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Is Morocco Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide Based on 8 Years of Experience

Discover if Morocco is safe for travelers in 2025 with this comprehensive guide covering safety tips, regional insights, and real experiences from my multiple visits. Learn how to navigate Morocco confidently and enjoy everything this beautiful North African country has to offer.

My Experience with Safety in Morocco

It was 2016 when I first stepped off the plane at Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), clutching my backpack with white knuckles and fighting the flutter of anxiety in my chest. Having read countless contradicting reports about safety in Morocco, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Eight years and eleven visits later, I’ve navigated every corner of this magnificent country—from the bustling medinas of Marrakech to the remote Berber villages of the High Atlas—and I’ve developed a nuanced understanding of safety in Morocco that goes beyond the simplistic narratives often found online.

That first night, when a shopkeeper invited me for mint tea after I got hopelessly lost in Fez’s labyrinthine medina, I realized my preconceptions were already being challenged. Instead of the danger I feared, I found extraordinary hospitality. That’s not to say Morocco doesn’t have its risks—it absolutely does—but they’re often not what travelers expect.

This guide draws on my personal experiences, conversations with hundreds of locals, and insights from fellow long-term travelers to answer the question that brought you here: Is Morocco safe for travelers in 2025? I’ll share the mistakes I’ve made (some embarrassing, some potentially dangerous), the current safety landscape, and practical tips to help you navigate this fascinating North African country with confidence.

The Overall Safety Situation in Morocco (2025 Update)

Let’s address the central question upfront: Yes, Morocco is generally safe for travelers in 2025, but with important caveats. Based on the latest international travel advisories and my recent visit in January 2025, Morocco maintains its status as one of the more stable countries in North Africa, with relatively low rates of violent crime against tourists.

However, safety varies significantly by region, time of day, and your own travel habits. The good news is that the Moroccan government continues to prioritize tourism safety, with increased police presence in major tourist areas since the post-pandemic tourism recovery began in earnest in 2023.

Recent Safety Developments in 2024-2025

  • Enhanced security measures around major tourist sites and transportation hubs
  • New tourist police units added in Fez, Tangier, and Chefchaouen
  • Improved lighting in previously dim areas of medinas in Marrakech and Casablanca
  • Updated emergency response systems with English and French-speaking operators
  • New safety information kiosks at major entry points like Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport

The Moroccan National Tourist Office has also launched a new safety app in 2024 called “Morocco Safe” that provides real-time safety information and emergency contacts. I’ve found it quite useful during my last two visits.

Crime Statistics and Common Incidents

According to recent data from Morocco’s General Directorate for National Security (2024), crimes against tourists have decreased by approximately 18% since 2022. However, petty theft, scams, and harassment remain the most commonly reported incidents.

Type of Incident Frequency Hot Spots Risk Level
Pickpocketing Common Crowded medinas, markets, public transport Medium-High
Scams Common Tourist areas, especially Marrakech and Fez Medium
Harassment (particularly of solo female travelers) Common Urban areas, markets Medium
Vehicle break-ins Occasional Unattended parking areas Medium
Violent crime against tourists Rare Isolated areas, late at night Low
Terrorism Very rare No specific pattern Low

My personal experience aligns with these statistics. In my 11 visits, I’ve experienced two attempted pickpocketing incidents (both in Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa square), countless minor scams (particularly with taxi drivers), but never any violent crime or threats to my physical safety.

Safety By Region: Where to Be Extra Cautious

Major Cities and Tourist Destinations

Casablanca

As Morocco’s largest city and economic capital, Casablanca presents a different safety profile than more tourist-oriented destinations. The areas around Mohammed V Airport (CMN) and major hotels are well-policed and generally safe.

However, I’d recommend extra caution in:

  • The old medina after dark – While atmospheric during the day, it has fewer tourists and more opportunistic crime at night
  • Derb Ghallef neighborhood – Known for electronics shopping but also petty theft
  • Parts of Ain Diab after midnight – The beachfront area is generally safe but has some isolated spots

Marrakech

Marrakech remains Morocco’s tourism jewel and has adapted significantly to visitor safety concerns. The main tourist areas like Jemaa el-Fnaa and the souks are heavily monitored, but they’re also where you’ll encounter the most harassment and scam attempts.

