocco for the purpose of tourism, and they can stay for up to 90 days. To stay for longer than 90 days, request an extension at a local police station.

Your passport should be valid for at least three months on the day you enter Morocco. Your passport should not be damaged as otherwise you may be refused entry. You should also make sure your passport is stamped on entry, as you may experience difficulties leaving.

Is Morocco safe for female travellers?

Morocco is generally considered safe for female travellers, especially in holiday resorts. However, if you’re travelling alone, you may receive unwanted attention from men. The Foreign Office advises wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms, legs and chest.

• What can women do to stay safe while abroad?

Is Morocco safe for LGBT travellers?

Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco, although it remains a popular destination for LGBT travellers. The Foreign Office advises against public displays of affection, which may cause offence and lead to prosecution.

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? Latest advice

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here

Related articles

Is Morocco Safe to Visit in 2024? (Expert Opinion & Safety Tips)

Written by: Author Andrew Helling  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

Posted on Last updated: November 1, 2023 - Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Learn more

The country of Morocco in North Africa is a popular tourist destination and people from all over the world visit to explore its beautiful nature and historic cities. The country hosts about 12 million tourists annually .

Most tourists visit the souks, medieval medinas, and royal palaces of Morocco’s main cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fez. The country is also dotted with smaller towns, such as the famous all-blue Chefchaouen.

The country’s stark desert and mountainous landscapes attract adventurous tourists, who explore the Sahara at Merzouga or climb the inhospitable Atlas Mountains.

But while there’s countless things to see and do in this country rich in history and culture, is Morocco safe to visit? Here’s our take.

Is Morocco Safe to Visit in 2024?

Balate Dorin/Shutterstock

Yes. Morocco is very safe to visit, which is why it is so popular among tourists. Although there are some threats to safety, such as terrorism and crime, these incidents are fairly rare in Morocco.

The most likely problem you will run into as a visitor is some overzealous pickpocketing. That being said, you should take some safety precautions while in the country.

Travel advisories from your country or the government of another country can help you gauge if a trip to Morocco is a safe option for you. Most countries advise that travel is possible, but that travelers should exercise increased caution.

The United States is one of many countries that places Morocco under a Level Two travel advisory . Common problems that countries mention in their travel advisories for Morocco include:

• Purse snatching
• Pickpocketing
• Armed robbery

The risk of these problems is much lower in Morocco than in many other countries in North Africa, but it is still present. It is better to be aware of these problems than to walk into Morocco without taking the right precautions.

The risk of civil unrest in Morocco has increased recently, especially due to the situation in Israel/Palestine. There have been massive pro-Palestine demonstrations in the country, and some demonstrators shouted anti-Western slogans

It’s a good idea to avoid these demonstrations if you are a foreign citizen. The Canadian government  updated its advisory for Morocco to warn citizens to avoid these protests as there may be clashes between protesters and security forces.

It’s also vulnerable to some natural disasters. On September 8 th , 2023 , Morocco was hit by a devastating earthquake with an epicenter in the remote Atlas Mountains.

Villages were razed and people were killed. There is still some infrastructure damage to the rest of Morocco, and aftershocks are possible. Read up on earthquake preparedness so you know what to do in case of an aftershock.

However, it is safe  to travel to Morocco at the moment as long as you avoid the areas that were hit hardest by the earthquake. The north and many coastal resorts were virtually unaffected.

Crime in Morocco

Ruslan Kalnitsky/Shutterstock

Crime is one of the primary concerns for visitors to Morocco. Some of this concern is based in stereotypes about Moroccans and about the dangers of Moroccan souks. However, it is true that crime can happen, and that sometimes visitors are targeted for crimes.

Morocco is considered a country with a medium crime rate. It scores a 49.07 out of 100  on the international crime index, which is a moderate value. This crime index score has remained steady over time.

The good news is that the violent crime rate is fairly low. The homicide rate in Morocco is just 1.93 incidents per 100,000 people , which is a low value. This is a much lower value than in many big cities in the United States.

When the homicide rate is low, the rate of other violent crimes is fairly low. However, the country does struggle with other crimes. Property crimes are fairly common in the country. The official burglary rate is 7.9 incidents out of 100,000 people , although many burglaries probably go unreported.

The same caveat applies to the official robbery rate, which is 135.2 incidents out of 100,000 people. The rate of robbery and other property crimes is fairly high. Many official security reports warn about the possibility of theft, pickpocketing, scams, and other property crimes.

Minor property crime is rampant in Morocco, and incidents often target tourists. Thefts and robberies can occur in major cities and popular tourist areas, such as medinas of cities such as Marrakech and Fez.

However, there is some good news about crime. The World Health Organization praises Morocco for the steps it has taken to curtail violence and violent crime in its society. Anti-crime efforts are yielding results.

The government announced that in 2022 overall crime declined by 30.22%, and that it lowered the violent crime rate to make up only 6.59% of total crime committed. When you visit, you should definitely exercise caution regarding crime.

Make sure that you take precautions against theft and robbery, which is the most common crime that affects tourists. You should also be aware of more violent threats, but they rarely affect tourists. Morocco is safe for tourists—but only if those tourists take common sense precautions.

Terrorism is the crime that people probably worry about the most when it comes to Morocco. It is the crime that is mentioned the most as a reason why people should exercise increased caution, for example in the Canadian government’s  official travel advisory.

It is true that terrorism can happen in Morocco. The fact that terrorism is an actual threat in the country is proven by the fact that the Moroccan government arrested about 50 suspected members of Islamic terrorist groups in July 2023.

Morocco is in a region of the world that sees a lot of terrorism, so sometimes unrest from neighbors bleeds over. There have been recent terrorist attacks in the country, such as the 2018 attacks in the remote Atlas Mountains that killed two Scandinavian tourists.

The United Kingdom warns its citizens that terrorist attacks can target foreigners, either through bombings or through more targeted attacks such as homicide or kidnapping. However, the risk of terrorism is actually not that high.

Morocco ranks at #76  in the Global Terrorism Index, which means that countries such as The Netherlands and Austria are considered a higher risk of terrorism than Morocco. Over the past decade, Moroccan authorities have invested considerable efforts into counter-terrorism operations.

Most terrorist attacks that do occur nowadays occur in remote regions, such as certain parts of the Atlas Mountains or the Moroccan-controlled Sahara. As long as you avoid those regions and remote parts of the country, you should be safe from terrorism.

Petty Theft

Although the stereotype as a terrorist-ridden destination is untrue, the stereotype that it has a very high petty crime rate is unfortunately true. Most countries warn their citizens about the very high rate of petty theft in Morocco in their travel advisories.

Australia mentions  that petty crime is common in its travel advisory. Theft can happen in popular tourist destinations such as Fez, local markets or souks, the winding ancient quarters or medinas, and beach resorts such as Agadir.

Whenever you are out in public in Morocco, make sure that you keep a firm grasp on your valuables at all times. Invest in a secure cross-body bag or money belt for your valuables such as your wallet or phone.

Never, ever leave your bags unattended, even for a split second. Avoid drawing attention to yourself by carrying lots of cash—you will attract plenty of unwanted attention by virtue of being a foreigner. Be careful when using ATMs as robbers tend to target people using ATMs.

Only use those that are secure, such as those inside banks or post offices. Aggressive beggars also tend to target people around ATMs. When walking in public, make sure that your bag is placed on the side of your body that is away from traffic and walk against the direction of traffic.

Drive-by thefts, when thieves snatch people’s bags while driving by on the backs of scooters or motorcycles, are common. Scams and harassment are also common forms of petty theft.

