If you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, the question of safety may have crossed your mind.
Marrakech is a vibrant city full of hustle and bustle, aesthetically pleasing architecture, and delicious cuisine. However, there is a bit of a stigma, especially on social media, that Marrakech is dangerous for tourists – full of scams and locals hurling abuse.
But is that really what Marrakech is like? Is Marrakech safe for women? Is Marrakech safe to visit?
This post will give you the full rundown of safety in Marrakech, including how to avoid sketchy situations, how to handle culture differences and how to avoid becoming overwhelmed in the bustling souks.
Is Marrakech Safe?
If you’re looking for a short answer to this question, then yes. Marrakech is absolutely safe to visit as a tourist. The vast majority of travelers that visit the city express surprise after spending some time in the city and finding that it really is a safe and welcoming place. I’ve been to Marrakech many times and whilst on my first trip I was quite weary, now I feel so comfortable walking alone on the streets, just like a local does.
Statistically, you’re more likely to be a victim of crime in a Western country than when visiting Marrakech. Like all cities, there are reports of violent crime, but the vast majority of these incidents are among locals and do not involve tourists.
However, Marrakech can be a very overwhelming city to navigate as a foreign tourist and like many cities, there are a number of things you can do to make sure you feel more at ease and are less likely to be targeted.
One key thing to remember when visiting Marrakech is that Morocco is a Muslim country and local customs, interactions and beliefs may significantly differ from yourself. Females, in particular, may have to be more careful of how they act while visiting the city, but on the whole, you’re unlikely to run into any bother.
Some of the key things you need to be aware of when visiting Marrakech include:
Traffic
Road rules are very laxly followed in Marrakech. Most drivers tend not to stick to their lanes; cars will not stop for you crossing the roads (you need to be brave and just know they will weave around you), and mopeds and motorbikes are everywhere – even down tiny alleyways.
The first few drives in taxis or on tour buses can be quite eye-opening if you’re from a country that stringently sticks to the rules. However, you’ll quickly come to realise that the locals are used to this way of driving and are in full control.
Street hassle
A walk through the souks in Marrakech can be pretty overwhelming to a lot of tourists with locals constantly hassling you to look at the goods in their shop or to try some samples. If you do not want to buy anything, then you should simply just walk on and say a polite, but firm “no thank you”.
Women may also experience catcalling while walking through these busy areas, which can be quite daunting. However, keeping your cool and continuing on your way is best. Generally, they’ll quickly get the message that you’re not interested. Personally, I never experienced this in any of my trips to Marrakech.
Scams
Scams are pretty rife in Marrakech, especially during the peak tourist season. Stay vigilant and read up on the common scams before you go (a few of the most common ones are discussed later in this post).
Ultimately, these are to get money out of you, not to harm you. Don’t be afraid to just walk away from situations that make you feel uneasy.
Food
While there is no doubt that the Moroccan food served up in Marrakech is absolutely delicious, a walk around the souks will quickly display that hygiene isn’t always top notch.
To avoid food poisoning ruining your trip, make sure to take note of how the food you’re ordering has been prepared and how long it has potentially been sitting out. Opting for the busiest stands is often best as there is then a quick turnover of food. Choosing somewhere that is full of locals is also a good idea as these places can clearly be trusted.
While staying in the city, the tap water is generally considered suitable for drinking, but with a typical two liter bottle of water costing only a few dirhams, you may as well lessen the risk. In many other locations across Morocco, tap water is not safe for drinking.
Petty Crime
Something that all tourists should be aware of when visiting Marrakech is that pickpocketing is quite common. The narrow streets of the Medina and souks make it relatively easy for someone to snatch your belongings from your bags and pockets, unnoticed.
Keep an eye and a hand on your belongings at all times. Carrying your bags on your front can be a good idea, and securing any zips with cable ties will also help lower your risk of being targeted.
Earthquakes
In September 2023, a large earthquake hit Marrakech, damaging several historical sites and domestic buildings. This has led a lot of people to question the safety of the city, but it has largely been unaffected by aftershocks, and scientists are sure that another earthquake of the same scale is unlikely.
Is Marrakech Safe At Night?
Not much changes with regards to safety in Marrakech at night in comparison to the day time. However, it’s a good idea to be more vigilant once the sun sets – as you would in most cities.
As long as you stay close to the center of the city, around the Medina and Jemaa el-Fna, you’re unlikely to run into any trouble. In fact, Jemaa el-Fna comes to life after dark, making it a great time to visit while staying in the city. With a lively atmosphere and plenty of people around, you’ll feel very safe while in the city center.
The souks are always bustling in the evening too, with many locals swarming to them after the work day. You’re unlikely to encounter a completely desolate area.
However, as with every city, you do want to be careful at night. Walk confidently, plan your route through the city before leaving and keep to the busier, well-lit streets.
Is Marrakech Safe For Solo Travel?
Traveling solo to Marrakech may feel a bit more daunting after reading all of these aspects that can make the city a bit overwhelming, but lots of people travel solo to the city and leave with nothing but wonderful memories.
