You’re dreaming of labyrinthine medinas, the aroma of spices, sipping mint tea in a gorgeous riad, and nights spent under Saharan stars. But one question keeps popping up: Is Morocco safe to travel?

It’s the number one concern for many Western travelers, and the answer isn't a simple yes or no. So let's get right to it.

The Short Answer: Yes, Morocco is generally a safe country for tourists, and millions visit each year without any issues. The government takes tourism security very seriously. However, like any travel destination, it has its own set of challenges—mainly petty crime and common scams rather than violent crime.

This guide will give you an honest, up-to-date breakdown of what to expect, how to stay safe, and how to have an absolutely incredible trip in 2025 or 2026.

What Do Official Travel Advisories Say?

Most Western governments, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, place Morocco on a "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" advisory. This sounds scarier than it is—it's the same level often applied to countries like France, Germany, and the UK due to the general threat of terrorism.

The main risks cited are:

• Petty Crime: Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams, especially in crowded tourist areas and medinas.
• Terrorism: The risk is present, as it is globally, but major incidents are rare. Security is high in tourist zones.
• Remote Areas: Advisories strongly warn against traveling to remote border areas, particularly near the Western Sahara and the Algerian border. These are military zones with landmine risks and are *not* where tourists go.

Your trip to Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, Essaouira, and the Sahara is not considered high-risk by these advisories, but they do recommend being vigilant. In short: use your street smarts.

A Note on the 2023 Earthquake Recovery

Many travelers are understandably concerned about the effects of the powerful September 2023 earthquake. The earthquake primarily affected the High Atlas Mountains in the Al Haouz province.

Here's the situation for tourists in 2025/2026:

• Major Cities Unaffected: Most major tourist destinations, including Fes, Chefchaouen, Rabat, Casablanca, and the Sahara Desert, were *not* affected and are fully operational.
• Marrakech is Open: Marrakech experienced some damage, particularly to older buildings in the medina. However, reconstruction has been swift. Most historic sites (like the Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs) are open, and riads and restaurants are welcoming visitors.
• Supporting Recovery: Tourism is a vital part of the Moroccan economy. Your visit is one of the best ways to support the local communities and the country's ongoing recovery.

The 5 Most Common Scams in Morocco (and How to Avoid Them)

This is where your "street smarts" will be most valuable. Scams in Morocco are rarely dangerous, but they are annoying and can be costly. Here are the classics.

1. The "Helpful" Guide

The Scam: You look lost in the medina (and you probably are). A friendly man approaches, says "that way is closed," and offers to show you the "right way" to your riad, a restaurant, or the tanneries. Once you arrive, he demands a high "tip" and can become aggressive if you refuse.

How to Avoid:

• Politely but firmly say "No, thank you" ("La, shukran") and keep walking. Don't stop to engage.
• Use an offline map app like Google Maps (download the area map beforehand) or Maps.me.
• If you are truly lost, ask a shopkeeper or a family for directions.
• For a proper tour, hire an *official* guide through your riad or the tourist office.

2. The Jemaa el-Fnaa Photo Op

The Scam: In Marrakech's main square, snake charmers will place a snake on your shoulders, or a woman will grab your hand and start a henna tattoo *before* you've agreed to anything. Once the photo is taken or the henna is on, they demand an exorbitant amount of money.

How to Avoid:

• Keep your hands in your pockets and be aware of your surroundings.
• If you want a photo or henna, agree on a price clearly and firmly *before* you take the picture or they start. 20-50 Dirhams ($2-$5) is more than fair for a quick photo.
• A firm "no" and walking away is your best defense.

3. The Tannery "Free Tour"

The Scam: Someone (often part of the "helpful guide" scam) offers to take you on a "free tour" of the famous tanneries in Fes or Marrakech. They'll give you a sprig of mint (for the smell) and a quick tour, which inevitably ends at a relative's leather shop. Here, you'll face a very high-pressure sales pitch to buy a "Berber" jacket or bag at 10x its real price.

How to Avoid:

• Just say no to unsolicited tours. If you want to see the tanneries, go to the designated public viewing terraces (you may pay a small 10-20 Dirham entrance fee), not with a random "guide."
• If you get stuck in a shop, remember: you are *never* obligated to buy. Be polite, say "I'm just looking, thank you," and leave.

4. The Taxi Meter Scam

The Scam: You get into a "Petit Taxi" (the small city cabs) and the driver "forgets" to turn on the meter, or claims it's broken. At the end of the ride, they'll charge you a flat rate that's 3-4 times the actual fare.

