Marrakech has a rich history with deep cultural influences.
Some of the cultural influences that were developed in the 11th century when the Almoravid Dynasty founded Marrakech, still exist today.
The city, originally used as a military base, quickly became an important religious, trading, and influential political center.
The leaders built many monuments, including the Koutoubia Mosque, which showcases Muslim architecture.
It is still an important landmark in Marrakech.
The leaders of Marrakech oversaw the building of several other key mosques, fortifications, and monuments.
Some examples include the Badiâ Palace, the les Saâdians tombs, and Jamaâ El Fna Square.
The Almohads seized Marrakech in 1147.
They destroyed several of the original buildings that the Almoravids built, yet kept Marrakech as their capital.
They built other structures and palaces.
They also built the Koutoubia Mosque, which is an important symbol of the city of Marrakech.
Political rule changed hands several times over the next few centuries.
Marrakech still remained an important part of the Muslim world during this time.
The city became the capital again, and continued to be recognized as a strategic location for trade, communication, and cultural significance.
Morocco won its independence from its Spanish and French protectorates in the mid-20th century.
It was at this time that Marrakech became a different sort of hub.
It drew many famous people who saw it as modern, yet as having traditional influences.
The Rolling Stones, Yves Saint Laurent, Winston Churchill, and many other famous people found the city to be a tranquil, breathtaking, alluring place.
Marrakech became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
Today, the city attracts nearly three million visitors a year.
Although millions of people travel to Marrakech, others are likely to wonder if it is safe for them to visit.
Learn the facts about safety in Marrakech.
Get some top safety tips, learn about the best places to see, and places to avoid when you visit the city.
Warnings & Dangers in Marrakech
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Marrakech is not as dangerous as some people may think that it is today. Millions of travelers visit every year with no safety issues. People who respect the local customs and laws, and who pay attention to their surroundings will likely not have any problems with their safety.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Travelers who visit Marrakech need to make sure that they only use licensed petit taxis. Avoid grand taxis. Grand taxis are larger vehicles that accommodate around six passengers. They are often used as shared taxis for people who have the same destination. You may be riding in a taxi with several people who you do not know. Some of the grand taxis do not have seat belts. Be aware when using other modes of transport, like buses. Keep your belongings on you, or you may not have them for long. Dangerous driving also occurs in Marrakech.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
Do not carry your wallet in your back pocket. Do not carry an open handbag or purse. Wear a shirt or other clothing that has an inside pocket. Another option is to wear a belt bag. Pickpockets often look for travelers who look like easy targets. Do not make it easier for them to make you their next victim. Several sources list pickpockets and petty theft as being frequent crimes in some of the popular tourist areas.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
The risk of natural disasters occurring in Marrakech is lower than in some other areas. There is a risk of earthquakes or flooding during the rainy season. There is also a small risk of having contact with dangerous animals. Watch for venomous snakes and scorpions, some of which can be fatal if there is no immediate treatment. Stay in popular tourist areas, and you will not likely come in contact with predators like African golden wolves or palm rats.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
There is less of a risk of mugging, compared to some other types of crimes. Travelers need to know that should they become victims of muggings, cooperate with the perpetrator. Tourists who cooperate are probably less likely to become victims of more serious crimes, if they do not cooperate with the muggers.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Terrorism does sometimes occur in Morocco. The government increased its counter-terrorism efforts in recent years. Although there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Marrakech, travelers need to stay vigilant for any changes that may indicate terrorism. Stay away from all protests and demonstrations.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scammers target tourists in Marrakech with various scams. Tourists who visit Marrakech can likely reduce their risk of becoming a scam victim if they know some common scams and how to avoid them. Make sure that you agree on the price of your taxi ride before you get into the taxi. Do not use unlicensed taxi companies. Some scammers harass visitors, offering to be their guide. Do not use anyone as a guide unless the person is an official government guide. Look for their identification badge. Decline harassing offers to help you find your destination, carry your luggage, or to show you the sites. You may be setting yourself up to be a scam victim. Stay alert to people trying to distract you. One person may claim that they recognize you from your hotel or other accommodation, while their accomplice steals from you. Do not strike up conversations with people who you do not know around ATMs.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Many women travel to Marrakech without any risks to their safety. Women who stay vigilant in watching their belongings and their surroundings may be less likely to become crime victims. One of the biggest risks to women is that they become the victim of catcalls or other unwanted attention. Remember that men in Morocco do not interact with many women before their marriage. Seeing women travelers, especially those who appear to be alone, gives them the opportunity to interact with foreign women. Women travelers who do have safety issues can ask for help. Do not approach men for help if possible. Ask women or families for help.