The UK government warns its citizens about common scams, such as people posing as tour guides for the medina then demanding exorbitant payments (usually after getting you lost).

Only trust tour guides that are officially certified by the city government—most will wear official badges. Leaving Morocco with all the valuables you came with does require some planning, but it is possible if you take the right precautions.

Avoiding Bad Areas

Ondrej Bucek/Shutterstock

There are some parts of Morocco that you should avoid to stay safe. Avoid the Berm, which is the militarized border with the Moroccan-occupied Western Sahara, as well as the Western Sahara itself.

There is a long-time simmering conflict between locals, called Sahrawis, and Moroccan authorities, as well as many unexploded mines in the border region.

Avoid the border region with Algeria.

The remote parts of the Atlas Mountains are home to terrorist groups who often target foreigners. Stick to well-traveled routes that are known to be safe when exploring the mountains. The Rif mountains in northern Morocco are also more dangerous in some remote areas.

Things to Consider

Kudla/Shutterstock

Here are some additional safety tips to help you during your trip to Morocco:

• Tourists have been robbed in Morocco in the past. Avoid walking around alone at night. Robberies and muggings can happen during the day on remote stretches of beach or in quiet parts of town, so be careful during your wanderings.
• Women should exercise increased caution in Morocco. Street harassment and catcalling are unfortunately common problems. Try to wear long, loose-fitting clothing to fit in more and avoid traveling alone after dark.
• Drugs are illegal in Morocco. Penalties for violations can be severe. Although most people have a perception of Morocco as a hedonistic destination, that perception isn’t backed up by evidence. Avoid partaking in illegal drug consumption, even if a local offers you some.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some other questions people ask about Morocco before visiting:

Is it safe for tourists to travel to Morocco?

Yes, it is safe for tourists to travel to Morocco because few common-sense precautions are enough to protect you. While there is crime in the country, it can be avoided.

Which is safer: Turkey or Morocco?

The answer depends on what criteria you look at. Turkey has a lower petty theft rate than Morocco, so most visitors feel safer in Turkey. However, Turkey actually has a higher risk of terrorism or civil unrest than Morocco.

How safe is Marrakech?

Marrakech feels gritty sometimes, but its crime rate is low to moderate. Theft and robbery are fairly common though, so make sure you keep a close eye on your possessions.

Is it safe for Westerners to travel to Morocco?

Yes, it is safe for Westerners to travel to Morocco. However, you should avoid remote regions of the country and its land borders, as terrorists sometimes target Western tourists there for kidnapping.

How safe is Morocco for female tourists?

Female tourists do have to take additional precautions in Morocco that their male counterparts do not, but many female tourists visit Morocco safely each year. It is a popular destination for solo female travelers.

So, Is Morocco Safe to Visit?

Morocco is one of the safest countries to visit in the Middle East and North Africa. Although problems such as pickpocketing and robbery are present, and tourists should take precautions to take care of their valuables, most people that visit have a safe, secure time.

The government has taken many precautions in the past few years to combat violent crime and terrorism, making the country safer.

When to Go: The Best & Worst Times to Visit Morocco in 2024 Where to Stay: Where to Stay in Morocco in 2024 | Best Areas & Hotels What to Do: The 18 Best Places to Visit in Morocco in 2024 What It Costs: What a Trip to Morocco Costs in 2024 | Average Prices

The 15 BEST Places to Visit in Morocco (2024 Edition)

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

Planning a trip to North Africa? Don’t miss our complete list of the best places to visit in Morocco!

Some of the best Morocco destinations are already world-famous, though you may not realise.

Morocco is full of rich history, intense culture, breathtaking natural beauty and endless opportunities for travellers to excite the senses. 

Walking through any Moroccan destination, you can smell fresh mint leaves, incense, perfume, leather and smoky coals sizzling underneath a roasting tagine.

You can hear locals speaking Arabic and French, sometimes Spanish in the north. Sultry Arabic music floats from shops and the daily “Call to Prayer” bellows from Mosque speakers five times a day. 

You can feel the heat of northern Africa warming your skin while your feet trod along stone alleyways, or along sandy coastlines.

Your line of vision is full of colourful traditional clothing, patterned pottery and ceramics, towering piles of spices, bustling fruit markets and streets congested with cars, motorbikes and donkeys. 

Travelling through the country you’ll stumble across gorgeous beaches, rugged mountain ranges, golden desert sands, winding roads, farming villages, waterfalls, forests, Mosques, museums, ancient Roman ruins, tanneries, Medinas and so much more. 

With such diversity, it can be overwhelming trying to plan a trip to visit Morocco.

The country is full of famous tourist attractions and hidden gems, but luckily there is something for everyone.

Table of Contents

1) Marrakech

5) casablanca, 7) chefchaouen, 8) al hoceima, 11) essaouira, 12) the atlas mountains, 13. ouarzazate, 14) sahara desert, 15) ouzoud waterfalls, the best places to visit in morocco.

This article lists some of the most iconic and must-see places to see in Morocco.

The destinations are organised into three categories: cities, beach towns, and places of natural beauty.

Hopefully, this list will help you pick the best places to visit in Morocco that suit your travel style, and will persuade you to book a trip to visit Morocco.

The most visited city in Morocco, Marrakech is a bustling hub of travellers and locals alike.

It showcases traditional Moroccan culture in an accessible way for tourists, with a sprawling Medina selling handicrafts and souvenirs and the Instagram-famous Jardin Majorelle boasting gorgeous architecture and landscaping. 

Jema El Fnaa is the main square of Marrakech, though I believe the true charm of the city lies outside this area.

Jema El Fnaa is insanely touristy and locals here exploit animals for tourist photos.

Try to avoid this mess and venture to other areas of Marrakech for a better experience. 

Visit Saadien’s Tombs for 70 Dirhams and marvel at the intricate artwork and design that adorns the tombs of the Moroccan Saadien Dynasty from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Afterward, stroll through the local street market on Derb Demnat Street and indulge in fresh dates, cactus fruits and juicy peaches.

Sip mint tea in a cafe, browse through unique natural remedies in a herbal medicine shop, and enjoy the artwork in the Museum of Photography . 

Marrakech is the perfect gateway into Moroccan culture so it’s a great first stop for travellers. 

Morocco’s capital city is packed with attractions and historical monuments making it one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Visit the Modern Art Museum and National Archaeological Museum for an enlightening insight into Moroccan culture and art.

Or tour the Royal Palace and see where Moroccan royalty lives. 

Other impressive architectural structures include the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and its neighbour, the Hassan Tower , which was meant to be the largest minaret in the world but to this day remain unfinished.

All three of these are located along the Bou Regreg River that snakes through the city. 

After immersing yourself in the history of Rabat, head just south of the city to lounge on Temara Beach or Skirat Beach .

Temara is closer to the city and a bit more accessible.

But Skirat is known as being one of Morocco’s most beautiful and well-maintained beaches.

Known as the cultural capital of Morocco, Fez is famous for its historical significance and its well-preserved traditional culture.

Tourism is on the rise as Fez becomes more well-known.

There are plenty of backpacker hostels, nice hotels, and fancy Riads to suit every traveller.

However, Fez still feels very authentic and travellers may experience a bit of culture shock here. 

Fez’s Medina is the oldest in the world and is said to have over 9,000 streets.

Prepare to get lost in the Medina because it is inevitable. But the sensory overload and cultural insight you’ll find in this maze of streets are well worth the chaos.

Having an offline navigation app like Maps.Me can very extremely helpful to help you find your way out of the Medina.

While gallivanting through the Medina, stop at the Chouara Tannery , the largest tannery in the world.

