12 Safest Cities in Morocco

Wondering where to feel safe while exploring Morocco? As a local, I can assure you that Morocco offers some incredibly secure destinations.

During my time guiding travelers, I’ve noticed the effective presence of tourist police in places like Chefchaouen and Essaouira, and the genuine warmth of locals who look out for visitors.

Every country requires common-sense precautions, but Morocco’s popular tourist spots take security seriously. I’ve seen firsthand how seamlessly tourism police blend into the crowd, keeping an eye on things.

From walking Chefchaouen’s blue streets at midnight to sipping mint tea in Asilah’s art district, I’ve experienced the safety and tranquility of these areas.

Before planning your Moroccan adventure, do some research on which cities match your comfort level. While some spots are more laid-back than others, don’t let safety concerns stop you from experiencing this fascinating country.

Trust me, once you’re here, you’ll wonder why you were ever worried in the first place!

Asilah

While many travelers worry about safety in Morocco, Asilah stands out as an absolute GEM of security and charm! If you’re wondering about the safest places in Morocco, this beach town should top your list.

Just 50 minutes from Tangier, it’s perfect for solo travelers asking “Is Morocco safe for female” visitors.

You’ll love exploring one of Morocco’s most secure cultural experiences, where vibrant arts meet coastal charm. The town is famous for its painted medina walls and the annual Arts Festival in August.

Don’t miss Paradise Beach for sun-soaked relaxation or Aplanos Gallery for local culture. When you’re hungry, head to Oceano Casa Pepe!

As a safe country destination for travel in Morocco, Asilah’s sleepy coastal vibe makes it an ideal spot to unwind without worry.

Your local guide will confirm – this place is PURE MAGIC!

Ifrane

Since you’re searching for Morocco’s safest spots, you absolutely MUST check out Ifrane, it’s basically Morocco’s version of Switzerland!

Nestled in the Middle Atlas Mountains, this charming town feels incredibly safe and welcoming, with its Alpine-style chalets and snow-covered streets.

You’ll be amazed to find that Ifrane gets 4-6 inches of snow annually, making it perfect for hitting the slopes at Michlifen Ski Station. Trust me, skiing in Morocco is a totally unique experience!

When you’re not shredding powder, head over to Ifrane National Park, where you’ll discover picturesque cedar forests and adorable macaque monkeys. The park’s safety record is impressive, so you can explore without worry.

Everything about this mountain paradise screams “cozy and secure”, it’s like stepping into a fairytale version of Morocco!

Essaouira

As you explore the safest cities in Morocco, you’ll LOVE gorgeous Essaouira, a breezy coastal paradise that feels incredibly secure both day and night!

This charming coastal gem is especially welcoming for solo female travelers, who can confidently walk alone at night through the well-lit narrow streets.

You’ll feel totally at ease exploring Essaouira’s stunning beaches, vibrant public areas, and white-and-blue medina.

While travel insurance is always smart, locals often leave their doors unlocked (though we don’t recommend trying that yourself!).

The biggest “threat” you might encounter? A curious stray cat trying to become your new BFF!

Don’t miss watching the sunset from Old Skala, surfing the waves, or wandering through the picturesque port.

Whether you’re coming from Marrakech or Casablanca, you’ll discover a laid-back atmosphere that’s wonderfully safe and welcoming.

Merzouga

The magical desert town of Merzouga will TOTALLY sweep you off your feet!

As one of the safest cities in Morocco, this incredible gateway to the Sahara Desert offers travelers an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and calming vibes.

You’ll find yourself immersed in epic activities like camel riding across MASSIVE sand dunes, glamping under starlit skies, and zipping around on quad bikes.

And don’t forget about sandboarding, it’s like snowboarding, but WAY cooler! The friendly locals are always excited to share their Bedouin culture with visitors.

Erg Chebbi dunes offer some of Morocco’s most breathtaking sunset views over the rolling desert landscape.

When you’re not conquering the desert, you can chill by the pool and soak in those peaceful natural surroundings.

Whether you’re visiting as part of a desert tour or staying longer, you’ll feel completely safe while exploring this charming oasis!

Expert local guides ensure safe navigation through the challenging desert terrain while sharing deep insights into Moroccan traditions.

Marrakech

While you might hear mixed opinions about Marrakech, I can tell you it’s TOTALLY one of Morocco’s safest cities to explore!

You’ll find it’s perfectly safe to travel here, even for solo female travelers who want to experience the vibrant culture.

