Is Morocco Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Yes, Morocco is safe for solo female travellers, but with awareness. This country is full of color, warmth, and unforgettable moments. Some cities may feel overwhelming at first, but many offer life-changing joy. With confidence and smart choices, Morocco can gift you memories that last forever.
1. Chefchaouen – The Blue City of Calm and Peace
The moment I walked into Chefchaouen, I felt like I had entered a dream. Every building was painted a peaceful shade of blue. I wandered without maps, stopped for mint tea, and watched local kids play football in the square.
That night, I sat on a rooftop under a sky full of stars, completely calm, completely alive. I stayed at Casa Perleta, where the staff treated me like family, and breakfast was served with mountain views. The whole place felt like a gentle hug.
2. Sahara Desert (Merzouga) – Silence That Speaks to the Soul
Riding a camel into the dunes felt unreal. The world turned gold at sunset, and by night, we danced under the stars with Berber music around a fire. I lay down on the sand and looked up, it was the first time I felt so small and so full at once. The silence of the desert speaks if you listen. I booked through a local guide who made sure everything was safe and respectful. Our tent camp was simple, but clean and full of heart.
3. Essaouira – Sea Wind, Art, and Soul
In Essaouira, the sea breeze felt like a gentle friend. I watched fishermen unload boats, wandered calm medina alleys, and bought a silver ring from a woman who had handmade it while singing. Sunset on the beach with soft music in the background made me cry in a good way. The beach wasn’t crowded, and surfers rode the waves like poetry. I stayed at Salut Maroc! bold colors, rooftop ocean views, and a café I never wanted to leave.
4. Fes – Getting Lost in Time and Tradition
Fes was a maze, but I loved it. The tannery workers smiled as I peeked over their dye pits. I bought handmade notebooks and learned to make couscous in a family home. Every corner smelled like spices or bread.
I got lost and found myself smiling every time. I stayed at Riad Laaroussa, where every room looked like a painting, and the rooftop breakfast became my favorite ritual.
5. Marrakech – The Dance of Senses and Spirit
Marrakech was alive, noisy, bright, full of life. I ate dates from market stalls, took a rooftop cooking class, and watched the sun set over Jemaa el-Fnaa with drums playing below.
I was nervous at first, but soon I felt the rhythm, like I was part of a dance. I stayed at Riad BE Marrakech, and its pool courtyard and colorful tiles became my peaceful corner in the buzz.
6. Aït Benhaddou – Where Time Pauses and Echoes
I walked alone through clay alleys in this ancient village, touching walls older than memory. A man offered me tea and told stories of movies filmed there.
The sun hit the buildings just right, and everything turned golden. That was the moment I felt Morocco’s soul timeless. The simplicity of my guesthouse made me feel close to the land.
7. Tangier – Sea, Silence, and Soft Connection
Tangier surprised me. I sat in Café Hafa sipping mint tea, watching waves crash below. An older woman selling bracelets smiled at me, and we shared oranges. The view, the quiet, and the kindness felt like a soft hand on my shoulder. It made me feel seen. I stayed at Dar Nour, a little place with the most stunning view of the sea.
8. Atlas Mountains – Peace, Peaks, and Pure Air
I hiked near Imlil, with crisp air and snow-capped views. My guide taught me words in Berber, and we stopped to drink tea with his aunt. There were no cars, no noise, just the sound of goats and wind. My heart felt light, like I could carry anything. I stayed at Douar Samra, a simple eco-lodge surrounded by apple trees and honesty.
9. Ouzoud Waterfalls – Joy That Flows Like Water
After a bumpy ride, I reached the falls. The air was cool and wet. I took off my shoes and walked into the stream. Monkeys played above me in the trees. I laughed out loud, all alone, with joy I hadn’t felt in years. Local food stands served fresh tagine, and I found a small guesthouse run by a kind family who made me feel at home.
