TRAVEL SAFETY IN MOROCCO

Is Morocco Safe To Travel?

Morocco is an incredibly safe country for travel, surpassing the safety levels of some European countries such as Spain and France. It is important to take a few precautions to ensure your safety during your trip. Before traveling to any foreign country, it is advisable to check your own government’s travel advice website and specifically review information regarding the region you intend to visit in Morocco. 

These websites provide extensive advice and information that will help ease your concerns and prepare you for your adventure in Morocco. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a secure and enjoyable travel experience in this beautiful country.

About Travel Safety In Morocco?

Crime In Morocco

Yes, Morocco is generally safe for tourists, but like any populated area, there are some common petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. Tourists may also encounter hustlers and con artists who try to target them. It’s important to politely refuse their services and be cautious around strangers. You might encounter fake guides, but they are becoming less common. 

Be vigilant and pay attention to what people are telling you. Fake guides may try to convince you that your desired destination is closed and suggest their own instead. If you spot a fake guide, hustler, or con artist, avoid making eye contact and ignore them. It’s generally best to avoid accepting services from people who approach you and to use a recognized tour guide from a reputable travel agency or tourist information center. 

Sometimes it can be challenging to get rid of persistent individuals, but a firm and assertive “no” can work wonders. Keep in mind that most crimes against tourists occur in major tourist locations in larger cities like Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, Fez, and Rabat.

Civil Unrest And Terrorism

Before you travel to any foreign country, especially due to the current situation with terrorism, it’s a good idea to check your own government’s travel advice website. In Morocco, civil unrest is not very common. However, there were some peaceful demonstrations between 2011 and 2012, where tens of thousands of people gathered nationwide. Fortunately, there was minimal violence between the police and protesters. Moroccans, in general, are peaceful and united against anyone who tries to disrupt the peace. 

Regardless of your country or nationality, you will be warmly welcomed by honest, friendly, and open-hearted Moroccans. Our team of guides, drivers, and local professionals will work hard to ensure your safety throughout your trip. They are aware of any potential issues, and we will listen and take action based on any local news or events.

Safety On The Road

The roads in Morocco are not the same everywhere. They can vary depending on the region and the time of year. During heavy rain or snow, the driving conditions can be more dangerous. In Morocco, you will come across different types of roads. Some are high-speed toll roads, while others are secondary roads that may not be well-maintained. The behavior of drivers might be different from what you’re used to in your own country. 

You’ll see various types of vehicles sharing the road, including bicycles and donkey carts. Road accidents are a concern and happen frequently. If you’re traveling by road, it’s important to stay alert when crossing the road or walking near it.

Child Travel Safety in Morocco

Morocco, like many other Islamic countries, places a strong emphasis on family values. You will notice this, especially if you travel with children. It is common for local people to show their affection for children by hugging or touching them. Children are often doted upon by their older relatives, and they tend to stay up later than children in the West. 

They are also allowed to play freely both indoors and on the streets. When you travel with young children, local people may approach you and admire your children by gently touching their cheeks or even giving them a kiss. It’s normal friendly behavior, so there’s no need to feel uncomfortable or unsafe about it. 

In fact, bringing your children along can be an advantage as it allows you to interact with the locals and experience the Moroccan way of life firsthand. You may also receive invitations to shops and cafés, with some even offering you free tea.   

Women Traveling Safety in Morocco

Women traveling to Morocco will notice that it’s different from Western countries. Gender roles are more clearly defined, with traditional views of a society led by men. Women need to take extra precautions when exploring the busy streets. In Morocco, men have limited contact with women outside of their families while growing up. Sometimes, due to misconceptions about Western sexuality, they may misunderstand the behaviors or actions of Western women. 

It’s possible that women, both Moroccan and foreign, may experience cat-calling and lewd comments. The best response is to ignore this behavior, as it often doesn’t escalate further. However, if someone makes physical advances, respond as you would at home by screaming, yelling, and calling for help. 

These reactions can shame the aggressor and alert locals, who will rush in to assist you (especially if you yell out “Ha-Shooma!” which means “Shame on you!”). Whenever possible, report the harasser to the local Brigade Touristique or the police.

Women Trraveling to Morocco Tips

Use common sense , Dress modestly , look confident , behave appropriately , mention your ” husband ” If things start to feel uncomfortable when you are talking with a Moroccan man , lastly keep your cool and enjoy your trip .

Jewish Travelers to Morocco

Morocco has a rich history of cultural diversity, where Muslims, Christians, and Jewish people have lived together. While it is now predominantly an Arab Muslim country, the Jewish and indigenous Berber populations have a long-standing presence that predates Arab immigration. 

