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Marrakech, Morocco

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

Grace Beard

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. 

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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!

morocco is it safe to travel there

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How Safe is Morocco? (Our Take)

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Visiting some old attractions in Morocco

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.

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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.

A market in Morocco - potential unsafe place due to pickpockets

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.

A man traveling alone in Morocco

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.

A female tourist safe in Morocco

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?

A family safe in Morocco's desert

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?

A bustling dangerous street 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?

A taxi driving dangerously 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.

A bus in Morocco - part of the safe public transportation system

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?

Eating some amazing food safely in Morocco

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?

Rain and 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?

Transport by horse and carriage in Morocco

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.

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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.

A safe to visit village in Morocco

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!

Stray cats in Morocco

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!

Nina Az

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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.

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Is It Safe to Travel to Morocco?

morocco is it safe to travel there

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

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Journal of Nomads

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 .

Beautiful places in Morocco - Akchour waterfalls Morocco

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.

Best places to visit in Morocco for photography - Journal of Nomads

The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco

Sunset in the Sahara desert, Merzouga, Morocco - Journal of Nomads

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
  • Visa: Visa-free or e-visa for most passports – Get your Morocco visa
  • Getting there: Search for flights to Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez or Tangier
  • 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.

Making friends in Morocco while speaking the local language of Morocco - Journal of Nomads

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.

walking near Hassan Tower - journal of nomads

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.

market of Marrakesh Morocco - journal of nomads

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 .

spices - Marrakech market

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.

Travel Insurance for Backpackers - The 2 best backpacker travel insurance - Journal of Nomads

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

kasbah des oudaias Rabat sunset - journal of nomads

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.

Traveling in Morocco - Journal of Nomads

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.

Is Marrakech safe? - Safety in Marrakech

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 .

Surfing in Morocco - A guide to the perfect 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.

Is Morocco safe for women traveling alone - Journal of Nomads

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.

Best cities to visit in Morocco - Morocco markets - souks of Morocco

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.

crowd Marrakesh Ramadan iftar - journal of nomads

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.

Top Things to do in Marrakech Morocco - Journal of Nomads

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.

refuge du toubkal - refuge les mouflons - mountain refuge near toubkal - toubkla mountain refuge morocco - journal of nomads

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

Rock climbing and other fun things worth doing in the Todra Gorges and Tinerhir - Things to do in Todra Gorges - Morocco - Hikes in Todra Gorges - Journal of Nomads

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 and other fun things to do in the Sahara, Morocco. - Journal of Nomads - Erg Chebbi

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

Candid photography Morocco - Journal of Nomads

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.

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

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.

What is needed to rent a car in Morocco?

Renting a car in Morocco – Advice and useful tips

Moroccan Street Sign - Moroccan Arabic

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.

Traveling in Morocco - Is Morocco safe - Journal of Nomads

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

Is it safe to drive in Marrakech?

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.

what to eat in marrakech

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!

where to eat in marrakech - morocco

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.

Is Marrakech safe? - your complete guide to safety in Marrakech

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.

How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen - Rif Mountains - Morocco - hiking trail to the Akchour Waterfalls - the little waterfall of Akchour - Journal of Nomads

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.

Cascades d'Akchour - hiking in Morocco - Journal of Nomads

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.

Best cities to visit in Morocco - Essaouira port - Journal of Nomads

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.

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

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.

The generosity of the people of Morocco - Morocco Travel Stories - Journal of Nomads

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.

Is it safe to travel to Morocco?

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 .

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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 🙂

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Caution October 19, 2023

Worldwide caution, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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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 .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must have at least six months of validity at time of entry

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

None  

Declare large quantities at entry

Export of Moroccan currency is prohibited

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. consulate general casablanca.

8 Boulevard Moulay Youssef, Casablanca, Morocco

Telephone:  +(212) (522) 642-099

Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(212)(661) 13-19-39

Fax:  +(212) (522) 29-77-01

[email protected]

The normal work week in Morocco is Monday through Friday.

U.S. Embassy Rabat

KM 5.7, Avenue Mohammed VI Souissi, Rabat 10170, Morocco

Telephone:  +(212)(537) 63-72-00

Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(212)(661)13-19-39

Fax:  +(212)(537) 63-72-01

Please note that U.S. Embassy Rabat does not offer consular services and does not have entry facilities for public visitors.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Passports and Visas:

  • You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page.
  • Visas are not required for visits lasting less than 90 days. Visit the  Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco  website for the most current visa information.
  • Overstays: If you remain in Morocco beyond 90 days without having requested an extension of stay, you will need to appear before a judge prior to departing Morocco. Please contact the immigration office at your local police station for details. Clearance may include the payment of a fine.
  • Lost/Stolen Passports: Please obtain a police report for a lost or stolen passport in the area where the loss or theft occurred.  Recently, police have required evidence of U.S. citizenship prior to issuing the report of loss. In these cases, U.S. citizens may visit U.S. Consulate General Casablanca to obtain a temporary emergency passport prior to obtaining a report of loss.
  • Travelers who plan to reside in Morocco must obtain a residence permit, (Certificat d’Immatriculation) Applications should be submitted to the Bureau des Etrangers of the Prefecture de Police or Commissariat Central in major cities, and to the Gendarmerie in remote areas and villages. Please see Residency Permits section under the Local Laws & Special Circumstances tab.
  • Carry a copy of your U.S. passport with you at all times to have proof of identity and U.S. citizenship readily available, if needed.
  • Children who possess U.S. passports and who are born to a Moroccan father may experience difficulty leaving Morocco without the father's permission, even if the parents are divorced and the mother has legal custody. Under Moroccan law, these children are considered Moroccan citizens.  
  • U.S. citizen women married to Moroccans do not need their spouse's permission to leave Morocco.

HIV/AIDS:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Morocco. 

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

All countries in the region remain vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations or individuals inspired by extremist ideology with little or no warning. The potential for terrorist violence against U.S. interests and citizens exists in Morocco. Long an important counterterrorism partner with the United States, Morocco’s capable security services have taken robust actions to guard against terrorist attacks. Moroccan authorities continue to disrupt groups seeking to attack U.S. or Western-affiliated and Moroccan government targets, arresting numerous individuals associated with international terrorist groups. Nevertheless, credible information indicates terrorist groups continue to plot potential attacks in the region, including Morocco. Lone wolf attacks are difficult to detect and disrupt and can occur without warning. In December 2018, two Scandinavian tourists were murdered by three Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) supporters in the Imlil Mountains near Marrakesh. U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant with regards to their personal security.

Establishments that are identifiable with the United States are potential targets for attacks. These may include facilities where U.S. citizens and other foreigners congregate, including clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, hotels, movie theaters, U.S. brand establishments, and other public areas.  U.S. citizen campers should camp in guarded campgrounds rather than isolated campsites.

Demonstrations: Demonstrations occur frequently in Morocco, are typically focused on political or social issues, and are only rarely confrontational or violent.

  • During periods of heightened regional tension, large demonstrations may take place in major cities.
  • By law, all demonstrations require a government permit, but spontaneous unauthorized demonstrations, which have greater potential for violence, can occur. In addition, different unions or groups may organize strikes to protest an emerging issue or government policy.
  • Travelers should be aware of current events in Morocco and stay informed of regional issues that could resonate in Morocco and create an anti-American response.
  • Avoid demonstrations if at all possible.
  • If caught in a demonstration, remain calm and move away immediately when provided the opportunity.
  • Exercise increased vigilance in areas that attract large crowds, such as sporting events.

Western Sahara: From 1975 to 1991, Western Sahara was the site of armed conflict between Moroccan government forces and the POLISARIO Front, which continues to seek independence for the territory. Tensions along the border in Western Sahara heightened in November 2020 when Moroccan forces conducted an operation on the border to clear a blockade by the POLISARIO Front; both sides have since engaged in a low intensity conflict along the border. There are thousands of unexploded mines in the Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent to the Western Saharan border. Exploding mines are occasionally reported and have caused death and injury. There have been instances in which U.S. citizens suspected of being participants in political protests or of supporting NGOs that are critical of Moroccan policies have been expelled from, or not been allowed to enter, Western Sahara.

Crime: Crime in Morocco is a serious concern, particularly in major cities and tourist areas.

  • Use common sense and the same personal security measures you would normally use in a large U.S. city or tourist destination. 
  • Do not leave bags unattended. Keep them in sight and avoid placing passports, cash, cell phones, or other valuables in the outer pockets of backpacks or purses, or on tables in public places. Do not leave bags slung over the backs of chairs, on hotel or store counters, on top of your suitcase or larger travel bag, or out of your physical control in hotel lobbies, train stations, restaurants, and other public locations.
  • Aggressive panhandling, pick-pocketing, purse-snatching, theft from unoccupied vehicles, and harassment of women are the most frequently reported issues.
  • Criminals use weapons, primarily knives, during some street robberies and burglaries. These crimes have occurred at any time of day or night, not only in isolated places or areas less frequented by visitors, but in crowded areas as well.
  • Residential break-ins also occur and have on occasion turned violent, but most criminals look for opportunities based on stealth rather than confrontation.
  • Travelers should avoid soccer stadiums and their environs on days of scheduled matches as large groups of team supporters have been known to become unruly and harass and assault bystanders. 
  • Joggers should be mindful of traffic and remain in more heavily populated areas. It is always best to have a jogging companion, dress modestly, and avoid isolated areas or jogging at night.
  • At night and when moving about unfamiliar areas, avoid traveling alone and utilize “petit” taxis which vary by color in the major cities (Casablanca-Red, Rabat-Blue, Marrakech-Tan, etc.).
  • Taxis* in Morocco are generally crime-free during day time, although city buses are not considered safe.
  • Trains are generally safe, but theft, regardless of the time of day, sometimes occurs.
  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash and be particularly alert when using ATM machines. In the event you are victimized by crime or an attempted crime, please report the incident to the local police and the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca as soon as possible.

* NOTE: Some popular web-based ride-sharing services have operated in Morocco; however, the French-based company Heetch is currently the only service legally authorized to operate by the Moroccan Government. Media report that drivers of web-based ride-sharing services have been harassed and assaulted by regular taxi drivers in the recent past.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of crimes should contact the local police at 19 from a land line or 190 from a mobile phone, and the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca at (212) 522 64 20 99. Remember that the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • help you find appropriate medical care;
  • assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
  • with written consent, contact your relatives or friends;
  • explain the local criminal justice process in general terms;
  • provide a list of local attorneys;
  • provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States;
  • provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
  • help you find accommodation and arrange flights home;
  • replace a stolen or lost passport.

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally regulated in major tourist areas.  Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. However, outside of these areas, the tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. In some places you may be taken in for questioning if you don’t have your passport with you.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

  • Crimes of fraud, including passing bad checks, non-payment of bills (including hotel bills), or breach of contract are considered serious in Morocco and can often result in imprisonment and/or fines.
  • Bail generally is not available to non-residents of Morocco who are arrested for crimes involving fraud.
  • Debtors can be held in prison until their debts are paid or until an agreement is reached between the parties. 
  • Passports may be seized by the Moroccan government to guarantee that debtors settle their cases. 
  • Debtors may be unable to work in Morocco without passports while still being held responsible for their debts. 
  • Prior to entering into a contract, you may want to consider consulting an attorney.

Faith-Based Travelers : Islam is the official religion in Morocco. However, the constitution provides for the freedom to practice one's religion. The Moroccan government does not interfere with public worship by the country’s Jewish minority or by expatriate Christians. Proselytizing is, however, prohibited. In the past, U.S. citizens have been arrested, detained, and/or expelled for discussing or trying to engage Moroccans in debate about Christianity. In February 2014, several U.S. citizens were expelled from Morocco for alleged proselytizing. Many of those expelled were long-time Moroccan residents. In these cases, U.S. citizens were given no more than 48 hours to gather their belongings or settle their affairs before being expelled. See the  Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers: Consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Morocco. Penalties include fines and jail time. See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Morocco, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is customary in the United States. 

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : Women walking alone in certain areas of cities and rural areas are particularly vulnerable to assault by men. They should exercise caution when in public spaces, including nightclubs or other social establishments. Women are advised to travel with a companion or in a group when possible and to ignore any harassment. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Customs: Travelers must declare large quantities of U.S. dollars brought into the country at the port of entry. The export of Moroccan currency (dirhams) is prohibited; however, Moroccan currency can be converted back into U.S. dollars prior to departure only if the traveler has a bank or money transfer receipt indicating he or she exchanged dollars for dirhams while in Morocco.

Moroccan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Morocco of items such as firearms, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drones, religious materials, antiquities, business equipment, and large quantities of currency. It is advisable to contact the  Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C.,  or the  Moroccan Consulate General in New York  for specific information concerning customs requirements.

Please see our information on  Customs and Import Restrictions.

