Is Marrakesh Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Marrakesh is a fascinating city with much to explore. However, being a solo female traveler, it's crucial to note that there can be instances of harassment like stares, comments and catcalls, especially in crowded areas such as markets. While typically nonviolent, these can still be unnerving. Dressing modestly by local standards and avoiding secluded places at night can help reduce any unwanted attention. It is also advised to stay in reliable accommodations and use registered taxis for transportation. As always, keeping family and friends updated about your whereabouts is a good idea.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

Marrakesh has relatively moderate safety measures in place, especially for tourists. However, some areas might be better avoided at night, especially if one is alone. While it's largely safe, precautionary mesaures should be taken when traveling after dark. It's always safer to travel in groups or stay in crowded areas. Petty crime can occur, but violent crime is quite rare. It's recommended to use common sense and follow local guidance to stay safe.

Public transportation:Moderate

Overall, Marrakesh provides a reasonable public transportation infrastructure with the primary choices being city buses and taxis. As a solo female traveler, it's very important to be vigilant, especially while using buses as they can get crowded and there may be pickpockets. Taxis are generally safe, but make sure you ask them to run the meter or agree on the price beforehand to avoid overpricing. Moreover, it is recommended to avoid travelling alone at night. Everybody's experience can be different, so it's always a good idea to exercise usual precautions while traveling.

Street harassment:High

In Marrakesh, it's not uncommon for solo female travelers to experience street harassment in varying degrees. This can range from catcalling to aggressive touting. However, it's important to remember that this does not reflect everybody or every area. Some areas, such as the Medina, can be notorious for such behavior. Wearing modest clothing can help avoid unwanted attention and pair with a group when possible. Respectfully assertive responses can also be effective in these situations. A good general rule is to be aware of your surroundings and ensure someone trustworthy knows where you are going.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Marrakesh, like many major cities, experiences its share of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse-snatching, particularly in crowded tourist areas and markets. Yet, it's worth noting that most visits are trouble-free. However, it's essential to stay vigilant at all times, secure your belonging, and avoid flashing expensive items in public. Scams and aggressive selling are also common, but are avoidable by being firm and not engaging with unsolicited guides or sellers.

Tap water:Unsafe

While Moroccan tap water is generally considered safe to drink in many cities, water in Marrakesh may have different minerals and organisms than you’re used to, which can potentially lead to stomach upset. Even some locals prefer to drink bottled water. To prevent any possible health issues, it may be best to stick to bottled or filtered water, just as a precaution.

Is Marrakesh safe to travel?

3.6 /5

Based on 46 experiences

Solo travel experience

I was on a solo trip in Marrakesh and stayed in Riad. Joined some day trips via GetYourGuide and Viator. I felt very safe, the people were absolutely wonderful, and I’d definitely recommend visiting. Such a beautiful place.

Posted: February 6, 2024
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Ronja

Ronja

Finland

Group travel experience

Marrakesh felt a little unsafe as a woman. Especially in Medina all the salesmen wanted our attention and called after us. So be prepared for that. However, the cheapest food we found was in Medina and Place Jemaa el fna. It helps if you know the language or walk with a man and it was more calm outside Medina. Otherwise everyone was really nice and helpful. They also charge tourist a lot more for taxi than locals so try to get to know the real prices and bargain. After all Marrakesh is full of different interesting places to visit and I really recommend you to go.

Posted: January 12, 2024
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Solo travel experience

The city is exciting, safe, and affordable. The people are amazing and polite. I felt safe as a woman: men might try to flirt with you, but they stop if you don't respond. My advice: - Haggle, they expect it - Don't wear heels, the streets are narrow - Instead of a chain hotel, try staying in a riad (a Moroccan house turned into accommodation): it's nicer and more authentic - Don't take directions from people on the streets: many will guide you, but then ask for payment - Too few ATMs and a big difference in charges

Posted: January 1, 2024
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Group travel experience

I went with two friends and I would not recommend going solo. Some parts were okay, more touristy places like the Saint Laurent house because there are armed guards stationed there. The markets did not seem safe at all, lots of intrusive people staring. We did not go out after dark, as the hotel advised not to do this. Marrakech is my least favorite place to visit, but this stems from differences in moral values that I encounter in many places.

Posted: December 23, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I traveled alone to Marrakech and I do not recommend traveling alone, not because it's not safe, but because it's not fun when you are constantly being followed, harassed, and insulted, being alone.

Posted: December 22, 2023
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Solo travel experience

Marrakech is usually safe. However, there are pickpockets, so you have to be careful. In the Medina you will find people who will try to mislead you about the location of the main square and so on. Google Maps are very accurate, so buy a SIM card at the airport upon arrival and use data for navigation. Some kids will also tell you that roads are "closed" to non-Muslims and will try to propose an alternative route to your Riad, hoping that you will give them money. This can be quite tense, but not dangerous (though very annoying and you might feel uncomfortable). Don't drink the water and don't overly trust the local people, even those working at your hotel/Riad. On the plus side, the Medina is beautiful, shop owners really don't try to sell you anything and won't talk to you unless you talk to them first. In the market, people will shout prices, but they won't follow you. During the day, I didn't feel harassed at all. The food is great, but read reviews to make sure hygiene standards are high, as you can get food poisoning.

Posted: December 20, 2023
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Group travel experience

Marrakech was tough. The only times when we weren't pestered (despite our very modest dress) was when we were booking guides for a walking tour and culinary tours. Otherwise, the constant problem was the indecent comments and unwanted touches. Apart from one attempt at pickpocketing, it wasn't necessarily a dangerous situation, just tiring. Overall, I don't regret it because there were plenty of amazing things to do, but as a solo woman, you need to be prepared.

Posted: December 18, 2023
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Couple travel experience

I was there with my boyfriend and I recommend dressing appropriately. It's best to avoid walking through the winding streets of the medina after dark. During the day, I felt a bit besieged and annoyed by people trying to approach us and falsely claiming that the museum is closed (when it was actually open) and urging us to follow them. Although the statistics say it's quite safe, the men's stares and sometimes inappropriate comments can be unsettling.

Posted: October 31, 2023
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Couple travel experience

I didn't feel very unsafe, but the constant harassment and bother were exhausting. I was modestly dressed, spoke French, and was with a male partner. We had a day trip to Essaouira, which was charming, and people outside of Marrakech were much nicer. I regret not spending the whole trip outside of the capital.

Posted: October 14, 2023
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Solo travel experience

Marrakech was overwhelming. I stayed in a riad in the medina, an oasis of calm, but horrible to walk around after dark. I ended up in Gueliz, a short taxi ride from there. I could have a glass of wine, relax, shop in modern stores and have a bit of respite before returning to the chaos. I felt safe in Gueliz, somewhat less so in the medina.

Posted: October 11, 2023
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Is Marrakesh safe for women?

Is Marrakesh safe right now?

Before your visit to Marrakesh, 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 Marrakesh worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.1 /5

based on 46 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

3.6/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

4.1/5

Solo travel experience

Had a great time in Marrakech, the food is unrivalled and staying in the Medina you are close to everything you could ever want. I used the taxis with no problem too. Have been to Marrakech 4 times now

Posted: March 3, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I really enjoed the experience. Food is good and cheap. The views are incredible. The onlybthing is that in the Medina, being a solo female, you uave to know that a lot of guys will talk to you, a lot. Sadly you have to get used to that. Anyways, people arr kind and open to help if needed

Posted: January 7, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
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