In 2023, I made the mistake of following a young “guide” who promised to show me a “special spice market only locals know about.” After a 15-minute walk through increasingly narrow alleys, we arrived at a standard tourist shop with inflated prices, and the exit was subtly blocked until I made a purchase. I ended up paying 300 dirham (about $30) for saffron that would have cost 100 dirham in the main souk. The lesson? Stick to official guides or explore independently with a good map app.

Fez

The ancient medina of Fez is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of my favorite places in Morocco. It’s also the easiest place to get utterly lost, which can create safety vulnerabilities. The newly renovated Fez Vision app (updated in 2024) has improved GPS functionality even within the medina’s narrow alleys, which has been a game-changer for independent travelers.

Rural and Remote Areas

The Atlas Mountains

The High Atlas, Middle Atlas, and Anti-Atlas mountain ranges offer spectacular trekking opportunities. In these areas, natural hazards often pose more significant risks than crime. In 2022, I underestimated the weather conditions near Toubkal (North Africa’s highest peak) and found myself caught in an unexpected snowstorm in April. The temperature dropped from 18°C to near freezing in hours.

Personal Tip: Always hire a local guide for mountain trekking, even if you’re an experienced hiker. They know the rapidly changing weather patterns and safe routes in a way no app or guidebook can match. My guide Mohammed from Imlil village literally saved me from hypothermia with his knowledge of emergency shelters.

Desert Regions

The Sahara experiences, particularly around Merzouga and M’Hamid, have excellent safety records due to the close-knit nature of desert communities and their economic reliance on tourism. However, the extreme environment itself presents risks. Always book desert excursions with reputable companies that provide emergency communication equipment.

Border Regions

The areas bordering Algeria and parts of the disputed Western Sahara territory have higher security concerns. The Moroccan-Algerian border remains closed, and unauthorized crossing attempts can result in detention. The Western Sahara situation remains politically sensitive, though popular tourist destinations like Dakhla are considered safe with normal precautions.

Safety for Different Types of Travelers

Solo Female Travelers

Morocco presents distinct challenges for women traveling alone. Street harassment—ranging from persistent conversation attempts to catcalling—remains unfortunately common in urban areas. However, there have been positive improvements in recent years:

  • The 2018 law criminalizing sexual harassment has been more consistently enforced since 2023
  • Women-only sections on trains have expanded
  • Several women-owned tour companies like Marrakech Women’s Tours have launched, offering female guides
  • Apps like Secure She now cover major Moroccan cities

My female friends who have visited Morocco consistently report feeling generally safe but exhausted by the constant need to deflect unwanted attention. The most effective strategies they’ve shared include:

  1. Dressing modestly (covering shoulders and knees at minimum)
  2. Wearing a wedding ring, even if unmarried
  3. Maintaining confident body language and walking with purpose
  4. Using phrases like “La shukran, ana mushgula” (No thank you, I’m busy) firmly but politely
  5. Staying in women-owned riads or hotels

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Morocco presents significant challenges for LGBTQ+ travelers due to both legal and social constraints. Same-sex sexual activity remains criminalized under Article 489 of the Penal Code, with penalties of up to three years imprisonment. In practice, foreign tourists are rarely prosecuted, but discretion is absolutely essential.

From my conversations with Moroccan LGBTQ+ activists and LGBTQ+ travelers who have visited:

  • Public displays of affection between any couples, regardless of orientation, are culturally inappropriate
  • Higher-end hotels in tourist areas are generally more accepting of same-sex couples sharing rooms
  • Dating apps should be used with extreme caution, as there have been cases of entrapment
  • Respect for the local cultural context is essential for safety

The situation for transgender travelers can be particularly challenging. Carry passports and documentation at all times, as discrepancies between appearance and legal gender can lead to questioning.

Families with Children

Morocco is surprisingly family-friendly, with Moroccans generally showing great affection and patience with children. However, there are some specific considerations:

  • Sidewalks are often narrow or non-existent, making stroller navigation difficult
  • Car seats are not commonly available in taxis or rental cars unless specifically requested
  • Public changing facilities are rare outside high-end establishments
  • Children may attract extra attention, including touching or hair ruffling from well-meaning locals

Insider Tip: If traveling with children, learn the phrase “Allah ibarek fík” (May God bless you), which is what Moroccans typically say when receiving compliments about their children. Using this phrase when locals admire your children shows cultural awareness and often leads to delightful interactions.

Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

In eight years of traveling throughout Morocco, I’ve encountered nearly every scam in the book—and even fallen for a few. Here are the most persistent ones to watch for in 2025:

The “Closed” Attraction Scam

This classic remains prevalent around major tourist sites. Someone approaches you saying your intended destination is closed, then offers to take you somewhere “better.” In 2020, I was told the famous tanneries in Fez were closed for a religious holiday (they weren’t), and my helpful “guide” took me to his cousin’s leather shop instead.

How to avoid it: Verify opening hours from official sources before your visit, and politely decline unsolicited guidance.

The Taxi Meter “Malfunction”

Despite regulations requiring meters, many taxi drivers in Morocco claim their meter is broken and quote inflated prices. In Casablanca last year, I was quoted 200 dirham for what should have been a 50-70 dirham ride from the airport to the city center.

How to avoid it: Use the Heetch app (Morocco’s equivalent to Uber) in major cities, or negotiate the fare before entering the taxi. Know the approximate prices: airport to Casablanca center should be 70-80 dirham (about $7-8) in 2025.

The “Free” Guide

Someone offers to show you around “for free,” only to demand payment or lead you to commission-based shops. I fell for this on my first trip and ended up paying 400 dirham for a “tour” that consisted mostly of carpet shop visits.

How to avoid it: Politely decline unsolicited guide offers. Hire guides only through your accommodation or official tourist offices. In Marrakech, official guides wear yellow badges.

The Henna Ambush

Women in particular may find someone grabbing their hand and starting a henna tattoo without permission, then demanding payment. This is especially common in Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa.

How to avoid it: Keep hands in pockets when passing henna artists, and firmly say “La, shukran” (No, thank you) if approached.

Currency Confusion

Some vendors take advantage of tourists’ unfamiliarity with the dirham, either by “forgetting” to provide change or giving change in centimes (1/100 of a dirham) rather than dirhams.

How to avoid it: Learn the currency (approximately 10 dirhams = $1 USD in 2025), and always count your change carefully.

Essential Safety Tips for Morocco

Before You Go

  • Register with your embassy using programs like the U.S. State Department’s STEP program
  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation
  • Download offline maps of areas you’ll be visiting
  • Install a reliable VPN for secure internet usage
  • Learn basic Arabic or French phrases for emergencies
  • Make digital and physical copies of important documents

Transportation Safety

Morocco’s road safety statistics remain concerning, with a road accident fatality rate approximately three times higher than many European countries. Based on my experiences:

Taxis

  • Petit taxis (small, city-only taxis) are generally safe but often lack seatbelts
  • Grand taxis (shared intercity Mercedes) are convenient but frequently overcrowded
  • Always use the Heetch app where available (Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Tangier)

Rental Cars

I’ve rented cars several times in Morocco, and while it provides amazing flexibility for exploring remote areas, it comes with significant challenges:

  • Aggressive driving is common, particularly overtaking on blind corners
  • Road conditions deteriorate dramatically outside major highways
  • Police checkpoints are frequent—always carry your passport and rental documents
  • In case of accidents, you legally cannot move the vehicle until police arrive, even for minor fender-benders

Personal Mistake: In 2022, I rented the cheapest possible car to save money (about 150 dirham/$15 per day). It broke down in the Middle Atlas mountains, miles from the nearest town, with no cell service. The 800 dirham ($80) tow and repair cost wiped out any savings. Now I always rent from reputable international agencies like Hertz or Europcar, even though they’re about 350-400 dirham ($35-40) per day.

Trains and Buses

  • Morocco’s train network (ONCF) is efficient and relatively safe, connecting major cities
  • First-class train compartments offer more security for luggage and are worth the extra cost (approximately 30% more than second class)
  • For buses, CTM and Supratours are the most reliable companies with the best safety records
  • Avoid unofficial bus companies operating from street-side locations rather than proper terminals

Digital Security

Digital security has become increasingly important for travelers to Morocco, especially with recent changes:

  • Public WiFi: Always use a VPN on public networks, especially in cafes and hotels
  • SIM cards: Purchase from official stores of the main providers (Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi) rather than street vendors
  • Social media: Be cautious about posting real-time location information
  • ATM safety: Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible, and shield your PIN

Health Safety

Food and Water Safety

Despite sampling street food extensively throughout Morocco, I’ve only experienced food poisoning once—ironically at an upscale restaurant catering to tourists. My approach now:

  • Eat at busy places with high turnover
  • Stick to freshly cooked, hot food
  • Avoid raw vegetables unless at high-end establishments
  • Drink only bottled water (about 5-10 dirham, or $0.50-1.00)
  • Peel all fruits yourself

The phrase “bla thilj” (without ice) is useful when ordering drinks.