Citizenship : The Government of Morocco considers all persons born to Moroccan fathers to be Moroccan citizens. In addition to being subject to all U.S. laws, U.S. citizens who also possess the nationality of Morocco may be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on citizens of Morocco. Recently, Morocco has begun allowing Moroccan mothers of children born outside Morocco to petition for their children’s citizenship. For further information on that process, please contact the  Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C.,  or the  Moroccan Consulate General in New York .

Residency Permits: In order to obtain a residence permit, travelers must present (among other requirements) a criminal history record check. This record check can only be obtained in the United States. The U.S. Consulate and Embassy are unable to take fingerprints to send for FBI record requests. For specific information, individuals seeking residency should visit their local police station. 

The following documents must accompany a residency renewal application:

  • Birth Certificate
  • Copy of the current passport
  • Copy of the current Moroccan residency card
  • Medical certificate from a doctor stating that the requester is free from any contagious disease
  • Court record (Casier Judiciaire) obtained from the Ministry of Justice in Rabat
  • 100 MAD stamp

Individuals planning on residing in Morocco or relocating to the U.S. may be asked to provide a notarized change of residence form. This form is available at the U.S. Consulate by appointment.

Sending Passports through the Mail: According to Moroccan law, it is prohibited to send passports by mail across international borders. Passports sent to or through Morocco via Fedex, DHL, or other courier will be confiscated by Moroccan authorities. Confiscated U.S. passports are eventually sent to the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca after being processed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If your passport has been confiscated, you can contact the American Citizens Services section at  [email protected] to ask if it has been received.

Property: U.S. consular officers are prohibited by law and regulation from accepting personal property for safekeeping regardless of the circumstances involved. If there is concern over the protection of property left behind in Morocco due to confiscation or deportation for political, legal, or other reasons, U.S. citizens should take every precaution to ensure that available legal safeguards are in place either before, or immediately after, purchasing property in Morocco or taking up residence there. U.S. citizens are also encouraged to consider assigning a Power of Attorney, or Procuration, to be used in Morocco if necessary. More information and sample Power of Attorney forms are available on the  Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco in New York  website.

Photographing Sensitive Locations: Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with the authorities. As a general rule, travelers should not photograph palaces, diplomatic missions, government buildings, or other sensitive facilities and when in doubt should ask permission from the appropriate Moroccan authorities.

Professional Basketball in Morocco: The U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca is aware that there are local professional basketball teams who have made contracts with U.S. citizens to play on Moroccan teams. Some of these players have subsequently claimed they were not paid as stipulated per the terms of the contract.  Individuals considering playing basketball professionally in Morocco may wish to consult with a lawyer regarding the terms of their contract prior to signing. A  list of lawyers  can be found on the Embassy's webpage.

Adequate medical care is available in Morocco’s largest cities, particularly in Rabat and Casablanca, although not all facilities meet Western standards.

  • Emergency and specialized care outside the major cities is far below U.S. standards and may not be available at all.
  • Most medical staff will have limited or no English-speaking ability.
  • Most ordinary prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available.
  • Specialized prescriptions may be difficult to fill and availability of all medicines in rural areas is unreliable. 
  • Travelers should not ask friends or relatives to send medications through the mail, FedEx, or UPS since Moroccan customs will impound the delivery and not release it to the recipient.
  • Travelers planning to drive in the mountains and other remote areas may wish to carry a medical kit and a Moroccan phone card for emergencies.
  • In the event of vehicle accidents involving injuries, immediate ambulance service is usually not available. The police emergency services telephone number is “190” (see Traffic Safety and Road Conditions section below).

The U.S. Mission in Morocco is unable to pay your medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may also be required to pay a deposit before being admitted for treatment. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Government of Morocco Ministry of Foreign Affairs  to ensure the medication is legal in Morocco. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic accidents are a significant hazard in Morocco. Driving practices are very poor and have resulted in serious injuries to and fatalities of U.S. citizens. This is particularly true at dusk during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, when adherence to traffic regulations is lax, and from July to September when Moroccans resident abroad return from Europe by car in large numbers. 

  • Drivers should exercise extreme caution when driving at night due to poor lighting systems along roads.
  • Traffic signals do not always function, and are sometimes difficult to see.
  • Modern freeways link the cities of Tangier, Rabat, Fez, Casablanca, and Marrakesh. Two-lane highways link other major cities.
  • Secondary routes in rural areas are often narrow and poorly paved. Roads through the Rif and Atlas mountains are steep, narrow, windy, and dangerous.
  • Pedestrians, scooters, and animal-drawn conveyances are common on all roadways, including the freeways, and driving at night should be avoided if possible.
  • During the rainy season (November - March), flash flooding is frequent and sometimes severe, washing away roads and vehicles in rural areas.

Traffic Laws: In the event of a traffic accident, including accidents involving injuries, the parties are required to remain at the scene and not move their vehicles until the police have arrived and documented all necessary information. The police emergency services telephone number is “190”. Often Moroccan police officers pull over drivers for inspection within the city and on highways. 

Traffic Fines: Confiscation of a driver’s license is possible if a violator is unable or unwilling to settle a fine at the time of a traffic stop. 

If you are stopped for a speeding violation, you have the right to request the video footage documenting the infraction. Once the speeding violation is confirmed, you have three options: 

  • Pay the fine on the spot and obtain a receipt of payment;
  • Pay at the local city’s treasury (La Perception). The police/gendarme officer will issue you a ‘ticket’ indicating the amount of the fine and keep your driver’s license until you pay the fine.
  • Should you wish to contest a violation, you may file a complaint at court; however, Moroccan authorities may keep your driver’s license and vehicle registration while this lengthy process takes place.

Foreign driver’s licenses are valid for use in Morocco for up to one year. After that, foreign residents must pass the Moroccan driver’s test and obtain a Moroccan driver’s license. The test is conducted in Arabic and French. Speakers of other languages are allowed to have a sworn translator with them when taking the test.

Public Transportation: While public buses and taxis are inexpensive, driving habits are poor, and buses are frequently overcrowded. City buses are not considered safe. The train system has a good safety record. Trains, while sometimes crowded, are comfortable and generally on time. See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit Morocco’s  National Tourism  website for additional information.

  • Train Station Hotline: 0890 20 30 40
  • Bus Station Hotline: 0800 09 00 30
  • Directory Enquiry- 160

Web-based ride-sharing services are not legal in Morocco; however, some well-known companies (UBER and Careem) have attempted operations with limited success. Media reports of ride-sharing drivers being harassed and assaulted by regular taxi drivers were common.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Morocco’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Morocco’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Morocco should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website (https://homeport.uscg.mil), and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Morocco . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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morocco is it safe to travel there

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco overall due to the threat of terrorism.

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 190, or go to the nearest hospital.

Call 190, or visit the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco overall. 

Do not travel within 30km of the northern or western side of the Berm (a militarised boundary) or all areas south and east of the Berm.

Do not travel within 30km of the northern or western side of the Berm (a militarised boundary) or all areas south and east of the Berm because of the risk of armed conflict. Western Sahara's status as part of Morocco is disputed. An active, militarised independence movement known as the Polisario operates to the east of the Berm. 

See  Safety

  • Terrorism is a risk in Morocco. Tourist areas and public places are possible targets. Be alert to possible threats. Avoid known targets. The risk increases in remote mountain areas, the south and border areas.
  • There is currently an increased risk of demonstrations and protests occurring around the country linked to the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Follow the advice from local authorities and monitor media for any updates. 
  • Large public gatherings and protests can turn violent. Avoid demonstrations. Take care on weekends and around Friday prayers.
  • Foreigners are at high risk of serious crime across North Africa. This risk increases in remote areas. Don't hike alone in mountainous or isolated areas. Get professional security advice before travelling to border areas.
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Tourists have been mugged when walking at night. Keep your belongings close. Don't walk in isolated areas or along dark streets at night.
  • You may face aggressive begging and harassment, particularly near ATMs. Female travellers may be sexually harassed. Take care when using ATMs. Avoid walking or travelling alone.
  • Scams and fraud are common. These include double-charging credit cards and replacing your purchased goods with lower-quality ones. Australians have fallen victim to fake internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes in Morocco.

Full travel advice:  Safety

  • Common insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis and typhus. Malaria is less common. Use insect repellent. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.
  • Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
  • Avoid black henna temporary tattoos. These often contain a dye that can irritate the skin.

Full travel advice:  Health

  • Morocco has the death penalty for serious crimes, including high treason, terrorism, multiple murder and rape.
  • Sexual acts between members of the same sex, or outside marriage, are illegal. Possessing pornographic material is also illegal.
  • Understand and follow local laws. Morocco has strict laws around religion, the monarchy, alcohol, drug use, photography, pornography and drone use.
  • Morocco recognises dual nationality, but Moroccan citizenship takes precedence. This can affect child custody disputes and military service requirements. Always travel on your Australian passport.
  • Moroccan society is conservative. Avoid public displays of affection. In some parts of Morocco, you should wear loose fitting clothes that covers arms and legs.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

  • You don't need a visa if you're travelling to Morocco for less than 3 months. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact your nearest Moroccan Embassy for the latest information.
  • On 8 September, an earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck Morocco southwest of Marrakesh. There has been widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure, including power, water, roads and communications. Recovery and reconstruction efforts are underway. Avoid travelling to impacted areas and follow the instructions from local authorities. If you have concerns about your travels to Marrakesh, contact your tour manager or accommodation provider for the latest updates. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

  • The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
  • For consular assistance and notarial services, contact the  Australian Embassy in Rabat . You need to make an appointment for passport services. Book these online through the embassy website.
  • The Australian Embassy in Rabat can issue Emergency Passports.
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terror attacks are a risk in Morocco.

Past attacks targeted locations that are popular with tourists.

Terrorists murdered two foreign nationals in December 2018. They were hiking in a remote mountain area near Mount Toubkal.

You could get caught up in attacks directed at others.

Various terror groups target the Maghreb region for attacks. This includes Morocco.

Moroccan authorities regularly arrest suspected terrorists and people associated with terror groups. 

Possible targets for future terror attacks include:

  • places where foreigners go, such as hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars, and where alcohol is served or consumed
  • places and institutions associated with Western interests
  • schools, embassies and places of worship
  • casinos, cinemas and other tourist areas
  • markets and outdoor recreation events

In planning your activities, consider the kind of areas known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided.

To reduce your risk of being affected by terrorism:

  • monitor the media for any new or emerging threats
  • take official warnings seriously
  • always be alert to possible threats
  • report any suspicious items or activities to police
  • don't hike alone in remote mountain areas
  • be alert if you travel to southern and border areas of Morocco
  • follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area immediately, if it's safe to do so.

Avoid the affected area after an attack due to the risk of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, including:

  • pickpocketing
  • bag snatching

Theft at knifepoint and other violent crime sometimes happen.

Muggings  have occurred when travellers were walking on deserted beaches and poorly lit streets at night.

Aggressive begging near ATMs is frequent and robberies occur.

Intimidation is sometimes used to force customers to buy goods. Tourists are aggressively harassed, often by men posing as official tourist guides.

Hotspots for crime include popular tourist areas, such as:

Women may be the subject of unwanted attention, particularly:

  • when travelling on their own
  • in markets, beaches and around tourist sites

To help keep yourself safe from crime:

  • always keep your personal belongings close
  • avoid walking in isolated areas or along dark streets at night
  • take care when using ATMs
  • secure your hotel room against intruders, even when you're in it
  • avoid walking or travelling alone
  • Advice for women travellers

Scams and fraud

Common scams and fraud include:

  • charging a credit card twice
  • replacing lower quality goods for those you purchased
  • fake internet friendship or relationship

Australians have fallen victim to fake internet friendship, dating and marriage schemes in Morocco. These scams typically start with a relationship through an internet dating site, chat room or social media.

You may be asked to send money to help them cover travel expenses to Australia or assist in a faked medical emergency.

In most cases, the relationship will end with little chance of recovering any money.

In other cases, Australians are lured to Morocco to meet the person. When they arrive, they become victims of crimes such as kidnapping, assault and robbery.

To avoid becoming a victim of a scam:

  • keep your credit card in sight during all transactions
  • check goods carefully when you make purchases
  • be wary if approached by people online you don't know from Morocco or other West African countries
  • don't send money to anyone in Morocco until you make proper checks.

If you're the victim of a scam, get legal advice. Don't travel to Morocco to seek restitution.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

  • Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Demonstrations and protests.

Domestic and regional issues can incite protests at any time. Large-scale demonstrations can occur at short notice. Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

There is currently an increased risk of demonstrations and protests occurring around the country linked to the evolving situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Demonstrations have occurred in most major cities in proximity to public buildings. Additional demonstrations are expected.  

Most gatherings are peaceful but isolated incidents of vandalism and looting occur.

Sporting events can attract large crowds, and tensions may lead to security incidents.

