Morocco is a country full of enchanting sights. From sand dunes and stunning mountains to vibrant souks, it’s a destination that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
Despite this, Morocco is also home to a lot of trouble areas that a solo female traveler should avoid. Luckily, we’ve put together some tips to help you stay safe while exploring Morocco as a solo female traveler!
1. Safe Cities
Morocco is a beautiful country, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges for solo travel females. You’ll need to be aware of some cultural differences and societal norms, and you may experience some frustrations along the way. But as long as you are careful and take precautions, Morocco is an ideal destination for a solo female traveler.
A great way to make sure you’re safe during your trip is to get a good travel insurance policy. You can find affordable and flexible options to suit your needs online.
The best thing you can do for safety when travelling in Morocco is to be aware of your surroundings, and don’t be afraid to speak up if someone approaches you. For example, if you’re in a café and someone asks you for tea or wants to read you a letter, don’t give them what they want out of politeness. It’s not worth it and you might end up with an unwanted henna design or getting ripped off by an unscrupulous vendor.
Another great tip for safety is to take care when crossing the roads. Some drivers will try to rip you off, so you need to be aware of this and not be afraid to haggle.
If you’re staying in a riad or other accommodation, make sure to lock your room door. This can be a bit tricky in Morocco, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
You’ll also need to be aware of aggressive salesmen who will try to entice you into buying something. They’re usually persistent and can be annoying – so be firm about your boundaries and tell them no!
2. The High Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains are a world-renowned area for trekking, hiking and exploring the natural beauty of North Africa. Here, you’ll find stunning mountain scenery, Berber villages, ruined Kasbahs and more.
From spring to autumn, these peaks are a hiker’s paradise. Known locally as ‘Idraren Draren’, or ‘Mountains of Mountains’, the High Atlas runs diagonally across Morocco and is home to the mighty Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4,167 meters (15,200 feet).
Hiking isn’t just for tourists: locals take their children on adventures through the mountainous landscapes every year. You can also visit small Berber villages, where life is still largely traditional. In fact, many women in these villages tend the fields and shepherd their flocks around the clock – making them an easy way to get a taste of life in Morocco’s rural regions without ever leaving your hotel.
There are so many ways to experience the High Atlas Mountains, from guided tours to day trips to camping in a tent. You can even join a Berber family for a day, learning to make bread, cook a meal or create pottery from red-brown clay.
For a truly unforgettable adventure, try the High Atlas’s most famous trek: Mount Toubkal. The trek is non-technical but scree slopes and altitude can make it challenging, so it’s best to start in the town of Imlil (just 90km south of Marrakech) before tackling a two-day hike to the top.
If you’re planning a trip to the High Atlas Mountains, be sure to book well in advance and avoid visiting during Ramadan. This is a time of fasting and prayers for Muslims, so shops might shut down or have shorter hours.
3. The Old Medinas
The old Medinas in Morocco are dizzying marketplace mazes with stalls selling spices, clothing, rugs, food, and more. If you visit these historic cities like Marrakech or Fez, you’ll want to spend at least a day strolling through these labyrinths of narrow streets and alleyways.
While these markets can be an amazing way to experience Moroccan culture, they can also be a bit confusing for first-time visitors. You can easily get lost and end up in a dark alley alone, so it’s best to stay with other tourists or stick to the main tourist attractions.
Aside from the market stalls, the Old Medinas in Morocco are great places to explore the local culture. You can find mosques, hammams, and traditional homes that offer in-house dining and cooking classes (click here for options).
If you’re a fan of walking and exploring new cultures, the Old Medinas are a must-see on your solo trip to Morocco. They’re incredibly photogenic and can make any city feel authentically Moroccan.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the roads in these medieval cities don’t allow cars. This means that you’ll need to take public transportation or a Grand Taxi.
In addition, keep in mind that many of the street vendors in the Medinas sleep under their stalls at night. This can be scary if you’re wandering the Medina by yourself in the middle of the night, as there may be an increased chance of being followed or scammed.
Despite all of the issues and challenges that come with traveling as a woman in Morocco, it’s still very doable and safe. Just remember to keep your wits about you, be respectful of others and respect the culture, and to always keep an open mind.
4. Grand Taxis
Morocco is a gorgeous country with limitless wonders to explore. Whether you’re looking for ancient wonders or a more cosmopolitan culture, it’s a place where every kind of traveller can find something to love.
Solo travellers can choose to visit a riad, which are beautifully preserved Moroccan buildings that are usually run by a local family, or stay in budget accommodation in the old Medinas. Both are a great way to experience the authentic Moroccan atmosphere and meet fellow travellers.
Another option is to book a tour through G Adventures, Intrepid or Travel Talk. These companies specialise in responsible tourism and have a wide range of activities and tours suitable for solo female travellers.
If you’re not feeling up to trekking the High Atlas Mountains, there are plenty of other things to do in Morocco, like exploring its many historic towns or relaxing on pristine beaches. But before you head out, it’s important to plan your trip properly so you can avoid any potential hassles or safety concerns.
One of the best ways to get around Morocco is to use public transport, such as buses or trains. The country has an extensive world-class rail service that connects most of its major cities, including Tangier, Marrakech, Rabat and Casablanca.
The national bus service is another cheap and reliable option for getting around, especially if you’re staying in a large city. But it’s not the easiest way to get around, as you’ll need to navigate a complex system of bus schedules.
If you don’t want to take the train or bus, you can also catch a taxi. However, it’s important to remember that taxis aren’t always safe for solo travel females, so don’t get too comfortable and be careful.
5. The Beaches
Morocco is an incredible country full of diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, and cosmopolitan delights. It’s a dream destination for any traveler, and as a solo travel female, you can really make it your own!
One of the most popular destinations for solo travelers is Casablanca, a coastal cosmopolitan hub that’s home to the Hassan II Mosque and Rick’s Cafe. This city has a fusion of Moroccan and European architecture, and it’s famous for its beautiful beaches and fantastic eateries.
Another great choice for a beach break is Essaouira, a laid-back port town and resort with a boho vibe that’s perfect for chilling out, shopping the walled Medina, and relaxing at a Moroccan hammam. Its incredible market stalls, art galleries, and boutiques will leave you spoilt for choices.
It’s important to keep in mind that Morocco is a Muslim country, so you should cover up your shoulders and knees at all times, especially in public areas. It’s also a good idea to avoid tank tops and short skirts, as they may draw unwanted attention.
The other thing to remember is that it’s a developing country and you may encounter disadvantaged, homeless people or beggars on your travels. Be respectful of their cultural values, and don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself if someone is being pushy or trying to take advantage of you.
Hopefully these tips have helped you plan your Morocco trip and stay safe while enjoying yourself! If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, please reach out in the comments! We’re always happy to help! And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook! We’d love to see your photos!