Travel Safety in Morocco: Is Morocco Safe to Visit?

Travel Safety in Morocco

About Travel Safety in Morocco:

Crime in Morocco

Crime in Morocco does not pose any significant risk to tourists however like any populated area petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching are more common. Hustlers and con artists may also target tourists. Politely refuse their services and be sensibly guarded against strangers. You may come across a faux guide however these are few now, be vigilant and aware of what people are telling you faux guides may want you to go to their destinations by telling you the place you want to go is closed if you spot a faux guide, hustler, or con artist trying to trick you Avoid eye contact and ignore them. This will usually suffice to discourage them. In general, to be safe, it's best to simply never accept the services of people who approach you and avoid eye contact when you see someone drawing near always use a recognized tour guide from a reputable tour/travel agency or tourist information center. Once these men start talking it can be difficult to get rid of them. A firm and strong “no”, however, can do wonders. Beware that the majority of crimes against tourists are mainly in the main tourist locations in larger cities such as Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, Fez, and Rabat.

Civil Unrest and Terrorism

As with any foreign travel as well as the current climate regarding terrorism it is always best to check before you travel using your own government's travel advice website. Civil unrest in Morocco is uncommon however between 2011 and 2012 some peaceful demonstrations gathered tens of thousands of people nationwide but violence between police and protesters was minimal. Moroccans are in general a peace-loving people and will always stand strong together against any group or individuals who attempt to dismantle peace. You will be welcomed to Morocco by honest, friendly, and open-hearted Moroccans no matter which country or nationality. Our team of guides, drivers, and local professionals we work with we will work hard to ensure you remain safe throughout your trip, the local people are aware of any potential trouble and our team will ensure we listen and act on any local news or events.

Safety on the Road

The road types and quality in Morocco vary from the region, time of year as heavy rain and snow can create more hazardous driving conditions as would be expected. In Morocco, you will say many different road types from high-speed toll roads to secondary roads which may be more poorly maintained. Drivers' behavior would be more different to what you may be used to in your own country all kinds of vehicles from bicycles to donkey carts share the road. Road accidents are a concern and happen often so as you are traveling by road remain vigilant when using the road crossings or walking near roads.

Child Travel safety in Morocco

Morocco as well as most other Islamic countries are very family-oriented one you will be sure to witness this especially if you travel with children, it is normal for local people to hug or touch children to show their love children are typically spoiled elder relatives and children usually stay up later than is normal in the West while being allowed to play freely indoors and on the streets. When you travel with smaller children's local people may frequently come up to you and admire your children by affectionately caressing or possibly kissing their cheeks you will have many invites inviting into shops and cafés often even offering free tea. This is all normal friendly behavior and please do not feel uncomfortable or unsafe about it bringing your children along on your travels may even be an advantage allowing you to interact with the locals and explore the Moroccan way of life first hand.

Women Traveling to Morocco

Women traveling to Morocco will notice without a doubt it is different than traveling in a western country. Gender roles are much more defined with traditional views of patriarchal society women will have to take extra precautions when venturing around the bustling streets. Men in Morocco have little contact with women outside of their family whilst growing up and a misconception of Western sexuality can sometimes lead them to misinterpret the behaviors or actions of Western women. Sometimes Cat-calling and lewd comments may be targeted frequently to both Moroccan and foreign women. Just ignore this behavior and it will often require no further action and be taken any further but if sexual advances become physical respond how you would at home screaming, yelling, and calling for help are all normal and helpful ways to react. This will probably shame your aggressor and alert locals who will rush in to help you (especially if you yell out “Ha-Shooma!” which means “Shame on you!”). Whenever possible report the harasser to the local Brigade Touristique or police.

Women traveling to Morocco tips

Use common sense, Dress modestly, look confident, behave appropriately, mention your “husband” If things start to feel uncomfortable when you are talking with a Moroccan man, lastly keep your cool and enjoy your trip.

Jewish Travelers to Morocco

Morocco has historically been culturally diverse with Muslims, Christians, and Jewish people living side by side although today it is a majority Arab Muslim country the Jewish and indigenous Berber populations actually predate the Arab immigration this heritage and significant contribution can still be seen today. Today some 2,500 Jewish people remain however for centuries before them this number was much greater it's easy to find remnants of the historical Jewish presence in Morocco usually in the fascinating Mellahs (Jewish quarters) or in the only Jewish heritage museum in the Arab world in Casablanca Moroccans take pride in their Jewish heritage and recognize its importance in their country's history. Morocco strives to be a place of acceptance making it safe for Jewish travelers to visit and discover the countries incredibly diverse history.

Safety in Airports

Airports of Morocco are also very secure. This may sound weird because most people think that they are unsecured. I know that the level of security is not as tight as of the US or Europe, but trust me, Moroccan security agencies and government as a whole is very vigilant and know about every single person coming in and out of the Country. They take security very seriously, and it is their utmost priority to provide the best protection to foreign travelers and people as a whole. If I have to sum this up, then if there is one thing the Moroccan government takes seriously, it is security. So, follow their laws and regulations. It is for your good.

Emergency Contacts

In the worst case, if something happens to you on the street, just threaten them to call the police or knock them close by the door. Moroccans are very friendly, and they will help you in getting out of the situation. If you are alone and no one is nearby, then just giving the robbers some money and get out of the scenario and leave immediately.

Police Emergency dial 19 to reach the police in urban areas, 177 for the Royal Gendarmerie (the police service in rural areas), Ambulance or Fire dial 15.

Morocco is safe to explore and be discovered but to ensure you have a safe and pleasant trip remain vigilant, respect their customs and local culture use common sense in regards to your personal belongings as tourists are attracted to petty criminals, and pickpockets globally, be aware of your surroundings and enjoy the magic and mystery Morocco has to offer.

How to Stay Safe in Morocco (if you travel by yourself)?

In truth, Morocco is a safe place to visit. There's only really small crime there (scams and pickpockets) and you're unlikely to be assaulted or seriously hurt as a tourist in the country. Morocco is super safe for tourists now. As a solo female traveler, you need to watch out a little more carefully but, overall, you are still unlikely to encounter serious problems.

Morocco safe travel requires extra vigilance because it's easy to have something happen to you. 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. However, if you follow a few rules, you can leave Morocco unscathed and without incidence.

Here are 8 tips on how to stay safe when you visit Morocco:

• Don't walk alone at night;
• Don't walk alone if you're a woman;
• Dress conservatively;
• Avoid flashy jewelry;
• Don't carry valuables;
• Avoid back alleys;
• Watch for scams;
• Say no to faux tour guides.

If you book and travel with us don't worry about travel safety in Morocco, we have covered that. Our guides/drivers watch over the safety of our customers, you will be accompanied by them all your stay in Morocco. Your safety is our priority.