Is Essaouira Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Essaouira is generally considered to be safe for solo female travelers. The residents are welcoming and most possible safety issues can be avoided with regular travel precautions. However, like most travel destinations, always awareness and respect for local customs and culture is encouraged. Incidences of harassment are comparatively lower than larger cities but you might experience some mild verbal harassment such as unsolicited attention or comments, mainly in crowded areas such as markets. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

Essaouira is generally considered fairly safe for solo female travelers during the night. Nevertheless, it is always crucial to exercise common sense precautions. Incidences of crime are relatively low but occasional hassles from touts and male attention can be encountered. The medina is well-lit and often busy into the evening, which improves the feeling of safety. However, it's still best to avoid desolate or poorly lit areas late at night and always stay aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Essaouira is relatively safe. There are various forms including taxis, buses, and trams that are frequently used by locals and tourists alike. As a solo female traveler, daytime trips are more advisable. Always ensure to keep personal belongings close. Petty theft can occasionally happen but violent crime is rare. It is also common to share taxis with other passengers to save on cost. However, ensure to negotiate taxi rates before getting in to avoid overcharging. Though English is not widely spoken, apps can be really helpful or having the name of your destination written in Arabic. Overall, with basic vigilance, using public transport in Essaouira is relatively safe.

Street harassment:Low

Essaouira is generally safer and less hectic than other Moroccan cities. Even though you might experience some instances of individually targeted attention, often in the form of local men attempting to engage in conversation or giving unsolicited compliments, severe street harassment is much less common. As a solo female traveler, always remember to dress modestly to respect local customs and reduce unwanted attention, keep your personal belongings safe, and be confident. locals are friendly and often helpful.

Petty crimes:Low

Essaouira is generally considered a safe destination for solo female travelers. Petty crimes, like pickpocketing and purse snatching, do occur, mainly in crowded tourist areas and markets. However, it is not rampant, and a little extra vigilance can go a long way in preventing such incidents. Always keep personal belongings within sight and securely stored. Local people are usually friendly and respectful towards visitors, and the local police are quite responsive.

Tap water:Unsafe

Drinking tap water in Essaouira may not be the most advisable option. While the water is typically chlorinated which kills germs, it may still contain certain bacteria and minerals which may not bode well with your system especially if you're not accustomed. Bottled water is readily available and highly recommended to avoid any potential health issues.

Is Essaouira safe to travel?

3.7 /5

Based on 3 experiences

Solo travel experience

I made a day trip from Marrakech, I hired a driver for the whole day. It was beautiful and really peaceful, and I felt very safe the whole time.

Posted: May 24, 2023
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Is Essaouira safe right now?

Before your visit to Essaouira, it's essential to check travel advisories for Morocco, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States government advises exercising increased caution in Morocco due to terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 13, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Morocco due to the potential threat of terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 5, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution overall in Morocco, due to the threat of terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 11, 2024

Is Essaouira worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.7 /5

based on 3 experiences

Group travel experience

I adored Essaouira. I went there after a group tour with a friend and we stayed there for 3 days. We indulged in massages and hammams every day. It was very affordable and definitely one of the most relaxing cities we visited in Morocco. We stayed at a hotel near the beach, which had a sea view from the balcony.

Posted: December 10, 2022
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I considered Essaouira a good place for a day trip, but I didn't want to stay there longer. I loved the area of the sea wall and the local market there. I also recommend visiting the argan oil cooperative near Essaouira and watching goats climb trees along the road.

Posted: December 10, 2022
Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5
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Safety in Morocco