Is Morocco Safe to Visit? Everything You Need to Know!

Morocco is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern charm, offering travelers vibrant souks, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From the Sahara Desert to the bustling streets of Marrakech, it’s a destination full of adventure and discovery.

But amidst the allure, a question lingers for many Indian travelers: Is Morocco safe to visit? Let’s answer your biggest concerns about visiting Morocco and help you plan a safe holiday.

Is Morocco Safe to Visit Right Now?

Violent crime against tourists is rare. Petty crime does exist, particularly in cities and around tourist hotspots, but with some basic precautions, it’s easy to minimize your risk.

Morocco Safety Facts at a Glance:

• Global Peace Index 2021 Rank: 79 out of 163 countries

• UK Foreign Travel Advice: No advise against travel to most of Morocco

• US State Dept Travel Advisory Level: 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions)

• Most common crimes: Pickpocketing, bag snatching, scams

For context, Morocco ranks above India (135), Egypt (126), and South Africa (123) on the Global Peace Index. While no country is crime-free, Morocco is generally a safe place for tourists.

According to the Crime Index by Numbeo, Morocco scores well relative to other cities on safety indexes:

Crime Index Score	Safety Scale Rating
47.8 ( moderate incidence of crime)	52.1 (high level of safety)

In comparison, the USA has a crime index score of 49.2! These numbers prove that Morocco is a safer city than most others, especially in North Africa.

Also Read: How to Book a Morocco Visa Appointment?

Safety Tips for Travelers in Morocco

Here are some safety tips for travelers visiting Morocco:

Respect Local Customs

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative values. One of the best safety tips for travelers in Morocco is to respect local norms and traditions.

A few key points:

• While Morocco is relatively liberal, it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Women should consider wearing clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.

• During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours as a sign of respect.

• Always ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas or traditional settings like markets.

• Avoid public displays of affection as they are considered inappropriate.

• Haggling is expected in markets. Start with a lower offer and negotiate politely for a fair deal.

• Non-Muslims are generally not allowed to enter mosques. Be respectful when near mosques, especially during prayer times.

• Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, taxis, and for guides. A tip of 10% to 15% is common in restaurants.

Must Read: How to Check Morocco Visa Status in India?

Traffic and Pedestrian-Related Tips

• Morocco follows right-hand driving. Roads in major cities are modern, but rural areas may have narrow, unpaved roads.

• Speed Limits:

  • Urban areas: 60 km/h

  • Rural roads: 100 km/h

  • Highways: 120 km/h

  • Speed cameras are common, and fines are issued on the spot.

• Morocco has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol. Any amount detected can result in severe penalties.

• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

• Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal and punishable by fines.

• Pedestrian crossings are often ignored by drivers. Always be cautious when crossing streets, even at designated crosswalks.

Documents Required for Driving

1. International Driving Permit (IDP):

   • Required for tourists alongside a valid home country driver’s license.

2. Vehicle Documents:

   • If renting a car, ensure you have the rental agreement, proof of insurance, and car registration papers.

3. Insurance:

   • Verify that your rental vehicle includes mandatory liability insurance.

Weather-Related Tips

• Morocco has varied weather, from the scorching Sahara Desert to cooler mountain regions. Pack appropriately depending on your itinerary.

• Temperatures in places like Marrakech and the Sahara can exceed 40°C (104°F) in summer. Carry water at all times and wear light, breathable clothing.

• Coastal areas like Casablanca can experience heavy winter rains between November and March. Bring a rain jacket and waterproof shoes.

• The Moroccan sun is intense year-round. Use high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat to shield yourself.

Must Read: Morocco Visa Photo Requirements

Women’s Safety in Morocco

Morocco is generally considered safe for female tourists, with most visitors experiencing no significant safety issues.

However, in larger cities like Marrakech or Casablanca, travelers should remain cautious in crowded areas.

