Are there any travel warnings for Morocco?

Is Morocco Safe to Visit? Current Travel Warnings & Expert Advice

Planning a trip to Morocco? Get the latest travel warnings, safety tips, and expert advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Updated daily!

Introduction

Dreaming of exploring the vibrant souks of Marrakech or the stunning Sahara Desert? Before you pack your bags, it’s essential to be aware of any travel warnings for Morocco. While Morocco is generally a safe and welcoming country, it’s important to stay informed about potential risks like petty crime, scams, and regional instability. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of current travel warnings, safety tips, and resources to help you make informed decisions and travel with confidence.

Official Travel Warnings & Advisories

When planning a trip to Morocco, consulting official government travel advisories should be your first step. These resources provide the most reliable and up-to-date information regarding any travel warnings for Morocco. Here’s what major governments are currently advising:

U.S. State Department

The U.S. State Department currently advises travelers to exercise increased caution when visiting Morocco. This Level 2 advisory is primarily due to:

“The potential for terrorist attacks against tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.”

The advisory also notes regional differences, with certain areas near the Algerian border and Western Sahara carrying higher risk levels.

UK Foreign Office

The UK Foreign Office states that:

“Most visits to Morocco are trouble-free. However, you should maintain vigilance when traveling in major cities and tourist destinations, as terrorist attacks remain likely.”

Their advice emphasizes staying alert in crowded areas and following local news for updates on potential demonstrations.

Canadian Travel Advice

The Canadian government advises normal security precautions for most of Morocco but suggests a higher degree of caution in:

“Western Sahara and areas bordering Algeria due to military restrictions and the presence of landmines.”

Australian Smartraveller

Australia’s advisory recommends travelers:

“Exercise a high degree of caution in Morocco overall due to the threat of terrorism.”

They particularly emphasize avoiding border regions and staying informed about local developments.

European Travel Advisories

Most European countries maintain similar guidance, advising general caution while noting that the vast majority of visits occur without incident.

Common Safety Concerns & How to Avoid Them

Petty Crime & Scams

While violent crime against tourists is rare in Morocco, petty theft and scams are more common, particularly in crowded tourist areas.

Common Scams:

“Friendly” guides who offer to show you around then demand payment
Taxi drivers who claim the meter is broken or take circuitous routes
Merchants who switch products during packaging
False claims about hotels being closed, followed by offers to guide you elsewhere

How to Avoid Them:

Politely but firmly decline unwanted assistance
Agree on taxi fares before entering the vehicle
Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Be especially vigilant in crowded areas like Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech and the medinas of Fez and Tangier
Use a money belt or hidden pouch for important documents and cash

Traveler Tip: The phrase “La, shukran” (No, thank you) is extremely useful when declining unwanted services.

Transportation Safety

Getting around Morocco can be an adventure in itself, but taking some precautions will help ensure your journey remains pleasant.

Safe Transportation Options:

Trains are generally reliable and comfortable for intercity travel
CTM and Supratours are reputable long-distance bus companies
In cities, use official “petit taxis” (small, metered city taxis)
For longer journeys, “grand taxis” (shared Mercedes sedans) are common but can be crowded

Driving Tips:

Driving standards differ significantly from Western countries
Urban driving can be chaotic with limited adherence to traffic rules
Rural roads may be poorly maintained
Night driving is particularly hazardous and best avoided

Health Concerns

Before planning a trip to Morocco, it’s advisable to consult with a travel medicine specialist.

Common Health Issues:

Food poisoning and traveler’s diarrhea
Dehydration and heat-related illnesses
Insect-borne diseases in some regions

Preventive Measures:

Drink only bottled or purified water
Avoid raw vegetables, unpeeled fruits, and street food unless you’re confident in its preparation
Use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially in desert regions
Carry basic medications for stomach issues, pain relief, and allergies

In Case of Emergency:

Major cities have adequate medical facilities, though standards may vary
Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage
Save the contact information for your embassy or consulate

Cultural Sensitivity

Morocco is a Muslim-majority country with conservative social norms in many areas. Respecting local customs will enhance your experience and help avoid misunderstandings.