Here you can watch locals make leather using traditional methods.

Someone will usually hand you a mint sprig as you walk in so you can hold it under your nose and block out some of the strong, pungent aromas of the tannery. 

Venture outside the Medina to see the more modern size of Fez.

Bab Bou Jeloud , or the “Blue Gate,” and the Royal Palace are two very beautiful and well-maintained sights to see in Fez.

Just have an open mind when travelling through Fez and appreciate the authenticity of the city. 

Take a guided tour of the Fez Medina by booking this tour on Get Your Guide !

For anyone travelling to Morocco from southern Spain, this is the first Moroccan city you will experience.

Located on the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is a good transition city between Europe and Africa.

It is a port city on the water, but the beaches aren’t as nice as others in Morocco.

So travellers to Tangier should focus more on the historical and cultural aspects of the city. 

A cultural crossroad, here you can find traditional north African influences in the Old Town and Medina, where the buildings are painted a classy white.

Visit Cafe Hafa , a famous seaside cafe that serves traditional drinks and snacks and offers a lovely view of the ocean.

In the Medina you can also find the Phoenician Tombs, the Old Kasbah, a Kasbah Museum and Dar el Makhzen , a historical masterpiece that used to be a sultans palace but its now a museum of artifacts.

For a local food experience, visit the Berber Farmer’s Market on Thursdays and Sundays for fresh produce.

Or venture to the massive Grand Socco Market , open every day.

There is also a New Town known as Ville Nouvelle , which exudes a classy French atmosphere with its intricate architecture and spacious boulevards full of shops.

Place De France is the beating heart of the Ville Nouvelle, and this is one of the best places to visit in Morocco for finding trendy cafes and restaurants. 

READ MORE: Plan your trip to experience Porto, Portugal

Though Rabat is the country’s capital city, Casablanca is the biggest city with a population of about 3.4 million.

This busy coastal city is one of the more developed places in Morocco, with a thriving entertainment scene and growing business sector. 

As Casablanca is one of the more modern cities in Morocco, here you can find international cuisine, casinos, nightclubs, high-end shopping and one of the world’s largest shopping centres, the Morocco Mall . 

In contrast to the Old Medina, the city also has a New Medina built in the 1930s, called the Quartier Habous .

This New Medina is much cleaner and more refined than the Old Medina, though it showcases modern European influence rather than authenticity. 

Casablanca’s ocean isn’t the nicest for swimming.

But a nice walk or jog along the Corniche , or oceanfront boulevard is a great way to enjoy the ocean breeze.

On this seaside sidewalk you can find the Hassan II Mosque , arguably the best attraction in Casablanca.

As one of the largest mosques in the world, the impeccable design and sheer size of this religious landmark is a feast for the eyes. 

Because of the classic film of the same name, Casablanca is also perhaps the most well known and best places to visit in Morocco.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meknes is the perfect destination for history lovers and those with a cultural curiosity.

This is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco and was a Moroccan capital city in the 17th Century.

Because Meknes is less popular than nearby Fez, travellers can revel in the town’s historical significance without all the crowds of the bigger cities. 

The Medina of Meknes dates back to the 9th Century and is guarded by the gorgeously tiled Bar Mansour Gate .

Wander through here for a look into Morocco’s past and indulge in a few local handicrafts.

Stop by the Meknes Museum to explore colourful Moroccan art including rugs and textiles, pottery and ceramics, and clothing and jewellery. 

Other highlights of Meknes include the Museum of Moroccan Art , also known as Dar Jamai , the Borj Belkari Museum of Pottery, The Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail and the Royal Stables Ruins .

One of Morocco’s most famous and well-preserved ruins, Volubilis , lies just north of Meknes and makes an awesome day trip from the city.

Nestled against the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen may be the most picturesque place in Morocco.

Travellers flock here from all over the world to photograph the “Blue Pearl of Morocco,” as this small city is often called because of its blue-painted dwellings. 

Strolling through Chefchaouen feels like a dream because of all the blue paint.

Whether it be pale pastel blue or deep royal blue, the hue mixes with the graceful architecture to make every single street look like something from a postcard. 

You will understand why it is one of the best places to visit in Morocco once you spend a few hours wandering through the city.

The most scenic place in the city is the Old Town, and the most photographed spots here are “ Blue Street, ” Place El Haouta and El Asri Street .

All of these reveal some gorgeous displays of blue paint and incredible design.

So it’s definitely worth waiting amongst the crowds to see these sights.

If you explore early in the morning, you’ll beat most of the crowds. 

To see the more local side of Chefchaouen, venture anywhere outside the crowded Old Town and you’ll find super cheap cafes and local markets.

These will be better for your wallet than eating in one of the many tourist restaurants. 

Check out this post for more great things to do in Chefchaouen !

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Al Hoceima is the perfect beach getaway for those travelling through the north of Morocco.

The Spanish helped to develop the city in the early 1900s, and nowadays Al Hoceima serves as an important port town and has a thriving fishing industry. 

The beaches here are some of the nicest and cleanest in the country.

Quemado Beach is just a short walk from the city centre. Calabonita Beach is known for its crystal clear, turquoise water.

Other lovely beaches in the area include Thara Youssef, Sfiha, Matadero, and Souani. 

Al Hoceima is also situated on the northern edge of the Rif Mountains, so there are lots of rugged cliffs to enhance the scenery.

Al Hoceima National Park has lots of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and admiring the dramatic, seemingly untouched natural beauty. 

This lesser-known Moroccan coastal city is ideal for surfers and beach bums.

Safi isn’t very touristy, which is great for experiencing the local culture.

The Medina is full of shops selling gorgeous ceramics and traditional cafes selling fresh sardines, sugary mint teas and hearty tagines. 

The Main Beach consists of a massive stretch of golden sand framed by a long sidewalk and hipster cafes.

During winter, the waves attract surfers from all over the globe, and all year round the water is cold and refreshing.

Drive about 15 minutes north of Safi Main Beach to Lalla Fatna Beach for a more secluded sunbathing spot.

You will notice at the beaches that most local women dress conservatively.

If you are a woman, there are no concrete rules as to what you can and can’t wear at the beach.

But you may choose to cover up as much as possible to blend in with the locals and show respect for their culture.

READ MORE: 25 things to know to help you plan your trip to Iran

Asilah is a cultural melting pot residing on the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Here you can find fortifications built by the Portuguese, an Old Town with Spanish influence, and whitewashed buildings that resemble those of Greece. 

Through all this multiculturalism, the Moroccan charm still shines through with the traditional markets of the city.

Thursday, in particular, is the busiest market day, where local artists showcase their work and travellers can shop for traditional goods and souvenirs.

Art lovers can also visit the famous art gallery known as Aplanos , or attend the Annual Arts Festival in August. 

To enjoy the ocean, the two closest beaches to the city centre are Asilah Beach , about 4km north of the city center, and Paradise Beach , about 7km south of the city center.

The extra distance to Paradise Beach may be worth it, as this beach is bigger and less crowded than Asilah beach. 

This charming coastal town is a popular day trip from Marrakech, though some travellers prefer to stay there a few days.

Previously known as Mogador, this port town has a rich history in the Caravan Trade Route.

Locals from the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains used to travel to Essaouira to export their goods to the world.

Although nowadays the city has become more of a relaxed tourist destination and one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

The city is framed by fortifications that King Mohammed III of the 18th Century built to protect the important trade center.

Climb up these walls to feel the fierce Atlantic wind on your skin and look out over the ocean and the nearby beach.

Make sure to explore the colourful and charismatic Medina, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

And check out the local fish market if you can stand the pungent seafood smell. 