Medical Facilities

Medical care varies dramatically between major cities and rural areas:

  • Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech have private clinics with international standards
  • Rural areas often have only basic government facilities
  • Language barriers can complicate medical care—having a French or Arabic-speaking companion is invaluable
  • Carry a basic medical kit including diarrhea medication, rehydration salts, and prescription medications

COVID-19 Updates

As of early 2025, Morocco has lifted most COVID-related entry restrictions, but healthcare facilities may still be strained in some areas. The situation remains fluid, so check the latest information from the Moroccan Ministry of Health before travel.

3 Money-Saving Safety Strategies

Some of my best safety tips also happen to save money—a win-win for travelers:

1. The Riad Advantage

Staying in traditional riads (converted historic homes with interior courtyards) within medinas isn’t just more atmospheric—it’s often safer and cheaper than large hotels. Riad owners typically provide detailed navigation instructions, neighborhood safety advice, and sometimes escorts to the main square after dark.

In Fez, I stay at Riad Rcif, where rooms start at 550 dirham ($55) per night, and the owner, Aziz, personally walks guests to restaurants after dark until they learn the routes. Compare this to chain hotels outside the medina that charge 800+ dirham ($80+) and offer no personalized safety guidance.

2. The Collective Transport Strategy

Grand taxis (shared Mercedes that run between cities) are not only economical at about 30-40% the cost of private transfers, but they’re also safer than traveling alone in remote areas. For the Marrakech to Essaouira route, a private taxi costs around 700 dirham ($70), while a seat in a grand taxi is just 120 dirham ($12).

Sustainability Tip: Shared grand taxis also significantly reduce your carbon footprint compared to private transfers, as they typically carry 6 passengers in vehicles that would otherwise transport just 1-2 travelers.

3. The Local Eating Pattern

Adopting local meal timing not only saves money but improves safety. Moroccans typically eat dinner between 8-10 PM, meaning streets are busy and well-populated during this time. Tourists who eat early (6 PM) often find themselves walking back to accommodations when streets are awkwardly empty.

By shifting to local patterns, you’ll find better prices (many restaurants offer “local” prices earlier and “tourist” prices during peak hours), better food (fresher ingredients for the main service), and safer streets with more eyes looking out for one another.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Morocco Safety Action Plan

After eight years of traveling through Morocco, I’ve distilled my safety approach into this practical 5-step action plan:

Step 1: Pre-Trip Preparation (1-2 Months Before)

  • Register your trip with your embassy
  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
  • Download essential apps: Maps.me (with offline Morocco maps), Heetch (for taxis), XE Currency, and a good VPN
  • Learn 5-10 basic Arabic phrases, focusing on polite refusals and emergency expressions
  • Research neighborhood-specific safety information for each destination on your itinerary

Step 2: Arrival Strategy (First 24 Hours)

  • Arrange airport transfers in advance through your accommodation
  • Purchase a local SIM card at the airport (Maroc Telecom offers the best coverage)
  • Securely change only a small amount of money at the airport (rates are poor, but you’ll need some cash immediately)
  • Orient yourself with a short, daylight walk around your accommodation neighborhood
  • Identify the nearest police station, pharmacy, and ATM to your accommodation

Step 3: Daily Safety Routine

  • Carry a photocopy of your passport while leaving the original in your accommodation safe
  • Use a money belt or hidden pouch for most cash and cards
  • Carry just enough cash for the day in an accessible pocket
  • Maintain confident body language and walk with purpose
  • Stay in well-lit, populated areas after dark

Step 4: Interaction Strategies

  • Perfect your polite but firm “No thank you” in Arabic (“La, shukran“)
  • Establish prices before accepting any service
  • Respond to persistent harassment by approaching shopkeepers or families
  • Make relevant small talk that establishes you’re knowledgeable about Morocco
  • Use appropriate greetings before starting conversations (“Salaam alaikum” or “Bonjour“)

Step 5: Adaptation and Enjoyment

  • Adjust your expectations—some hassle is an inevitable part of the experience
  • Remember that genuine hospitality far outweighs negative encounters
  • Connect with other travelers to share current safety information
  • Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation
  • Balance caution with openness to authentic cultural experiences

Morocco has taught me that safety isn’t just about avoiding dangers—it’s about approaching travel with informed confidence. The country’s incredible architecture, distinctive cuisine, and exceptional hospitality are absolutely worth experiencing. With appropriate precautions, most travelers find Morocco to be not just safe, but life-changingly rewarding.

