This question has a simple answer: “YES.” Morocco is a very safe place to visit, and you will be surprised to learn that it is more reliable than some European countries such as Spain and France. There are some precautions you can take to ensure your safety. However, it is always advisable to check before you travel, use your own government’s travel advice website, and check the region you intend to travel to. The websites provide a wealth of advice and information that will help to put your mind at ease and prepare you for your Moroccan adventure.
Morocco’s criminality
Tourists are not at risk from crime in Morocco; however, as in any populated area, petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching are more common. Tourists may be targeted by hustlers and con artists. Refuse their services politely and be cautious of strangers. You may come across a faux guide, but these are few and far between. Be vigilant and aware of what people are telling you. Faux guides may want you to go to their destinations by telling you that the place you want to go is closed. Avoid making eye contact with them and ignore them.
This is usually enough to deter them. To be safe, never accept services from strangers and avoid making eye contact when you see someone approaching. Always hire a reputable Moroccan travel agency or tourist information center’s tour guide. Once these men start talking, it can be difficult to get rid of them. A firm and unequivocal “no,” on the other hand, can do wonders. Be aware that the majority of crimes against tourists occur in popular tourist areas such as Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, Fez, and Rabat.
Terrorism in Morocco
When it comes to terrorism, it’s always a good idea to check your own government’s travel advice website before you go. Although civil unrest is uncommon in Morocco, some peaceful demonstrations drew tens of thousands of people across the country in 2011 and 2012, with little violence between police and protesters. Moroccans in general are peaceful people who will always stand united against any group or individual who seeks to undermine peace. You will be welcomed in Morocco by honest, friendly, and open-hearted Moroccans regardless of your country or nationality.
Solo Female Traveling in Morocco
Women visiting Morocco will immediately notice that it is not like traveling in a western country. Women will need to take extra precautions when venturing around the bustling streets because gender roles are much more defined by traditional views of patriarchal society. Growing up, Moroccan men have little contact with women outside of their families, and a misunderstanding of Western sexuality can sometimes lead them to misinterpret the behaviors or actions of Western women.
Cat-calling and lewd remarks are occasionally directed at Moroccan and foreign women alike. If sexual advances become physical, respond as you would at home by screaming, yelling, and calling for help. This will almost certainly humiliate your aggressor and alert locals, who will rush in to help you. As soon as possible, report the harasser to the local Brigade Touristic or police.
What Should You Do to Stay Safe in Morocco?
Morocco is, in fact, a safe place to visit. There is only minor crime (scams and pickpockets), and as a tourist, you are unlikely to be assaulted or seriously injured. Morocco is now extremely safe for tourists. As a solo female traveler, you must exercise greater caution, but you are unlikely to encounter serious problems.
Traveling in Morocco necessitates extra caution because anything can happen to you. Although you are unlikely to be in real physical danger in Morocco, petty crime and harassment require you to be on guard more than in other countries. However, if you follow a few simple rules, you will be able to leave Morocco unscathed and incident-free.