10. Casablanca – Finding Quiet and Grace in the City
I didn’t expect much from Casablanca, but the Hassan II Mosque changed that. Standing by the ocean, watching waves crash next to the giant minaret, I felt stillness. I sat there for an hour with local families nearby, all of us sharing silence, and somehow connection. My hotel was near the mosque and surprisingly affordable. I loved the mix of modern life and sacred space.
Morocco isn’t perfect. It’s loud, warm, confusing, and breathtaking. But for me, these places gave not just moments, they gave something back to my spirit. If you go with openness and care, Morocco will welcome you with magic and memories you’ll carry forever.
Why Morocco Has Both Challenges and Magic
From the Eyes of a Solo Female Traveler, When I first thought of visiting Morocco, I was excited by the idea of colorful souks, quiet desert nights, and ancient cities full of history. But I was also nervous.
I had read mixed reviews, especially as a woman traveling alone. Now, after weeks spent across the country, I can tell you honestly, Morocco is both challenging and magical. Some places will test your patience, others will fill your heart. Here’s what I experienced:
Marrakech – Bold, Busy, and Unforgettable
The Magic:
From the moment I arrived at Jemaa el-Fnaa, I felt the energy of Marrakech. Snake charmers, juice stalls, musicians, and food vendors created a rhythm I’d never experienced before. I watched the sunset from a rooftop café while sipping mint tea, the call to prayer echoing in the background, and it felt like time had stopped.
The Challenge:
Marrakech was also the place where I felt the most overwhelmed. I was approached often while walking alone, sometimes too closely. A few sellers insisted I follow them. I learned quickly to walk confidently, say “no, thank you” clearly, and stay near well-lit areas. Once I adjusted, I could enjoy the city more safely.
Fes – Ancient Beauty with Twists and Turns
The Magic:
Fes took me back in time. The Fes el-Bali medina is one of the world’s oldest and largest car-free urban zones. Wandering its alleys was like exploring a living museum. I watched artisans dye leather in the Chouara Tannery and sipped tea in a courtyard surrounded by hand-carved wood and tiles.
The Challenge:
It’s very easy to get lost in Fes, and some people try to take advantage of that. Several men offered to “help” and later demanded tips. I had to stay firm and politely refuse. Having an offline map saved me more than once.
Chefchaouen – The Blue Pearl of Peace
The Magic:
This little town stole my heart. The blue-painted buildings, the relaxed vibe, and the friendliness of the locals made me feel safe and calm. I met two other solo travellers on a mountain hike to Ras El Maa waterfall, and we ended the day eating couscous in a family-run restaurant. I felt like I had space to breathe.
The Challenge:
Almost none. Chefchaouen is quiet and gentle, a good place to recharge.
Merzouga & The Sahara – A Dream in the Dunes
The Magic:
Riding a camel into the dunes at sunset felt like a scene from a movie. The sand turned golden, the air cooled, and we reached our desert camp just in time to see the stars come alive. That night, we sat around a fire, shared stories, and listened to Berber music. It was healing.
The Challenge:
The desert is remote, so it’s important to go with a trusted guide. I booked through a women-friendly agency. The guides were respectful, the food was great, and safety was never a concern.
Casablanca – A Mix of Old and New
The Magic:
The Hassan II Mosque was one of the most stunning buildings I’ve ever seen. I loved walking along the coast in the early morning before the city fully woke up.
The Challenge:
Casablanca didn’t feel as warm or friendly as other places. I kept my time short, stuck to known areas, and avoided venturing far after dark. It’s worth a quick visit but not a long solo stay.
Essaouira – Sea Breeze and Soulful Vibes
The Magic:
This coastal town was one of my favorites. The port is alive with fishermen bringing in fresh catch, the beach is perfect for long walks, and the medina has a calm, artistic feel. I bought handmade jewelry from a woman artisan and spent a quiet evening watching waves crash from my riad window.
The Challenge:
It’s much more relaxed than other cities, though still watch out for street vendors being a little persistent.
Tangier – Gateway Between Worlds
The Magic:
Tangier had an old-world feel with European touches. I visited the Kasbah Museum, sat in Café Hafa with mint tea overlooking the sea, and explored the white-washed alleys. It felt like a bridge between Africa and Europe.
