Morocco Travel Advice
Morocco, officially known as the Kingdom of Morocco, is located in North Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
It shares land borders with Algeria to the east and Western Sahara to the south, while also being geographically close to Europe, separated by the Strait of Gibraltar.
Morocco has a rich history, influenced by Berber, Arab, and European cultures. It has been a crossroads of civilizations due to its strategic position. Historically, Morocco was home to ancient Berber dynasties, Roman rule, and later Arab conquests, leading to the establishment of Islamic culture. French and Spanish colonial rule in the 20th century also left a significant mark on the country.
Morocco has a diverse economy driven by tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and mining, particularly phosphates, where it holds some of the largest reserves in the world. The country is also investing in renewable energy, particularly solar power. While it is one of the more stable economies in Africa, Morocco still faces challenges like poverty and unemployment.
Visiting Morocco FAQsHire a bodyguard in Morocco
If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Morocco, please see our page for Bodyguard Services in Morocco.
Key Information for Morocco
Emergency Services
Police emergency: 190 or in urban areas 177
Fire emergency: 150
Medical emergency: 150
Country Overview
Capital City: Rabat
Official State Language(s): Arabic (Moroccan Arabic) and Amazigh (Berber)
Official State Religion(s): Islam (Sunni Islam)
State Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Morocco
Morocco is generally considered a safe destination, but there are certain security concerns that travelers should be aware of.
The country faces a moderate threat from terrorism, with terrorist groups potentially targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, and government buildings. Although incidents are rare, the U.S. and UK governments advise exercising increased caution due to the possibility of attacks. Security forces are active in maintaining safety, and Morocco is regarded as relatively stable compared to other countries in the region.
Kidnappings in Morocco are relatively rare compared to other forms of crime, but they do occur, often linked to organized crime or personal disputes. One high-profile case involved the kidnapping of a man in Meknes in 2023, where a group of six women and a man were convicted of kidnapping, violence, and ransom demands. Such incidents typically involve personal or financial motives, rather than political or terrorist-related causes.
Kidnappings targeting foreigners are extremely rare, and most reported cases involve local disputes or organized crime groups. As always, it is important to remain vigilant, especially in less touristy areas.
Travelers should also respect local laws and customs, as Morocco is a predominantly Islamic country with strict laws regarding behavior, public displays of affection, and alcohol consumption. Public expressions of affection, particularly near religious sites, and sexual activity outside of marriage can result in legal consequences. For more information on Islamic culture, please see: Guide to Islamic culture.
Overall, Morocco remains a popular tourist destination with the right precautions in place, and visitors can generally enjoy a safe trip by staying informed and following local advice.
Visiting Morocco FAQsHealth Emergencies in Morocco
Health emergencies in Morocco can arise from a variety of factors, including environmental conditions, infectious diseases, and gaps in healthcare access. Some key concerns include:
Infectious Diseases: Morocco is relatively low-risk for many tropical diseases, but travelers should still be cautious about diseases like Hepatitis A, which can be contracted through contaminated food or water. Typhoid fever is also a concern in rural areas. Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, is present in some regions, particularly in rural areas.
Food and Water Safety: While Morocco’s larger cities typically have good sanitary standards, foodborne illnesses such as diarrhea can be an issue for travelers. Tap water is generally not safe to drink in rural areas, so bottled or treated water is recommended. Schistosomiasis, a waterborne parasitic infection, can be contracted by swimming in contaminated freshwater.
Access to Healthcare: Morocco has both public and private healthcare sectors. While major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech have well-equipped hospitals and clinics, rural areas may have limited access to healthcare services and advanced medical care. Health emergencies in these regions could face delays in response due to insufficient infrastructure.
Travelers are encouraged to consult a healthcare provider before visiting Morocco to ensure that they have the appropriate vaccinations and understand the health risks associated with their travel plans. Additionally, having adequate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended.