Whether you are driving to Essaouira or taking a day trip from Marrakech, you will most likely pass goats in trees on the outskirts of the city.

This area of Morocco is sprawling with Argan trees, and goats literally climb into the trees to eat the nuts, seeds and fruits.

You may need to tip the local farmer who owns the goats if you want to take photos. But it’s worth it to capture this outrageous sight. 

Book your trip to Essaouira today on Get Your Guide !

A trip to Morocco would be incomplete without exploring the breathtaking Atlas Mountain Range.

Many people view Morocco as hot and arid. But at the high altitudes of the Atlas you can find cooler temperatures and sometimes even snow. 

The Atlas Mountains are full of little Berber villages and towns, but Imlil makes a great starting point for adventures into the area.

Imlil is easily accessible from Marrakech by a shared taxi. And you will find that there are a few cheap hostels and lots of nice guesthouses for travelers. 

From Imlil you can begin the multi-day trek to the summit of Mount Toubkal , the highest mountain in northern Africa.

There are also many day hikes in Toubkal National Park available from Imlil, including a circuit around the hills of the village and a full day hike to a waterfall.

Whether you choose a few shorter hikes or one long trek, you are guaranteed to find majestic mountain peaks, tiny remote villages with friendly locals, and lots of wildlife including sheep, donkeys and goats. 

Asni is another nearby village to Imlil, which is a bit smaller and less touristy.

You can also use this town as a base for hiking Toubkal National Park.

Oukaimeden is another popular destination in the Atlas Mountains, as it is one of the few skiing destinations in Morocco. 

On the drive into the mountains from Marrakech, you will most likely travel along the Tizi n’ Tichka Pass , which is a heart-stopping, winding road slicing straight through the cliffs.

The drive is not for the fainthearted, but the views and stunning and you can always trust your local Moroccan drivers.

Visit the Atlas Mountain Range with a camel ride, only found on Get Your Guide

Located in between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, many desert tours pass through here on the way to the Sahara.

If you aren’t doing an organized tour, try and venture out here to the “Hollywood of Morocco.”

The area’s rugged, dusty desert-like landscape filled with kasbahs, palaces and rustic dwellings attracts filmmakers from all over the world. 

Movies and shows filmed in Ouarzazate include Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Ben Hur, Mummy, The Hills Have Eyes and Kingdom of Heaven.

You can take a guided tour of Atlas Film Studios to learn about the film making process. Plus there is also a Cinema Museum that showcases artwork used in films. 

About 30km northwest of Ouarzazate lies another traditional Moroccan hilltop town also used for filming movies.

Aït Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and few local families still live in the tiny village, selling their traditional souvenirs to tourists.

About 130km northeast from Ouarzazate is the scenic Dades Valley .

Though it’s a bit far from Ouarzazate, it is on the route to the Sahara. So if you are driving past it anyways you should definitely stop here.

The Dades River has carved winding curves and valleys into the arid cliffside, and Todra Gorge , in particular, is a popular photo opportunity here. 

Some people visit Morocco solely to see the Sahara Desert .

As the largest hot desert on the planet, the Sahara is truly a natural phenomenon.

Morocco is perhaps the most convenient gateway into this sea of sand. 

The easiest way to visit the desert is to book a tour from Marrakech.

Although it is possible to do on your own through public transport and finding accommodation in one of the nearby towns. 

Most tours include round trip transport from Marrakech, which takes about 10 hours so be prepared for a long day of travel.

But upon reaching the desert, you can enjoy camel treks, free time to explore the dunes, traditional meals, stargazing, and wonderful hospitality. 

Merzouga is one of the most popular desert towns as it’s located right next to the massive Erg Chebbi Dunes .

Though this spot is very close to the Algerian Border, country lines don’t seem to matter at all as you gaze across seemingly endless ripples of soft golden sand. 

Another location for seeing the Sahara is the desert town of Mhamid , which leads to the Erg Chingaga Dunes.

Both dunes are beautiful, though the latter is a bit less touristy. No doubt the Sahara Desert is one of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Book a 3-day Safari Desert today !

While staying in Marrakech, escape the city and venture to Ouzoud Waterfalls.

This area is very remote and there is no direct public transport from Marrakech, so the easiest option is to book a day tour.

For about 200-250 Dirhams, you can book a day trip with any of the countless tour agencies in Marrakech, and you’ll get round-trip transportation in a comfy minivan. 

This is a full-day adventure, as the drive takes about 3 hours each way and you’ll have a few hours to relax at the falls.

Once you step off the bus, a local will try to convince you to pay for a guided tour.

This isn’t necessary as it’s very easy to explore the falls yourself. 

The waterfalls are simply stunning, with multiple huge cascades thundering town towards the El-Abid River Gorge.

Stairs lead up and down the canyon of the falls so you can walk to the bottom and swim in the little pools at the base of the falls.

The same stairs lead up to a lookout point, where you can take in the view of the whole waterfall and watch the adorable Barbary Monkeys swing in the trees. 

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance before your trip to Morocco!

We recommend World Nomads. Use this form to get your free quote today.

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Update)

Whanganui journey in new zealand – the ultimate guide [2024], the ultimate guide to new zealand’s south island in winter, related posts, 5 best adventure activities in taranaki, new zealand, 4 thoughts on “the 15 best places to visit in morocco (2024 edition)”.

Such great info, so helpful. We are a 70 year old active couple, is it safe for us to travel alone, as we do in Europe, or should we do a small tour around Morocco. We do usually do tours, except when we toured India, but that again was only the two of us with a driver

Cheers Jill

Nice post! Really enjoyed reading… Thanks for sharing with us!

Amazing blog, rich with innumerable info for any newcomers, thank you for sharing with us.

It seems hard to limit the best places to visit in Morocco because there are so many beautiful places and different cultures to discover.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Advertisement

Is Morocco Safe to Visit in 2023?

• Share Content on Facebook
• Share Content via Email

Morocco is a country that offers a unique and adventurous travel experience, attracting a growing number of foreign visitors each year. However, before embarking on your journey, it's important to consider the safety aspects of your trip. While Morocco is generally considered a safe destination, it's essential to be aware of potential challenges and take necessary precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Understanding Safety in Morocco

Safety in tourist hotspots, challenges for solo female travelers, lgbtqia+ travelers in morocco, safety precautions in public places, taxis and transportation, cultural sensitivity and respect, general safety tips.

Crime rates in Morocco are relatively low, but like any travel destination, it's important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas like souqs and medinas. Taking steps to keep your valuables secure, carrying small amounts of cash, and being mindful of aggressive selling tactics can help mitigate these risks.

Popular tourist destinations like Marrakech, Fes, and Essaouira are generally considered safer than rural and remote regions. These areas are accustomed to welcoming tourists and have a higher level of security. However, it's important to remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas.

Female travelers, especially those exploring Morocco alone, may encounter additional challenges. Verbal harassment on the streets, while not unique to Morocco, can be relatively common. It's advisable for women to travel in groups of three or more and stick to well-lit streets. Respecting local customs and dress codes, particularly in religious sites, is also important to avoid unwanted attention.

Morocco is a conservative Islamic country, and LGBTQIA+ travelers may face challenges in openly expressing their sexuality and gender identity. Public displays of affection, even mild ones like hand-holding, are not culturally accepted. LGBTQIA+ travelers should exercise caution and be mindful of local attitudes and laws.

When visiting public places in Morocco, such as markets and tourist sites, it's important to be cautious. Keep your valuables secure, be prepared for aggressive selling tactics, and avoid crowded areas around ATMs. It's also advisable to research city tours and choose reputable guides to avoid falling victim to scams.

