The big picture
Morocco is one of the most stable countries in Africa and the Arab world, with a large tourism economy and a visible police presence in the cities. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The things that happen are petty: an overpriced taxi, a 'guide' who insists on showing you the tannery, a pickpocket in a crowded square. All of them are easy to avoid once you know the script.
The common scams and the one-line answer to each
- 'The medina is closed, follow me': it is never closed. Say 'La, shukran' (no thanks) and keep walking.
- The unofficial guide who walks with you and then asks for money: say politely that you have a guide, or book a licensed one for a few hours.
- The taxi without a meter: agree the price before getting in, or ask your riad to call one. From the airport, fixed prices are posted.
- The henna lady who grabs your hand: a firm no. Henna from a shop is fine and cheap.
- 'Free' tea or a 'free' carpet demonstration that ends in pressure: there is no obligation, ever. Leave with a smile.
Solo women travellers
Thousands of women travel alone in Morocco every year and most describe the same thing: attention and comments in the busiest streets of Marrakech and Fes, almost none in the countryside and the desert, and real kindness everywhere. Dressing modestly (shoulders and knees covered) reduces attention; sunglasses and a purposeful walk reduce it more. Our drivers and guides are used to travelling with solo women, and our office is one WhatsApp message away at any hour.
Families and children
Moroccans adore children and will talk to yours, offer them sweets and wave at them. Traffic is the main thing to watch in the medina (scooters, carts, donkeys), and the sun. Health care is good in the cities; carry travel insurance and your usual medicines.
On the road and in the desert
Our vehicles are recent, insured and serviced; our drivers are professionals who do the Atlas every week and do not drive at night in the mountains. The desert camps are run by families we know, in a protected area with no wildlife risk. In the dunes, the only rules are to carry water, wear a hat and follow the camel man.
What we do
We send you the driver's name and number the day before, we follow every tour from the office, and we are reachable 7 days a week. If something is not right, a hotel, a meal, a change of plan, you message us and we fix it.
Relax. Most travellers leave Morocco with one regret: not having stayed longer.