Sure, you’ll need to watch out for pickpockets in the bustling Medina, and those persistent street vendors in the souks can be a bit much. But don’t let that stop you!

For a super-relaxed experience, I recommend staying in Gueliz or Hivernage, these areas are so chill that you can walk around at night without worry.

Plus, you’ll still be close to amazing attractions like the Saadian Tombs and Jardin Majorelle.

Just follow basic safety tips, like keeping your belongings secure and staying aware of your surroundings.

Rabat

Moving beyond Marrakech’s bustling souks, you’ll discover Rabat offers an entirely different vibe! As Morocco’s capital city, you’re in for a treat with its super-safe environment and modern amenities.

You can confidently walk around day or night, making it perfect for solo travelers and digital nomads.

Getting around is a breeze, the city’s well-connected with trains and a convenient tram system that’ll whisk you anywhere!

While exploring the vibrant Medina, you’ll find plenty of amazing spots to check out.

Don’t miss the stunning Andalusian gardens, catch some waves at the beach, or marvel at the Mohammed V Mausoleum’s impressive columns.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, hop over to nearby Tangier for some fantastic cooking classes – it’s just as safe!

Meknes

Located in northern Morocco, Meknes ranks among the country’s most peaceful destinations where you’ll feel right at home!

You won’t encounter any safety issues while exploring the enchanting Medina, and the city’s stunning architecture will leave you speechless, especially the magnificent Grand Mosque and Bab Mansour!

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and the Dar Jamai Museum.

Ladies, remember to pack a scarf since you’ll need to cover your head when entering religious sites.

While some areas were under construction in early 2023 after an earthquake, the ancient ruins of Volubilis more than make up for it!

If you’ve got extra time, take an amazing day trip to nearby Moulay Idriss, it’s totally worth it!

Chefchaouen

Known as Morocco’s enchanting “Blue Pearl,” Chefchaouen will absolutely take your breath away!

You’ll feel incredibly safe to travel here, especially compared to larger cities like Fes and Tangier. It’s perfect for solo wanderers who want to walk around without dealing with unwanted attention.

Located in the stunning Rif Mountains, you’re just 4 hours from Fes and 2 hours from Tangier.

The unique blue aesthetic of Medina creates endless opportunities for beautiful photos – seriously, your Instagram will thank you!

Don’t miss hiking to Akchour Waterfall, climbing the Kasbah for amazing city views, and catching the sunset at the Spanish Mosque. Oh, and you’ve got to try Sofia’s for some incredible local food!

Trust me, this memorable trip will have you planning your return visit before you even leave!

Sidi Ifni

While most travelers flock to Morocco’s big cities, you’ll want to escape to peaceful Sidi Ifni!

Located in Southern Morocco, this laid-back beach town is just a 4-hour bus ride from Agadir, making it one of the safest cities to chill by the ocean.

You absolutely MUST visit Legzira, the town’s crown jewel! This stunning sandy beach features an incredible thousand-year-old sandstone arch that’s perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots.

While swimming isn’t recommended due to strong winds, you’ll find plenty of other activities to enjoy.

Try your hand at surfing, hop on a camel for a memorable ride along the shore, or give paragliding a shot!

Just catch one of two daily CTM buses from Agadir, and you’re all set for an amazing coastal getaway.

Jebel Toubkal

If you’re dreaming of an EPIC mountain adventure, Jebel Toubkal should be at the TOP of your Morocco bucket list!

As one of the safest cities in Morocco, this charming mountain town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and exploring.

Nestled in the High Atlas Mountains, Jebel Toubkal serves as your gateway to the incredible Toubkal National Park. You’ll find amazing views at every turn, especially from the Tizi n’Test Pass.

The crown jewel? Mount Toubkal itself, stands at a whopping 4,167 meters tall! It’s North Africa’s highest peak, and while the climb is challenging, you don’t need technical skills.

Just make sure you’re physically fit and plan your 2-3 day trek during summer. Trust me, you DON’T want to tackle those snowy winter conditions!

Taghazout

Waves crash endlessly along the shores of peaceful Taghazout, a surfer’s paradise that’s SUPER safe for solo travelers!

Just 30 minutes from Agadir, this tiny beach town will make you feel right at home with its tight-knit community and incredibly friendly locals.

While you won’t find a bazillion tourist attractions here, what you WILL discover is an authentic slice of Moroccan coastal life!

