Is Morocco safe for tourists? For the vast majority of visitors, yes. Millions of travellers visit every year, and violent crime against tourists is rare. However, like any busy destination, Morocco has petty scams and pushy sellers. In this guide, our local team explains what to expect and how to travel calmly.
In short: Morocco is a safe and welcoming country. The main issues are overpricing, fake guides and pickpockets in crowded places, and a private driver avoids most of them.
Is Morocco safe for tourists today?
Morocco is a stable country with a strong police presence in tourist areas. Most governments, such as the UK Foreign Office, ask visitors to take normal precautions and stay alert in crowds. Advice can change, so always check your own government before you travel. Also, avoid the closed border areas with Algeria; no tourist route goes there.
Common scams and how to avoid them
- Fake guides: in the medinas, a friendly stranger may offer to show you the way, then ask for money. Politely say no, or book a licensed guide.
- “The road is closed”: some people say a street or the tanneries are closed, to lead you to a shop. Keep walking.
- Photos with animals: in Jemaa el-Fna, taking a photo of snakes or monkeys often ends with a payment request.
- Taxi prices: ask the driver to use the meter, or agree on the price before you get in.
None of these are dangerous. They are simply annoying, and a calm “la, shukran” (no, thank you) works well.
Is Morocco safe for women travellers?
Yes, many women travel in Morocco alone or with friends. Still, verbal comments in the street can happen, especially in big medinas. Therefore, dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and ignore unwanted attention. With a private driver and a local guide in cities like Marrakech and Fes, most women tell us they feel relaxed and safe.
Is the Sahara desert safe?
The desert areas visited by tourists, around Merzouga and Zagora, are calm and welcoming. In fact, the main risks are the sun and the long drive, not crime. That is why our 3 days Marrakech to Merzouga tour splits the road over two days. For the heat and cold nights, read what to pack for the Sahara desert.
Practical safety tips
- Carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in the hotel safe.
- Use ATMs inside banks and keep some cash in dirhams for small purchases.
- Drink bottled water and eat in busy places.
- Get travel insurance, as in any country.
- At night, use a taxi instead of walking in unknown areas of the medina.
Is Morocco safe for tourists: FAQ
Is Morocco safe for tourists in 2026?
Yes, for most visitors. However, always check your government’s latest travel advice before you go.
Is Marrakech safe at night?
The main squares and streets are busy and lively at night. In quiet alleys, it is better to take a taxi or walk with your guide.
Is it safe to drive in Morocco?
Main roads are good, but mountain passes like Tizi n’Tichka are long and winding. Many travellers prefer a Morocco private driver.
Is Morocco safe for families?
Yes. Moroccans are very welcoming to children. See our Morocco family tours.
Do I need a guide in the medina?
Not always, but a licensed guide saves time and avoids fake guides. For example, the medina of Fes is a large UNESCO World Heritage site where it is easy to get lost.
Travel Morocco with a local team
Morocco is safe, and it is even easier with people who live here. All our trips are private, with your own driver from start to finish. Browse our Morocco tours, or ask for a tailor-made tour built around your dates. For official travel information, see Visit Morocco.
Ready to plan your Morocco trip?
Tell us your dates and group size. We will send you a private route with your own driver, hand-picked riads and the price.
Main photo: Forbes Johnston from Winchester, UK, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0.