Is Morocco safe for new and unexpecting travelers?
Who hasn’t heard of Morocco? The North Africa nation has iconic street markets in Marrakech and the world-famous Casablanca, a city with a classic film for its namesake.
Who wouldn’t want to revel in the smell of spices and the sight of pure blue seas?
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Is Morocco Safe
Stand in the bustling back streets of the inner city, and find teams of people shopping like it’s Oxford Street.
The oldest and largest Medina in North Africa is here, along with tagines and mint tea. But how would a trip be?
Is it a safe country or are some of the cities too dangerous? We’re here to give you the scoop!
How Safe is Morocco?
Overall, Morocco is quite safe for travelers coming from abroad.
However, this doesn’t always mean that crime doesn’t happen.
Just like everywhere 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 increasing by an alarming rate year upon year. And at the end of the day, doesn’t grow tourism numbers typically indicate a safe country?
The most common complaints in Morocco are pushy market stalls, petty theft (which can be common in the major cities), as well as poor treatment of women.
While both of these issues are unfortunate, there are ways to maximize your personal safety and make sure nothing goes wrong.
Morocco Crime Rate
- The intentional homicide rate of Morocco in 2018 was 1.42 per 100,000 inhabitants. This is less than Canada, Finland and Malta.
- According to the UK Government, almost 700,000 British nationals visit Morocco in a typical year, with most visits being trouble-free.
- There are specific cities that tourists are advised to avoid, such as Fez and Casablanca, but tourists still reach due to the history of these areas.
- The most common type of crime is petty crime, such as pickpocketing, theft from unoccupied vehicles, robberies and purse snatching.
- Morocco is a Muslim country which follows Islamic laws. These should be respected at all times.
- Keep dummy wallets for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do.
- Remember to get your FREE travel insurance quote from WorldNomads to receive fully comprehensive support when it comes to unforeseen travel compilications.
- Watch out for pickpockets.
- Never argue about prices, haggle politely but never raise your voice.
- Don’t accept offers of drugs.
- If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away, and on your person. A PacSafe backpack is perfect for this.
- Make sure to use trusted and accredited hotels/hostels. Then once you’ve booked your room, book taxis or buses through the hotel.
- Make sure to take sunscreen. This is one of the hottest regions in the Med.
- Don’t go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. A simple rule: if there are families around, you’re probably safe.
- Gnaoua and Sacred World Music festivals (May): Held in Essaouira and Fez. The former unites historical Gnaoua musicians with modern-day music, while the latter promotes spirituality and tolerance through the power of music.
- Ramadan (April to May): It can make the trip a bit more hectic, but the religious month of Ramadan is an exciting time to visit. The breaking of the fast at sundown is a unique experience for a non-muslim.
Get a FREE travel insurance quote from WorldNomads to get the right (and timely) support when it comes to protecting yourself in Morocco.
Is Morocco Safe For Tourists?
Morocco is an interesting place when it comes to the question of safety.
On the one hand, it’s just like any other major European country with petty crime problems and often common chances of crime happening to visitors being pickpocketed.
However, it’s still seen by some visitors as a more dangerous place than Spain or Malta, despite having a lower homicide rate than the latter.
This is due to the fact that there are ‘dangerous’ or ‘sketchy’ neighborhoods and inner cities that potentially target obvious-looking tourists.
It’s worth knowing what to expect when you get to Morocco, as well as which spots to avoid.
Morocco is a brilliant place for finding remnants of years gone by, but a resentment towards French people still exists with some circles.
Where to stay in Morocco
Which places in Morocco are worth your time? If you are traveling to Morocco on vacation you’ll want to see the most popular town and cities to get a feel of the country.
Marrakesh
By far the most popular town in Morocco, and some would say even North Africa if it wasn’t for Egypt’s Cairo.
It’s 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.
Fez
A popular tourist spot unconventional and unusual city is the perfect place for the family to enjoy in Morocco.
Known for its impressive architecture, Fez is a mixture of 8th, 13th, and 20th-century colonial influences.
Casablanca
More modern than either of the locations we’ve looked at so far, Casablanca isn’t quite as charming at atmospheric as Fez or Marrakesh. However, it’s still well worth a visit.
Its French colonial architecture is mixed with traditional Moorish buildings and traditional Arab culture.
There are lots of museums and palaces to visit, as well as the world’s second-largest mosque.
Essaouira
If we’re completely honest, there are few places that are particularly costly in Morocco.
Overall, it’s a great country to visit on a budget! However, in the most touristy places prices are just that little bit higher.
Not in Essaouria though… And there’s plenty to visit too. It’s known as the Wind City of Africa and there’s one thing it’s known for above all else – surfing!
Chefchaouen
If you’re wondering about the best city to stay in Morocco that is like nowhere else in the world, Chefchaouen ticks that box.
Why’s that? Well, everything’s blue.
Although it’s unsurprisingly gained popularity in recent years because there aren’t a whole load of cities on the globe painted blue from top to bottom, its medina still has an air of authenticity.
Step back in time for a slice of Moroccan mountain life.
Morocco: Travel Safety Tips
Morocco has had a brilliant plan to vaccinate its citizens, so the COVID situation here is slowly coming back to normality.
Here are some tips to help you in Morocco:
Morocco is a lot like a European country, it just looks different.
You realize this when you notice how many citizens are coping with COVID-19 better than the likes of Brazil.
Best Time to Visit Morocco
The best time to visit Morocco is during spring (March to May).
The weather is warm but pleasant, unlike the low temperatures and occasional snow of winter.
Trust us when we say it isn’t worth being here during the height of summer, it’s just too hot.
The coastal regions can be visited year-round if you’re interested.
During the Spring, you have:
Is Morocco Safe? Final Words
Morocco is as safe as you want it to be.
If you arrive with the polo tops, shorts, and flip flops taking hundreds of pictures, and stopping to apply sunscreen in the street?
Consider yourself a target for pickpocketing or maybe worse. Morocco has a lot to offer, so stay safe!
Book your trip today and see some of our best sustainable travel tips to help ensure that your trip has a positive effect on the environment.
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