Morocco captivates with its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and an array of experiences to suit every traveler's taste. From wandering through age-old medinas and browsing vibrant marketplaces to trekking the majestic Atlas Mountains or unwinding on serene beaches, there's an adventure for every kind of visitor in Morocco.
Before you pack your bags and book your flight, you might wonder: is Morocco safe to travel to? The answer is yes, as long as you follow some basic precautions and respect the local customs and laws. Morocco is a friendly and hospitable country, but it also has challenges and risks that you should know.
In this article, we will give you some tips and advice on how to stay safe and enjoy your trip to Morocco. We will cover topics such as how to avoid scams and tourist traps, how to deal with petty crime and pickpocketing, how to dress and behave appropriately in a conservative Islamic country, how to travel safely in rural and remote areas, and how to handle health and hygiene issues.
Before you pack your bags and book your flight, you might wonder: is Morocco safe to travel to? The answer is yes, as long as you follow some basic precautions and respect the local customs and laws. Morocco is a friendly and hospitable country, but it also has challenges and risks that you should know.
In this article, we will give you some tips and advice on how to stay safe and enjoy your trip to Morocco. We will cover topics such as how to avoid scams and tourist traps, how to deal with petty crime and pickpocketing, how to dress and behave appropriately in a conservative Islamic country, how to travel safely in rural and remote areas, and how to handle health and hygiene issues.
- How to avoid scams and tourist traps
- How to deal with petty crime and pickpocketing
- How to dress and behave appropriately in a conservative Islamic country
- How to travel safely in rural and remote areas
How to Avoid Scams and Tourist Traps
Morocco's tourism industry is a vital source of income for many locals. Unfortunately, some of them have decided to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors with various scams and tourist traps. These can range from overcharging for goods and services to offering fake or low-quality products to leading you to places where they get a commission.
To avoid falling victim to these schemes, here are some things you can do:
- Always negotiate the price before you buy anything or take a taxi. Feel free to haggle and walk away if you are unsatisfied with the offer. For a fair deal, you can also compare prices with other vendors or drivers.
- Be wary of anyone approaching you on the street and offering to be your guide, show you the way, or take you to a special place. They are likely to be unlicensed and will charge you a hefty fee or take you to places where they get a cut. Book one through a reputable agency or hotel if you need a guide.
- Don't accept gifts or invitations from strangers, especially if they involve going to their home, shop, or restaurant. They may seem friendly and genuine, but they may expect you to buy something or pay for their hospitality. Politely decline and move on.
- Don't let anyone touch or put anything on you, such as henna tattoos, bracelets, or hats. They will claim it is free or a gift, but then they will demand money or harass you until you pay.
- Do your research before you book any tours, activities, or accommodations. Make sure you always book your trip with a licensed tarvel agent, read reviews, check the quality and safety standards of the company and don't be fooled by cheap prices. Only trust people who promise you a bargain or a special deal that sounds good.
How to Deal with Petty Crime and Pickpocketing
Petty crime and pickpocketing are common problems in Morocco, especially in crowded and touristy areas such as souqs and medinas. Thieves and robbers may target you if they see that you have valuables, cash, or expensive items on you. They may also work in groups or use distractions to catch you off guard.
To protect yourself and your belongings, here are some tips:
- Keep your valuables, such as your passport, money, credit cards, and electronics, safe. Use a hotel safe, a locker, or a hidden pouch. Only carry the cash you need, and don't publicly flash your money or valuables.
- Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Don't let your guard down, especially in busy and chaotic places. Watch out for suspicious people or behavior, and avoid confrontations or arguments.
- Secure your bags and pockets. Use a backpack or bag with zippers, locks, or straps. Don't leave your bag unattended or hang it on the back of your chair. Keep your bag close to your body and in front of you. Keep everything valuable in your pockets, especially the ones that are easy to reach.
- Don't resist or chase the perpetrator if you are a theft or robbery victim. It may not be worth the risk of getting hurt or escalating the situation. Report the incident to the police and your embassy as soon as possible, and make sure you cancel your debits and credit cards, call your bank and get new ones.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Morocco. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Enjoy your trip!
How to dress and behave appropriately in a conservative Islamic country
If you plan to travel to Morocco, it's important to know the local customs and expectations, especially in terms of dressing and behaving. Morocco is a conservative Islamic country, so it's essential to respect the religious and cultural traditions of the locals. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
- Dress conservatively, avoiding attire that is too tight or revealing. It is advisable for both men and women to wear clothes covering at least to the knees and chest. Additionally, women might consider wearing a scarf or hat to cover their hair, particularly when visiting places of worship or mosques.
- Drinking alcohol and smoking in public is not acceptable and may even be illegal. If you do drink or smoke, do so discreetly and respectfully, and never in front of a mosque or a religious person.
- Greet people politely with a handshake and a smile, and use the Arabic phrase "Salam Alaikum" or the French phrase "Bonjour" when meeting someone for the first time. Men should not initiate a handshake with a woman.
- Public displays of affection are not appropriate or respectful, so avoid kissing, hugging or holding hands in public.
- Learn some basic Arabic or French phrases to communicate with the locals, who will appreciate your efforts to speak their language.
- Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, as they may not want to be photographed. Avoid taking photos of military or government buildings as it may be illegal or dangerous.
How to travel safely in rural and remote areas
If you plan to travel to rural or remote areas in Morocco, it's important to be prepared and take some precautions. Here are some tips:
- Plan your trip with the help of a licensed Morocco travel expert. Book your trip including transportation and accommodations way in advance especially if you are more into small luxurious Riads as the sell very fast due to the fact that they have limited number of rooms and suites. Check the weather and road conditions before you go.
- Book your trip with a licensed travel agent to help you navigate the area and stay safe.
- Pack appropriately and bring essential items such as a sturdy backpack or suitcase, sleeping bag or blanket, flashlight or headlamp, water bottle or filter, first aid or medicine kit, map or GPS, phone or radio, knife or tool, lighter or match, and whistle or flare.
- Be aware that you may not have access to amenities such as electricity, water, internet, or medical care in rural or remote areas, so bring what you need with you.