Marrakech is also full of hostels, which is a great sign for solo travelers. While you may need to be a bit more aware of your surroundings than if you were travelling with a friend or family member, you will likely still have an amazing experience.
If you’re traveling on your own, then one thing for certain is that you will have to be assertive. There will be likely be situations when you have to stand your ground to brush off the locals, but simply walking away with confidence often does the trick.
In terms of traveling as a solo female, Marrakech is also very safe. Many women worry about unwanted attention from males, but often, a firm “no” is enough to brush off locals and show that you are uninterested. If you’re ever in a situation that makes you uncomfortable, then simply walk away and continue to a busier area where you know there will be other tourists.
As a Muslim country, women do cover up more than in Western countries. Marrakech is definitely a lot more relaxed than other Moroccan cities, but generally, the more you cover up, the less attention you’ll receive.
Make sure to cover your shoulders and thighs while visiting, especially when going anywhere near mosques. Thin, breezy trousers and light shirts are perfect for keeping you cool while being modest.
Ultimately, though Marrakech may present some challenges for female travelers, it is unlikely to present any danger.
How To Stay Safe In Marrakech
Given some of the potential risks that have been discussed in this post so far, here are some top tips on how to stay safe while exploring the city:
- Stay aware of your belongings – Pickpocketing can happen, especially in crowded areas like the souks and Jemaa el-Fna. Keep your bag zipped and valuables secure. If you have your phone out for taking photos then make sure to keep a firm grip on it.
- Be cautious of scams – There are a number of known scams in Marrakech and while the majority will not cause you any physical harm, you don not want to lose money unnecessarily. If you think someone is potentially trying to scam you then politely decline what they are offering and walk away.
- Avoid unlicensed guides – If you want a guide (which can be very handy for navigating the souks), book through a reputable source. Some unofficial guides may overcharge or lead you to certain shops for commission, that will ultimately charge you a very high price.
- Dress modestly – Respect local customs by covering shoulders and thighs, especially in more traditional areas. This can also help avoid unwanted attention, particularly as a woman.
- Only use registered taxis – Always agree on a fare before getting into a taxi, or insist the driver uses the meter to avoid being overcharged. As a tourist though, they will refuse to put the meter on.
- Be careful with street food – While many food stalls serve delicious meals, opt for busy places with high turnover to reduce the risk of food poisoning. No one wants an icky tummy ruining their trip!
- Stay in well-lit areas at night – While Marrakech is generally safe, stick to busy streets after dark and avoid empty alleyways, especially in the Medina.
- Respect local laws and customs – Public displays of affection, alcohol consumption in public, and certain behaviors can be frowned upon in some more traditional areas of Marrakech, so be mindful of local etiquette.
Scams in Marrakech
Most Moroccans are very honest and hospitable to travelers but there are always a few individuals that will go out of their way to try and make some money off of unsuspecting tourists. Here are some of the top scams you might encounter in Marrakech:
Closed attractions and guiding the way
This scam is, unfortunately, quite common in Marrakech, and the portrayed kindness of the locals can make it quite easy to fall for.
While trying to find the entrance of an attraction or the way to your hotel, a local may approach you to tell you that the route you’re trying to take is closed and offer to take you a different way.
Though they often will take you where you’re looking to go (via an alternative route), they will then expect a tip from you for their trouble and will not leave until you give them one.
This ultimately boils down to the very low wages that locals are paid in Morocco, and tricking two or three tourists a day could end up getting them more than a daily wage.
Fake goods
Unfortunately, a lot of the items sold at the souks in Marrakech are not legitimate. While some may be very obvious, others can be less so, especially if you aren’t familiar with what you’re supposed to be looking for.
Argan oils, carpets, pottery and herbs and spices are typically displayed as being authentic and even as being family heirlooms. However, this is often not the case and stall owners will be looking for a very high price.
Read up online how much you would expect to pay for these items and ask your hostel or hotel staff where you can find truly authentic versions if you’d really like them.
Henna women
Henna is a big thing in Morocco, and you’ll see lots of women offering henna tattoos, especially on your hands. In Marrakech, there is unfortunately a known scam, especially in the Medina where these women ‘accidentally’ bump into you and spill ink on your hand.
They then offer to fix their mistake and tattoo over the splotch; however, if you accept, they will charge you after it is finished. The best thing to do is to say “no, thank you” and move on if you’re targeted by this scam. If they don’t leave, tell them you are allergic to henna, and they will leave you alone. Wipe the ink off quickly, as there are also no guarantees that they have not used dangerous black henna.
Pictures with live animals
One of the most heartbreaking sights in Marrakech is the number of animals that are poorly treated and that are stray. In Jemaa el-Fna you’ll find a number of locals walking around with snakes and monkeys.
As you walk past, you’ll be invited to take a picture with their animal and they may even place them on you without asking and try to grab your phone for a photo. Do not accept, as they will then demand a fee for this service, and it’s ultimately not fair to contribute to the poor treatment of these animals.