The sounds of the call to prayer echoing across ancient medinas, the scent of mint tea and spices in bustling souks, the feeling of desert sand between your toes as the sun sets over endless dunes—these sensory experiences define Morocco far more than any safety concerns. By traveling smart, you can immerse yourself in these moments while minimizing risks.

I hope this guide helps you navigate Morocco with confidence. Bslama! (Travel safely!)

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Morocco

Is Morocco safe for solo female travelers?

Morocco is manageable but challenging for solo female travelers. Persistent attention and harassment occur frequently in urban areas. With proper preparation, modest dress, and confidence in setting boundaries, most women have positive experiences. Consider joining small group tours for the first few days to acclimate, and stay in women-owned accommodations where possible. The cities of Chefchaouen and Essaouira are generally considered more relaxed for solo female travelers than Marrakech or Fez.

What should I do if I feel unsafe or harassed in Morocco?

If you feel harassed, move to a busy public area or enter a shop or cafe. Approaching older Moroccans, especially women or families, and explaining your situation often results in immediate assistance. For more serious situations, tourist police are available in major destinations—program their number into your phone (1651). Firmly and loudly saying “Safi!” (Enough!) can be effective in deterring harassment.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Morocco?

No, tap water is generally not safe for tourists to drink. Stick to bottled water, which is inexpensive (5-10 dirham) and widely available. Check that bottles are properly sealed before purchasing. Hot mint tea is safe as the water has been boiled. To reduce plastic waste, consider bringing a water purification system like a SteriPen or LifeStraw.

Are there dangerous animals or insects I should worry about in Morocco?

Morocco has relatively few dangerous wildlife concerns. Scorpions exist in desert regions but rarely encounter tourists in standard accommodations. Shake out shoes and bedding in desert camps as a precaution. Stray dogs are common in urban areas—avoid contact as rabies is present in Morocco. The Atlas Mountains have no large predators that pose threats to humans.

Is it safe to hike in the Atlas Mountains alone?

Solo hiking in the Atlas Mountains is not recommended due to quickly changing weather conditions, challenging terrain, and limited rescue services. Always hire a local guide (typically 300-500 dirham per day), who will enhance safety while providing cultural insights and supporting the local economy. Some trails, particularly those to Mount Toubkal, now require guides by law following safety incidents in 2018-2019.

How safe is Morocco compared to other North African countries?

Morocco is generally considered one of the safer countries in North Africa, with more stability than some neighboring nations. It has a well-established tourism infrastructure and consistent government policies supporting visitor safety. However, each North African country has safe areas and challenges, so broad comparisons can be misleading.

Will my dietary restrictions be accommodated safely in Morocco?

Common dietary restrictions like vegetarianism are increasingly understood in tourist areas, though options may be limited in rural regions. For severe allergies or celiac disease, carrying translated dietary requirement cards is essential. Vegans may find it challenging outside major cities, as animal products are used in many traditional dishes, even those that appear plant-based.

Is it safe to use credit cards in Morocco?

Credit card use is generally safe in established hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in cities. However, card skimming occurs, so keep your card in sight during transactions. Notify your bank of travel plans to prevent fraud blocks. Cash remains essential for markets, taxis, and smaller establishments. Use ATMs attached to banks during business hours when possible.

Are there areas of Morocco that are off-limits to tourists?

The Algerian border region and parts of the Western Sahara have travel advisories from many governments. Most tourist destinations, including the disputed city of Laayoune, are accessible and monitored by security forces. Always check your government’s latest travel advisories before visiting less frequented areas.

How do I handle an emergency in Morocco?

For emergencies, call 190 for police, 150 for ambulance, or 15 for fire services. In tourist areas, the dedicated Tourist Police can be reached at 1651. Most emergency operators in cities speak French, and increasingly English, but Arabic may be necessary in rural areas. Your embassy’s emergency contact should be programmed into your phone.

References and Additional Resources