As with many countries, taxis can be a potential tourist trap in Morocco. Negotiating the fare upfront is crucial to avoid being overcharged. It's also advisable to use taxis from reputable companies and avoid unlicensed drivers.

Respecting local customs and cultural norms is essential when visiting Morocco. Dress modestly, particularly in religious sites, and be mindful of local sensitivities. It's also important to avoid excessive drinking and to be respectful of local traditions and practices.

Here are some general safety tips to keep in mind while visiting Morocco:

• Travel in small groups, especially at night.
• Lock away your valuables and keep them out of sight.
• Research city tours and choose reputable guides.
• Respect local dress codes and customs.
• Avoid drinking tap water and stay hydrated with bottled water.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and the address of your accommodation.
• Be cautious even in private spaces, lock your room, and secure your valuables.
• Use ATMs inside banks or secure buildings.
• Plan your visit during seasons with more moderate weather to avoid extreme heat.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself from unexpected events.

By following these safety tips and being aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Morocco in 2023. Remember to always prioritize your personal safety and well-being during your travels.

Morocco is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, but it's important to be aware of potential challenges and take necessary precautions. By staying vigilant, respecting local customs, and being mindful of your surroundings, you can have a memorable and safe experience while exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Morocco.

This article was created using AI technology.

Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article:

• Outdoor Activities
• Destinations
• Book Hotels, Flights & Cars
• Advertise With Us
• Cookie Settings

Copyright © 2024 MapQuest Holdings LLC, a System1 Company

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos

Food & Drink

• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.

Where to go on holiday in Morocco, from Marrakech to Fes

Bustling cities, surf-battered coastlines and a riot of colourful medinas await, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

With the  Atlas mountains  and sections of the sprawling  Sahara desert , natural beauty dominates  Morocco ’s map. Yet it’s also the atmospheric alleys, snake-charmer squares and tiled riad s of this  north African country’s ports and towns that beg to be explored.

Infused with a blend of tradition and art, cities in this land of coastlines, festivals – religious and musical – and full-flavoured cuisine are both diverse and enchanting. And it’s not just the charms of up-and-coming capital Rabat or the palm and parasol-fringed beaches of Agadir that deserve to draw in tourists.

From the lively  Marrakech  medina to the medieval mosques of Fes and the Atlantic breeze-swept coastlines of Essaouira and Taghazout, there’s shopping, surfing and ancient crafts to be discovered.

As the country enters another sizzling spring, here are six of the best holiday hotspots and where to stay – all less than a four-hour flight from the  UK .

Read more on Morocco travel :

• The best things to do on a Morocco getaway
• The best all-inclusive Morocco holidays
• This Moroccan mountain town should be your next short break

Marrakech is a vision of dusky terracotta buildings in the shadow of the towering Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas mountains . A web of alleys, riad s and spice-scented souks lie inside the medina walls, and the vibrant atmosphere, which buzzes from dawn to dusk, doesn’t dull until you reach the palm grove oasis and luxury holiday resorts of Palmeraie to the north of the city. Enjoy a charcoal-cooked merguez sausage in the central square Jemaa el Fna, wander around the Bahia Palace, or immerse yourself in Moroccan history at the Maison de la Photographie, before relaxing with a sweet mint tea at one of the rooftop cafes or hidden gardens.

Where to stay

There’s a cool minimalism to Riad UP’s six relaxing rooms amid the medina’s splashes of colour. Complete with a patio, plunge pool and roof terrace studded with sun loungers, it’s an ideal spot to wrap up in a Berber blanket for nights spent overlooking the city.

Rooms available from {{#price}} {{price}} per night {{/price}} {{^price}} Check availability for dates and prices {{/price}}

Rates provided by Booking.com

Hotel Amenities

Health & wellbeing.

Morocco’s second city is a blend of influences including Arabic, Moorish, Ottoman Turkish and French. From the Mediterranean flair of Fassi cuisine to steamy private hammam s and craft workshops, including bookbinding and leather embossing, Fes fascinates with its modern edge to ancient ways of life. The city is home to the world’s largest medieval medina district – with 9,000 alleyways to meander, you’re bound to find a shop or souk to while away the hours.

Hillside on the edge of Ville Nouvelle, the contemporary Hotel Sahrai oozes luxury. Stays in neutral suites accented with stone and wood have access to an infinity pool overlooking the medina, a zen spa, and a French brasserie for seriously suave steak frites.

Surf-seekers are in for a treat if they follow the tide to Taghazout on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, just 20 minutes from the fly-and-flop resort city of Agadir. The fishing village in the foothills of the Atlas mountains is blessed with powerful point breaks, staggering swells and barrel waves off a beachfront scattered with blue wooden fishing boats. Think surf-centric hostels within the tangle of pastel houses, Brit-run camps for lessons on the board, and communal meals with your wave comrades complete with authentic plates of tagine and paprika fish.

Dar Surf  hostel hugs the swell-battered coastline of Taghazout Beach with a shared kitchen for refuelling after surf sessions and free wifi to document days on the waves. The surf camp offers rooftop yoga, home-cooked Moroccan meals, and beach bonfires for guests.

Bohemian Tangier is much more than the gateway from Europe to Africa . Though times have changed since Tangier’s louche past lit up writers, hippies and musicians, the cafe culture and people-watching posts remain. With one of the most diverse populations in Morocco, the commercial port attracts domestic weekenders to the city’s fortified kasbah walls, Roman ruins and Sixties-style boutiques. Take your spot at a storied coffeehouse or the legendary Cafe Baba to see Tangier as the Beat writers, Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger did.

For authentic, spacious rooms, a sublime rooftop terrace and delectable breakfasts punctuated with mint tea, visit  Riad Al-Qurtubi . Sat less than 2km from Tangier Beach, it is ideally situated for exploring the sands, museums and medinas of northwestern Morocco.

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city, with a Hollywood heritage, beginner-friendly waves, and bars built for nursing a cocktail. On its coast, Africa’s second-largest mosque, Hassan II Mosque, dominates the waterfront, and inland, the souks of Quartier Habous, stalls of the old medina and central market are mazes of international sweet treats, lamps, ceramics and spices. Keen to experience Casablanca as seen on screen? Head to Rick’s Cafe, inspired by the movie, for a jazzy gin cocktail at the roulette table.

Each of the 25 vibrant suites at Art Palace Suites & Spa is inspired by a celebrity or international icon, including Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin and Cleopatra. The hotel in Gauthier also has a spa pool in the basement and a tiled Moroccan hammam for a scrub-down.

On Morocco’s Atlantic coast, the windswept port city of Essaouira is a hotspot for kitesurfing, French fusion feasts, and walking the walls of the pocket-size medina. Look out for 18th-century ramparts and  thuya  wood carvings as you weave through the fragrant Unesco-listed grid of boutiques selling argan oil, carpets and leather. Stretch out on the sands of Essaouira Beach with a cup of  à la menthe –  a sugary mint cocktail – when taking a break from surfing the famed winds known in Berber as  taros .

Blanketed in technicolour Moroccan zellige tiles, Salut Maroc is in the heart of the medina, with eccentric bedrooms, freestanding copper tubs and enviable views out to the ocean from the rooftop terrace.

Want to holiday like Mick Jagger? The hedonistic, boho-luxe of 1970s Marrakech is back

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 19 Best Places To Visit In Morocco In 2024 That Will Take Your Breath Away!