TAP WATER RISK: MEDIUM
Although the tap water in Marrakech may be safe, travelers probably do not want to experience the highly chlorinated taste of it. Drink bottled water or filtered water to avoid any tap water safety risks.
Safest Places to Visit in Marrakech
Marrakech has many landmarks and attractions that bring increasing numbers of tourists to the city each year.
There is something for all travelers to see and do in Marrakech, including many safe places to visit.
Marrakech has a vibrant art scene that draws many people to visit its art fairs, art galleries and art museums.
The MACAAL features contemporary African art.
It features permanent displays, along with temporary pieces.
MACAAL is just outside the Marrakech city center.
The Dar El Bacha – Musee des Confluecnes has stunning examples of Moroccan artistry and craftsmanship.
Take a hot air balloon ride and view the beautiful landscape.
Visit the Medina of Marrakech to see historic landmarks and other points of interest.
Many travelers enjoy the gardens in Marrakech.
Visit ANIMA Andre Heller Garden to see more than 250 plants, artworks, and stunning natural beauty.
Le Jardin Secret is one of the ancient palaces of Medina of Marrakech.
The ancient historical structures link to the gardens.
Take a food tour with a reputable food guide to experience all the tastes and smells of Moroccan food.
Travelers who want to experience all the herbs, spices, smells and tastes of the local cuisine can visit places like Dar Chef or Al Fassia Aguedal.
Travelers can also enjoy the quaint restaurants and coffee shops.
Dance the night away, learn how to cook the traditional foods, or learn the language at Café Club for a more modern take on things to do in Marrakech.
Places to Avoid in Marrakech
Travelers need to avoid some places in Marrakech that can pose safety risks.
Staying with their travel group or with friends is one way to help reduce safety risks.
Avoid alleys and roads where there are no other people in the Medina.
Travelers should also stay away from outlying areas of the city.
Stay in areas that are popular with tourists.
Mouassine may be a lively place to visit, but it is also a place to stay away from if you are walking alone at night.
There is also a risk of petty crimes.
Al-Azzouzia is in the northwest suburbs of the city center.
It is not a place that travelers often visit.
It is an area where travelers may become crime victims.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Marrakech
- Do not use unlicensed taxis. Avoid being scammed by using only licensed taxis to get around in Marrakech.
- Avoid getting intoxicated. Getting intoxicated makes travelers an easy target for pickpockets, muggers, and other criminals.
- Avoid areas that are not popular with tourists. It may seem tempting to walk down a less-traveled street. Giving in to that temptation can put tourists at risk of becoming crime victims.
- Avoid questionable food vendors. Travelers need to avoid undercooked meats, raw salads and other questionable food from vendors who may appear to be questionable in food preparation or cooking techniques.
- Dress Down. Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry. Dress down to look less like a target for criminals.
- Women should dress modestly. Women travelers should not wear revealing clothing or clothes that may otherwise seem offensive or draw attention. Women tourists should cover their shoulders and knees.
- Do not carry large amounts of cash. Do not carry a lot of cash. Keep some emergency cash in a safe place.
- Do not follow strangers who offer to show you to your destination or the way to other places. Following anyone who you do not know in Marrakech can quickly become a safety risk.