Key Security Issues
Political protests in Morocco have been frequent, particularly in response to economic hardships and government policies. One of the major triggers for protests in recent years has been the rising cost of living. In 2023, demonstrations took place in cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Marrakech, where protestors voiced frustration over soaring food prices and economic inequality. These protests were largely organized by left-wing parties and trade unions, such as the Confédération Démocratique du Travail (CDT), and have been fueled by a sharp increase in inflation, especially during periods like Ramadan when consumption is higher.
Though the protests are typically peaceful, tensions with authorities sometimes result in minor clashes. Economic issues remain a central cause of discontent, as Morocco has faced inflationary pressures, with food prices seeing significant spikes. Despite the government's efforts to stabilize the economy, such as raising the minimum wage and adjusting the central bank's key interest rate, many Moroccans still feel the pinch of rising costs.
Additionally, protests have also been held in solidarity with international causes, such as those supporting Palestinians, further highlighting the political awareness and activism within the population.
Crime in Morocco
Morocco is generally considered a safe country for both tourists and residents, but like many other countries, it has its share of crime, primarily concentrated in urban areas. Most crimes reported in Morocco are non-violent and petty in nature, though more serious offenses can occur.
Petty Crime:
Petty theft, including pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and scams, is common, especially in busy tourist areas like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fez. Tourists are often targeted in crowded spaces such as markets (souks), train stations, and around major attractions as well as ATMs.
Scams may include overcharging or providing low-quality goods or services, particularly in markets or when dealing with unlicensed guides.
Violent Crime:
Violent crimes, such as muggings or assaults, are relatively rare in Morocco, but they do occur, particularly in larger cities after dark. Tourists are generally less likely to encounter violent crime but should avoid poorly lit areas and exercise caution when walking alone at night.
Drug-Related Crime:
Drug trafficking, particularly of hashish, is an issue in Morocco, as the country is one of the world’s largest producers of cannabis. However, tourists are advised to avoid any involvement in the drug trade, as drug laws are strictly enforced and carry severe penalties.
The Moroccan government actively works to ensure safety and security, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. Travelers are encouraged to follow local advice and stay vigilant, especially in crowded places.
Global Travel AdvisoriesFAQs for visiting Morocco
You can find the following embassies in Morocco for the US and UK:
U.S. Embassy Rabat
Km 5.7, Avenue Mohamed VI,
Souissi,
Rabat,
10170,
Morocco
Telephone: +212 5376 37200 (Rabat)
Telephone: +212 5222 64550 (Casablanca)
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +212 6611 31939
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
28 Avenue S.A.R. Sidi Mohamed,
Rabat,
10105,
Morocco
Telephone: +212 5376 33333
Email: [email protected]
Visa requirements for visiting Morocco depend on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Here's an overview:
Visa-Exempt Countries:
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and several others, can visit Morocco without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. Travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Visa-Required Countries:
Nationals from countries that are not visa-exempt must apply for a visa before traveling to Morocco. The process can be done at a Moroccan embassy or consulate. The visa is typically valid for 90 days.
Work, Study, or Long-Term Visas:
If you plan to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-term visa. These are specific to the purpose of your stay, such as a work visa or student visa. Additional documentation may be required, including proof of employment or admission to a Moroccan institution.
eVisa for Select Countries:
Morocco introduced an eVisa system for some nationalities to simplify the visa application process. Visitors from eligible countries can apply for a visa online.
Border officials have the right to ask for:
Your contact details
Your onward or return travel tickets
Proof of a hotel booking or other accommodation details
For the most up-to-date information, it's recommended to check with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Moroccan consulate, as visa policies can change. You can also find more information on Morocco's official consular websites.
In recent years, Morocco has largely avoided major terrorist attacks due to its proactive counterterrorism measures, but it continues to face threats from extremist groups.
The Moroccan government has been successful in dismantling several terror cells and arresting individuals with links to groups like ISIS. For example, in 2024, Moroccan authorities arrested a radical ideologue suspected of planning terrorist attacks in the country, underscoring ongoing efforts to neutralize potential threats.
While Morocco remains vigilant, especially in urban and tourist areas, it ranks as one of the safer countries in the region when it comes to terrorism, as indicated by the Global Terrorism Index. The government has invested heavily in counterterrorism operations and international cooperation to keep the risks minimal.