Head to Devil’s Rock for an unforgettable experience, where you can watch the sunset paint the sky while local musicians fill the air with traditional oud melodies.

The safe atmosphere makes it perfect for chilling at the beach, catching some waves, or simply soaking in the laid-back vibes.

Pro tip: If you’re seeking non-stop sightseeing action, you might want to look elsewhere!

Agadir

Modern beach vibes and top-notch safety define Agadir, Morocco’s BEST coastal getaway!

You’ll love how this tourist-friendly atmosphere combines beautiful beaches with incredibly low crime rates. After a massive earthquake in the 1960s, they rebuilt Agadir into the modern marvel you see today.

Looking for fun things to do? You’re in luck!

Hop on the cable car for amazing views, splash around in Paradise Valley, or visit the fascinating Crocopark.

Don’t miss exploring the Medina, where you’ll find Souk El Had – Morocco’s BIGGEST marketplace with super-easy-to-navigate grid streets.

It’s totally safe to travel here, just take normal precautions as you’d anywhere else.

Pro tip: Keep your wits about you at night, and you’ll have an AMAZING time in this coastal paradise!

Additional Morocco Safety Tips

You’ll want to dress EXTRA modestly in Morocco (especially if you’re a solo female traveler) and keep your valuables SUPER safe from pickpockets who love targeting tourists in busy medinas!

When you’re out exploring, stick to well-lit areas with plenty of people around, and don’t walk alone after dark – it’s just not worth the risk!

Remember to only use ATMs inside actual banks (not the sketchy standalone ones), and just bring what you need for the day’s adventures instead of carrying your entire life savings around with you!

Solo Female Travelers Should Dress More Conservatively

While exploring Morocco’s vibrant cities, female travelers should prioritize dressing modestly to avoid unwanted attention!

When you’re wandering through places like Marrakech and Agadir, you’ll want to dress conservatively to minimize catcalls and unwelcome male attention.

Here’s a pro tip: pop in your headphones to tune out any unwanted comments, it works like a charm!

If someone’s persistent, just say “No thank you” firmly and walk away. Trust me, they’ll usually back off!

Walking with a male friend or couple can also help reduce harassment. Don’t let this discourage you from solo travel in Morocco, most attention is harmless, and you’ll have an amazing time if you’re prepared.

Just pack those loose-fitting clothes and longer hemlines, and you’re good to go!

Watch Out for Pickpockets in the Medina

Navigating Morocco’s bustling Medinas requires extra vigilance since pickpockets love targeting distracted tourists!

When you’re exploring the narrow, winding streets of these ancient marketplaces, it’s super important to keep your wits about you.

Trust me, travelers in Morocco need to master some basic safety precautions.

Here’s what you’ll want to do in the major cities: Keep your bag close to your body (preferably a crossbody bag), and don’t flash expensive items or phones around!

Petty theft is unfortunately common in crowded Medina areas, but don’t let that scare you. Just use your common sense, and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in tight spaces where people bump into each other.

And hey, if you’re too busy taking selfies, you might find your wallet’s gone faster than you can say “Watch out for pickpockets!”

Avoid Dark/Isolated Areas

Just like in any major city, dark and isolated areas in Morocco can spell trouble, so let’s keep things SUPER safe!

While Morocco is generally safe for travelers, you’ll want to stick to well-lit areas where there’s plenty of tourist activity. Trust me, violent crimes against visitors are RARE, but it’s still smart to take basic precautions!

In bigger cities like Casablanca and Marrakech, stay on the main streets and avoid wandering into dimly lit alleyways after dark. This is especially important if you’re exploring rural areas or less-traveled neighborhoods.

Don’t worry, you won’t miss out on any fun! The most exciting parts of Moroccan cities are usually bustling with people and bright lights anyway.

Remember: if an area feels sketchy or too quiet, listen to your gut and head somewhere livelier!

Use Official Bank ATMs Only

To keep your money safe in Morocco, you’ll want to ONLY use ATMs directly attached to actual banks!

Even in the safest cities like Rabat or Casablanca, it’s crucial to be smart about where you withdraw money.

Stick to official bank ATMs inside or connected to legitimate bank buildings, no sketchy standalone machines in tourist areas!

Here’s a pro tip: use a bank that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees (like Charles Schwab) when traveling in Morocco.

Safe banking means you’ll have more dirham to spend on amazing tagines and mint tea! Plus, using reputable bank ATMs will seriously reduce your chance of card skimming or fraud.