Western Sahara's status as part of Morocco is disputed. A mostly sand wall, 'the Berm', separates:

  • areas controlled by Morocco
  • areas controlled by an independence movement known as the Polisario

Armed conflict has occurred since the ceasefire collapsed in November 2020. Local or more widespread conflict could resume with little warning.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

  • monitor the media for reports of possible activity
  • avoid affected areas
  • take care on days of national or commemorative significance
  • be extra careful on weekends, including the period around Friday prayers

Be ready to change your travel plans in case of disruptions.

If you're affected by transport disruptions, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer.

  • Demonstrations and civil unrest

Climate and natural disasters

Earthquakes.

Morocco is in an earthquake zone.  Earthquakes  sometimes occur.

On 8 September, an earthquake of magnitude 6.8 struck Morocco southwest of Marrakesh. There has been widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure, including power, water, roads and communications. Recovery and reconstruction efforts are underway. Avoid travelling to impacted areas and follow the instructions from local authorities. If you have concerns about your travels to Marrakesh or other impacted zones, contact your tour manager or accommodation provider for the latest updates. 

Follow the instructions from local authorities. Monitor the media for any updates. Contact your airline or travel provider directly for any updates regarding your travel plans. 

  To protect yourself in case of an earthquake:

  • know the evacuation plan for your hotel  or accommodation
  • secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
  • monitor local media and other sources such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
  • follow the advice of local authorities
  • keep in contact with your friends and family

Flash flooding can occur. Risk of flooding is higher:

  • in the mountains or near rivers
  • during the rainy season from November to March

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

You may need a special insurance policy for 'do not travel' destinations. Some Australian insurance policies may not cover you for travel to 'do not travel' destinations.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

  • what activities and care your policy covers
  • that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

  • have a basic health check-up
  • ask if your travel plans may affect your health
  • plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

  • General health advice
  • Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Morocco. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a dated letter from your doctor stating:

  • what the medication is
  • your required dosage
  • that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne diseases are common in Morocco, including:

  • leishmaniasis
  • typhus fever

Malaria  is less common.

To protect yourself from disease:

  • make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
  • use insect repellent
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes

Get medical advice if you develop a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

  • Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Some waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common.

To protect yourself from illness:

  • drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
  • avoid ice cubes
  • avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
  • don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Henna tattoos

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos. They often contain a dye that can cause a serious skin reaction.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Major cities generally have adequate medical facilities.

Services can be extremely limited in:

  • smaller cities
  • rural and remote areas

Most private hospitals require upfront payment before admitting patients, including in an emergency. Not paying up-front may delay your treatment.

Most ambulance services are privately operated.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include long prison terms.

  • Carrying or using drugs

Death penalty

The death penalty can apply for serious offences such as:

  • high treason
  • multiple murder

Sexual activities that are against the law in Morocco include:

  • same-sex sexual acts
  • sexual acts outside marriage
  • possessing pornographic material

In Morocco, it's illegal to:

  • preach a religion other than Islam or import religious materials that don't relate to Islam
  • perform acts or make statements that criticise or denigrate the monarchy
  • drink alcohol in public places
  • buy pirated or counterfeit items
  • present a cheque without sufficient funds
  • send a passport through the mail
  • consume drugs, even in small quantities
  • possess pornographic material

Authorities may question or detain you if you:

  • aren't Muslim and try to enter a mosque that isn't open to the general public
  • take photos of official buildings, government or military buildings, other sensitive facilities or areas near these locations

Drone use is heavily controlled in Morocco. Seek approval from the Moroccan Government before you enter the country with a drone.

  • Advice for LGBTI travellers

Marriage requirements

If you want to  get married  in Morocco, you'll need to present:

  • a  Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI)
  • a copy of your passport with a valid Moroccan entry stamp or valid residency documents

You can organise these documents through:

  • the consular section of the  Australian Embassy in Morocco
  • your nearest  DFAT office  in Australia

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

  • Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Morocco recognises dual nationality.

Under Moroccan law, Moroccan citizenship takes priority. This can affect your rights and responsibilities, including:

  • military service
  • parental custody
  • access to consular services

If you're a dual national, even if your second nationality is not Moroccan, the Australian Embassy may be restricted in the  consular assistance  we can provide you with if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your  Australian passport .

Moroccan citizenship is automatic for the children of Moroccan fathers. Moroccan women who are married to foreigners can also pass on their Moroccan citizenship to their children.

Local law applies to child custody decisions. This may affect whether you can leave Morocco with your children.

If you're a dual national, seek legal advice on child custody disputes.

If you're a single parent travelling with children, you may need to carry a letter from the second parent authorising the children’s travel plans. Always carry your children’s birth certificates or have copies on hand.

  • Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many parts of Morocco.

Public displays of affection can cause offence.

In some parts of Morocco, women should consider wearing loose clothing covering the arms and legs.

Take care in or around:

  • rural and traditional areas
  • religious shrines
  • religious schools

Couples may need to provide proof of marriage to get shared accommodation.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Religious festivals

Ramadan is a holy month of fasting for Muslims around the world. R espect  local laws and customs during this period. 

Check the start and end dates of Ramadan prior to your travel, as these change every year. Under Moroccan law, Muslims aren’t allowed to eat, drink or smoke in public during Ramadan unless they meet requirements for a dispensation (such as illness, travel or pregnancy). 

While this doesn't apply to non-Muslims, if you are non-Muslim you should still avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public or around those who are fasting, so as not to attract attention or questioning by police.

Most restaurants, cafés, eateries, and delivery services do not operate during the day, and some tourist attractions might be closed.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free travel for short stays

You won't need a visa to visit Morocco for less than 3 months. In other situations, you'll need a visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact your nearest  Embassy of Morocco  for the latest details.

Moroccan embassies or tourist and travel offices can inform you about visas, currency, customs and other travel requirements.

Visa overstays

Do not overstay your visa.

If you overstay your visa you won’t be able to leave Morocco until you regularise your immigration status. You could be subject to a fine, a deportation order or a ban from re-entering.

If you have overstayed your visa, or are unable to leave due to border closures, contact your nearest police station. Once you have regularised your visa status, make sure you obtain a written exit permit from the police station to present at your point of departure.

Without a written permit, you won't be able to travel out of Morocco.

Passport stamps

Some tourists report having trouble leaving the country without a stamp in their passport.

Get your passport stamped when you enter Morocco.

Closed borders

The land border between Morocco and Algeria is closed.

Don't attempt to cross into Algeria by land.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who want to use your identity to commit crimes.

To protect your passport, always keep it in a safe place.

Be aware of people trying to trick you into giving them your passport.

If your passport is lost or stolen, you should obtain a police report detailing the loss or theft of the passport, and tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

  • In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service
  • If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

  • LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

You must declare all amounts in foreign currency over MAD100,000 when you arrive and depart.

Access to money

The Australian Dollar is not on the Moroccan Government-approved exchange currencies list. You will not be able to exchange cash denominated in Australian dollars while in Morocco. Prior to arriving, you should exchange Australian dollars into US dollars or euros, which Moroccan exchange bureaus accept.

Alternatively, you could use money transfer services, such as  Western Union  or  MoneyGram , to send yourself funds that you can collect in Moroccan Dirhams using your passport. 

Only exchange currency at:

  • commercial banks
  • licensed exchange bureaus

Australian credit cards are generally accepted in larger cities and tourist centres.

ATMs are widely available in cities and most large towns.

Contact your bank to make sure your cards will work in Morocco.

It's illegal to take Moroccan Dirhams out of the country. Convert any unused Dirhams prior to your travel out of Morocco.

Local travel

Unexploded landmines are an ongoing risk in Western Sahara . This risk is higher within 30km of the Berm, but also closer inland.

To protect yourself against landmines:

  • don't travel to areas within 30km of the northern or western side of the Berm
  • don't travel south or east of the Berm

If, despite our advice you travel to these areas, seek professional security advice and stick to formed roads and paths in any areas where landmines are a risk.

Transport and tour operators don't always meet the safety and maintenance standards you might expect. This includes  adventure activities , such as diving and desert excursions.

Safety equipment, such as life jackets and seatbelts, may not be provided.

To reduce your risks while taking a tour in Morocco:

  • make sure the activity is covered by your travel insurance
  • check the operator's credentials and safety equipment, including communications, before you book
  • ask about, and insist on minimum safety requirements
  • always use available safety equipment, even if others don't
  • avoid hiking alone in remote mountain areas

If you don't have access to safety equipment, use another provider. See  Safety

Driving permit

To drive in Morocco, you must have both:

  • a valid Australian driver's licence
  • an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

The death toll from road accidents in Morocco is high.

Hazards include:

  • unsafe driving practices
  • poor lighting and road quality in rural areas
  • pedestrians and animals on rural roads

Driving on rural roads at night is particularly dangerous.

Drivers must carry an unfilled 'accident report' (constat à l'amiable) in the vehicle. You can buy these forms at local newsstands. It is also a legal requirement to carry a traffic cone and a reflective vest, in case of an accident or an emergency stop.

The police don't usually intervene in minor road accidents where no one is injured. All parties involved need to complete an accident report.

If the accident involves injuries, you must wait for police to arrive before moving your vehicle.

Checkpoints are common. You must be able to show:

  • personal identification (ID)
  • vehicle-related documents

If you plan to drive in Morocco:

  • learn local traffic laws and practices
  • be alert to possible hazards, especially at night
  • avoid road travel at night outside urban areas

Be alert on mountain roads and major highways.

Always carry personal ID and vehicle documents, including an accident report form.

  • Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance policy may not cover you if you have an accident while driving a motorbike, quad bike or similar. Check before you drive.

Always wear a helmet. Make sure your passenger does too.

Only use registered taxis and limousines, preferably booked through your hotel.

Public transport

Several fatal bus crashes on intercity routes have occurred.

Morocco's rail network is relatively safe and reliable, but accidents happen.

In October 2018, a train derailed between the cities of Sale and Kenitra. Many passengers were killed or injured.

Pickpocketing and petty theft on trains occurs. Stay alert and don't leave luggage unattended.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Morocco's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider

Call 190 or go to the nearest hospital.  Contact your travel insurer’s 24-hour emergency number as soon as you can.

Call 190 or visit the nearest police station.

Most emergency phone operators don't speak English.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

You can access passport, notarial and consular services for Australians overseas at the Australian Embassy in Morocco.

You'll need to make an appointment for passport or notarial services. Book online through the website of the  Australian Embassy in Morocco .

Australian Embassy, Morocco

66, Avenue MehdiBen Barka 10000 Souissi-Rabat Morocco Phone: +212 537 543366 Fax: +212 537 656046 Email: [email protected]  or  [email protected]   Website:  morocco.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy Morocco

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia

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morocco is it safe to travel there

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
  • Travel abroad
  • Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on  staying safe abroad  and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out  how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Morocco

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco.

Two tourists were murdered while hiking near Mount Toubkal in 2018. Moroccan authorities arrested four individuals in connection with the murders, including one who had links to “an extremist group”.

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 of attack include:

  • crowded areas
  • government installations
  • transportation networks
  • businesses with Western interests
  • 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.

Protective security measures, including security guards, may be present in areas, including hotels and sites popular with tourists.

While there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign nationals in Morocco, it cannot be ruled out. There is a threat of kidnapping by groups operating in North Africa, particularly from:

  • groups originating in the Sahel

This includes Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-IM) and Daesh-affiliated groups, who may travel illegally across the border. There is a heightened risk of kidnap in the border and remote desert areas of North Africa. This has been done for financial gain and for political leverage.

Terrorist groups have kidnapped:

  • government officials

Those working in the tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors are viewed as legitimate targets. If you’re kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

The policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) also makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Political situation

There is a 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.

Follow any media reporting and instructions from local security authorities. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations.

Western Sahara

See our travel advice for Western Sahara if you plan to travel to this disputed territory.

Algerian border

It is illegal to cross an international border without authorisation. The land and maritime border between Morocco and Algeria is closed. The border is patrolled and monitored closely by the authorities. Do not attempt to cross the border.

If you are in a boat or jet ski, ensure you know where the maritime border is and remain clearly within Moroccan waters. Ensure you have enough fuel to return to shore. As happened in August 2023, individuals entering Algerian waters illegally are likely to be intercepted and investigated.

If you’re hiking in the Atlas mountains, you should:

  • research the trail and its requirements, such as required level of experience
  • pack essentials such as water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing
  • hire a professional guide
  • take out comprehensive travel insurance to make sure it covers the type of adventure holiday you are planning

Protecting your belongings

Incidents of violent crime occasionally happen. There have been incidents involving the use of knives against tourists in street attacks, thefts and burglaries in major cities and along beaches. Avoid quiet areas, particularly after dark. Don’t carry large amounts of money or valuables around with you.

