"Is Morocco safe?" is one of the first questions people ask when planning a trip, and it deserves a straight answer. For most visitors, the risks are the ordinary ones of any busy tourist destination: pickpockets in crowds, persistent touts, the occasional scam and chaotic traffic. Serious incidents involving tourists do happen, but they are uncommon, and a few sensible habits reduce your exposure considerably.
This guide sets out what government travel advice currently says, the situations first-time visitors actually meet, and the local laws that can catch people out. It is not a substitute for your own government's advice, which you should read before you travel and again shortly before you leave.
What official travel advice says
Government advisories are a useful starting point because they are updated regularly and are deliberately cautious. As of October 2026, none of the main English-speaking governments advises against travel to the parts of Morocco that most visitors go to, such as Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, Essaouira and the High Atlas. Canada's advice does cover areas near the Algerian border, so if your route goes far south-east, check the exact distances.
| Government | Overall level | Main reason given | Regional advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Level 2: exercise increased caution | Terrorism | Some areas have increased risk |
| Canada | Exercise a high degree of caution | Terrorism | Avoid all travel within 20 km of the Algerian border and to the Western Sahara border regions; avoid non-essential travel to Western Sahara |
| United Kingdom | No areas advised against | Terrorism threat described as high | Land and sea borders with Algeria are closed; Western Sahara is a disputed territory |
All three mention a risk of terrorism, which is present in many countries popular with travellers. The UK advice notes that the Moroccan authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells and that some hotels and tourist sites have visible security. The practical response is the same as anywhere: stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places, and follow instructions from local authorities. Protests can also take place in large cities, sometimes without warning, so keep away from demonstrations and political gatherings.
Petty crime: the risk you are most likely to meet
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most common problems for visitors, particularly in medinas, markets and on beaches. UK advice also mentions thefts by people on motorbikes who grab visible jewellery or handbags. None of this is unique to Morocco, and the precautions are familiar ones.
- Carry only what you need for the day. Leave passports, spare cards and most of your cash in your accommodation's safe.
- Use a bag that closes and wear it across your body, on the side away from the road.
- Keep your phone in your hand only when you are using it, and step into a shop doorway to check a map rather than standing in the middle of a lane.
- Use ATMs inside banks or in busy places, and cover the keypad. Card fraud is reported, so check your statements.
- Avoid quiet, empty streets after dark, especially in large medinas. Ask your riad to walk you to the nearest landmark the first evening, or arrange a pick-up.
False guides, touts and pressure selling
In the older medinas, especially in Marrakech and Fes, the most tiring experience for many first-time visitors is not crime but persistence. Someone may tell you a street is closed, offer to show you the way to the tanneries or insist on guiding you to your riad, then expect payment. Others may steer you towards particular shops.
A polite, firm "no, thank you" ("la, shukran") and walking on with purpose is usually enough. If you are lost, ask a shopkeeper, a café owner or a family rather than accepting help from someone who approached you. If you want a guide, and a half day with a good one is excellent value in Fes in particular, book an official guide through your accommodation. UK advice suggests checking that a guide carries an official badge issued with the permission of the local authority.
For more on everyday habits that make the medinas easier, read our Morocco travel tips for first-time visitors.
Women travellers
Women, particularly those travelling alone, may receive unwanted comments and attention. Most of it is verbal and fades once you leave the busiest tourist streets, but it can be wearing. Canadian advice notes that harassment can also happen on public beaches and suggests choosing tourist beaches instead.
UK advice suggests loose-fitting clothes that cover the arms, legs and chest. Many women also find that walking confidently, not engaging with persistent comments and choosing accommodation in a well-lit, central location makes a noticeable difference. Riad staff are a good source of local advice on which streets are best avoided at night.
Getting around safely
Road accidents are frequent in Morocco, and both UK and Canadian advice warn against driving at night. Mountain and secondary roads can also be hazardous in bad weather.
- Taxis: agree the fare before you get in, or check that the meter is running. Petit taxis may pick up other passengers on the way; if you feel uncomfortable, get out as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Ride-hailing: UK advice warns that ride-sharing cars may be unlicensed and that passengers may not be insured.
- Driving yourself: carry an accident report form (constat amiable) and your documents, as police checkpoints are frequent. Check what driving permit your licence requires before you go.
- Long distances: trains and established coach companies are a calmer option than driving on unfamiliar roads. Our guide to getting around Morocco compares them.
Outdoors: beaches, mountains and earthquakes
Many Moroccan beaches have little or no lifeguard cover, and the Atlantic can produce strong currents and unexpected waves. Rivers and reservoirs can also be dangerous because of deep mud and steep underwater slopes. Swim only where local people do and conditions are calm.
In the High Atlas, walk with a professional guide, carry water, sun protection and warm layers, and make sure your travel insurance covers hiking. The region was badly affected by the September 2023 earthquake, which killed almost 3,000 people. If you plan a mountain day, our guide to day trips from Marrakech explains the options.
Local laws that can catch visitors out
Most safety problems for tourists are not about crime at all but about rules that differ from home. Official advice highlights the following points.
- Drugs: Morocco has a zero-tolerance approach, including to cannabis. Possession can lead to a long prison sentence. Never carry a package for someone else.
- Alcohol: it is served in licensed restaurants and bars, but drinking in the street or other public places is illegal. UK advice also warns of deaths from methanol in alcoholic drinks, so buy only from reputable places.
- Same-sex relations: these are illegal in Morocco, and public displays of affection can lead to prosecution.
- Photography: photographing military and other sensitive sites is illegal. Always ask before photographing people, especially children.
- Drones: you need permission from the civil aviation authorities to fly one.
- Ramadan: eating, drinking or smoking in public during fasting hours may cause offence.
Health basics
Travellers' diarrhoea is the most common illness, according to Canadian travel health advice. Wash your hands often, choose food that is freshly cooked and served hot, and peel fruit yourself. Take out comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical treatment and any activities you plan, as US government advice strongly recommends.
Emergency numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 190 |
| Ambulance | 150 |
| Fire | 150 |
| Gendarmerie | 177 |
Save these in your phone, along with the address of your accommodation and the contact details of your embassy or consulate. If something goes wrong in a city, your riad or hotel can usually help you contact the police and explain the situation.
The short answer
Morocco is a country most visitors enjoy without any serious trouble. Read your government's advice, keep your valuables close in crowds, say no to unsolicited guides, avoid driving at night and respect local laws. If you are still choosing a base, our guide to where to stay in Marrakech explains which neighbourhoods feel easiest for a first visit.
The Morocco First-Time Visitor Guide
Everything you need to understand before your first trip, from money and etiquette to transport and safety habits.
See what's insideTravel details change. We review our guides regularly, but always confirm prices, schedules and entry requirements with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