23 Mar 2023

Some people travel to enjoy, and some travel to explore. If without any second thoughts, you feel you’re the one who falls under the latter, then it’s time you put Morocco on your bucket list! Apart from some of the best places to visit in Morocco , the country also transcends you to a culture and lifestyle, that can rarely be experienced anywhere today. If you plan to visit Morocco anytime soon, make sure you pay a visit to these charming famous places in Morocco as well. All of these places are your answer to where to visit in Morocco  for sure!

Why Visit Morocco

The city is well-popular in terms of Morocco tourism and the prominent attractions plays the role of cherry on the cake. But, if your first question is what are the best places to see in Morocco , the moment we suggested you to put it on your list, well, here’s why:

• Extremely warm, welcoming, and lovely people
• Rich Culture
• Spellbinding places to go in Morocco
• Exquisite accommodation options
• Exotic food, which is a great blend of various cultures
• Bustling nightlife and an endless number of shopping avenues
• Absolutely worth your time and money

Must Read: 10 Enchanting Honeymoon Destinations In South Africa

Best Time To Visit Morocco

If you are wondering where to go in Morocco and what is the best time to visit, here is the answer to that, a nytime between March to May is a good time to visit this country if you want to travel and experience the real beauty of the Morocco tourist attractions .

19 Best Places To Visit In Morocco In 2024

Are you wondering where to go in Morocco  on your upcoming vacation? And now that you know why and when to go, scroll through this dropdown of 19 Morocco tourist places so that you know where exactly you should head to for an unforgettable Morocco sightseeing experience!

• Meknes – The Ninth Century Medina
• Asilah – Sandy Beaches And Prolonged City Walls
• High Atlas – Paradise For Trekkers
• Essaouira (Mogador) – For GOT Lovers!
• Chefchaouen – Painted Ambiance
• Sahara Desert – Glance Sunset Over Dunes
• Rabat – Stunning Capital City
• Casablanca – Modernity Yet Cultured
• Ouarzazate – Arid Desert Sights
• Marrakech – Bustling City With A Large Medina
• Tinghir – Morocco’s Crown Jewel
• Agadir – Thriving Seaside Resort Town
• Fez – The Old Maghreb City 
• Oudaias Kasbah – Nation’s Most Picturesque Region
• Tangier – European-Looking Moroccan City
• Dades Valley – Panoramic Sights
• Aït Ben Haddou – Ancient Ruins
• Rose Valley – Fragrance All Around
• Dakhla – Kitesurfing Hub

1. Meknes – The Ninth Century Medina

Despite its old age and architecture, Meknes makes its way to the list of the top best places to visit in Morocco with family. It is located in the north of Morocco, and is a 9th-century medina. It is also one of the country’s previous capitals and considered as the most beautiful city in Morocco

On your visit here, while you might feel that it’s not as fine as the other cities to visit in Morocco , but the royal palace and other major historical sites are an ideal stop to learn about Morocco’s culture. Don’t forget to visit its charming attractions that make it so popular among tourists looking for exotic Arabian experiences.

How To Reach:  Board a local train or hire a taxi to reach Meknes comfortably.  Visit For: Exploring the major historical sites like Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, Bab Mansour, Dar Jamai Museum, etc. Tourist Attractions: Roman ruins of Volubilis Things To Do:

• Take a day trip to the hilltop pilgrimage town of Moulay Idriss
• Visit the Dar Jamai Museum to learn about Morocco’s architecture
• Capture pictures of the magnificent Bab Mansour Gate

Suggested Read: 10 Best Holiday Destinations In South Africa

2. Asilah – Sandy Beaches And Prolonged City Walls

Situated on Morocco’s North Atlantic coast, seaside Asilah is popular amongst the tourists and citizens as a hot summer spot. Apart from the sandy beaches, the city walls covered in colorful murals also make this city one of the top Morocco places to visit ! This is one of the awesome reasons why a honeymoon trip to Morocco should be on your bucket list !

If you are here during August, don’t forget to attend the town’s vibrant annual Arts Festival which makes it every youngster’s favourite city in Morocco during this time!

How To Reach:  Asilah is located on the rail line linking Tangier to Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Meknes, and Fez. Board train from any of the mentioned places to reach here.  Visit For: Enjoying some respite from the heat. Tourist Attractions: Paradise Beach Things To Do:

• Shop in the little souk
• Head to Restaurant Oceano Casa Pepe for a fancy lunch
• Visit Aplanos, the famous art gallery

3. High Atlas – Paradise For Trekkers

Being North Africa’s highest mountain range, High Atlas is popularly known as the mountain of mountains. This place is a paradise for trekkers, especially from spring to autumn. It runs diagonally across Morocco for approximately 1000 km, and its saw-toothed Jurassic peaks act as a weather barrier. If you are wondering what to see in Morocco in 5 days, then adding this destination is a must.

Out of all the best places to visit in Morocco , this one is so beautiful that it will take your breath away! Get your hiking shoes out and set off on a journey you’ll remember for life!

How To Reach:  Take a bus or taxi to reach here.  Visit For: The love of mountains and trekking. Tourist Attractions: Jebel Toubkal Things To Do:

• Go for a hiking trail in the Toubkal National Park
• Explore the souvenir shops and restaurants in Imlil
• Enjoy spectacular views from the Tizi n’Test Pass

Suggested Read: 10 Reasons Why You Should Spend Your Next Family Vacation In East Africa

4. Essaouira (Mogador) – For GOT Lovers!

Essaouira is one of the top Morocco tourist attractions . And not just because it’s a great city to get away from the heat and monotony of the big city’s lifestyle, but also because it’s the place where season three of Game of Thrones was shot!

What makes it more popular is that back in the 60’s, this seaside town was a popular beach hangout for celebrities like Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley. You never know, you might just end up meeting your favourite celeb on your visit to Essaouira! If not, do not miss the Gnaoua, one of the most vivid beach festivals in the world .

How To Reach:  You can reach Essaouira by bus since there is no train station Visit For: Your Love For Game Of Thrones And Beaches Tourist Attractions: Essaouira Citadel Things To Do:

• Stroll through the medina or wander along the wall to take in gorgeous views of the Atlantic ocean
• Explore the ramparts
• Go for horse riding, or windsurfing and kitesurfing
• If possible, attend the Gnaoua World Music Festival

5. Chefchaouen – Painted Ambiance

Set amidst the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen – also known as the blue city is a small town in a huge landscape. Amongst all the Morocco cities to visit , this one is popular for solo travelling and exploring the town’s famous blue and white painted houses.

The people are also super friendly, so you will surely get to revel in some sweet hospitality here that makes this one of the top places to visit in Morocco. Don’t forget to check out the secluded and quiet Ras El Maa, one of the most fascinating and secret places to visit in Morocco.

How To Reach:  To reach here take a flight from Marrakech to either Tangier, Tetouan, Fes, or if you must, Casablanca. From airport take a taxi to the CTM bus station  Visit For: Shopping handicrafts and best Morocco souvenirs. Tourist Attractions: Kasbah Things To Do:

• Go for hiking and wild swimming in the surrounding countryside
• Enjoy a drink amidst the architecture of the Outa el Hammam square
• Soak in the fascinating waterfalls of Ras El Maa

Suggested Read: Best Summer Holiday Destinations In The World

6. Sahara Desert – Glance Sunset Over Dunes

The desert is absolutely a must-visit when you’re in Morocco. From watching the gorgeous sunset over the dunes to gazing at the sky full of bright stars, every experience in the desert is captivating and unforgettable. Make sure that out of all the best places to visit in Morocco in December , you do keep a few days for a trip to the Sahara Desert to add adventure to your trip.

