How is security in Morocco? Is it safe to travel

If you travel to Morocco and meet someone who has done so before, they may be able to tell you about a bad experience where they have been swindled or robbed. That’s why you are interested in knowing how is the security in Morocco but the truth is that it is possible that they have exaggerated a little ;-),

In this article we tell you how to make the most of your trip to Morocco and get rid of any kind of inconvenience such as crimes, scams, diseases, among others.

HOW IS SECURITY IN MOROCCO?

It is a charming, wonderful country with a series of tourist attractions ranging from virgin beaches, ancient palaces, picturesque streets and a conglomerate of visitors from different parts of the world.

But Morocco is not Europe, even if it is very close to it, his is why you should take certain security precautions when you travel. Now we will detail it for you.

MAIN PROBLEMS

CRIME

Crime is not a major threat but there have been records of petty crime, such as pickpocketing; bag and luggage theft in busy areas. That’s why you should be careful, especially in busy or isolated areas, and always keep your belongings close to you.

STAFF

The number of scammers is high for tourists, so avoid making conversation or accepting anything from them; even if they “give it away”. Reject any proposal firmly, politely and safely. If possible, try to go on a tour, the guide can solve any doubt without costing you an extra coin. Remember that if you go to consult something, it is possible that some passer-by will ask you for a coin.

You must be very careful with fake guides, or companies that offer you a tour and do not turn out to be what you expected. Although their number has been reduced thanks to the work of the country’s Tourist Brigade. It is possible that when you walk down the street you may come across opportunists who, at a very accessible price; want to swindle you.

Main types of scams:

• They will pose as students and ask you to practice their English or Spanish with them, learn about your culture. If you agree, they may take you to a store to buy something.

• You will be asked to translate something into English or Spanish, and if you agree; you may be taken to a store to buy something.

• Do not accept any gift from anyone, let alone a store or vendor. It’s possible that when you leave with the “gift”, they’ll accuse you of stealing it.

• A false guide may tell you that certain places are closed to take you to other places.

• They can also tell you that the bus or train stations are closed and will recommend that you take a taxi which may charge you a very high fare. Please note that taxi fares can be negotiated in Morocco.

How do you avoid a scam?

• Keep your security in Morocco and avoid eye contact and ignore anyone you feel wants to offer you something. Ask you something but with the intention of wanting to get something from you illegally.

• Stay away from the person if they come to you, ignore them and find a place where there are more people.

• If you’re followed, hurry up and show no interest.

• If they are very persistent, never show fear. Use this word: “La”, which in Arabic means “no”. Do not try to show your native language.

TERRORISM

If such an event were to occur, it would, in almost all cases, be an isolated act – as has happened in France or the United States. There has been no organized terrorist movement in Morocco, as there is in Syria or Iraq, for example.

In any case, it should be noted that, according to the Spanish Government. The Moroccan authorities have noticed an increase in sympathizers or members of the Daesh -Isis- but that these are being controlled by an increase in the country’s security services.

POLITICAL AND SOCIAL STABILITY

Unlike other countries on the African continent, Morocco is politically stable and, although there is citizen criticism of King Mohammed VI; this has not led to any citizen insurgency.

DISEASES

Being a country free of diseases such as malaria, you only have to worry about mosquito bites in case they cause an allergy or simply make you uncomfortable on your trip. You can solve that by covering your body well with fresh and clear clothes and using repellent.

It is recommended that you get some vaccinations, such as polio, tetanus, typhoid or hepatitis A and B, to prevent.

FOOD AND WATER

Food is not always safe, or in any case, it is not prepared in a way that does not affect your stomach; which cannot be accustomed to a certain amount of seasoning. Try to eat in restaurants and if you know you have a sensitive stomach, check what ingredients are in each dish and consider eating them accordingly.

Another issue is water, almost all water in Morocco is not safe to drink directly from the tap. Their cistern systems are well maintained but it’s best to avoid consuming anything that might upset your stomach and put you to bed. Drink bottled water, boil it, and this also includes food that comes into contact with tap water. It is best to eat everything cooked or wash your fruits or vegetables yourself with bottled or boiled water. Avoid stomach problems.

Try not to walk the small streets of Morocco at night, try to do it during the day.

HOW IS SECURITY IN THE MAIN CITIES OF MOROCCO?

• Marrakech: Being the most touristic, it has a lot of police walking the streets, some undercover. Be careful with the traffic and transit through the medina at night.
• Fez: Be very careful when you transit through the Fez el-Bali or Fez el-Jdid medinas at night, their safety is reduced. Let your walks be in the morning.

• Tangier: Just like Marrakech, being a very touristy city; it is not recommended that you move around with large amounts of money or cash. It is better that you leave this at the accommodation and only worry about taking the basics on your walks.