Morocco has easily been one of the most awe-inspiring countries I’ve visited so far. From cascading waterfalls like Ouzoud Falls and the majestic High Atlas Mountains to ancient sites like Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco felt like a chapter out of a storybook. But before I wandered through medinas and desert dunes, I had one big question on my mind: Is Morocco safe for female travelers?
As someone who’s journeyed solo through five continents, safety is always at the forefront for me. Here’s what I discovered, with honest tips for anyone—especially women—planning their Moroccan adventure.
Is Morocco Safe for Women to Travel?
In general, yes—Morocco is safe for female travelers, especially when compared to other global destinations. Personally, I’ve felt more uneasy in parts of the US or even Europe than I did in Morocco. That said, traveling as a woman—especially solo—means being prepared, aware, and sometimes a little extra assertive.
Most of the discomfort I felt came from persistent street vendors or kids begging for money. While it wasn’t dangerous, it could definitely feel overwhelming. That’s why working with a trusted Morocco tourism agency or booking a private Morocco tour can be a game changer—it allows you to explore with peace of mind and local insight.
Times I Felt Uncomfortable in Morocco
There were a couple of moments during my Morocco travels that felt a bit tense. One instance involved kids standing in the middle of the road trying to stop our car and knock on the windows asking for money. It was startling, but not unsafe—just something to be aware of, especially if you’re planning to rent a car.
More commonly, the discomfort came from street vendors being overly aggressive. They’d follow you around, try to lead you to a shop, or pressure you to buy. I learned fast: a firm, unapologetic “no” and walking away without eye contact worked best.
What Women Typically Wear in Morocco
I’d like to preface this by saying I’m a white, non-binary traveler who reads as a woman, so that’s the lens through which I experienced Morocco. And while gender expression and safety are deeply personal, here’s what I observed:
In Morocco, most local women wear modest clothing—often a hijab or headscarf, and loose-fitting outfits that cover their arms and legs. But this isn’t a legal requirement. It’s a cultural and often religious choice. Foreign women aren’t expected to wear a hijab, but modest dressing helps you blend in and avoid unnecessary attention.
For me, that meant packing:
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Light, breathable pants
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T-shirts and long-sleeves (no crop tops)
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A scarf (super versatile for sun or shoulder coverage)
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A lightweight jacket for cooler nights
I rarely wore a bra unless I was hiking, and that felt fine most of the time. If you’re someone who also prefers the “free the nip” lifestyle, I recommend bringing a soft, breathable bra just in case you feel like covering up more.
Can Women Wear Shorts in Morocco?
Technically yes, but you’ll stand out. I did see a few tourists in shorts or body-hugging dresses, especially in cities like Tangier. But it’s not the norm, and it could attract more stares. Personally, I stuck to loose pants and felt much more at ease.
If you’re going for comfort and minimal hassle, it’s worth dressing conservatively. But ultimately, there’s no legal dress code in Morocco, so wear what you’re comfortable in—just be mindful of local customs.
What to Pack for Morocco as a Female Traveler
Here’s my quick packing list for Morocco:
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Lightweight, breathable pants
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Loose, full-sleeve tops
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A scarf or shawl
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Reef-safe sunscreen
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Sunglasses
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Light jacket
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Comfortable walking shoes
Also, consider booking with a private Morocco tour for added ease and security—especially if it’s your first time in North Africa.
Is Morocco Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
I wasn’t solo the entire trip—I had my partner with me—but I did venture out alone to shop in the medinas, grab lunch, or go for a jog. When I was alone, I got a few more looks, but I never felt physically unsafe.
That said, I highly recommend getting an eSIM or mobile data plan to stay connected. If you’re solo, being able to message someone or use GPS adds a big layer of comfort.
Pro tip: Bring a fake wedding ring. It can reduce some of the attention, though it’s no magic shield. A friend of mine still got marriage proposals when she was without her male companion—but it helped her feel more in control.
Travel Insurance & Morocco
Unexpected things can happen anywhere. I always travel with health and trip insurance—and for Morocco, I compared plans through InsureMyTrip. It just takes away the worry of medical bills, lost luggage, or cancellations.
Is Morocco Safe for LGBTQ+ Travelers?
This one’s tricky. While Morocco is rich in culture and hospitality, same-sex relationships are criminalized under the law. In public, any form of PDA—regardless of sexual orientation—is frowned upon.
Some queer travelers have had great experiences, especially in progressive places like Tangier or Marrakesh. Others felt the need to stay closeted. If you’re LGBTQ+, I recommend reading blogs from queer travelers who’ve been to Morocco and choosing a Morocco tourism agency that’s sensitive to diversity and inclusion.
Hotels & Room Sharing for Couples
Morocco has a conservative stance on public displays of affection. Holding hands or kissing in public is discouraged, even for married heterosexual couples. Some hotels may also refuse to allow unmarried Moroccan nationals to share a room.
For foreigners, it’s generally assumed that you’re married—and most hotels won’t ask questions. But to be safe, confirm your accommodation’s policy beforehand, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or friend of the opposite sex.
Final Thoughts: Morocco Is Worth It
Despite the few challenges, Morocco welcomed me with warmth, kindness, and unforgettable beauty. If you’re a woman—or solo female traveler—wondering whether you’ll feel safe here, the short answer is yes, with some precautions.
A trusted Morocco tourism agency can make all the difference, especially if you want a hassle-free, culturally rich experience. And if you’re short on time or prefer a curated itinerary, a private Morocco tour is an ideal way to soak in the magic with added comfort.
When in doubt? Go. Just go prepared—and don’t forget your mint tea.