Dress Code:

Both men and women should dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas
Women should cover shoulders and knees at minimum
In more conservative areas, women may feel more comfortable covering arms and legs fully

Religious Customs:

Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter most mosques (Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is a notable exception)
Respect prayer times and religious observances
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours

Terrorism Risks

While Morocco has experienced terrorist incidents in the past, the government maintains strong counter-terrorism efforts, and attacks specifically targeting tourists are rare.

Safety Measures:

Stay vigilant in crowded areas and tourist sites
Follow news updates and official advisories
Report any suspicious activity to authorities
Register with your embassy’s traveler program if available

Resources & Emergency Contacts

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy in Rabat: +212 537-637-200
UK Embassy in Rabat: +212 537-633-333
Canadian Embassy in Rabat: +212 537-686-400
Australian Consulate in Rabat: +212 537-687-400

Emergency Numbers

Police: 190
Ambulance/Fire: 150
Tourist Police: 538-811-473

Reliable Tour Operators

Morocco Travel 4×4 — Highly recommended by past travelers for their exceptional 3-day to multi-day experiences across the country, including desert expeditions and mountain tours
Intrepid Travel
G Adventures
Morocco Immersion Tours & Adventures
Morocco Private Experiences

Travel Insurance Providers

World Nomads
Allianz Travel Insurance
SafetyWing
InsureMyTrip

Local News Sources

Morocco World News (English)
The North Africa Post (English)
Médias24 (French)

Is Morocco Safe for Specific Travelers?

Solo Female Travelers

Morocco presents unique challenges for women traveling alone, but with proper preparation, many solo female travelers have enjoyable experiences.

Safety Tips:

Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention
Consider hiring local guides for exploration in less touristy areas
Be prepared for catcalling and persistent attention in some areas
Stay in well-reviewed accommodations with 24-hour reception
Use confidence and assertiveness when dealing with unwanted approaches
Consider joining group tours for part of your journey

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Same-sex relationships are illegal in Morocco, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples can lead to legal issues and social disapproval.

Important Considerations:

Discretion is strongly advised
Many LGBTQ+ travelers visit Morocco without incident by respecting local norms
Same-sex couples often travel as “friends” and book accommodations with separate beds
Research LGBTQ+-friendly establishments through specialized travel forums

Travelers with Disabilities

Morocco presents significant accessibility challenges, though conditions are gradually improving in major tourist areas.

Practical Advice:

Cities like Marrakech and Rabat have some accessible facilities, but medinas (old cities) have narrow, uneven streets
Arrange for private transportation with accessibility features in advance
Choose modern hotels that offer accessibility accommodations
Consider hiring a local assistant or guide to help navigate challenging areas

Families with Children

Morocco can be an enriching destination for family travel, offering unique cultural experiences for children of all ages.

Family-Friendly Tips:

Moroccans generally adore children and will go out of their way to be hospitable
Consider the pace of your itinerary and plan for regular breaks
Be prepared for different standards of child safety (car seats, playground equipment)
Pack supplies for sensitive stomachs and potential digestive issues
Choose accommodations with pools or gardens for downtime

Staying Updated & Informed

When considering whether there are any travel warnings for Morocco, staying current with reliable information is crucial.

Official Updates:

Register with your government’s travel advisory service:
- U.S. STEP Program
- UK’s Foreign Travel Advice Alert
- Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad
- Australia’s Smartraveller

Social Media Resources:

Follow relevant embassy Twitter/Facebook accounts
Join Morocco travel groups on Facebook for real-time insights
Use caution with unverified social media reports

Weather and Natural Hazards:

Monitor weather forecasts, particularly if traveling to mountain or desert regions
Be aware of flash flood risks in valleys and desert areas
Check for seismic activity updates in northern regions

Conclusion

So, are there any travel warnings for Morocco? While government advisories do exist, they primarily recommend increased awareness rather than avoiding travel altogether. Morocco remains a fascinating destination that rewards visitors with incredible experiences, warm hospitality, and unforgettable memories.

By staying informed about current morocco travel advisory information, respecting local customs, and taking common-sense precautions, you can minimize risks and focus on enjoying all this remarkable country has to offer. Whether you’re planning a trip to Morocco for the first time or returning to explore more deeply, the preparations you make before travel will contribute significantly to a safe and enriching journey.

Have you visited Morocco recently? Share your safety tips and experiences in the comments below!