- Stay alert for changing terrorism risks or other threats of violence. Avoid large crowds, including protests, demonstrations, or political events. Stay aware of terrorism risks through the U.S. Department of State or international travel advisories.
- Do not keep all your credit cards in the same place. Keep at least one credit card in a safe place, away from your other cards and cash. It is a good idea to have an emergency credit card.
So... How Safe Is Marrakech Really?
The number of travelers visiting Marrakech has increased every year for the last several years.
The government has made changes that help to reduce the risk of serious crimes like terrorism.
Travelers who respect the culture, and who stay in areas that are popular with travelers are less likely to become victims of serious crimes.
Staying alert to anyone hanging around is another way for travelers to reduce their safety risks.
How Does Marrakech Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
 Marrakech |
60 |
| Fes |
51 |
| Casablanca |
50 |
 Sandy Springs | 82 |
| Hagerstown | 72 |
 Pemba | 29 |
| Travelers Rest | 77 |
| Merced | 92 |
 Regina | 74 |
Useful Information
Visas
U.S. travelers do not need to have a visa if they plan to visit for less than 90 days.
Currency
The Moroccan Dirham is the official currency of Morocco.
Weather
Marrakech has hot, dry summers. It has mild, wet winters. Marrakech usually has year-round sunshine.
Airports
The Marrakech Manara Airport serves residents and travelers who visit Marrakech. It is an international airport.
Travel Insurance
Travelers who plan to visit Marrakech need to have travel insurance. The U.S. Department of State highly recommends getting travel insurance.
Marrakech Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
19 | 21 | 22 | 27 | 30 | 37 | 37 | 37 | 33 | 28 | 22 | 19 |
| Low °C |
6 | 8 | 12 | 11 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 20 | 18 | 15 | 10 | 7 |
| High °F |
66 | 70 | 72 | 81 | 86 | 99 | 99 | 99 | 91 | 82 | 72 | 66 |
| Low °F |
43 | 46 | 54 | 52 | 57 | 64 | 68 | 68 | 64 | 59 | 50 | 45 |
Morocco - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Casablanca | 50 |
| Fes | 51 |
| Marrakech | 60 |
Cash is king
Marrakech is quite memorable as this one of the first trips I had together with my then boyfriend (and now husband). Oh how time flies. The best tip I could give is don’t act all too touristy because there are people who want to give you that tourist tax, thinking you aren’t aware of how the prices run. Cash is king! ATMs are hard to find.
Marrakech is a beautiful safe city.
Marrakech is a beautiful peaceful city, i live here for 30 years now never encountered any major life threathening situation, obviously where ever you go in the world you should pay attention, no dark streets, always walk in places where you can see people, and overall the city is so peacefull and beautiful and worth visiting.
Great
This city is the best. The people here are very nice and it is generally amazing.
It’s a bit hard to picture this place as a bustling city after all those years, but the mix of markets and gardens does sound like a breath of fresh air after winter. Just hope it hasn’t lost too much of its charm over time.
Strolling through the vibrant markets in Marrakech felt like stepping into a living painting, and the gardens were such a refreshing escape after the cold months.
Did you get a chance to explore the gardens while you were there? They’re really something special, especially after a long winter.
Marrakech sounds like a wild mix of history and modern vibes, kind of like sipping mint tea while dodging a flying carpet! Who knew the Rolling Stones and Churchill had such great taste in vacation spots?
Walking past the Koutoubia at sunset with the call to prayer echoing and then ending up in the chaos of Jamaâ El Fna really gave me that mix of old history and busy modern city all at once.
Did you get that weird calm from the Koutoubia minaret while Jamaâ El Fna around sunset nearly knocks the breath out of you with all the spice smoke and drum noise?
Got lost in Jamaâ El Fna at dusk and the call to prayer rolling over the spice stalls had me grinning the whole time.