How To Reach:  The most popular way from Marrakech to Merzouga by public transport. Hire a cab or taxi or board a bus to reach here.  Visit For: Incredible views and sleeping under a canopy of stars. Tourist Attractions: Merzouga Things To Do:

• Try desert safaris or camel caravans
• Savour the picturesque views of the Draa Valley, which stretches from the city of Ouarzazate into the desert.
• Interact with the natives
• Go for a camel safari group trek

7. Rabat – Stunning Capital City

Situated on the coast, Rabat is the country’s capital and one of the top Morocco tourist attractions . The year-round good weather and the tranquil Morocco beaches are only a couple of reasons behind its popularity. Its exquisite experiences make it one of the best places in Morocco !

The city has a new portion, which has wide boulevards and outdoor cafes, and the old town or medina, which has fortified walls. With so much that it offers to tourists of all ages and nationalities, you must make sure you don’t skip this place off your itinerary!

How To Reach:  Board a train to Rabat Ville Train Station and hire a taxi to reach here.  Visit For: Beaches, palaces, and museums. Tourist Attractions: Kasbah of the Udayas. Things To Do:

• Take a tour of the Hassan Tower
• Visit Chellah and escape the crowd
• Buy anything from souvenirs to fresh produce from the medina

Suggested Read: >6 Awesome Reasons Why A Honeymoon Trip To Morocco

8. Casablanca – Modernity Yet Cultured

While Casablanca might not be as atmospheric as the other cities, it is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Morocco , and the ideal representation of modernity. The city’s stunning moresque buildings, which meld the French-colonial design with the traditional Moroccan style, is the best thing to admire here. Owing to its awesome food and architecture, it is definitely among the best places to travel in Morocco.

How To Reach:  Trains are the most comfortable mode to reach here. The stations here are easy to navigate, and boards display the time of departure/arrival.  Visit For: Dazzling dining and nightlife scenes. Tourist Attractions: Hassan II Mosque Things To Do:

• Get around the city in a Casa Tramway
• Enjoy scenic views of the city from the Casablanca Twin Center
• Visit the King’s Palace and witness the Islamic architectural masterpiece

9. Ouarzazate – Arid Desert Sights

If you’ve always fancied the arid desert scenes in Hollywood movies, you’ll be excited to know that some of your favourite dessert classics may have passed through Morocco at some point during their filming. Morocco has been welcoming Hollywood directors since the ‘60s, and the town of Ouarzazate has been a hub of it all. If you love capturing beautiful moments in your camera lenses then this is surely one of the best places in Morocco for you!

So now you know what makes this city one of the best places to visit in Morocco ! With all its Arabian beauty that draw travellers from far and wide, it sure will provide you with some great backdrops for your pictures.

How To Reach:  Ouarzazate is well served by the country’s bus network, and buses arrive at least once a day from Agadir Visit For: Touring the sets of Hollywood. Tourist Attractions: Cinema Museum Things To Do:

• Take a tour of the Atlas Film Studios where movies like Cleopatra and Kingdom of Heaven were shot
• Explore the restaurants and shops in the Main Square
• Visit the settlement of Ait Ben Haddou, which was used as a setup for movies like Lawrence of Arabia and The Living Daylights

Suggested Read: Make Your Morocco Honeymoon

10. Marrakech – Bustling City With A Large Medina

Located north of the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is a bustling city with a large medina, and one of the popular Morocco tourist attractions . From the central square of Djemma El-Fna to the El Badi Palace, and the bustling souks or bazaars, there’s a lot to do and see here! Shopping is one of the best things to do in Morocco , and Marrakech the most ideal place for it. It is among the best places to visit in Morocco in November as you can observe a soothing weather and enjoy your trip to its fullest. The places is also considered the safest city to visit in Morocco beside Agadir. This is surely one of the best places to go in Morocco.

How To Reach:  The place is well-connected to the other part of the world and welcomes numerous major airports to Marrakesh Menara airport.  Visit For: A great mix of culture, food, and red old architecture Tourist Attractions: Koutoubia Mosque Things To Do:

• Visit the Jemaa El Fna and shop at the souks
• Learn about Morocco’s culture through the Dar Si Said Museum
• Grab a drink at Kechmara or have a fancy dinner at Hotel La Maison Arabe

11. Tinghir – Morocco’s Crown Jewel 

Image Source

Tucked between the High Atlas Mountains and the gorgeous Sahara Desert, Tinghir is Morocco’s crown jewel that sits snugly in the center of the Todra Valley and is probably one of the best places to see in Morocco for couples. Unlike other places in this country, Tinghir happens to be an old French town which has now turned into a sprawling city entertaining tourists with splendid flower gardens, Kasbahs, and rustic narrow streets.

Being one of the top places in Morocco, it’s also every hiker’s favorite city in Morocco since it provides amazing views of the entire city and surrounding hills after a hike up to the 18th Century Glaoui Palace ruins sitting at a considerable elevation.

How To Reach:  As the place is located in proximity to the popular attractions, you can take a taxi from Dades Gorge or Merzouga to reach here.  Visit For: blooming flower gardens, fabulous Kasbahs, and hiking Tourist Attractions: Todgha Gorge Things To Do:

• Hike to Glaoui Palace
• Go souvenir shopping at the Crafts Market
• Take a camel ride

Suggested Read: Hiking In Egypt

12. Agadir – Thriving Seaside Resort Town

After much of it was destroyed in the earthquake in 1960, including various of its heritage sites, Agadir has finally managed to rise from the ashes. It is now a thriving seaside resort town with a beautiful waterfront and a chilled out vibe whichever direction you head in, which is why this beautiful town can be called the best place in Morocco for couples. This is surely among the best places to visit in Morocco . 

Showing off its battle scars with pride, this busy and bustling port city has turned into one of the top places to visit in Morocco. From strolling in its beautiful streets, basking under the sun on its beaches, to gorging on Moroccan delicacies at the various food stalls, there’s a lot one can do during their trip to Agadir in Morocco.

How To Reach:  Board a train to reach Marrakech and then hire a taxi to reach here Visit For: The town’s laid-back beachfront boulevard Tourist Attractions: Agadir Birds Valley Things To Do:

• Stroll on the Agadir Beach
• Hike to the Souss-Massa National Park
• Dive into Morocco’s history at the Agadir Museum

13. Fez – The Old Maghreb City 

Image Source One of the fascinating Morocco attractions, Fez possesses everything you need out of a 1,200-year-old Maghreb city in the Middle Eastern deserts. It’s among the best places to go in morocco for couples where you’ll find a Fès el-Bali, which happens to be the historic heart of this city with a deep and mysterious labyrinth of lanes and staircases set amidst colorful tanneries and cottages will blow your mind.

Another great attraction of this place is the elegant boulevards of Ville Nouvelle where the French had created stunning palm-fringed avenues and refreshing fountains alongside lavish hotels and Parisian-flavoured streets.

How To Reach:  Fes-Saiss Airport is the nearest airport to Fez. If you are traveling via train then deboard the train at Fès-Ville railway station.  Visit For: Mix of ancient architecture and modernism Tourist Attractions: Fès el-Bali Things To Do:

• taste luxury in the many hotels
• Admire the architecture

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Africa

14. Oudaias Kasbah – Nation’s Most Picturesque Region

Image Credit: Jacq for Pixabay

Morocco is home to plenty of Kasbah’s as well as pretty old town areas where these are located. One of the most charming and best places to visit in Morocco of these is Rabat’s Oudaias Kasbah neighborhood which is called the nation’s most picturesque region.

Its peaceful and quaint vibes also make it a big crowd puller as well as one of the best Morocco points of interest set in the heart of the main city. You will find inside the high walls of this age-old old fortress white and blue houses and colorful flower pots studded on either side of a neat lane.

