Morocco is one of the most commonly visited countries in all of North Africa, providing visitors with a rich cultural melting pot that they are not going to find anywhere else.
With so many wondrous places to explore, potential visitors would be forgiven for forgetting all about the safety aspect of the equation.
While Morocco is safe from an overall standpoint, that does not mean that precautions should not be taken.
By taking the time to take a closer look at our helpful guide and by practicing a bit of common sense, your trip to Morocco will be an awesome one.
Be sure to read on and learn more….
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10 Safest Cities in Morocco
Merzouga
Let’s start with a city that is a bit more off the beaten path.
Located at the edge of the Saharan sand dunes, Merzouga is a small town that is located in the Erg Chebbi region.
It offers visitors the unique opportunity to learn more about Bedouin life.
Many visitors will look to navigate this town by jeep or by camelback.
For these reasons and more, visitors will often head to Merzouga so that they can have the sort of desert adventure that they will not soon forget.
The dramatic natural surroundings offer an unforgettable experience and visitors do not have to worry about any safety concerns.
Essaouira
This surfer’s paradise is widely known as one of the safest cities in all of Morocco, especially from a tourist standpoint.
Essaouira is also known as the Wind City of Africa, for good reason.
There are lots of surfing camps here and it is a great place to visit for anyone who plans to spend time backpacking in the North Africa region.
Those who seek a safe experience while traveling without shattering their budget will often choose this location in particular.
The months of April through November are the best bet, as this is when the surfing conditions here are at their best.
The medina is one of the primary attractions for visitors who are less interested in the surfing side of things.
Fes
Morocco has had a number of capital cities over the course of time and Fes once managed to hold onto that prestigious title for a whopping 400 years.
The medieval city is safe to explore on foot, as there is no shortage of historical buildings to take a closer look at.
The 9th Century walled town of Fes El Bali is an absolute must-see, as well as the Merenid Tombs.
History lovers will often decide to make a stop here so that they have the chance to truly appreciate all of the incredible diversity that Fes provides.
Google Maps is your friend when you are navigating these streets and it will keep you from getting lost.
Meknes
This country was once ruled by Sultan Moulay and during his reign, Meknes served as the capital of Morocco.
It is a walled imperial city, where Sultan’s mausoleum still remains on full display.
In fact, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the present day.
Meknes is also a great choice for tourists that are looking for a vibe that is a bit more laid back.
Some of the other cities on this list (we’ll get to them soon enough) have a bit more hustle and bustle than some might like.
The ruins of Volubilis are another common attraction for visitors, which is a Berber/ Roman city that has been partially excavated.
Chefchaouen
This is one of the more picturesque locations in all of Morocco, a small town nestled in the Rif mountains.
It is well known for its striking color motif, with houses and structures that have been painted blue to provide a truly unique feel.
In fact, some might describe Chefchaouen as having a more surreal look to it.
Travelers who prioritize safety and wish to explore Morocco’s natural wonders from a more civilized location will choose Chefchaouen.
The best part of all?
There is a beautiful view of the mountains at the end of each street.
Hiking and swimming expeditions are common outings for visitors here as well.
Asilah
Asilah occupies a unique place in the Moroccan consciousness, as it is a location that is equally beloved by locals.
This is what lets visitors know that the city is safe to spend time in.
If you head to this location during local holidays, you are sure to rub elbows with all sorts of locals who are looking to relax and get away from it all.
Portuguese history buffs also tend to love this city, as they are able to learn about customs that date all the way back to the 15th century.
The gorgeous coastline, the white-painted buildings, and the colorful murals that adorn many of the walls, what’s not to love?
Sidi Ifni
Those who are looking to explore Spanish heritage will tend to put the fishing town of Sidi Ifni on their itineraries.
Since this town once existed as a Spanish territory, it is very easy to find evidence of this heritage today.
It’s a smaller town that does not have as many attractions as some of the major cities, though.