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, especially in tourist areas like the medina quarter (historical district) of towns/cities and on beaches. Crimes include:

pickpocketing

bag snatching

drive-by motorcycle theft of visible jewellery and handbags

Be vigilant when asking for directions and using ATMs as crime and aggressive begging can happen. Credit card fraud and scams like substituting inferior goods for those that were bought are common. Remain alert to potential confidence tricks.

Harassment of tourists

Harassment of tourists by people posing as official tourist guides is common.

When visiting the medina quarter (historical district) of a town or city, make sure any guide you use is operating with the agreement of the local tourist authorities, and displays an official badge.

Marriage fraud

Be cautious when travelling to Morocco for a relationship, or to meet someone you met on the internet. There have been incidents of marriage fraud and attempted extortion affecting British nationals. Make sure you keep your return ticket, passport and personal belongings safe.

Laws and cultural differences

Islamic laws and customs.

Morocco is a Muslim country, which follows Islamic laws and customs. You should:

  • be aware of your actions to ensure they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas (see below)
  • respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions
  • avoid public displays of affection, particularly outside the main tourist areas and near religious places

Sexual relations outside marriage are punishable by law. Hotels can ask couples to show evidence of marriage while checking-in and, if you don’t have proof, they can insist on separate rooms.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, check when Ramadan is in Morocco before you go. During this time, do not:

  • eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
  • play loud music or dance
  • swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

  • check opening hours of shops and restaurants
  • be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
  • follow local dress codes – clothing that doesn’t meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
  • be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco. Be sensitive to local laws and customs and avoid public displays of affection. Complaints can lead to prosecution. See FCDO  advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Women travellers

Women, especially when travelling alone, may receive unwanted attention from men. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing which cover the arms, legs and chest. See our FCDO advice for woman travellers .

Alcohol laws and bans

Alcohol is served in licensed hotels, bars and in tourist areas. Drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offence and can result in a lengthy prison sentence and a heavy fine.

Sending passports in the post

In Morocco, it’s illegal to send passports through the post. British passports sent to or through Morocco by post or courier companies will be confiscated by the Moroccan authorities.

Bibles and religious literature

It is illegal to carry bibles in Arabic, to attempt to distribute any non-Muslim or evangelical literature, or to be involved in any such activity.

Using cameras

Avoid taking any photographs near sensitive political or military sites.

Pornographic material

It’s illegal to possess pornographic material. Possession of recorded writings, printed matter, cassettes and videocassettes and any type of material contrary to morality and public order are prohibited in the Moroccan territory.

Flying drones

You’ll need permission from the authorities to fly a drone. Contact the Directorate General for Civial Aviation (in French) for more information about the rules.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you’re planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel.

Many taxis bookable via mobile phone apps may be unregulated and unlicensed. Drivers may not be registered with the authorities and their vehicle may not have the appropriate levels of insurance for carrying passengers. Such taxis may at times be stopped by the police, who may ask you get out of the car.

You should:

  • think carefully before using such unregulated or unlicensed taxis
  • use normal ‘Petits’ or ‘Grands Taxis’ where possible
  • avoid sharing taxis with other passengers that you do not know
  • insist against sharing if your driver tries to pick up other passengers during your journey

International Driving Permit

You need either a 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP) or a valid UK driving licence to drive in Morocco for up to one year. 1949 IDP is not accepted anymore. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. You can buy an IDP in person from some UK post offices - find your nearest post office branch that offers this service.

If you are staying in Morocco for longer than one year, you need to apply for a Moroccan Driving License .

Car insurance

A green card , which can be obtained from your car insurer, is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad. You need to carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover in Morocco.

Road conditions

Drive carefully, especially when:

  • driving at night, which be particularly dangerous due to poor lighting
  • the weather conditions are poor on secondary routes and mountain roads
  • overtaking lorries and trucks that are overloaded and when there is no hard shoulder

Road accidents

If you’re involved in a road accident, complete a form (‘constat amiable’), to be signed by both parties. Blank forms are available on arrival at Tangier port from the insurance company booths and from tobacconists in all cities.

If you’re involved in a road accident resulting in a fatality and the Moroccan authorities consider you responsible, you may be detained pending a trial hearing.

Vehicle documentation

If you enter Morocco with a vehicle, the registration number will be recorded. If you’re not in possession of the same vehicle when leaving Morocco, you’ll be refused exit and detained. You’ll need to provide evidence of motor insurance to border control when entering and exiting Morocco. Always carry your insurance, license and registration documents with you.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Earthquakes.

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.

There is more information on what to do during an earthquake on the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in some areas, particularly in the mountains or near rivers during winter months. Walking and driving can be dangerous in flooded areas. If flooding does happen in your area, follow local media and instructions of the local authorities.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Morocco travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: January 9, 2024 09:21 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, morocco - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco due to the threat of terrorism.

Border regions of Western Sahara - Avoid all travel

  • within 30 km west of the Berm, Morocco’s militarized boundary in the Western Sahara
  • between the Berm and neighbouring countries on the eastern and southern sides

Back to top

Protests related to the situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Since October 13, 2023, protests have been taking place in Rabat, Casablanca and other cities near government buildings. The current protests are related to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

Additional protests are expected in Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Fez, Tangier and several other cities across the country.

Moroccan authorities may employ enhanced measures to respond to demonstrations, including:

  • deploying additional security forces
  • using crowd dispersal methods

If you are near an affected area:

  • exercise caution
  • expect heightened security measures
  • avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
  • follow the instructions of local authorities

Border regions

The berm (border regions of western sahara).

A militarized boundary, known as the Berm, separates the Moroccan-controlled part of Western Sahara from the rest of the Saharan territory, which borders Algeria and Mauritania. There are fatalities involving unexploded ordnance in this zone each year.

Border with Algeria

Morocco’s border with Algeria is closed. Don’t attempt to cross into Algeria by land or water. Avoid boating close to the maritime border in order not to cross it.

Western Sahara

Western Sahara is a non-autonomous territory whose political and legal status has yet to be determined through the United Nations. It’s a former area of conflict that’s still littered with unexploded landmines, particularly in remote regions and the militarized zone.

We may be extremely limited in our ability to provide assistance to Canadians in Western Sahara.

Travel in remote areas

When you travel to a remote area:

  • restrict travel to officially designated tourist areas
  • seek local, official tourist advice prior to travelling to the desert areas in the south
  • hire only official guides recommended by hotels, travel agencies or local tourist authorities
  • use only a four-wheel-drive vehicle for off-road driving in the mountains or desert
  • ensure that your vehicle is properly equipped and has appropriate supplies and essentials, including potable water 

There’s a threat of terrorism, and attacks have targeted foreigners. In December 2018, 2 Scandinavian tourists were found dead in a mountainous area of ​​southern Morocco, 10 km from Imlil, a village in the High Atlas. Moroccan authorities have described the killing as a terrorist act. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels (specifically coastal beach resorts), and other sites frequented by foreigners

For your safety:

  • always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
  • stay at hotels that have robust security measures; keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations can’t be considered completely free of risk

There’s a threat of kidnapping against Westerners in remote regions of Morocco and in areas bordering Algeria and Mauritania.

  • Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times, especially when travelling in the southern and border areas of Morocco
  • Don’t hike alone in remote mountain regions

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time, most often in Rabat. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime

Petty crimes notably pickpocketing, purse snatchings (sometimes by motorcyclists), scams and other thefts take place, most frequently in medinas, market areas, parks and on beaches but can also occur in all types of neighbourhoods.

To limit your risks:

  • stay on major roads, especially when in the medinas, and exercise caution
  • ensure that your personal belongings are secure
  • don’t show signs of affluence, particularly when walking at night
  • avoid carrying a purse
  • don’t accept food, drinks or invitations from strangers, or change your planned itinerary at their request
  • exercise caution in the mountainous Rif region, on the northern coast of Morocco. Drugs are produced in this area and tourists are occasionally tricked into unknowingly committing drug offences

While Moroccans are generally very friendly and hospitable, you should always exercise common sense and travel wisely.

Armed robbery

Armed robberies with knives have occurred and have resulted in injuries and in some cases, deaths. Don’t resist robbers.

Thefts occur around ATMs.

Credit card fraud

Credit card fraud is also frequent.

Forced purchases

Tourists have been forcibly taken to stores and intimidated into making purchases.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to certain forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety vary greatly throughout the country, depending on location and weather (for example, in the mountains or during the rainy season).

  • Avoid driving at night
  • Have an accident report form (constat à l’amiable), which can be purchased at newsstands, in your vehicle at all times.

Not all drivers respect traffic regulations. Pedestrians, scooters and animals on roadways can also pose risks.

National roads

National roads are generally in good condition but are narrow and heavily congested.

Driving is generally easier on the highways.

Be extremely careful when driving on the Rabat-Casablanca highway and on certain national highways because of high traffic volume.

Accidents causing fatalities are common.

If an accident occurs and only involves material damage, the police won’t usually intervene. The parties involved should complete an accident report (joint report), which can be purchased at newsstands. If the accident involves casualties, avoid moving the vehicles before the police arrive.

Checkpoints

Checkpoints are frequent. Carry your identification and vehicle documents at all times.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Internet romances

Exercise caution if travelling to Morocco for romance, especially in cases of relationships initiated on the Internet.

Find out beforehand about the country’s customs and laws on conjugal relations and marriage.

Ensure that you retain possession of your return plane ticket, your money and your passport in case problems arise.

Useful links

  • Marriage abroad
  • Overseas fraud

Public beaches

While swimming conditions in tourist areas are generally safe and problem-free, public beaches in major cities are often polluted and unfit for swimming.

Swimming at some beaches on the Atlantic coast is dangerous due to strong currents and tides. Only swim at designated beaches and exercise caution.

Fondation Mohammed VI pour la protection de l’environnement - a list of beaches that meet international standards

Women and girls can be the subject of harassment when wearing swimsuits. Exercise caution and opt for tourist beaches rather than the public ones.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Moroccan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Morocco.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days Business visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days Student visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days

Extending your stay beyond 90 days

You must secure proper authorization if you plan to extend your stay in Morocco beyond 90 days. Contact the Service to Foreigners Section (Section du service aux étrangers) at the local police station at least 15 days prior to the expiry of the 90-day limit.

If you remain in Morocco beyond the 90-day limit, you’ll be forced to remain there until seen by a prosecutor and fined.

Entering by private boat

To enter Morocco by private boat, you must do so at a recognized port of entry.

Entering with a private vehicle

If you enter Morocco with a vehicle, you must exit with it or you will be denied exit.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

The quality of medical care varies greatly throughout the country. Casablanca, Marrakesh and Rabat have good, private medical facilities for non-emergencies. Care in public health facilities is not up to Canadian standards.

Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict, and judgment is expeditious.

Alcohol consumption outside of licensed bars, hotels and restaurants is prohibited. Offenders may be punished by detention or other penalties. Alcohol can also be purchased from licensed stores for private consumption.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Non-Islamic religious materials

Unauthorized importation of bibles or other non-Islamic religious material is prohibited, except for personal use. Religious preaching is forbidden.

Mailing identity papers

Sending identity papers, such as passports, by mail is forbidden in Morocco and authorities may confiscate them.

Extramarital sexual relations

Extramarital sexual relations are illegal. Hotels may refuse to allow couples to stay in the same room, if they’re unable to prove that they’re married. Foreigners, however, are almost always exempt from having to provide proof.

Pornography

Possession of pornographic material is illegal.

Photography

Don’t take photographs of military or security installations.

Drones and surveillance equipment

Drones and surveillance equipment are prohibited and will be confiscated by the authorities upon entry.

The Moroccan constitution states that the person of the King is inviolable and respect is due to him. It is expected that people avoid any criticism of the monarchy.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

The laws of Morocco prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Morocco.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Children and citizenship

Children of Moroccan fathers automatically acquire Moroccan citizenship at birth, regardless of where they were born. Children of Moroccan mothers may submit a request for their citizenship.

Under Moroccan law, parents may prevent their children from leaving Morocco.

Entry and exit requirements when travelling with children 

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Morocco. According to Moroccan law, however, Moroccan citizenship takes precedence over any other citizenship.

Airport authorities regularly ask dual citizens to produce their Moroccan national identification card.

If you’re a citizen of Canada, but also a citizen of Morocco, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited in Morocco. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Morocco.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Morocco, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Moroccan court.

If you are in this situation:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Morocco to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • Travelling with children
  • The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Dress and behaviour

Islamic practices and beliefs are adhered to in Morocco’s customs, laws and regulations. Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

The currency in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). The dirham cannot be exchanged outside of the country. Exchange only as much money as needed, as it is illegal to take dirhams out of Morocco.

Unused dirhams can be converted at the airport exchange counter upon departure, with proof of your initial currency purchase.

Credit cards and traveller’s cheques are accepted in certain stores and restaurants in urban centres and in major hotels.