How to Avoid:

• Before you even close the door, point to the meter and say "le compteur, s'il vous plaît" (the meter, please).
• If the driver refuses or says it's broken, get out and find another taxi. There are plenty.

5. The "Berber Price" for Goods

The Scam: This isn't really a scam, but a culture of haggling that's new to many Westerners. A shopkeeper will quote an initial price for a carpet, lamp, or spices that is wildly inflated.

How to Avoid:

• Haggling is expected! It's part of the fun. A good rule of thumb is to offer 30-50% of the initial price and meet somewhere in the middle.
• Never name a price you aren't willing to pay.
• Be friendly and smile. It's a game, not a fight.
• If you don't like the price, just say "thank you" and walk away. More often than not, they will call you back with a better offer.

Is Morocco Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

This is a huge topic, and the answer is a resounding yes, but with preparation. Many women travel Morocco solo and have an amazing time. However, you will likely face a different level of attention than you're used to, or than a man would.

Key Challenges:

• Unwanted Attention: This is the main issue. You will likely experience stares, catcalls ("gazelle," "beautiful"), and marriage proposals. While persistent and annoying, this attention is very rarely physically threatening.
• "Guides": Men will be more persistent in offering their "help" to a solo woman.

How to Stay Safe and Comfortable:

• Dress Modestly: This is the #1 most important tip. Morocco is a conservative Muslim country. While tourists in Marrakech wear all sorts of things, you will attract *significantly* less unwanted attention by dressing respectfully.
  • Cover your shoulders and knees.
  • Think loose, flowing clothes: maxi dresses, long skirts, linen pants, tunics.
  • A light scarf is your best friend—you can drape it over your shoulders or head if you feel you're getting too many stares.
• Be "Politely Rude": In Western culture, we're taught to be polite. In Morocco, if a man is bothering you, the best response is often to *not* be polite. Do not smile, do not engage in conversation. A firm "no, thank you" or simply ignoring them and walking away is most effective.
• Wear a Fake Ring: A simple ring on your left ring finger can be a useful deterrent. If asked, your "husband" is back at the riad.
• Book Reputable Riads: Stay in well-reviewed riads, which are often family-run and very secure. They are a peaceful oasis from the medina.
• Avoid Walking Alone at Night: Stick to well-lit main paths or take a taxi if it's late.
• Trust Your Gut: If a situation or person feels "off," it probably is. Leave immediately.
• Consider Calmer Cities: You may find the vibe in Chefchaouen ("The Blue City") and the coastal town of Essaouira to be much more relaxed and laid-back than Marrakech or Fes.

More Quick Safety Tips for Morocco

Food & Water Safety

Don't let fear of an upset stomach stop you from eating the amazing food! Just be smart.

• Water: Do NOT drink the tap water. Use bottled water for everything, including brushing your teeth.
• Street Food: Go for it! It's some of the best food you'll have. The key is to eat from busy stalls with a high turnover (where the locals are). Make sure the food is cooked fresh and hot in front of you.

Driving & Transportation

• Taxis: Use "Petit Taxis" for in-city travel (and demand the meter!). Use "Grand Taxis" (larger, shared cabs) or buses (CTM is a reliable company) for travel between cities.
• Driving Yourself: Renting a car is possible, and roads between major cities are good. However, driving *inside* cities like Fes or Marrakech is extremely chaotic. Local driving habits are... creative. Avoid driving in the medinas (it's often impossible) and at night.

Cultural Etiquette

• Language: Learn a few key phrases. "Salam alaikum" (Hello) and "Shukran" (Thank you) will be met with warm smiles.
• Photography: ALWAYS ask permission before taking a photo of a person. Many do not want their picture taken.
• Religion: Be respectful. You are in a Muslim country. Public displays of affection are a no-go. If you visit during Ramadan, be discreet about eating or drinking in public during fasting hours.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is not forbidden, but it's generally only sold in licensed hotels, riads, and restaurants that cater to tourists. It is illegal to be drunk in public.

The Verdict: Should You Go?

Absolutely. 100%.

Morocco is an intoxicating, vibrant, and incredibly rewarding country. The hospitality is legendary, the landscapes are diverse, and the culture is deep. Is it as "easy" to travel as Western Europe? No. Will you be challenged? Probably. Will you have to be more aware of your surroundings? Yes.

But by understanding the local culture, being aware of the common scams, and carrying yourself with polite confidence, you are setting yourself up for an unforgettable adventure. Don't let unfounded fears stop you from experiencing one of the most magical travel destinations on earth.