Here are our tips on how to stay safe traveling in Morocco:
1- Theft
In general, theft is not a big safety problem for travelers in Morocco. You need only to take some basic precautions. Leave all your valuables but the few things u could need locking in your hotel. This also applies to flashy jewelry, people will see the jewelry as a sign of wealth and, therefore, try to scam you in stores or rob you on the streets.
Take care when withdrawing money from an ATM, and do it with preference during the daytime.
The medinas in Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, and Fes are the places where you should pay more attention.
2- Watch for scams
There are different kinds of small scams in Morocco. Check out our post “How to avoid being scammed in Morocco” to get detailed information.
3- Getting Lost
Be aware that Medina streets are a fantastic place to get lost. You may get easily disorientated in these labyrinthine narrow streets. This situation can make you feel anxiety or panic. In this case, you could get into trouble if a fake guide offers you his help and finishes by asking you for some money or brings you to a different business where he may get a comisión.
4- Don’t walk alone at night
Although walking in busy places can be fine, it’s better to avoid walking alone at night. Especially in old medinas where you can easily get disorientated.
5- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong.
6- Drugs
Marijuana (known as kif) is widely grown in the Rif Mountains. It’s illegal to buy, sell, or consume marijuana or hashish in Morocco. If you’re going to smoke kif, don’t do it in public, and be extremely careful about who you buy it from.
If caught with marijuana, you may be looking at a fine and, in the worst case, a prison sentence. Although some locals smoke marijuana as a recreational pastime, as a tourist, you’re more vulnerable.
7- Special considerations if you’re a woman
A woman alone will attract a lot of attention from men, an increased chance of being followed, and the likelihood of groping. Dress conservatively and don´t walk alone in places where there are not many people or at night.
So, in summary, yes, traveling in Morocco is safe for the most part. We recommend to anyone that they visit the country, but just make sure you keep an extra eye out or book a tour to be out of any worries.
