Is Morocco Safe for Family Travel? Parent’s Guide

This is the number one question we are asked by parents dreaming of a Moroccan adventure. It’s a natural and important concern. The well-being of your children is your top priority, and Morocco can feel like a world away from home.

The short and direct answer is yes, Morocco is generally a very safe country for family travel. The country is politically stable, and the vast majority of tourists, including countless families with children of all ages, experience their trips without any serious issues.

However, “safety” for families goes beyond crime statistics. It encompasses health, comfort, navigation, and peace of mind. This guide breaks down the realities and provides practical tips to ensure your family’s trip is not only safe but also incredibly rewarding.

1. Personal Safety & Crime: The Real Story

• Low Violent Crime: Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. You are highly unlikely to encounter any serious threats. The Moroccan government heavily prioritizes tourist safety, as tourism is a cornerstone of the economy.

• Petty Theft: The most common issue, as in any major tourist destination worldwide, is petty theft like pickpocketing or bag snatching, particularly in the crowded medinas of Marrakech and Fes.

  • Parent Tip: Use common sense. Keep valuables out of sight, use a cross-body bag, and avoid flashing expensive electronics or jewelry. In crowded squares like Jemaa el-Fnaa, hold younger children’s hands tightly.

2. Health & Hygiene: Managing “Morocco Belly” & More

This is often the biggest worry for parents, but it’s easily managed with simple precautions.

• Food & Water:

  • Water: Only drink bottled or filtered water. Use it for brushing teeth as well. Avoid ice in drinks from street stalls.

  • Food: Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover. Food cooked fresh and served hot is generally safe. “Morocco belly” often stems from a combination of new spices, oils, and bacteria, not necessarily “bad” food.

  • Fruits & Veggies: Enjoy fruits you can peel yourself (oranges, bananas, clementines). For salads, eat them at reputable restaurants where they’re likely washed with purified water.

• Staying Healthy:

  • Pack a Health Kit: Include child-friendly pain reliever, antiseptic wipes, band-aids, anti-diarrheal medication, and most importantly, electrolyte packets (like Pedialyte) to quickly combat dehydration.

  • Hand Hygiene: Carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes. You will use them constantly before snacks and after touching market goods or animals.

  • Sun Protection: The sun is intense. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.

3. Cultural Comfort & Navigating Scams

• A Family-Oriented Culture: Moroccans love children. Your kids will often be greeted with smiles, warmth, and kindness. This cultural respect for families can make you feel more welcomed and secure than in many other destinations.

• The Medina Maze: The ancient walled cities can feel overwhelming—a labyrinth of narrow streets full of people, scooters, and donkeys. The key is to stay calm and confident.

  • Hire a Guide (Seriously!): For your first day, a licensed, family-friendly guide is a fantastic investment for safety and sanity. They navigate the maze with ease, act as a cultural buffer with vendors, and help you feel oriented.

  • The “No, Thank You”: You will be approached by shopkeepers and, in main squares, by performers (snake charmers, monkey handlers) who expect payment for photos. A firm, polite, and smiling “No, thank you” (“La, shukran”) and continuing to walk is the best policy. Teach older children not to engage if they feel uncomfortable.

• Transportation:

  • Petit Taxis: These red city taxis are safe but rarely have seatbelts or car seats. For short, slow journeys within a city, they are fine if you hold your child tightly.

  • Private Driver (Recommended): For any inter-city travel or airport transfers, book a private vehicle with a driver. This is the safest, most comfortable, and least stressful option for families. Reputable companies provide modern, air-conditioned cars and experienced drivers.

4. The #1 Safety Factor: Choosing the Right Tour Operator

This is the most critical decision you will make for a safe and stress-free trip. A reputable, family-specialized operator provides an invaluable safety net.

They ensure:

• Vetted Accommodation: They know which riads and desert camps have secure environments, pools with safety measures, and family-friendly layouts.

• Expert Drivers: Your private driver will be experienced in navigating Moroccan roads safely and will be a constant point of support.

• Trusted Guides: Guides are chosen not just for knowledge, but for their ability to work with families and manage any situation.

• 24/7 In-Country Support: You have a direct number to call for any issue, from a lost toy to a medical question, at any time of day.

Final Verdict: Is Morocco Safe for Your Family?

Yes, absolutely. With the same common sense and preparation you would use traveling anywhere new, Morocco is a wonderfully safe and rewarding destination for families.

The perceived “danger” is almost always just the unknown. The unique experiences—riding camels in the Sahara, sharing a tagine, exploring ancient streets—will create family memories that far outweigh any minor challenges. The warmth Moroccans show to families will likely be one of the most memorable parts of your trip.

Still have specific concerns about allergies, mobility, or your children’s specific needs?
We are here to help! Contact us at Travel Morocco with Kids for personalized advice and to plan a trip that puts your safety and comfort first.

Every family is unique. If this itinerary doesn’t perfectly fit your dreams, dates, or your children’s ages and interests, please just contact us.

We specialize in crafting 100% customized journeys. Whether you want to add more days, include a cooking class, stay in a specific type of accommodation, or adjust the pace, we will work with you to create the perfect Moroccan adventure for your family.

Let’s build your dream trip together!