‘Snake charmers’ are also common in the large square in Marrakech. These snakes are unfortunately only appearing to be performing to the music as they have been heavily drugged by the owners.
The best thing you can do is avoid eye contact with these locals at all times; often, they get the message that you’re not interested.
Overpriced tours and experiences
While staying in Marrakech, it’s probably quite likely that you’d like to go on a few excursions, particularly to the Agafay Desert, which is a very popular location for camel riding, quad biking and traditional culture experiences.
Online, you can generally get these excursions for exceptional prices. However, you’re still able to book these tours from local vendors at multiple locations across the city. Just be aware that these are often not the best prices. For example, a very popular hot air balloon tour can be found online for $90 per person, but this same tour was marketed at a stand in the streets of the Medina at $170 per person.
If you’re planning on booking a camel experience, why not check out these fascinating camel facts before you go? They’re incredibly resilient animals, and understanding more about them can make your experience even more enjoyable!
Things To Know Before Visiting Marrakech
Here are some of the top things you should know about Marrakech before visiting that can make you feel a lot more prepared for your trip:
Haggling is expected (and encouraged)
Bargaining with souk vendors is part of the Marrakech experience. A lot of the goods you will likely want to buy in Marrakech are available at many different stalls across the city and at a range of different prices.
Therefore, haggling for the best price is a great idea and expected! Start by offering about half the initial price and negotiate from there. Vendors often enjoy the back-and-forth, so don’t be afraid to engage in a friendly bargain.
The Medina can be overwhelming
Marrakech’s old city (the Medina) is a maze of narrow alleyways, bustling souks, and motorbikes zipping past without much care for your toes – watch out! It can be very chaotic, especially for first-time visitors, so be prepared for sensory overload. Having an offline map or hiring a guide can help you navigate the area without stress.
Dress respectfully
While Marrakech is a lot more lax and used to Western tourists, it’s still respectful to dress modestly, especially while visiting the Medina where you will encounter lots of locals.
Covering your shoulders and thighs is usually a good rule to stick to.
Cash is king
Many small shops, markets, and taxis only accept cash in Marrakech, so make sure to have enough Moroccan dirhams with you. ATMs are available everywhere, including at the airport – but I would recommend waiting until you reach the city. You won’t need cash until you reach the hotel, even if you book a taxi as this is now made at a machine in the car park where you can pay by card. Since Morocco has a closed currency, you cannot exchange dirhams from your own currency at home before your trip!
A quick rule of thumb to remember while shopping in Marrakech is that 10 dirhams is roughly equivalent to $1 (USD), making it pretty easy to figure out the best deals.
Stray cats are everywhere
Marrakech is home to countless stray cats, and you’ll see them lounging in the sun, wandering through the souks, or even sitting beside you at cafés. Many locals feed them, but they generally fend for themselves.
If you’re a cat lover, you might enjoy their presence, but if not, just signal to them to leave you alone and they’ll usually oblige. If you choose to feed them, be mindful of hygiene and avoid handling them too much, as some may carry fleas and illnesses.
If you’re staying in Marrakech or somewhere else in Morocco for a longer period of time and would like to take a stray cat under your wing then you can find some top tips on looking after them here.
FAQ
How safe is Marrakech for women?
Marrakech is very safe for women. Despite rumbles in the media, Marrakech is generally very welcoming to visitors as long as they are respectful. However, like any city, it’s important to be aware of potential scams and pickpocketing risks before visiting.
Is Morocco safe for US tourists?
Yes. Morocco is generally very hospitable to US tourists and the country is considered safe to visit, although you may wish to exercise some caution as petty crime and scams are present within the city.
Is it OK to drink alcohol in Marrakech?
Generally, it is okay to drink alcohol in Marrakech, but only in licensed restaurants and bars – and you won’t find many selling alcohol inside the medina. It is forbidden to drink alcohol in public places. As an Islamic country however, it would be more respectful to abstain from drinking alcohol while visiting Morocco. Other cities in the country may also not be as lenient as Marrakech.
Can a woman wear shorts in Marrakech?
Yes. Women can wear shorts in Marrakech but opting for longer bottoms which reach close to or below your knee is preferable. This will not only show more respect of local customs but also help you to avoid any unwanted attention.
Conclusion
Marrakech is a wonderful city to visit in Morocco; full of life and character and you are guaranteed to leave the city with some amazing memories. On the whole, the city is very safe for tourists to visit and you’re unlikely to run into any trouble – if you keep your wits about you.
Scams are common within Marrakech, as is pickpocketing. By knowing what you’re likely to encounter by reading posts like this one before you visit you will be much more prepared to deal with these risks however.
Hopefully this post has reassured you to visit the amazing city of Marrakech and helped answer your question: “Is Marrakech safe for women?”
For more similar articles about Morocco, check out my recommendations below:
- Where to eat in Marrakech
- How to spend a relaxing weekend in Marrakech
- Unique things to do in Marrakech
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