Earthquake in the Marrakesh-Safi region

On September 8, 2023, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck near the city of Marrakesh, in the Marrakesh-Safi region. The tremors were felt in several cities across the country.

There was significant damage to infrastructure and many casualties, especially in the villages located in the area of the High Atlas. Emergency services continue to provide assistance to the affected populations and recovery efforts are underway.

If you are in or near the affected areas:

  • monitor local media for the latest developments
  • check road conditions before travelling

Morocco is located in an active seismic zone.

Rainy season

The rainy season usually extends from November to March, during which flash floods can occur frequently. These can be especially dangerous in the High Atlas valleys.

Monitor regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 190
  • medical assistance: 150
  • firefighters: 150

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Morocco in Rabat and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

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If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

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Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Travel guide for visiting Morocco

All You Should Know Before Visiting Morocco – Travel Tips & Advice

Last Modified: July 3, 2023 //  by  Anda //   12 Comments

Morocco is one of the most magical, yet challenging places I have ever visited. It’s a rough and tumble country that has to be accepted on its own terms. If you don’t understand its culture, you won’t be able to enjoy it. Visiting Morocco can be both amazing and chaotic, which is why I believe it’s important to get as much information as you can before you travel there.

People visiting Morocco

Located in North Africa, at the crossroads of three worlds – Mediterranean, Arab and African – Morocco is a country of great diversity. Here you’ll find the gorgeous coastlines, steep mountains, green valleys, and sweeping deserts. You’ll also find ancient cities, old Medinas, impressive Kasbahs, as well as European-inspired cites with modern architecture. The country’s culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, European and African influences.

inside the Marrakech airport

Visiting Morocco will undoubtedly broaden your horizon and enrich your travel experience, but it will also be challenging. You’ll get in contact with a society and an environment which may be very unfamiliar to you, so you’ll often have to step outside of your comfort zone.

morocco is it safe to travel there

Table of Contents

Is Morocco Safe to Visit?

When should you visit morocco, how to get around when visiting morocco, is there a dress code in morocco, tipping is expected in morocco, scams and hassling are an issue, taking photos is very difficult, drones are illegal in morocco, should you stay in riads or hotels when visiting morocco, non-muslim can’t enter in mosques in morocco, shopping and haggling, alcohol is not easy to find in morocco, marijuana and hashish, safety tips, things you shouldn’t do when visiting morocco, a final word, essential things to know before visiting morocco.

If you plan to travel to Morocco you probably have a lot of questions, so I’ll try to address as many as I can in this post. I will also try to dispel any fears and concerns you might have, and instead give you some tips and insights into this culture to help you better understand this complex country. I hope that after reading this guide you’ll be able to travel with a lighter heart and have a good experience in Morocco.

The first question most travelers ask themselves before considering a trip to Morocco is whether the country is safe. Although in the past few years there were some terrorist attacks on the southern border, Morocco is a safe country for the most part. The crime rate is relatively low and violent crimes against tourists are not a common issue.

That being said, it is advised to stay vigilant at all times. Keep your valuables in a safe place and beware of scams and petty crime, which are very common here.  

One important thing to keep in mind is that Morocco is a Muslim country which follows Islamic laws. You should ensure that your behavior won’t offend the locals and try to be respectful to their customs and culture.

The Best time to visit Morocco is during the cooler months of the year: September through November and March through May.

During the summer months temperatures can be very oppressive, ranging from 40 to 55ºC (104 to 130ºF), except for the coastal regions where they are usually around 25-28ºC (77 to 82ºF).

During the winter months, the weather is generally poor and snow can make many mountain roads impassable for driving.

Before our trip to Morocco, we did a lot of research regarding the best way to visit the country. There are several ways to get around in Morocco: using public transportation, renting a car and self driving, or hiring a car with a private driver.

transportation when visiting Morocco

Public Transportation

Getting around in Morocco on public transport is generally easy. There are plenty of buses, collective taxis and trains that link the main cities in the north with the coast and Marrakesh. But although the coverage may be good, you’ll need to have some “Moroccan time” at hand, as service disruptions and delays occur quite frequently.

Trains are a good option if you are traveling between the major cities, but buses are a cheaper and more comprehensive alternative if you plan to visit smaller towns.

There are also Grand  taxis that cover longer routes between towns, but they don’t leave until they are full. Grand taxis are shared cabs that carry up to six passengers — two in the front beside the driver and four in the back. The Grand taxis have no meters, so you should negotiate the cost per person before you head out.

Renting a car also has its own challenges. Road conditions and traffic accidents are a significant hazard in Morocco. The mountain roads through the Rif and Atlas mountains are steep, narrow, and dangerous. Also, street lighting is minimal after dark and people or animals can suddenly appear in the middle of the road.

Parking is a problem as well. And not only in big cities, but also in smaller towns where the historic centers are car-free. In addition to these issues, you need to be aware of the fact that English is not largely spoken in Morocco. That makes asking for direction or trying to read the signs –which in many places are only in Arabic– really difficult. In our experience, Google Maps is not entirely reliable in Morocco.

Hiring a Car with a Private Driver

After months and months of research, we decided that the safest and most convenient way to travel through Morocco is to hire a car with a driver. Although it will certainly be cheaper to use public transportation or rent a car, hiring a private driver doesn’t cost as much as you might think. Not to mention the fact that it will give you a better experience and save you a lot of hassle.

standing next to our driver  when visiting Morocco

After visiting Morocco for two weeks, I am still convinced that hiring a driver and travel guides in every big city was the best decision we made. Even my husband who doesn’t fear the challenges of driving all over the world (including the steep, narrow roads of Sicily ), agrees that having a private driver is THE way to travel in Morocco.

There are quite a few companies who offer these services, but knowing which one to choose may be tricky. Always read the company’s reviews before deciding. We worked with Morocco Hire Car and were more than pleased with them. They have English fluent drivers, very competitive prices and great service.

Our driver did so more for us than just take us from point A to B. He also took us to many interesting places that we didn’t know about, gave us practical information, helped us with our luggage and treated us like his own family.

Despite being a Muslim country, Morocco is more liberal than other Muslim states. Most Moroccan women don’t wear a veil –although they may well wear a headscarf. In big cities women are more emancipated, so you may see young girls wearing short-sleeved tops and knee-length skirts.

Moroccan women wearing headscarfs

The general rule is to dress conservatively. For Muslims that means covering your legs and shoulders if you are a woman and wearing long pants if you are a man. Tourist women are not expected to cover their head, but they should dress decently when visiting Morocco. That means not wearing above the knee skirts and shorts, see-through clothing, or low cleavage tops if you are a woman.

How to dress when visiting Morocco

If you are a man, you should wear long pants and a shirt. Nonetheless, when it’s hot outside you may see many tourists wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts, like in the U.S. That is particularly common in Marrakesh, which is a more liberal city, but not in smaller towns or in other parts of the country. But if you want to avoid unwanted attention –especially as a woman– you should try to conform to the local norms.

Starting with bathroom attendants and continuing with drivers, waiters, tour guides, and riad staff, expect to tip almost everywhere in Morocco and for just about any “service.” A kid lets you pet his pet? Tip! You stop to take a photo of some goats on trees ? Tip the herder! The tour guide at the museum? Tip! Bathroom attendant? Definitely tip! The golden rule is to always carry small change with you, or you’ll have to face some awkward situations.

Moroccan currency

Salaries are low in Morocco and although tipping should be optional and based on experience, it’s pretty much expected everywhere. This may not come as a surprise if you are coming from America, where ‘tipping jars’ are almost everywhere . But if you don’t come from a tipping culture, it will annoy you.

Scams, hassling and petty crime are a big problem when visiting Morocco. Especially if you travel alone. Luckily, most of the time we were either with a tour guide or with our driver. But when we were by ourselves we were a sure target. “Are you lost? Where do you want to go? To your hotel? I’ll take you. No money. Don’t worry!” And if you accept, you won’t be able to get them off your back until you pay them what they ask.

If you look disoriented, one guy will point you in the wrong direction and when you are completely lost, another one will come to the “rescue” you and offer “take you to where you need to go.”

Simply wandering through the souks would cause the nearby vendors to jump on us and follow us around, inviting us to their stores. We were trying to turn them down politely, but some of them just couldn’t get “no” for an answer. We could feel the stares on every turn we took and that made us feel very uneasy.

It’s a game of cat and mouse that wears you out very fast. Wandering around by ourselves in the medinas was so stressful, that we had to give it up after a while. That doesn’t mean that everyone is out to get you, but having to stay constantly on guard kind of ruins the experience.

Despite being a friendly and welcoming people, Moroccans don’t like you to take their picture. Actually, let me rephrase that: Moroccans don’t like you taking any pictures at all! Period. Whether you are pointing your camera to a stall, an animal, or a building they oppose it just as vehemently: “No photo! No photo!”

Some them will agree to have their picture taken –of course, tipping is implied– but many just don’t want tourists taking pictures of anything. I was trying to photograph a piece of furniture in a museum when one of the guards started yelling from across the hall: “No photos here! No photos!”

shoemaker asleep in his store

You may argue that this attitude has a lot do with their perception of privacy, but I believe it’s more than that. Moroccans see money making opportunities in almost anything, so they try to take advantage of every situation. You may not think it’s too big of a deal to tip a few Dirhams here and there, but when you end up paying 3-5 Dirhams (30-50 cents) every time you take a picture, you get fed up after a while.

Taking pictures with the Water Sellers in Morocco

Having to find tricks and reinvent yourself every time you want to take a picture is very annoying. Especially when considering that Morocco relies so heavily on tourism and wants to be promoted as a desirable destination!

As a travel photographer, a trip in which I can’t capture the local color, the lives of the people and their customs is a wasted trip. Luckily, in most places we visited we were accompanied by a travel guide and that made things a little easier. Not that we didn’t have to pay in many places, but at least not every time the locals demanded.

While we’re on the topic of photography you should know that drones are illegal   in Morocco. There are signs everywhere in the airport stating that you cannot bring drone into the country. Your bags will pass through a scanner at the airport, so don’t even try. They may fine you, confiscate your drone, or even put you in jail!

image of a drone, which is illegal in Morocco

We tried to obtain an UAV permit to use the drone as Media professionals, but found out that even if we have a permit the authorities may confiscate our drone. So forget about taking aerial photos in Morocco!

You’ll encounter a great deal of new experiences when visiting Morocco: customs, food, culture, and even accommodations will be different from what you know. One thing you’ll have to decide when planning your trip is whether to stay in riads or hotels. There is a significant difference between the two, although there are lots of similarities when it comes to amenities and facilities.

Moroccan riad patio

What is a Riad?

Riads are basically the Moroccan version of a guesthouse centered around an open-air courtyard that contains a fountain. Historically, riads are mansions that were once occupied by wealthy families. Today, many of these riads have been remodeled and converted into luxury accommodations.

Moroccan riad terrace

Riads have all the amenities of a modern hotel, but they maintain the typical atmosphere of a Moroccan house. These beautiful buildings often contain some extraordinary examples of Moorish architecture and Moroccan craftsmanship.

Riad room

Generally, riads have fewer rooms than hotels and are located within the Medina walls, in narrow alleys. That means they are right where the action is and thus closer to the attractions. But that also means they are harder to access, since the medinas are car-free zones. Also, walking through these narrow, winding alleys after dark may be a little scary.

Narrow alley leading to a riad

Hotels, on the other hand, are more accessible because they are generally located outside the old town. They also have more room options and are often held to international standards. So if you don’t feel very adventurous and prefer utmost accessibility and big rooms, you should go to a hotel. But if you want to immerse yourself entirely into the Moroccan culture and lifestyle, you should stay in a riad.

Ultimately, your choice will be determined by what’s more important for you when traveling: consistency and ease, or cultural experience.

One of the big disappointments for non-Muslims when visiting Morocco is not being able to enter into the mosques. There are many outstanding mosques in Morocco, but unfortunately only those who go in there to pray can access them. The only exception is Hassan II Mosque, in Casablanca, which can be visited by non-Muslims on guided tours, but only at specific times.

morocco is it safe to travel there

As for the rest of them, you’ll have to be content with an occasional glimpse through open doors, or just walking around the courtyard.

When visiting Morocco you’ll be amazed at the wide assortment of handicrafts available in the marketplace. But shopping in Morocco is not going to be your shopping mall experience. If you want to buy something here, you’ll have to be prepared to bargain.

Image depicting the souks in Marrakesh

The Western world (except for maybe southern Spain and Italy) doesn’t have much of a bargaining culture, but in Morocco bartering is an old tradition. You need to be aware that merchants inflate the prices many fold in order to leave room for haggling. 