How To Reach:  Take a local tram from any of the major city to reach here.  Visit For: Seclusion, beauty, and peace Tourist Attractions: The white and blue houses Things To Do:

• Walk around
• Click pictures

15. Tangier – European-Looking Moroccan City

Image Source Tangier is among the most beautiful Morocco tourist places out of all the European-looking Moroccan cities. This fascinating city played a major role in the literary history of Morocco in the 20th century and is very much responsible for shaping this country as we know it today.

It’s this very history and culture that attracts tourists here from far and wide. In fact, Tangier is what had inspired famous works like Paul Bowles’ The Sheltering Sky as well as William Burroughs’ Naked Lunch. Other than the historical vibes, you’ll also find some remaining bohemian cafes and louche bars here to chill here located in the midst of the famous places to see in Morocco.

How To Reach:  One of the most popular ways to reach Tangier is by ferry. It takes just over 30 minutes.  Visit For: History and cafes Tourist Attractions: Caves of Hercules Things To Do:

• See the ancient caves
• Dine at the cafes
• Learn about the rich history

Suggested Read: 5 Enchanting Castles In South Africa

16. Dades Valley – Panoramic Sights

Another one of the best places to visit in Morocco on your next visit is the Dades Valley. This valley runs between the Jebel Sarhro and High Altas mountain ranges and is frequently visited by Globetrotters as it offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to head to Todra Gorge for the best experience. This is amongst the best places to visit in Morocco . 

How To Reach:  Take bus to Boumalne. From there take a grand taxi or Mini Bus to the Gorge. The Mini Bus goes all the way (60+ km) to Messina.  Visit For: Panoramic sights Tourist Attractions: Todra Gorge Things To Do: Capture the mesmerizing sights of this valley and you can also explore numerous kasbahs (traditional forts) 

17. Aït Ben Haddou – Ancient Ruins

Image Credit: DanielWanke for Pixabay

One of the must see places in Morocco , Ksar Aït Ben Haddou is an ancient village that is home to a number of houses that have been built on a hillside. This destination happens to be one of the most beautiful places that one has ever seen. Most of the village has been abandoned in the present day and has been left for the tourists to explore. The film set of the Hollywood blockbuster ‘Gladiator’, this place teleports one to the golden days.

It is always best to hire a guide when visiting this place. If you wish to witness the renowned ‘cafe view’, take a trip deep inside the village. The guide is more like to have contacts with the locals and owners, which will make it easier for you to get in.

How To Reach: Board a local bus or hire a taxi to reach AÏt Ben Haddou from Ouarzazate. Visit For: Exploring the timeless ruins, historical remnants, and the cafe views. Embrace the ancient vibes that reek from this village. Tourist Attractions: Timeless ruins of abandoned houses Things To Do:

• Get an insight into the culture of Morocco
• Explore the architecture of well-preserved Kasbahs that were constructed to protect against raids
• Capture the magnificence of Moroccan architecture

Suggested Read: 22 Best Things To Do In Morocco

18. Rose Valley – Fragrance All Around

One of the best places to visit in Morocco in July for those who seek paths less taken, Rose Valley is as beautiful as it can get. With various hues of green, pristine blue waters, Atlas Mountains, and vast patches of olive and fig trees forming its landscape, Rose Valley is truly a sight to behold. An escape for the adventure junkies, this valley got its name from the vast pink gardens of roses that cover the floors of Morocco.

The sweet and overwhelming fragrance, pink views if visited in the perfect month, and oil factories combine to form an experience in this valley in May. One can simply spend hours and hours taking in the beauty that this place has to offer.

How To Reach: Join the trek tour that starts from Marrakech and ends here. Visit For: Festival of Roses that takes place during the blooming season. Tourist Attractions: Vast patches of pink roses Things To Do:

• Go for trekking
• Soak in the beauty of mother nature

19. Dakhla – Kitesurfing Hub

Slowly emerging as one of the popular Morocco tourist spots , Dakhla is a place that comes under top 3 cities to visit in Morocco. Established in the year 1844 by the Spanish, Dhakla is a 40 kms stretch sitting on the sandy peninsula of the Tropic of Cancer. The desert spread as far as the eye can see is a significant part of this spot in Morocco.

To some, Dakhla might seem like a remote destination by virtue of the structures standing in this destination, but thanks to some great hotels, restaurants, and facilities of thrilling sports, this destination is developing to be a favorite amidst locals and tourists alike.

How To Reach: Take a cab or hire a self-driving car from Marrakech to Laayoune. Spend a night in Laayoune and then continue the journey to Dhakla. Visit For: To engage in Kitesurfing and surfing Tourist Attractions: A plethora of water sports Things To Do:

• Take part in various water sports available here, especially kitesurfing
• Get the traditional Moroccon spa treatment
• Indulge in the authentic and fresh seafood

Further Read: Valley Of A Thousand Hills

Now that you’ve put this country on your bucket list, make sure you don’t skip any of these best places to visit in Morocco from your itinerary. And irrespective of whether you’re a big foodie, water sports’ freak, or a party animal, rest assured because this country has just the right kind of experiences for you. Plan an international trip with TravelTriangle and customize it to make sure each of these Morocco sightseeing experiences truly become a delight!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Morocco

Which are the most beautiful places in Morocco?

Some of the best places to visit in Morocco include Asilah, Chefchaouen, Atlas Mountains, Sand Dunes, and Koutoubia Mosque to name a few.

What are the best cities to visit in Morocco?

The best cities in Morocco that you must explore are Marrakesh, Meknes, Tinghir, Agadir, and Fes among others.

What is the best month to travel to Morocco?

Although the weather in Morocco is amazing throughout the year if you want to save some money then the best time to visit Morocco is during the shoulder season - April to May or September to November.

Is Morocco economical to travel to?

Morocco is a must-visit place in Europe and is an affordable destination to go to. Although, a few of the attractions are a bit expensive the accommodation is quite reasonable.

Can you drink alcohol in Morocco?

Morocco is not a dry place and liquor is easily available in bars, stores, hotels, clubs, and discos. However, drinking in public places is prohibited so you might want to avoid that.

Where to go in Morocco for a beach holiday?

If you are looking for a crescent beach in Morocco then visit the gorgeous beach in the city of Agadir for an amazing sightseeing view of sandy beaches with the sparkling water of the sea.

Which are the best romantic places to visit in Morocco?

Mauresque architecture, European art, and the gorgeous view of the Atlantic Sea will surely enhance your experience if you explore the destination with your beloved.

What to do with 7 days in Morocco?

You can explore the major attractions of the city including the famous Marrakesh, Ouarzazate, Merzouga, and various others. Try the continental delicacies at well-known restaurants like La Sqala, Nomad, Le Basmane, Dar Moha, etc.

People Also Read

Best Places To Visit In Colombo Best Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur Best Places To Visit In Canada

Recent Posts

10 Endroits touristiques en Italie qui sont incroyablement magnifiques

2024 में स्वर्ग में 19 हनीमून के लिए कश्मीर में घूमने की जगहें

2024 में शानदार छुट्टियाँ बिताने के लिए 10 श्रीनगर के पास घूमने की जगहें!

30 कश्मीर में घूमने घूमने की जगहें, 2023 में कोई भी मिस नहीं कर सकता

La Suisse en juin: pour une expérience de voyage merveilleuse au milieu des sereines Alpes suisses en 2024.

17 Meilleurs endroits à visiter en Hongrie en 2024, le joyau de la couronne d’Europe!

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Places To Visit »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka