If it’s your first time visiting North Africa, you might be wondering if it is safe to travel to Morocco. This North African gem has seen tourist numbers skyrocket in recent years as travellers seek that one-of-a-kind experience and in my opinion, it’s a country that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
But like any destination, there are safety issues to consider and taking the right precautions can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll touch on everything you need to keep in mind when visiting Morocco to ensure your safety is a top priority.
Is it safe to travel to Morocco?
While Morocco's conservative Islamic culture offers fascinating insights and experiences, it can also pose potential challenges for independent travellers, women and LGBTQIA+ visitors. Generally speaking, Moroccans are open-minded people and respect that non-Muslims may dress and behave differently to them.
That being said, it’s important to be observant of local laws and customs. After all, you are visiting their country and with that comes an obligation to be respectful in the way you present yourself and interact with locals.
Public displays of affection aren’t the norm, so save them for behind closed doors at your hotel/riad. On the other hand, warm and heartfelt greetings are expected. Never launch into a conversation without a “salaam alaikum/hello, how are you?” Taking the time to greet someone properly (often this involves asking about the health of their family/parents) is really important in Moroccan culture.
Petty crime and scams in Morocco
Unfortunately, petty theft can be an issue, especially in crowded areas like souks and medinas. Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech is a must-visit attraction but the crowds make it ripe for those hoping to pocket other people’s valuables. Always keep valuables securely stored, either in a money belt or a zipped-up bag that hugs your body. Avoid splashy displays of wealth in the form of watches/jewellery or designer accessories - anything that screams “I’ve got money!”
You may also encounter pushy panhandlers around ATMs in popular tourist areas. Always be discreet when entering your PIN and stash your cash away safely before leaving the ATM.
When touring the bustling souks and winding medinas of Morocco, you may encounter friendly locals offering their services as unofficial "tour guides." While their enthusiasm is admirable, exercise caution before accepting. Many are unlicensed operators focused more on making a profit than providing a quality experience. They may lead you to shops where they receive a commission, dramatically inflating prices along the way. Instead, research reputable tour companies in advance and scour online reviews to ensure the experience is worth paying for.
When hailing taxis, make sure you agree on the price beforehand, as some drivers are known to inflate metre readings to double or triple the usual fare. If you’re not sure what you should be paying and don’t want to get caught in a Moroccan scam, ask at your hotel reception or book a fixed-price airport transfer in advance.
Is Morocco safe to visit?
Is Morocco safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?
Theoretically, same-sex relations are against the law in Morocco and public displays of affection (even between hetero couples) are strictly taboo. However, in practice, the authorities often look the other way and most locals are just as welcoming of LGBTQIA+ visitors as anyone else.
Most Moroccans adopt a live-and-let-live attitude, as long as certain boundaries around discretion and age of consent are respected. The extreme versions of Islam that prevail in some neighbouring countries are not apparent here.
Homosexuality does exist in Moroccan society, with records going back centuries. That being said, locals who openly express non-heteronormative sexuality or gender identity sometimes face discrimination, legal prosecution and even violence. For LGBTQIA+ tourists, discretion is key - any behaviour seen as flouting traditional norms could incite harassment or endangerment.
Attitudes can vary greatly depending on the specific region and community, with some more conservative than others. Be observant and get to know the locals - you'll likely find most to be friendly and welcoming, despite differences in beliefs. Most importantly, don't let fear stop you from experiencing this beautiful country.
Is Morocco safe for female travellers?
Though most locals are friendly, harassment of female visitors (particularly those travelling solo) persists in some areas. This usually presents itself as cat-calling by men, often to impress others around them. While it can feel uncomfortable and threatening at times, it rarely goes beyond anything verbal.
My best advice for solo female travellers is to ignore the perpetrator(s) and don’t let it detract from the experience you want to have. The few Moroccan men who behave in this manner do not reflect the cultural norm and expectations that men should respect women, no matter their nationality or religion.
Alternatively, seek safety in numbers and travel in groups of three or more. Having companions by your side deters most advances, particularly if those companions are male. Exploring cities with a local guide is also a simple way of preventing unwarranted attention, as the man will be quickly reprimanded by the guide if he even tries to mutter something in your direction.
Stick to well-lit, populated streets if walking at night as empty side streets and alleys make prime targets. Respond firmly to unwanted approaches. Most harassment stops with a simple "No, thank you." If needed, seek help from locals or police if they are present. If you suspect someone is following you, step inside the nearest shop or cafe and explain your predicament. Most Moroccans will go out of their way to act and ensure their country’s reputation is not tarnished by devious individuals.
For more detailed information about travelling Morocco as a solo female, this article is filled with insights.
Out of respect for local traditions, modesty is key when it comes to attire, not only for women but also for men and non-binary folk. While it’s okay to wear tank tops and short shorts at the beach, it’s best to keep your shoulders and knees covered away from the sand. When visiting sacred sites like mosques, it’s mandatory for all genders to cover their arms and legs, with women also expected to cover their hair with a scarf. It’s a simple gesture that honours Moroccan values and the country’s prevailing Islamic religion.
For a more in-depth guide on what to wear in Morocco, check out my Morocco Packing Guide.
Is Morocco safe for female travellers?
Is it safe to travel to Morocco?
As a woman who has travelled to all corners of Morocco, both independently and with my partner, I can attest that some places are more challenging for solo female travellers than others. I got hassled a lot in Marrakech but never in Essaouira or any of Morocco’s smaller towns and villages.
On the beaches of Taghazout, the local men were so used to seeing women in bikinis that they didn’t bat an eyelid. But if I went to the market just a few kilometres away, I wanted to be covered up to respect the elderly vendors and shoppers, many of whom had travelled there from small rural villages.
But throughout all my time in Morocco, I never felt unsafe. In fact, I always felt there were locals looking out for my well-being, whether that was overtly displayed or was subtly taking place in the background. Even when I did have one issue with an unofficial “guide” who wouldn’t take “no” for an answer, there were locals who quickly stepped in when they saw I was uncomfortable with the situation.
Everyone wants you to have an amazing time in their country and leave with the best impression possible, not only of Morocco’s cultural and natural wonders but also of its hospitable people. One final word of safety advice is to ensure you grab a card from your hotel or riad before heading out - finding your way back through a medina’s maze-like streets can be challenging, to say the least. With a card in hand, you can always have a local shopkeeper phone to have a rescue team from the accommodation come to guide you back home.
Looking for more Morocco travel inspiration? Check out my suggested Morocco itineraries, ranging from 5 days to 2 weeks.
Comments