The biggest concerns come from isolated incidents linked to extremist ideologies, but these have been swiftly dealt with by Moroccan security forces. Travelers are generally safe, though it is always advised to stay informed and aware of local conditions.
Before visiting Morocco, it's essential to ensure you're up to date on several vaccinations and immunizations to protect against potential health risks. Here are the recommended vaccines:
Routine Vaccinations: Make sure you're up to date on standard vaccines, including:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Influenza
Hepatitis A: This is recommended for all travelers, as you can contract Hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Morocco.
Hepatitis B: If you plan to have close contact with local residents or engage in activities that may expose you to bodily fluids, such as healthcare work, this vaccine is recommended.
Typhoid: Particularly advised if you're traveling to rural areas or eating outside of major tourist hubs where food hygiene may be less regulated.
Rabies: While not common in urban centers, rabies vaccination is recommended if you plan to engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, or if you expect to be in close contact with animals.
It's always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to ensure you're fully protected based on your specific health history and travel itinerary.
Public Transportation in Morocco
Morocco offers various public transportation options, particularly in its larger cities and between major destinations:
Buses: Public buses are available in most cities and are a budget-friendly way to travel. In major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, buses run regularly, though they can be crowded. For intercity travel, private companies like CTM and Supratours offer reliable bus services connecting cities and towns.
Trains: Morocco has an efficient rail network operated by the ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer). Trains connect major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, Tangier, and Marrakech. The Al Boraq high-speed train between Tangier and Casablanca is one of the fastest ways to travel between these cities.
Taxis:
- Petits Taxis: Small taxis used for short trips within cities. They are metered, and the fare is generally affordable.
- Grands Taxis: Larger shared taxis used for longer trips between cities or to more rural areas. They operate without meters, so fares are usually negotiated beforehand.
Ride-Hailing: Ride-hailing services like Careem (owned by Uber) are available in major cities and provide a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
Driving in Morocco with a Foreign License
If you wish to drive in Morocco, you can use your foreign driving license for up to one year from your date of entry. After this period, you will need to obtain a Moroccan driving license. It’s also recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your home license for ease, especially if your license is not in French or Arabic.
Morocco has a good network of highways, especially between major cities, but road conditions in rural areas can be more variable. Be cautious when driving in cities, as traffic can be chaotic, and road signs may not always be in English.
Road Conditions in Morocco
Urban Areas:
In major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, road conditions are generally good, with well-maintained streets, highways, and clear signage. Roads in urban centers are paved and equipped with traffic signals, although traffic congestion, especially in cities like Casablanca, can be a challenge. While the main streets are in good shape, smaller, older streets may be narrow and less maintained. Traffic can be chaotic, and drivers need to be aware of aggressive driving, frequent lane changes, and pedestrians crossing unexpectedly.
Traffic: Urban areas can experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours.
Parking: Finding parking in the city center can be difficult, and many urban areas rely on paid parking lots or street parking, with attendants offering paid assistance.
Rural Areas:
Road conditions in rural Morocco are more variable. Major roads connecting cities and regions are generally well-maintained, but secondary and remote roads can be narrower, poorly paved, or even unpaved. Mountainous areas, like those near the Atlas Mountains, have winding, steep roads, and conditions can become hazardous during bad weather, such as heavy rains or snow in winter.
Potholes and road damage: Some rural roads may have potholes or be affected by erosion, making driving slower and more challenging.
Lighting: Rural roads often lack proper lighting, making night driving more dangerous.
Hazards: Drivers may encounter livestock, slow-moving vehicles, and pedestrians on rural roads. Flooding can also be a problem in certain regions after heavy rain.
While Morocco’s road network is improving, drivers should remain cautious, especially in rural and mountainous areas, and consider using a 4x4 vehicle for more remote regions.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in Morocco, please contact our London office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
330 High Holborn
WC1V 7QT
London
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 207 4566740
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Morocco is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.