The Traveling Taylors

When we first traveled to Morocco, we quickly learned that staying safe isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness. Morocco is safe for travelers, but like any destination, it has quirks that can trip you up. Here are 7 common mistakes tourists make in Morocco—and how to avoid them so you can focus on the fun.

1. Accepting “Free” Help in the Medinas

The maze-like medinas in Marrakech or Fes are legendary for getting visitors lost. Locals may offer to “help” guide you—but then demand payment or lead you to their shop. For those moments when you feel cornered or need to draw attention, a small personal safety alarm like this one can give you quick peace of mind.

✅ Fix: If you need help, ask a shopkeeper or head for official tourist info booths. Stick to GPS and well-lit routes after dark.

2. Not Agreeing on Taxi Prices

Many taxi drivers will refuse to turn on the meter, especially in tourist cities. The result? Inflated fares.

✅ Fix: Always ask, “Combien?” (How much?) before getting in. In cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, look for petit taxis—they’re cheaper and meter-based.

3. Flashing Valuables

Tourists wearing flashy jewelry, carrying open bags, or holding the latest iPhone in crowded souks are easy targets for pickpockets. To keep your cash and passport out of sight, consider stashing them in a hidden money belt like this one worn discreetly under your clothes.

✅ Fix: Keep valuables tucked away. Use a crossbody bag with a zipper and carry small amounts of cash. Many travelers prefer a compact crossbody-style fanny pack like this one while exploring busy attractions, bustling streets, and popular tourist destinations because it keeps essentials such as their phone, wallet, passport, and keys secure and easily accessible.

4. Drinking Tap Water

Locals may be fine with it, but most travelers get an upset stomach from Moroccan tap water.

✅ Fix: Stick to bottled or filtered water, and be cautious with ice. Pro tip—carry a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to save money and reduce plastic waste. Many travelers pack a collapsible water bottle like this one that conveniently folds flat when empty, making it easy to carry without taking up valuable bag space.

5. Ignoring Dress Codes

While Morocco is more relaxed than some Muslim countries, modesty still matters. Tourists in short shorts or crop tops can attract unwanted attention, especially in rural areas.

✅ Fix: Cover shoulders and knees. A lightweight scarf is handy for women. Think breezy and modest, not skimpy. Many women travelers recommend a lightweight, breathable, floral scarf like this that is comfortable to wear year-round, easily folds into a compact size for travel, can be styled as a neck scarf, elegant shawl, or sun-protective wrap.

6. Booking Cheap Tours Without Research

That “too good to be true” desert tour? It probably is. Some budget Sahara trips involve unsafe vehicles, poor hygiene, or pushy sales stops.

✅ Fix: Book tours through well-reviewed companies or directly through your riad/hotel. Quality is worth the extra cost.

7. Letting Your Guard Down at Night

Morocco is lively after dark, but wandering medinas alone late at night can leave you vulnerable to scams or harassment. If you plan to be out exploring the nightlife, a rechargeable personal safety alarm like this one is an easy thing to keep clipped within reach.

✅ Fix: Stick to busy, well-lit areas. Walk with others when possible, and keep your route planned in advance.

Stay Safe and Enjoy Morocco

Morocco is safe, but avoiding these 7 common mistakes makes all the difference between stress and an amazing adventure. Keep your wits about you, respect local customs, and use common sense—you’ll quickly discover that Morocco is as welcoming as it is beautiful.