Helpline Numbers for Women:

• General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 19

• Moroccan Women’s Helpline (Violence & Abuse Support): 080 200 35 35

• National Human Rights Council of Morocco (CNDH) Helpline: 0537 683 716

Morocco has been expanding the use of CCTV cameras in urban areas, particularly in major tourist hubs, marketplaces, and public transport stations.

In major cities, there are specialized police units focused on crimes against women and children.

The Royal Gendarmerie also plays an active role in ensuring public safety.

Know the Emergency Numbers

In case of trouble, keep these key numbers handy:

• Police: 19

• Ambulance: 15

• Fire Brigade: 15

• Tourist Police (Marrakech): 0524 384 601

Health and Hygiene in Morocco

No safety guide for Morocco would be complete without touching on health.

While Morocco doesn’t require any specific vaccinations for entry, it’s smart to be up-to-date on routine shots like hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus.

Other health tips:

• Drink only bottled or filtered water.

• Wash or peel fruits and vegetables.

• Carry hand sanitizer for times when soap and water aren’t available.

• Pack any essential medications, along with copies of prescriptions.

• Consider travel health insurance that includes emergency evacuation.

Common Tourist Scams in Morocco

While most Moroccans are honest and welcoming, tourists can be targets for a few common scams:

• The Henna Tattoo Scam: A friendly local offers you a “free” henna tattoo, then demands an exorbitant payment. Politely decline unsolicited offers.

• The Carpet Shop Scam: A “student” or “teacher” invites you to their family’s carpet shop for tea. Once there, high-pressure sales tactics make it hard to leave without buying. Firmly decline invitations from over-friendly strangers.

• The Taxi Meter Scam: The taxi driver “forgets” to start the meter and quotes an inflated fare at the end of the ride. Insist the meter is running before you depart, or agree on a price upfront.

• The Border Bribe Scam: A “border official” demands a cash “fee” to stamp your passport. Only deal with uniformed officers in official border post buildings.

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts, be firm in saying no, and walk away if a situation feels sketchy.

Also Read: Reasons for Morocco Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals

Areas to Avoid in Morocco

While most of Morocco is safe for visitors, there are a few areas it’s best to avoid:

• Certain Parts of Casablanca (Derb Ghallef and Central Market Area): While Casablanca is a bustling and cosmopolitan city, areas like Derb Ghallef and the Central Market can sometimes see petty theft, scams, and more aggressive street vendors.

• Tangier’s Outskirts: Tangier’s central areas, like the Medina and Kasbah, are generally safe for tourists, but some parts on the outskirts can experience higher rates of petty crime.

• Rural Areas Near Remote Border Regions: The border areas near Western Sahara or certain parts of Al Hoceima have had occasional reports of unrest or tensions.

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FAQs

1. Are there any specific areas in Morocco to avoid?

Most tourist areas are safe, but it’s recommended to be cautious in isolated or less developed regions, especially near the border areas with Algeria. In major cities, avoid poorly lit alleys and remote neighborhoods at night.

2. What are common scams to watch out for in Morocco?

Common scams include taxi drivers overcharging, unsolicited “guides” demanding payment, and inflated market prices. It’s best to use official taxi services, agree on prices beforehand, and decline assistance from unofficial guides.

3. Is it safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, many solo female travelers visit Morocco without issues. However, modest dressing is recommended to avoid unwanted attention. It’s also advisable to stay in reputable accommodations, avoid walking alone at night, and be assertive when handling street harassment.

4. What precautions should tourists take regarding health and hygiene?

Drink bottled or filtered water and avoid food from unhygienic street vendors. Keep a basic medical kit handy and consider getting travel insurance. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid are often recommended for travel to Morocco.

5. What is the risk of terrorism or political unrest in Morocco?

The risk of terrorism in Morocco is low compared to other North African nations. The government maintains strict security measures to ensure safety.

6. Is public transportation safe in Morocco?

Yes, public transportation in Morocco is generally safe and reliable. Trains and buses operated by companies like ONCF and CTM are popular choices. Petty theft can occur on crowded buses or at stations, so keep your belongings secure.