Tourists will favor this location because it remains warm all year round and provides a necessary level of safety.
There are beautiful beaches to be enjoyed and the atmosphere is very friendly.
To top it all off, Legzira Beach is one of the most iconic locations that the country has to offer.
Jebel Toubkal
Also known as the home to Toubkal National Park, Jebel Toubkal is a picture-perfect location for all of the hikers who are looking to challenge themselves during their North African jaunt.
The hike to Jebel Toubkal’s peak takes over 4,100 meters, but it is more than a worthwhile journey for visitors to take.
Once you have the chance to take in the amazing view from the Atlas Mountains’ highest point, you will see what all of the fuss is about.
Those who wish to remain ground-bound can explore the stunningly beautiful park itself.
Its location is adjacent to Marrakech, giving visitors the chance to avoid the hustle and bustle if they so choose.
Marrakech
Speaking of Marrakech, this is one of the most popular cities in the country and many consider it to be a gateway to the true Morocco experience.
It is vibrant and colorful and there is no shortage of history to be taken in.
You may even need to schedule a second visit, just so that you can take in all of the sights and sounds.
The Old Town is a must-see, with all of the eateries and tanneries that are designed to inflame the senses in the best possible way.
Looking for a truly authentic experience?
Remain within the city walls and visit the souks as well.
The souks have some of the best shopping in all of Morocco.
Bahia Palace is also well worth setting aside some time to explore.
Rabat
Last but not least, we would be remiss if we did not discuss the capital city of Rabat.
It is the current capital of the country, making it a no-brainer destination for tourists.
The Old Town and the New Town are both well worth your time.
The New Town is perfect for those looking to do some shopping, hit up the bar, or spend time at a local cafe.
The Old Town is geared towards tourists that are in search of a more historical experience.
There are also plenty of markets in the Old Town, providing you with the chance to do some haggling and get some deals.
Chellah should also be part of your planning so that you can check out the ancient Roman ruins.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Morocco
1. Keep personal belongings close
This one should be common sense.
Do not give thieves the chance to steal personal belonging by being overly careless with them.
2. Avoid dark and isolated areas
Pickpockets and muggers will be on the lookout for foreign travelers who appear to be lost or stranded in dark and isolated areas, especially at night.
Avoid these situations at all times.
3. Be smart about ATM usage
The last thing that you want to do is whip out a wad of freshly withdrawn cash in a public setting.
Try your best to use your debit or credit cards when you can or be sure to withdraw money in a safe location.
4. Secure your hotel room
This means that you need to be placing all of your valuables in the room safely, even when you are going to be inside it.
Remain secure against intruders, whether you are in the room or not.
5. Utilize the buddy system
Solo travelers are like sitting ducks to potential thieves.
Don’t make the mistake of traveling alone.
Morocco Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Morocco Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cities are considered Morocco’s safest?
While all of the cities that we have listed provide the necessary level of safety, Marrakesh and Essaouira are top-notch tourist destinations in this regard.
Marrakech is widely considered to be the safest city in the country and Essaouira’s chill vibes are legendary.
Are there any cities to watch out for?
Fes was listed as one of the safest locations in our guide, but there are lots of “salesmen” and “guides” in this city even if you do not have to worry as much about petty crime.
Use your common sense and avoid them at all times.
What about the more remote locations?
You are safe from pickpockets and petty crime in the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert because there is hardly anyone around.
Stick with your guide, though, as the dangers in these locations are more natural.
I’m so happy to see Rabat on this list! I visited last year and felt completely safe the entire time. It’s a beautiful city with so much to offer.
The locals are friendly, and there’s always a vibrant atmosphere. Safety was never an issue during my stay.
“I lived in Fes for a few months and felt very secure. The city has a rich history and incredible architecture.
Tangier is an amazing city with a unique blend of cultures. I never had any safety concerns while exploring the city, even at night.