The Challenge:
Tangier was fine during the day, but I avoided the beach area after dark as I had read several reports of petty theft.
Aït Benhaddou – Ancient Walls and Quiet Sunsets
The Magic:
I felt like I had walked into history. This UNESCO site looks like a movie set and actually is! I met a kind man who invited me for tea and told me stories about growing up there. I watched the sun set behind the clay buildings, feeling completely at peace.
The Challenge:
It’s remote, so plan well. There are few solo travelers here, but locals were respectful and welcoming.
If you’re wondering why I say Morocco has both challenges and magic, it’s because I saw both. I felt deep joy, but I also stayed alert. I learned how to say no, how to trust my instincts, and how to let go and enjoy when things felt right.
Would I go again? Yes, absolutely. But I’d pack confidence, curiosity, and common sense in equal parts. Morocco rewards the mindful traveler with color, kindness, and stories that stay with you long after you leave.
Real Crime Incidents in Morocco That Every Solo Female Traveller Should Know
1. 2018 Tragedy in the Atlas Mountains
In December 2018, two Scandinavian women, Louisa Jespersen from Denmark and Maren Ueland from Norway, were brutally murdered near Imlil, a hiking destination in the Atlas Mountains. The attackers were influenced by extremist ideology. Authorities responded quickly, and the criminals were caught and sentenced to death. This tragic case drew global attention and led to tighter security in the region.
2. 2024 Rabat Gang Violence
In November 2024, a gang operating in Rabat was convicted of multiple violent assaults and sentenced to a total of 26 years in prison. While these attacks were not targeted at tourists, they remind travellers to stay in well-lit, busy areas, especially after dark.
3. UK Fugitive Arrested in 2025
In early 2025, Moroccan authorities arrested Alex Male, who was wanted in the UK for drug trafficking and money laundering. His arrest showed Morocco’s strong cooperation with international law enforcement, but also highlighted that crime syndicates can cross borders.
4. British Tourist Detained Over Medical Bill
In February 2025, a British tourist suffered a heart attack in Marrakesh. After life-saving treatment, she was unable to pay a large hospital bill and was reportedly held in the hospital until the matter was resolved. This story underscores the importance of having good travel insurance when visiting Morocco.
5. Terror Cell Dismantled in 2025
Moroccan authorities successfully dismantled an Islamic State (ISIS)-linked terror cell in early 2025. The group had plans to carry out attacks and was found in possession of weapons and explosives. This shows ongoing efforts by the Moroccan government to maintain national security.
Why We’re Talking About These Cases?
It’s not to scare you. It’s to prepare you. Talking about real incidents is not about creating fear, it’s about staying informed. As a solo traveller, awareness is your strongest tool.
Knowing what has happened in the past can help you stay cautious, make better choices, and enjoy your journey more confidently. Morocco is full of beauty and kind people, but like anywhere, being alert helps you stay safe.
Smart Safety Tips for Women Exploring Morocco Solo
- Stay Updated: Follow your country’s official travel advisories.
- Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees to respect local culture.
- Choose Central Accommodations: Stay in busy, well-reviewed hotels or riads.
- Avoid Isolated Places at Night: Especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Be Cautious in Crowded Areas: Like medinas and markets, where pickpocketing is possible.
- Keep Someone Informed: Share your itinerary with friends or family.
- Use Licensed Guides: Especially for excursions and city tours.
- Learn a Few Arabic or French Phrases: It shows respect and can be helpful.
Final Thoughts
Every country has two sides, its beauty and its challenges. Morocco is no different. The joy of wandering through colorful souks, sipping mint tea on a rooftop, or watching the stars in the Sahara can be life-changing.
But being aware of possible risks and taking steps to stay safe is part of being a smart traveller. Don’t let fear stop you; let awareness guide you. Travel with your eyes open and your heart ready. Morocco, with all its color and complexity, is waiting for you.
