It is the question we hear most often from travellers planning their first trip: is Morocco safe? The short answer is yes, for the vast majority of visitors. Morocco is one of the most visited countries in Africa, tourism is a major part of the economy, and police presence is visible in cities and tourist areas. Like any destination, it has its own small risks and habits to know. Here is our honest guide.

Key takeaways

  • Morocco welcomes millions of visitors a year and most trips go smoothly.
  • The main risks are petty: pickpocketing, unofficial guides and taxi overcharging.
  • Drive in daylight, respect speed limits and expect police checkpoints.
  • Check your government’s latest travel advice before you leave.

Is Morocco safe for tourists overall?

Serious incidents involving tourists are rare. Most problems travellers report are minor: being followed by unofficial guides, paying too much for a taxi or a souvenir, or petty theft in crowded places. A few simple habits avoid almost all of them.

Before you travel, always read your government’s official advice, which is updated regularly: for example the UK Foreign Office advice for Morocco or the US State Department page for Morocco.

Safety in the cities

Marrakech

The medina is lively and crowded. Keep your phone and wallet in front pockets, especially around Jemaa el-Fna in the evening. If someone offers to show you the way or says a street is closed, smile and say no thank you: use your phone map instead.

Casablanca, Rabat and Fes

Casablanca is a big modern city with the usual big-city precautions. Rabat is calm and relaxed. In Fes, the medina is a real labyrinth: hiring a licensed guide for the first day saves time and stress.

Common scams and how to avoid them

  • Unofficial guides: people who “help” you find your way, then ask for money. Decline politely and keep walking.
  • Taxis without a meter: in cities, ask for the meter or agree on the price before you get in.
  • “The tannery / the market is closed today”: a classic way to lead you to a shop. Check yourself.
  • Henna and photos in the square: agree on a price first, or say no clearly.
  • Car rental surprises: choose a company that shows the deposit, insurance and fees before you book. Read the hidden fees to watch out for.

Is Morocco safe for women travelling alone?

Many women travel in Morocco alone or in pairs without problems. Unwanted comments in busy streets can happen; ignoring them and walking on confidently is usually enough. Light, covering clothing helps you blend in and is comfortable in the heat. Stay in well-reviewed riads or hotels, use registered taxis or a private transfer at night, and trust your instincts.

Is Morocco safe for families?

Very. Children are warmly welcomed almost everywhere. The main precautions are practical: sun protection, bottled water and a relaxed pace. See our guide to Morocco with kids.

Is it safe to drive in Morocco?

Yes, with care. Motorways between the main cities are modern and well maintained. On national roads, expect trucks, scooters, pedestrians and animals, and be patient when overtaking.

  • Respect the limits: 120 km/h on motorways, lower on other roads and in towns. Radar checks are frequent.
  • Police checkpoints are normal: slow down, stop if asked, and keep your licence, passport and rental documents at hand.
  • Avoid driving at night in the countryside and on mountain roads.
  • Park in guarded car parks, especially near medinas.

Prefer not to drive? A private transfer with a driver at a fixed price is a stress-free alternative.

Health and food safety

  • Drink bottled water and be careful with raw salads if your stomach is sensitive.
  • Choose busy restaurants and stalls where food is cooked fresh.
  • Protect yourself from the sun, especially in the desert and the mountains.
  • Take travel insurance that covers health care.

Emergency numbers in Morocco

  • Police: 19 (in cities)
  • Royal Gendarmerie: 177 (outside cities and on the roads)
  • Ambulance and fire service: 15

Save your hotel’s phone number and your embassy’s contact details before you leave.

Our verdict

Morocco is a safe and welcoming destination when you travel with the same common sense you would use in any busy country. Plan your arrival, keep valuables discreet, agree prices in advance and rely on trusted local partners. Our team in Casablanca is here to help with car rental, transfers and tours.

Frequently asked questions

Is Morocco safe for tourists right now?

Most visits to Morocco go smoothly and serious incidents involving tourists are rare. Always check your government’s latest travel advice before you leave, as it is updated regularly.

Is Marrakech safe at night?

The main areas, including Jemaa el-Fna, are busy and generally safe in the evening. Keep valuables discreet, avoid empty alleys late at night and use a registered taxi or private transfer to get back.

Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Morocco?

Many women travel alone in Morocco without problems. Unwanted comments can happen in busy streets; dressing modestly, staying in well-reviewed accommodation and using trusted transport at night help.

What is the emergency number in Morocco?

Call 19 for the police in cities, 177 for the Royal Gendarmerie outside cities and on the roads, and 15 for an ambulance or the fire service.