Even today, there are around 2,500 Jewish people in Morocco. However, in the past, their numbers were much larger. You can easily find traces of the historical Jewish presence in Morocco, particularly in the intriguing Mellahs (Jewish quarters) and the Arab world’s only Jewish heritage museum located in Casablanca. Moroccans take pride in their Jewish heritage and recognize its significance in the country’s history. 

Morocco strives to be a place of acceptance, making it a safe and welcoming destination for Jewish travelers to explore and discover the incredibly diverse history of the country.

Safety in Morocco Airports

The airports in Morocco are actually very secure, despite the common misconception that they may be unsafe. While the security measures may not be as strict as those in the US or Europe, the Moroccan government and security agencies are extremely vigilant. 

They are well aware of every person entering and leaving the country. Security is a top priority for them, especially when it comes to protecting foreign travelers and the general public. In summary, the Moroccan government places a strong emphasis on security, so it’s important to follow their laws and regulations for your own safety.

Is it Safe To Drive in Morocco?

If you are in the city, it’s not recommended to rent a car or motorbike in Morocco. The urban traffic is extremely chaotic, with potholes, heavy congestion, and aggressive drivers. In 2017, road accidents in Morocco accounted for 3.6% of all deaths in the country, which is much higher compared to the UK’s 0.39%.

For these reasons, it’s best for only very confident and experienced drivers to drive in Morocco’s larger cities.

However, if you’re interested in driving outside of the city, there are some incredible road trips you can take. If you can find a reliable car rental place and you’re in Marrakesh, a road trip on the Tizi N Tichka Pass is highly recommended. The road is mostly empty, and it offers a breathtaking way to explore the countryside.

Emergency Contacts

In a worst-case scenario where something happens to you on the street, you can try threatening the person by saying you’ll call the police or seek help from nearby individuals. Moroccans are generally friendly and willing to assist you in getting out of a difficult situation. 

If you find yourself alone with no one nearby, it may be best to give the robbers some money to avoid any further trouble and leave the area immediately. In case of emergencies, you can dial 19 for the police in urban areas, 177 for the Royal Gendarmerie in rural areas, and 15 for ambulance or fire services. 

While Morocco is generally safe to explore, it’s important to remain vigilant, respect local customs and culture, and use common sense when it comes to your personal belongings. Tourists can be targets for petty criminals and pickpockets worldwide, so it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings. Enjoy the magical and mysterious experience that Morocco has to offer while taking necessary precautions for a safe and pleasant trip.

How to Stay Safety in Morocco ( if you travel by yourself)?

Morocco is a safety place to visit. The crime rate is low, with only minor incidents such as scams and pickpocketing. As a tourist, you are unlikely to be assaulted or seriously harmed in the country. Nowadays, Morocco is considered very safe for tourists. If you are a solo female traveler, it’s important to be a bit more cautious, but overall, you are still unlikely to face major issues. 

To ensure safe travel in Morocco, it’s necessary to be extra vigilant and aware, as there is a possibility of encountering petty crimes and harassment. However, by following a few guidelines, you can have a trouble-free experience safety in Morocco.

Emergency Contacts

When it comes to food and water safety, it’s important to be cautious in Morocco, just like in any other foreign country. The conditions in which the local food, especially street food, is prepared may be different from what your stomach is used to. Therefore, it’s essential to be mindful of where you choose to try street food. 

Generally, popular areas like Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakesh, Skala du Port in Essaouira, and the port in Agadir are considered safe places to sample Morocco’s local flavors.

While many guidebooks recommend drinking only bottled water, it’s worth noting that most tap water in Morocco is safe to drink. The cistern systems are well-maintained and relatively new throughout the country. So, if you prefer, you can safely consume tap water. However, it’s advisable to avoid eating uncooked vegetables or fruits that haven’t been properly washed or that you cannot peel yourself. This precaution helps minimize the risk of stomach discomfort during your travels.

Here are 8 tips on how to stay safety in Morocco when you visit.
  1. Dont walk alone at night.
  2. Dont walk alone if you are a women.
  3. Dress conservatively.
  4. Avoid  flashy jewelry.
  5. Dont carry valuables.
  6. Avoid Back alleys
  7. Watch for scams
  8. say no for faux guides. 
  • When you book and travel with us, you can relax and not worry about safety in Morocco. We have taken care of that for you. Our guides and drivers are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our customers. They will be with you throughout your stay in Morocco, providing constant support and assistance. Your safety is our main concern and we prioritize it above everything else. Contact Us Now