Unfortunately, for most westerners having to negotiate a price can be very stressful. The process is very similar to that of buying a car or a house here, in the States. There are a few common sense rules that apply: 1. Know the market value of the objects. 2. Don’t show enthusiasm for the item you want. 3. Decide how much you want to pay for it and wait for an offer. 4. If the merchant doesn’t accept your counter-offer, wait for another offer or walk away.

Unless you agree on the price, you don’t have to buy anything. But if the merchant accepts your offer, then you have an obligation to buy. If you are not planning to buy anything, don’t engage in a conversation with the merchant.

They will pay you lots of compliments and may even offer you some of their famous mint tea to lure you into their shop. If you accept, they will believe you are looking to buy and it will be very hard to back out. Try to avoid the chat with a polite “no, thank you.” Never underestimate the merchant: they are smarter and think faster than you when it comes to negotiating a price.

Morocco is mostly a cash-based society, so you should always expect to pay in cash. The country’s currency is the Dirham, but euros and US dollars are accepted as well in most places.

Being a Muslim country, it’s more difficult to find alcohol in Morocco than it is for instance in Europe, or in other parts of the world. While you can buy alcohol in larger supermarkets and some bars, drinking doesn’t have a very good image in Morocco and most locals see alcohol as a Western drug. Even so, according to a recent study, Moroccans are drinking more now than they did some years ago.

As a general rule, drinking alcohol in public is against the law   and it could get you into trouble with the police. Therefore, it’s a good idea to be discrete when you drink and avoid walking around if you had too much alcohol.

Growing, selling, purchasing or using drugs is illegal in the Kingdom of Morocco. But but despite this fact, the country is the world’s biggest cannabis exporter. Most of the crops grow around the Rif Mountains, under the complicit watch of the local police, who turns a blind eye to it.

a man smoking weed

As a result, it’s not unusual to see people smoking hashish in pipes everywhere. As a tourist, you may be asked more than a few if you’d like to purchase some hashish. Smoking kif (marijuana) or hashish is commonplace in Morocco. Men usually roll it up in a joint mixed with tobacco. But buying it has its risks, as often police informers act as dealers, so you may get in trouble.

Morocco is overall a very safe country to visit. There are almost no violent crimes against travelers reported here. Moroccans are kind, warm and tolerant of other cultures, providing their beliefs are respected as well. They are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors, as they all aware of the fact that the tourism industry is a major economic source of income to most families directly or indirectly.

Moroccans at the market

That being said, you should always exercise common sense when walking around the Medina streets. Especially after dark. Don’t display expensive jewelry or large amounts of money and be aware of your whereabouts.

Also hide money, credit cards, and your passport into deep inner pocket, or in a pouch under your clothes. I believe that pick pocketing is the most common crime here, and both men and women can be victims.

There are a few things that you should definitely avoid when visiting Morocco.

• Talk about the King, religion, or politics . It is recommended to avoid these 3 topics in your conversations with locals or other tourists in Morocco.

• Public displays of affection.  Very obvious gestures of affection are considered offensive in Morocco, so you should avoid kissing in public or other displays of love while there.

• Wander through back alleys.  There is a maze of narrow lanes and winding alleys in every old town in Morocco. They may be charming at first sight, but they are also dangerous. Venturing too deep into this maze can make you an easy victim for con artists and robbers. Stay in places where you can see other tourists

Narrow alley in Fez, Morocco

• Feel compelled to buy. If you plan to hire a tour guide to show you around when you travel in Morocco, you’ll often be dragged into shops under the pretext of showing you unusually beautiful crafts, or to observe a certain manufacturing process.

morocco is it safe to travel there

The guide will reassure you that he brought you there “just to see, not to buy.” But in fact, they will get a commission if you buy anything. Although it’s easy to see through this trick, you may feel pressured to buy at least something to please the guide or the store owner, but you shouldn’t.

READ NEXT : Visiting Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Blue City

Morocco is full of welcoming, generous and hospitable people who will be glad to share their historic sites, vibrant souks, and delicious cuisine with you. Therefore, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is avoid visiting this country for fear you may not be safe or welcome there. If you travel with an open mind and a willing heart, you’ll have a wonderful time in Morocco. I promise you!

If you found this information helpful, please pin this to help other travelers discover Morocco

Visiting Morocco travel guide

INTERESTED IN A TRIP TO MOROCCO? YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THESE:

  • Morocco Itinerary – How to Spend 10 Days in Morocco
  • The Best Souvenirs to Buy When Shopping in Morocco
  • The Mystery of the Tree-Climbing Goats in Morocco
  • Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Blue City
  • How to Plan a Perfect Day Trip From Marrakech to Essaouira

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

El Caminito del Rey

Reader Interactions

March 27, 2023 at 1:56 pm

So many tips to learn from… Thanks for sharing!!!

April 28, 2023 at 12:58 pm

So many things to learn indeed, the most important of which is that Morocco and Moroccans are not Arabs and are vast majority ethnic Amazigh berbers. You can ruin your reputation by calling Moroccans ARabs, big no no.

January 29, 2023 at 1:33 pm

Thank you for the tips Anda. We are not yet sure whether we should hire a car with a private driver or book a private tour. We have read that the driver cannot act as a guide and therefore for certain cities we would still need to hire a guide. What is your opinion please?

January 29, 2023 at 2:42 pm

Technically your driver can’t act as a guide, so it’s better if you you hire local guides for cities like Marrakech, Fes and so on. They are are also more knowledgeable than a driver. However, our driver gave us all kinds of tips that were invaluable. Like how much to tip (and it was much less than we intended to give), what places are safe to wander around, what restaurants are rip-offs, and so on. Besides, having a local with you at all times is priceless in a country like Morocco. I’m not saying you won’t be able to make it without one, but your life will be so much easier.

January 30, 2023 at 12:15 am

Thank you for your prompt reply Anda 🙂 So just to confirm, if we book a private tour, how will this differ from a private driver? Per our understanding, a private tour will provide you with a driver, a guide and book hotels on our behalf. Is this correct?

January 30, 2023 at 12:49 am

There are different kinds of “private tours.” Some are small group tours, which will take you to different cities (or to the desert) and drop you there. From that point you may choose to hire a local guide, or visit the city on your own.

Another possibility is to rent a car with a driver, which is what we did. In each city we hired a local guide to take us around. That is of course more expensive, but you are the boss. The driver will take you wherever you want and stay at your service all the time. You may choose your own itinerary, or ask the company to make one for you. They can recommend hotels, restaurants, etc. etc. We designed our own itinerary and booked our own hotels, so we just paid for the car and the driver. That was slightly more expensive than just renting the car itself. I strongly recommend this option. In my post I have a link to the company from where we rented the car with a driver.

September 21, 2022 at 5:44 pm

Many good tips without having to ask the questions. Now looking for more insights as to “off the beaten path”.

September 21, 2022 at 6:45 pm

I’m still working on the Morocco posts and yes, “off the beaten path” destinations are coming soon. Thank you for dropping by.

July 27, 2022 at 6:25 pm

Great post, Anda. You are spot on — although it sounds like photography has gotten much more difficult since I was there. . . . and it was challenging enough then! We also hired a driver to take us around and used guides in larger cities (our brilliant driver was a fabulous unofficial guide in more rural places). You are right — a good driver and/or guide will take you to places you would never discover otherwise. And it makes getting around just so much easier. It’s not even that expensive, we found the price to be comparable to booking a mid-price tour. Of course, the trick is finding someone who will be really good and who you’ll want to be around over the course of long days of driving and touring.

July 29, 2022 at 10:05 am

I agree, Cindy. Having a drives puts you ahead of the crowds and it saves you a lot of time.

Roy Stevenson

June 30, 2022 at 11:01 am

Thanks for this excellent summary, Anda. Much appreciated. Morocco is on my bucket list & this gives me a good idea of what to expect. Best regards to you! Roy Stevenson

June 30, 2022 at 1:05 pm

Thanks for dropping by, Roy. Hope all is well with you and your wife.

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Morocco Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

Map - Morocco

There are no notices currently in effect for Morocco.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

  • Chickenpox (Varicella)
  • Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
  • Flu (influenza)
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Morocco.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Morocco. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Morocco.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. This dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Morocco. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Morocco, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

  • Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
  • Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
  • Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Morocco. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

  • Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

  • Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
  • Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
  • Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
  • Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

  • Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

Leishmaniasis

  • Sand fly bite
  • Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

  • Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
  • Bite from an infected rodent
  • Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
  • Avoid rodents and areas where they live
  • Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

  • Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Morocco, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

  • Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
  • Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
  • Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
  • Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Morocco. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
  • 2-undecanone
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Morocco include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Morocco. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Morocco’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Morocco may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Morocco, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Morocco for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Morocco travel advice: Is it safe to travel to Marrakech right now?

Airports, including marrakech, are open, with flights operating normally, article bookmarked.

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The death toll is rising following a catastrophic earthquake in Morocco late at night on Friday 8 September. More than 2,800 people have been killed and injured after the 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck.

The epicentre was about 70km (43 miles) southwest of Marrakech – the fourth-biggest city in Morocco, and by far the most popular draw for international visitors.

Thousands of British holidaymakers are in the area, with many thousands more booked to go there in the coming weeks and monthsr. This is the travel picture.

How many British holidaymakers are in the vicinity?

The Independent calculates from flight data that around 5,000-8,000 UK holidaymakers are in the Marrakech area. Many are staying in the ancient heart of the city, or in modern hotels on the outskirts.

Trekking in the Atlas mountains is also popular, particularly in autumn when temperatures start to drop.

Recommended

  • Morocco earthquake – live: Race to find survivors as death toll tops 2,800
  • ‘I’m lucky to be alive’: Morocco travel insider says country will rebuild tourism in wake of earthquake
  • Will flights be affected by the earthquake in Morocco?

Is Marrakech airport still open and operating?

Yes: even in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, Marrakech Menara airport continued to operate normally. A handful of flights were cancelled, and airlines including British Airways and easyJet deployed larger aircraft in order to accommodate passengers who wanted to come home early.

All other airports in Morocco are also running normally. The main holiday locations, including Agadir and Essaouira, are unaffected.

What does the Foreign Office advise?

The official travel advice from the UK government has not changed since the day after the earthquake. It says: “Travellers wishing to change their flight plans should liaise direct with their tour operators or airline companies.

“If you are planning to travel to Morocco imminently we advise you check with your accommodation provider/tour operator to confirm arrangements before departure in case of disruption or damage resulting from the earthquake.

“If you are trying to get in touch with a family member or a friend or the FCDO to share updates, be aware that telephone networks in Morocco are subject to outages. Should you require consular assistance please call the British Embassy Rabat +212 (0) 537 63 33 33 and select the menu option for consular services, or call the FCDO +44 (0) 207 008 5000.”

What are the options for British travellers who want to leave the area?

The general assumption is that they wlll travel home as planned. British Airways is allowing anyone booked to fly from Marrakech to London up to 24 September to travel earlier if they wish, and if space is available.

Passengers on easyJet are told: “If you are scheduled to travel to or from Morocco in the next few days and wish to discuss your booking please contact our customer service team.” The number to call is +44 330 551 5151.

I am booked to travel to the Marrakech area imminently. Can I cancel?

Many people are in this position: not wishing to put additional strain on a location enduring a humanitarian crisis; uncomfortable about going on holiday to a scene of such tragedy; or concerned about harm from aftershocks.

More seismic activity will continue. The US Geological Survey says: “It’s likely that smaller aftershocks in the region ... will continue to be felt for weeks to come. In some cases, there may be strong aftershocks.”

Yet in the aftermath of the earthquake, tourism is functioning normally. Tui is selling holidays in Marrakech for immediate departure.

British Airways is allowing postponements if you are booked to travel any day up to 24 September; customers booked on BA Holidays can switch destination subject to any price increase.

Booked easyJet passengers due to travel in the next few days may be be offered flexibility allowing them to postpone or to change destinations.

The presumption is that almost all other holidays will go ahead as normal.

But are all the hotels still open?

Almost all of them. The main exceptions: trips based at specific properties which are currently unable to receive guests due to the earthquakes, such as those in the Atlas Mountains.

Kasbah Tamadot, Sir Richard Branson’s property in the mountains, is telling guests: “Our primary concern at this time is ensuring the safety and welfare of our team, their families and our guests, as well as the local communities.

“We are currently assessing the impact of the earthquake on our beloved Kasbah Tamadot and we are temporarily closing the property whilst we inspect the damage and we will not be taking any new bookings until November 2023.

“Guests unable to stay have been offered alternatives stays at our other Virgin Limited Edition properties.”

Mike McHugo, founder of the luxury lodge Kasbah du Toubkal, has closed the property until further notice. But he told The Independen t that tourism will resume quickly in the region : “Life needs to go back to normal, which it will. They will rebuild and come back.”

I don’t believe I will be able to have a safe and enjoyable holiday. What are my rights?

If you are really concerned about your trip, the first line of action will be to contact your travel company and ask if you can switch or postpone it.