Trust me, you don’t want to be calling your healthcare provider from overseas about suspicious charges!

Carry Only What You Need for The Day

One simple rule keeps you EXTRA safe while exploring Morocco’s vibrant cities and bustling medinas, only carry what you’ll actually need that day!

When you travel smart, you’ll minimize risks and maximize your peace of mind.

Here’s the deal: leave your passport, extra credit cards, and most cash locked up in your hotel safe. Just take enough money for your planned activities, maybe a single credit card, and your phone. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

If someone DOES manage to snatch your bag (hey, it happens), you won’t lose everything. Your valuables will be waiting safely back at the hotel, and you can continue your Moroccan adventure without major drama.

These basic precautions can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a vacation-ruining disaster!

FAQs

How Safe is Tourism in Morocco?

I’m happy to report it’s generally VERY safe for tourists! The government takes visitor security seriously, even placing undercover police throughout tourist areas to prevent petty theft.

You’ll find Morocco is generally considered safe, though you should exercise caution like in any destination.

While petty theft and catcalling can occur, they’re usually just minor annoyances. For female travelers, I’d recommend avoiding walking alone at night and dressing conservatively.

While terrorism and kidnapping incidents have happened, they’re EXTREMELY rare. The most common issues you’ll face are pickpocketing attempts and persistent vendors.

Harassment will most likely be limited to pushy salespeople in the medinas, just firmly say “no” and keep walking!

How Safe is Agadir?

As a coastal resort city, Agadir stands out as one of Morocco’s SAFEST destinations!

You’ll find a strong police presence and well-lit streets that make traveling alone much more comfortable than in other cities.

Here’s the scoop: while Agadir is generally safe for female travelers, you’ll still want to take basic precautions.

When it comes to water, it’s NOT safe to drink from the tap. Stick to bottled water, which is readily available everywhere!

The locals are friendly and helpful, and the city’s modern infrastructure makes it a great choice for both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors to Morocco!

Is Rabat a Safe City?

You’ll be thrilled to know that Rabat ranks as one of the safest cities in Morocco!

The capital boasts impressively low crime rates and violent crimes against tourists are EXTREMELY rare. You can feel confident exploring the city’s vibrant streets, even during evening hours.

While you’re enjoying the stunning architecture and cultural sites, just remember to take basic precautions, you know, the same ones you’d follow in any major city worldwide.

Keep your belongings close, stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t flash expensive items.

Trust me, if you’re smart about it, you’ll have a great trip exploring this amazing Moroccan gem. Rabat’s welcoming atmosphere and strong security presence make it a top choice for safety-conscious travelers.

What is Morocco Ranked in Safety?

Despite what you might’ve heard, Morocco stands INCREDIBLY high on the global safety rankings!

According to Which? Travel magazine, Morocco ranks as the 8th safest country among the world’s top twenty – that’s seriously impressive!

While you’ll want to follow basic customs and laws (just like anywhere else!), Morocco is safe for most travelers.

Sure, you might encounter some political demonstrations or minor inconveniences, but it’s nothing that’ll ruin your trip. It’s generally safe to drive here too, though you’ll want to stay alert in busy areas.

The rich cultural experience totally makes up for any minor inconveniences you might face. Just use common sense, and respect local customs, and you’ll have an AMAZING time exploring this fascinating country.

The majority of visitors have nothing but positive experiences!

Final Words

While Morocco has its share of urban challenges, you’ll find plenty of safe havens throughout this beautiful country!

Cities like Chefchaouen, Essaouira, Rabat, and Asliah stand out as the safest cities where you can explore worry-free, even as a solo traveler!

Remember, Morocco’s overall travel safety really comes down to using common sense and taking basic precautions.

Keep your valuables close, respect the local culture, and stay alert in crowded areas to avoid becoming a target for petty theft.

You’ll be amazed at how welcoming most Moroccans are!

If you’re planning your first trip, start with the safer cities we’ve mentioned.

Once you’re comfortable with the culture and customs, you can confidently venture into livelier spots like Fes or Casablanca!

Ignited your wanderlust? Experience more of Morocco with our breathtaking desert tours and exciting day trips from Marrakech. Travel in comfort with our private car and driver service, or make your arrival stress-free with our airport transfer service.

From desert adventures to coastal escapes, we’ll help you explore Morocco’s safest destinations with confidence. Start your Moroccan journey today!