Is Morocco Safe
for Tourists in 2025?

The Overall Safety Picture

Morocco ranks as one of the safer countries in Africa and the Middle East for international tourists. Violent crime targeting tourists is rare. The Moroccan government takes tourism security seriously, and tourist zones in major cities have a visible police presence.

The risks that do exist are predominantly: petty theft, scams targeting distracted or unprepared tourists, and harassment in certain areas — particularly for women traveling alone. None of these are unique to Morocco, and all are significantly reduced with proper preparation.

Safety by City

Marrakech

The highest tourist density and the highest concentration of scam activity. The medina around Djemaa el-Fna requires the most alertness. That said, millions of tourists visit Marrakech every year without incident. The key is confidence and preparation — looking like you know where you're going is 80% of the defence.

Fès

The Fès medina is more labyrinthine and less tourist-smoothed than Marrakech. Fake guide approaches are common near the main entrances. Hiring a licensed guide for your first day is genuinely worthwhile — not for safety, but for orientation and to neutralise the unlicensed guide problem.

Chefchaouen

One of Morocco's safest and most relaxed destinations. The blue city has very little scam culture. Walks outside the medina into the hills are peaceful and largely hassle-free. The main thing to be aware of: cannabis is cultivated in the Rif Mountains nearby and locals may approach tourists to sell it — just decline politely.

Essaouira

Very safe and notably relaxed for a Moroccan medina. The Atlantic wind keeps it cooler and calmer. Street harassment is lower than most Moroccan cities. A good destination if you're feeling overwhelmed by Marrakech or Fès.

Sahara Region (Merzouga/Ouarzazate)

Generally very safe. The main risk is the desert camp bait-and-switch (see our scams guide). Verify your camp thoroughly before arriving. The desert itself is not a safety risk for tourists on organised camel treks or 4x4 excursions.

Safety for Solo Travelers

Solo travel in Morocco is entirely feasible and millions of people do it. Solo men will experience minimal issues beyond standard scam approaches. The main challenges are around eating alone (restaurant staff occasionally treat solo diners as targets for upselling) and navigating transport without a companion to cross-check.

Safety for Women

Women traveling in Morocco — particularly solo — experience a higher level of street harassment than men in certain areas and cities. Marrakech and Fès medinas require more alertness. Chefchaouen, Essaouira, and Agadir are noticeably more relaxed.

Practical advice: dress modestly (covered shoulders, loose trousers or long skirts in medinas), walk with purpose, avoid making eye contact with men who call out to you, and don't feel obligated to respond to any approach. Staying in well-reviewed riads with attentive staff makes a significant difference.

Petty Theft

Pickpocketing occurs in crowded areas — particularly Djemaa el-Fna at night and busy souks. Standard precautions apply: keep phones in front pockets or bags, use a crossbody bag, don't display expensive cameras or jewelry unnecessarily. Leave your passport in your riad safe and carry a photo of it instead.

Transport Safety

CTM and Supratours buses are safe and reliable. Shared grand taxis are standard local transport and perfectly safe. Train travel between major cities is very safe. Night buses are generally fine but book the better-reviewed operators. Driving in Morocco's cities is chaotic but manageable — rural driving is easy once you're outside the medinas.