Is It Safe To Travel To Morocco?

Morocco is an established tourist country with a diverse and developing culture, beautiful sceneries, and a historic past. However, in the recent past, there have been issues concerning the safety of tourists visiting this country. Well, is Morocco safe for tourists? Here is a brief look at Morocco’s safety status.

In conclusion, Morocco can be said to be fairly safe for tourists. The crimes against foreigners are not very serious and are infrequent even in major cities and tourist destinations. Picking pockets and getting into people’s pockets through scams is relatively more rampant. Terrorist attacks are rare but have been witnessed occasionally. It is also important to note that there are a few areas around Western Sahara that are off-limits to tourists because of the prevailing political instabilities. Therefore, I conclude that with the right measures in place, Morocco is a perfect holiday destination.

Petty Crime Risks

As is the case with most large tourism destinations, the tourist arriving in Morocco’s cities needs to guard against such common crimes as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and standard scams. Bus and train stations, markets, and tourist attractions are some of the main hotspots for pickpockets, who prey on distracted foreigners. There is little incidence of violent crimes but there have been reports of muggings at knifepoint, especially during the night time.

One should hide his valuables, refrain from flashing them, stay only on the main well-lit streets during the night, and beware of the most common scams. The most common is when locals provide help and then get aggressive when they are asked to be paid, although there are many subtler forms. The best way to deal with such situations is simply to say no to such calls while being polite but firm. One way of reducing chances of being a victim is when in such areas, one needs to be very vigilant.

Terrorism Risk

Yes, the threat of terrorism is present in Morocco but the likelihood of visitors falling victim to terrorism is relatively small. The majority of the terrorist activities in the last 15 years have been low-profile attacks involving the local security forces and structures associated with the Western nations. Random individual attacks with knives have only happened a few times, and again it was against symbols of local government authority, not foreigners or civilians in general.

In 2011, 17 people were killed in a bombing attack at a popular cafe in Marrakech that targeted foreigners. Security was stepped up after the event and therefore a similar raid cannot possibly happen again today. Since then there have not been any major terrorist events and the US and many other governments rate Morocco as having a moderate terrorism risk. By reading through the warnings issued by the government, you will be in a position to assess the prevailing situation when you are planning to go on dates.

Regional Security Concerns

In general, Morocco is quite safe; however, tourists should avoid getting close to the border with Western Sahara, an area which Morocco has a long-standing territorial conflict with. The area has been pushing for autonomy from Moroccan control which has led to some conflict sometimes even lethal. The probability of mass gatherings, demonstrations, violent actions, and social unrest rises on the periphery of Western Sahara.

That contested area is the area close to the borders of Mauritania and in the coastal region extending to the Nouâdhibou peninsula. The people are warned not to go to those areas as the situation is quite volatile. Government advisories can give the latest recommendations on what cities or regions to avoid based on the current spread.

How Safe Is Morocco for Females Travelling Alone?

Altogether, Morocco is a relatively safe country for tourists; however, single women travelers are more susceptible to some dangers. This is due to conservative cultural realizations that make it possible for women to endure more harassment as minor as whistling or as extreme as grabbing, particularly when they are alone. However, dressing conservatively can be effective in minimizing any chances of being approached. Another measure is also refraining from walking in poorly lit deserted places during the night. Taking ride shares, sleeping in public places, and traveling with people when possible are also relevant measures.

However, it is important to note that many women travel solo in Morocco and do so without much incident. It thus helps to follow other ordinary safety measures for instance learning to follow your instinct when you feel unsafe during the trip. Asserting oneself and speaking out when one feels violated helps deter further abuse most of the time. This also gets advice as well as support from the local women’s groups that should be contacted beforehand. Nevertheless, Morocco remains very much open for women travelers and there is no need for extreme caution.

Staying Safe in Morocco

To best experience Morocco's stunning landscapes, renowned hospitality, and crossroads culture means taking some basic precautions

• Put personal belongings like money, passport, or jewelry in a money belt or an inside pocket.
  
• Take an average amount of money for the day’s activities
  
• Do not travel in dark areas or poorly lit streets during the night.
  
• Do not trust people who come to you offering their assistance
  
• Book airport transfers and tours at your accommodation.
  
• Regularly check the government website for travel advisories for terrorism and unrest.
  
• Study the culture and dress modestly
  
• Always utilize the hotel safes, travel in groups or with another person, and rely on the instincts of the feeling one gets deep down in the bones.

Therefore practicing these tips helps one to let go of the discovery across Morocco without worry or concern about the safety aspect. Of course, no place is immune to crime but Morocco has fairly sound tourist facilities and numerous incentives for those who will venture there equipped with knowledge and caution. Subsequently, the chances of becoming a victim remain low provided that people use their common sense. Fear should not be a hindrance to visiting this must-visit place in a lifetime. Approach it with full gear, accept the necessary precautions, and have fun on your Moroccan vacation.

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