You are most unlikely to be able to claim on travel insurance. Travel insurers will treat a last-minute cancellation or a no-show as “disinclination to travel” and will not reimburse you for losses.

The only exception is if you can demonstrate the place you intended to stay and/or explore is inaccessible.

Is Morocco an earthquake-prone area?

Not especially, but when they occur they tend to be deadly. The most devastating was in Agadir in 1960, when between 12,000 and 15,000 people died. The town has now been rebuilt and is a popular resort.

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18 things to know before traveling to Morocco

Sally Kirby

Oct 15, 2023 • 7 min read

morocco is it safe to travel there

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.

A couple talks to a shop owner while shopping in the markets of the Marrakesh medina in Morocco

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.

A woman in black stands in front of ornately decorated doors in Fez, Morocco

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.

A couple is served mint tea by a waiter in the courtyard of a riad in Marrakesh, Morocco

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.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Morocco Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Traditional sandstone buildings along the ridge of a slope in beautiful Morocco

Chaotic. Colorful. Eye-opening. Visiting Morocco is an intense experience. My time there was challenging, but it was also a reminder that the best part of travel is embracing the uncomfortable.

Once part of the Carthaginian Empire, the first independent Moroccan state emerged around 225 BCE as the Berber kingdom of Mauretania. That kingdom eventually became a Roman province, though, by the 7th century CE, Muslim conquest of North Africa was in full swing. A French Protectorate from 1912-1956, Morocco gained its independence in 1956 and has been an independent state ever since.

I loved my time in Morocco. I gorged on couscous, drank my body weight in mint tea, hiked, and absorbed the hectic sights and sounds of the country.

From the high Atlas Mountains to the desert to the coasts, Morocco is a marvelous country that mesmerizes. True, the sprawling and disorderly medinas can test your patience, but they reward your senses each and every visit.

Use this Morocco travel guide to plan your trip, see the best the country has to offer, save money, and avoid the common pitfalls that waylay unsuspecting travelers!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Morocco

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in morocco.

Camels strolling along the huge, golden dunes in beautiful Morocco on a bright, sunny day in the desert

1. Explore Marrakesh

Spend some time in the Djemaa el-Fna, where you can find exotic street performers, tattoo artists, musicians, and chefs. After that, wander around the medina, explore the souks, eat in the market, see the old city, and enjoy Morocco’s most international city. Marrakesh has it all.

2. Sleep in the Sahara Desert

The Sahara is vast, empty, and spectacular. Spending the night in a simple tent on the dunes was my favorite activity while in the country and I highly recommend you try it too. The stars go on forever and there’s no light pollution to block them out. (Skip the camel ride, though!)

3. Explore the blue streets of Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a small city located in the middle of the Rif Mountains. It is very relaxed, offers reasonable accommodations, and is visually stunning as the streets and buildings are all painted a vibrant sky blue (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram). It’s a great place to wander, shop, and sip mint tea.

4. Visit Fez

This old and powerful city is one of the best places in the country. Its narrow streets are filled with wonderful aromas, mosques, craft shops, and crowds upon crowds of people. Though Fez can be a bit overwhelming, once you get used to the pace of the city, it’s simply magical.

5. Relax in a traditional hammam

A hammam is a steam bath popular in North Africa. They are usually found near mosques or toiletry shops and can be upscale or public (traditional). Visit a no-frills traditional bath for an authentic and enlightening experience. Public hammams cost about 10 MAD, while hotel hammams cost 300-500 MAD.

Other Things to See and Do in Morocco

1. get lost in the medinas.

The medinas are the historic hearts of each city in Morocco, part residential area, part shopping center, part food market. Shops, restaurants, markets, and homes all line the twisting and turning streets in buildings seemingly too close together and too old to stay up much longer. As someone who loves to get lost, the medinas were heaven. Word of caution: The Fez Medina is a bit unsafe, so do not go too far off the beaten path. Stick to streets with lots of people or hire a guide to show you around.

2. Trek the High Atlas

The rugged and beautiful Atlas Mountains stretch over 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles), from the West Coast of Morocco all the way to Tunisia. This mountain range is home to Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s tallest peak at 13,671 feet. You can hike all year round, but the best time is from April to May. The Toubkal Circuit (7 days) and M’Goun Traverse (3 days) are some of the more popular treks.

3. Trek through the Todra Gorge

Located near Tinerhir in the High Atlas Mountains, this gorge is one of the most recognized in the world and has become very popular with travelers looking to hike the canyon. It’s a challenging hike and takes around 4 hours but if you’re looking for something truly different and outdoorsy in Morocco, don’t miss out on this. For an even more unique experience, skip the day trip and stay overnight in the nearby village of Ait Baha.

4. Visit the Hassan II Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque, located in Casablanca, is a huge mosque with a minaret that stands 60 stories. It’s the second-largest mosque in Africa and the seventh-largest in the world. The walls are made of marble and the roof is retractable (the minaret also has a laser that points to Mecca at night). It took thousands of Moroccan artists a total of five years to build this detailed architectural masterpiece. Its mosaics, plaster moldings, marble and stone columns and floors, and wood ceilings are utterly impressive. It is big enough for 105,000 worshipers! Combined entry to the mosque and museum is 140 MAD.

5. Learn to cook traditional Moroccan food

Traditional Moroccan food is a blend of Berber, Arabic, Turkish, Middle Eastern, and French cuisine. Many hotels and guesthouses offer cooking classes in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez. You can buy fresh produce from the local market and then make a traditional dish. Café Clock offers some of the best classes. With locations in Marrakesh, Chefchaouen, and Fez, this Western-influenced café is famous for its gigantic and delicious camel burger (which tastes a lot like spicy shawarma).

6. Wander thru Kasbah les Oudaias

Located in Rabat, this 12th-century Kasbah is found in the oldest part of the city. The citadel, with its narrow streets of white houses, and a great place to wander around and take some pictures. Its elevation offers beautiful views of the river and ocean.

7. Go surfing

Morocco is extremely popular among surfers. The best time to go is during the winter months when the waves are bigger and more consistent, and the air and water temperature is mild. Head to Taghazout, the most popular surf town, to catch some of the best surf in the country. A week-long stay at a surf camp, including lessons, equipment, accommodation, and airport transfer costs around 5,000 MAD.

8. Visit Tangier

This major city in northern Morocco is located on the North African coast at the western entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. The city’s location means that many civilizations and cultures have left their mark on Tangiers since at least the 10th century BCE. From 1924-1956, Tangier was an international zone separate from Morocco, and thus became a destination for many European and American diplomats, businessmen, writers, and spies during this time. Don’t miss the Grand Mosque, the Kasbah, and strolling down the beach promenade.

9. See Atlas Studios

Named for its proximity to the Atlas Mountains, Atlas Film Studios in the city of Ouarzazate is the largest film studio in the world, covering more than 322,000 sq ft of the desert. Many big films have been shot here including: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Last Temptation of Christ (1988), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Hanna (2011), and part of the TV series Game of Thrones . Be sure to visit the nearby Ksar of Aït Benhaddou kasbah too! It plays into what people think a ksar (fortified village) should look like. I enjoyed roaming the streets and climbing to the top for the view.

10. See the Ancient City of Volubilis

A major trading center and the southernmost settlement during Roman times, Volubilis is one of the best-preserved (and least frequented) such ruins in the world. It originally dates to the 3rd century BCE and became the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mauretania, growing even more during Roman rule. I found it empty of tourists, not built up, and open in a way that lets you see the structures up close without being behind ten feet of barriers and jostled by crowds. Most of the city is still unexcavated so the site has a very “Indiana Jones” feel to it. I’ve been to a lot of Roman ruins in my travels, but this one is my favorite. Admission is 70 MAD.

11. Enjoy the Meknes Medina

Pleasantly stroll the Medina in Meknes without being pestered. Located in Central Morocco, this authentic market sells handicrafts made in Meknes such as embroidery and Meknes “Damascene” ironwork. If the Medinas of Fez and Marrakesh overwhelm you, this is the place to go.

12. Explore Essaouira

Essaouira is located a few hours from Marrakesh on the Atlantic coast and is a popular beach destination for tourists, especially Brits. I loved the relaxed atmosphere of the city, the lack of pushy touts, the sea air, and all the fresh fish. Be sure to visit the wonderful fish market in town, where all the small fishermen sell their day’s catch. Afterward, check out the small fish stalls nearby in the main square where you can enjoy fresh, grilled seafood for cheap.

  For more information on specific destinations in Morocco, check out these guides:

  • Fez Travel Guide
  • Marrakesh Travel Guide

Morocco Travel Costs

A sea-side view along a small village near the beach in sunny Morocco

Accommodation – Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds cost between 80-110 MAD per night in the big cities like Marrakesh and Fez, and about 50-60 MAD in smaller places. Private rooms in hostels cost around 260-380 MAD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotels in Marrakesh and Fez cost around 270-410 MAD per night for a double room. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, free breakfast, and sometimes even an outdoor pool.

Wild camping is legal in Morocco for those traveling with a tent. Locals usually don’t like people camping on or near their property, however, so only take advantage of this if you’re not going to disturb anyone. Don’t be surprised if nomads or police stop by to check on you.

Food – Moroccan cuisine is a colorful, flavorful mix of Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean traditions with a pinch of French and sub-Saharan cuisine to round things out. It is a land of spices, so expect flavorful meals at every turn (the traditional ras el hanout spice mix is composed of 27 different spices). Beef, goat, and lamb are some of the most common meats, usually eaten with couscous. Fish like mackerel and anchovy are also quite common, owing to the country’s location on the coast. Be sure to try pastilla , a pastry filled with meat or seafood.

Eating in Morocco can be extremely cheap, especially if you eat at the many markets. A pot of mint tea costs between 8-10 MAD. Indulge in local food, including the popular tagine , a meat and vegetables dish for about 35-55 MAD. Sandwiches, pizza, and most other dishes range between 30-50 MAD.

A fish dish in coastal cities like Essaouira costs about 100-150 MAD while a lobster is about 350-400 MAD. Seafood dinners come with drinks, salad, and bread.

For more touristy or Western restaurants, expect to spend at least 150 MAD or more per main dish.

Beer and wine cost around 70 MAD for a drink (however, there aren’t that many opportunities to drink in Morocco, so I wouldn’t factor it much into your budget).

There’s no need to buy groceries here as the food is cheap and it’s far easier to eat out! But if you do, expect to pay 200 MAD per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Morocco Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget expect to spend around 285 MAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating at market stalls and cooking some meals, limiting your drinking (which is very easy to do here), using local transportation to get around, and sticking to free and cheap activities like free walking tours and public hammam visits.

On a mid-range budget of 525 MAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, take the train between cities, and do more paid tours and activities like museum visits and camping in the Sahara.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,120 MAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, enjoy a few drinks, fly between cities or hire a driver, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MAD.

Morocco Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t cost a lot of money to travel Morocco — though it’s also easy to splash out here if you want. Here are my tips for saving money in Morocco:

  • Eat from street stalls – It’s extremely easy to eat cheaply in Morocco. While restaurant meals typically cost as little as 30 MAD, street food is even cheaper. For just a few dollars, you can indulge in delicious kebabs, sausages, barbecued corn on the cob, roasted chicken, huge sandwiches, and more. Stick to eating at the local markets in the medina to spend very little money on food.
  • Negotiate your cab fare – Be sure to negotiate a price before you get into the taxi. There aren’t set prices and you need to bargain hard. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for price estimates so you don’t get ripped off.
  • Avoid faux guides – Faux guides (or false guides) linger in the medinas and offer you tour services. Be forceful in saying no while walking away. They are persistent but eventually give up if you keep walking.
  • Be careful of thieves – Petty theft, mostly involving wallets, watches, and cameras, is prevalent in the crowded medinas around the country. Stay alert and keep your valuables out of sight.
  • Avoid drinking – Even though drinking is frowned upon in the country, you can still find plenty of places that allow you to drink. They are overpriced (since alcohol is not common here) and the drinks aren’t that good. Avoid drinking during your visit, save money, and align yourself closer to local norms.
  • Stay with a local – If you want to save money and get some local insight into the city, use Couchsurfing. Staying with a local is the best way to get a feel for the country and learn some insider tips in the process.
  • Bring a water bottle – 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.

Where to Stay in Morocco

Looking for a place to rest your head in Morocco? Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Morocco for your next visit:

  • Riad Dia (Marrakesh)
  • Riad Jennah Rouge (Marrakesh)
  • Kasbah Red Castle Hostel (Marrakesh)
  • Funky Fes (Fez)
  • Aline Hostel (Chefchaouen)
  • The Chill Art (Essaouira)
  • Atlantic Hostel (Essaouira)
  • Baytalice (Tangiers)

How to Get Around Morocco

Traditional sandstone buildings along the ridge of a slope in beautiful Morocco

Public transportation – Public transportation can be hit or miss in Morocco. The bigger cities, like Marrakesh and Casablanca, have public bus services, but the buses are old and overcrowded and the routes are hard to figure out.

Instead, most people use petits taxis to get around town. These are small vehicles that can hold up to three people and are prevalent all over the country. They’re very cheap, although there may be a surcharge after 8pm. To ensure you get a fair fare, negotiate your price upfront.

Metered taxis are also available in bigger cities like Marrakesh. Fares start around 7 MAD and then they charge 4 MAD per kilometer.

Grand taxis – Grand taxis are shared taxis that can carry up to six passengers and are used to go longer distances between neighboring towns/cities. They won’t leave until the taxi is full but generally wait times aren’t so bad. You can locate one near just about any taxi stand or bus/train station. If you have a lot of luggage, you may have to pay extra. You should arrange your fare ahead of time.

Bus – Intercity buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around Morocco, especially compared to other methods of transportation. The four most popular operators are:

  • SATAS (regional)
  • Ghazala (regional)

CTM and Supratours are the most reliable and have comfortable buses with air conditioning. You can book your tickets online or simply show up at the bus station. The websites aren’t terribly reliable or efficient to use. A 4-hour bus ride from Marrakesh to Casablanca is about 75-110 MAD, while a 6.5-hour ride from Marrakesh to Tangier is 260-275 MAD. Casablanca to Fez is 95-120 MAD.

Train – Morocco’s national rail network is operated by ONCF and services some of the country’s major cities like Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, and Fez. The trains are comfortable and they’re usually on time, but disruptions do occasionally happen. There is now a high-speed rail running between Casablanca to Fez too. You can look up schedules and prices on ONCF .

The 2.5-hour train trip from Marrakesh to Casablanca costs about 50 MAD, while the 4.5-hour journey from Marrakesh to Rabat starts around 150-180 MAD. Traveling from Casablanca to Fez takes 4 hours and is 50-120 MAD. The journey from Fez to Marrakesh takes 6.5 hours and costs 195 MAD.

Flying – Royal Air Maroc is the main domestic airline, and they sometimes have good sales. An hour flight from Marrakesh to Casablanca starts at around 870 MAD, while a one-hour flight from Marrakesh to Fez starts at 520 MAD.

Car rental – Car rental isn’t typically recommended in Morocco. Drivers are aggressive and accident rates are high! But if you want to venture off the beaten path, it’s a good way to go. You can find rentals starting from 200 MAD per day (sometimes cheaper).

When to Go to Morocco

The best time to visit Morocco is during the country’s shoulder seasons, which run from April to May and September to November. The temperatures are nice and warm during this time and there is less tourist traffic. (However, this changes if you plan on spending most of your time surfing the coast or hiking the Atlas Mountains.)

Summer lasts from June to August, and it can be ridiculously hot all over the country during this time — especially the further south you go (including in Marrakesh and Fez). A lot of people head to the coast to enjoy places like Tangier, Rabat, and Essaouira. Expect highs above 35°C (95°F).

Winters (December-February) are mild, but it can get quite cold in the evenings. Temperatures drop as low as -3°C (27°F) in Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains receive heavy snowfall. Winters in the north and along the coast are very wet. Overall, it’s not a great time to be here.

The best time to go hiking in the Atlas Mountains is from April to May (spring) and September to October (fall). It’s mild during these months and there’s little risk of severe weather. Summer is the best time to enjoy the coast, where temperatures go as high as 27°C (80°F) but the ocean breeze offers plenty of relief.

How to Stay Safe in Morocco

Overall, Morocco is a safe destination but traveling here requires vigilance. You’re unlikely to ever be in any real physical danger in Morocco, but the petty crime and harassment require you to stay on guard — more so than in other countries.

Women traveling alone attract a lot of attention here and the chances of being followed and possibly groped are high. This is a particular problem in crowded medinas. Always be watchful and trust your gut. Do not bring valuables with you and keep your belongings tight to your body. Dress conservatively and avoid wearing a lot of jewelry.

Walking alone at night is generally not a good idea in the cities. If you’re unsure about an area, ask the hotel staff which areas are safe. If you need a taxi, always arrange the price in advance to avoid getting ripped off.

When out and about, locals might invite you into their shops or offer to guide you around. Always politely but firmly decline otherwise you might end up getting ripped off.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 19 for assistance (112 for mobile phones).

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Morocco, check out this post that answers frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good 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. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Morocco Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Morocco Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Morocco and continue planning your trip:

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

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

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

A Journey of 1,000 Mint Teas: Reflections on Traveling Morocco

A Journey of 1,000 Mint Teas: Reflections on Traveling Morocco

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Morocco

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Morocco

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  • Where To Stay
  • Transportation
  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs

Morocco’s Resilience: Intrepid Travel Helps Tourism Rebound After Earthquake

Dawit Habtemariam

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

March 1st, 2024 at 10:21 AM EST

Intrepid Travel used its resources to bring tourism back to the High Atlas communities devastated by the September 8 earthquake.

Dawit Habtemariam

Intrepid Travel has been driving tourism back to Moroccan villages impacted by the September earthquake.

It’s been over six months since a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Marrakech and communities in the Atlas Mountains region. The natural disaster left over 2,900 dead, 5,500 injured and many homes, roads and buildings destroyed.

Since the earthquake, Intrepid has been doing its part to help these communities fully recover. After the earthquake struck, Intrepid Travel’s philanthropic arm, the Intrepid Foundation, quickly raised $550,000, plus $100,000 from its own funds. 

“It was the biggest appeal we’ve ever had in 35 years of history,” said Zina Bencheikh, managing director of the Middle East, Europe, and Africa for Intrepid Travel.

Intrepid worked with two partners to provide emergency services to get the communities back on their feet. Education for All built boarding house schools for girls who lost theirs to the earthquake. Its other partner, the High Atlas Foundation, brought shelter, food, and aid to the survivors. 

“When the earthquake hit Morocco, really for our business, we were hit in the middle of our core, where we operate,” said Bencheikh. “In fact, rural areas are really the core of our operations in Morocco. Specifically, all our tours go to rural areas.”

Intrepid Travel’s Deep Roots in Morocco

Intrepid, which recently hosted Skift in Morocco at it its annual company retreat, takes travelers off the beaten path with a community-based approach to tourism. To ensure this, the global organization partners with small, independent businesses to make sure income reaches the grassroots level of a destination, said Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton at the Skift Global Forum in September.

Over 90% of Intrepid’s guides directly come from Morocco’s rural areas. 

In Morocco, Intrepid takes travelers out of touristy areas. It partners with families, locals, and small businesses to give travelers authentic Moroccan experiences, said Mohamed El Bahri, an Intrepid tour guide.

morocco is it safe to travel there

On some tours, tourists watch and partake in breadmaking, stay in guest houses, hike the Agafay desert and Atlas Mountains, and have dinner with locals. 

“To know Moroccans, you have to go to their heart. What is their heart? It’s their house,” said El Bahri.

Tourism: a Vital Sector for Morocco

During the week of the September 8 earthquake, flight bookings for Morocco dropped 35%, according to ForwardKeys. Bookings remained 22% down for the three weeks after the earthquake. 

Tourism has become a major industry of Morocco’s economy, having taken up a bigger share of employment, said Siham Fettouhi, Morocco Tourism Office Director for USA and Canada, in October.

Tourism was 16% of Morocco’s total exports in 2022, according to UN Tourism . As a share of just service exports, it made up 45%.

Sending a Recovery Message

To help its communities, Intrepid leveraged its brand name, size and resources to convey that Morocco is still open to tourism.

One of the dangers of a natural disaster for a destination is that tourists can mistakenly assume the whole destination has been hit – that they should not visit out of respect for the impacted communities or because certain attractions are closed.

Intrepid did a PR campaign on behalf of Morocco.

Intrepid restarted tours to some of the impacted areas once their roads were open again. On December 1, Intrepid returned to the village of Imlil, which had been disconnected due to damaged roads. 

“It was quite fast because we really needed to send a strong message and make sure that our communities don’t get a double impact from this devastating earthquake,” said Bencheikh.

The fact that Marrakech’s major international events continued as scheduled also sent a strong message. In October, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund held their annual meeting in Marrakech. Over 14,000 attendees attended the meeting.

In the first 11 months of 2023, Morocco welcomed 13.2 million tourists, beating its 2019 level of 12.9 million, reported Morocco World News .

Atlas Communities Continue to Rebuild

While tourism continues to flow back to many of the impacted villages, many survivors are still healing. Not wanting to leave their communities, some are staying in tents waiting for their new homes to be built. 

The Daily Newsletter

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Tags: intrepid travel , morocco , tourism

Photo credit: A view of the Atlas Mountains from the village of View from the village of Imlil in Morocco in February 2024. Photo by Sean O'Neill. Source: Skift. Sean O'Neill

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  1. Is Morocco Safe? 10 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit in 2023

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  2. Morocco Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

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  3. Is Morocco Safe For Travel Now?

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  4. Is Morocco Safe? 18 Useful Things To Know Before You Go In 2024

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  6. Is Morocco Safe? 10 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit in 2023

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  1. Morocco Excursion

COMMENTS

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

    Street life in the imperial city of Meknes (Alamy) 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.

  2. Morocco Travel Advisory

    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.

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

    Thursday 19 October 2023. 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 ...

  4. Is Morocco Safe? (2024 Safety Guide)

    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.

  5. Is It Safe to Travel to Morocco?

    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 ...

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

    Is Morocco safe: 18 useful tips to stay safe while traveling in Morocco. Visa: Visa-free or e-visa for most passports - Get your Morocco visa. Getting there: Search for flights to Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez or Tangier. Where to stay: Find a room in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or desert camp.

  7. Morocco International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  8. Covid-19: Safe travel to Morocco

    For your safety and safety of others during your stay in Morocco, it is necessary to: Wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds with soap or a hydro-alcoholic solution. Cough or sneeze into your elbow or into a single-use handkerchief and dispose of it in a garbage can. Maintain a distance of 1.5m with your interlocutor.

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

    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.

  10. Morocco Travel Advice & Safety

    be alert if you travel to southern and border areas of Morocco; follow the instructions of local authorities; If there's an attack, leave the affected area immediately, if it's safe to do so. Avoid the affected area after an attack due to the risk of secondary attacks. Terrorism is a threat worldwide. More information: Terrorism

  11. Morocco travel advice

    If you need help. If you are in Morocco and you need consular assistance call our 24-hour helpline and select the option for 'consular services for British nationals': For domestic calls from ...

  12. Safety and security

    The border is patrolled and monitored closely by the authorities. Do not attempt to cross the border. If you are in a boat or jet ski, ensure you know where the maritime border is and remain ...

  13. Is Morocco Safe to Visit in 2024? (Expert Opinion & Safety Tips)

    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.

  14. Travel advice and advisories for Morocco

    If you remain in Morocco beyond the 90-day limit, you'll be forced to remain there until seen by a prosecutor and fined. Entering by private boat. To enter Morocco by private boat, you must do so at a recognized port of entry. Entering with a private vehicle. If you enter Morocco with a vehicle, you must exit with it or you will be denied exit.

  15. Is Morocco Safe? 23 Things to Know

    The most common ones are overcrowding, steep costs, insecurity, and unreliability. Fortunately, public transportation in Morocco is pretty safe for tourists. The trains, for example, offer world-class service. They are comfortable, are always on time, and are very affordable.

  16. What travelers to Morocco need to know following the recent ...

    The epicenter of the 6.8-magnitude earthquake, which hit on Friday night, was in the High Atlas mountain range, about 72 miles southwest of Marrakech, in the province of Al Haouz, which has had ...

  17. All You Should Know Before Visiting Morocco (Travel Tips)

    The first question most travelers ask themselves before considering a trip to Morocco is whether the country is safe. Although in the past few years there were some terrorist attacks on the southern border, Morocco is a safe country for the most part. The crime rate is relatively low and violent crimes against tourists are not a common issue.

  18. Morocco

    If your travel plans in Morocco include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe. Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid ...

  19. Morocco earthquake: Is it safe to travel at the moment?

    Morocco travel advice: Is it safe to travel to Marrakech right now? Airports, including Marrakech, are open, with flights operating normally. ... In some cases, there may be strong aftershocks." ...

  20. 18 things to know before going to Morocco

    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. Introducing Morocco. 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.

  21. Morocco Safety: Is Morocco a Safe Country to Travel?

    For example, Morocco is virtually a malaria-free country. You do not need to worry about mosquito bites. However, you can take the usual precautions to stay safe (i.e. wearing lightly-colored clothes, using insect repellent in the warmer months, etc.).

  22. Is Morocco Safe?

    Whether you're wondering if Morocco is safe for solo female travelers, couples, or groups - we've got you covered! Generally, Morocco is a safe place to travel. But like any travel destination, there are a few minor annoyances here and there to watch out for.

  23. Morocco Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

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