The Bad Side of Morocco: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Hey there, my dear friends! If you’ve been reading my blog, you know I’m all about hyping up Morocco because its vibrant souks, stunning landscapes, and rich culture are hard to beat. But let’s keep it real: no destination is perfect, and Morocco has its share of challenges that travelers might face.

To help you prep for an awesome trip, I’ve scoured the web, including some recent X posts, to share the common complaints and drawbacks tourists encounter in Morocco. Don’t worry, this isn’t about scaring you off... it’s about setting you up for a smoother adventure by knowing what to expect!

1. Aggressive Vendors and Scams

One of the top gripes you’ll hear from travelers is about the persistent vendors, especially in busy spots like Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Tourists often report being approached by people offering unsolicited help like giving directions or guiding you to a shop only to demand an inflated tip afterward.

A post on X summed it up: “You can’t walk 4 feet without being accosted to buy crap by extremely aggressive men who grab you and touch you”. Scams are another issue, like fake guides lying about a site being closed to steer you to their “cousin’s” shop or taxi drivers overcharging.

For example, a Reddit user shared a story of a man in Marrakech claiming the Bahia Palace was closed, leading them to the tanneries instead, then demanding 50 dirhams and acting insulted when paid. Check the story from here

How to Handle It: Be firm but polite with a quick “no, thank you” (or “la, shukran” in Arabic) and keep walking. Research your routes beforehand, and consider booking reputable tours through platforms like Get Your Guide to avoid fake guides. Always agree on taxi fares upfront or use apps like Careem where available. Keep small change handy for minor transactions to avoid haggling over tips. You'll find more tips on how to avoid scams from here.

2. Pickpocketing and Petty Crime

Crowded places like the medinas of Fez or Marrakech are prime spots for pickpocketing. Tourists sometimes lose wallets, phones, or passports in the hustle and bustle. One source noted that “a skilled pickpocket in Morocco can take off with just as much money or valuables as an armed robber would anywhere else”. While violent crime is relatively low, petty theft can sour your experience if you’re not careful. Learn more.

How to Handle It: Stay alert in crowded areas. Use a money belt or secure bag under your clothes for valuables, and avoid flashing expensive items like cameras or jewelry. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a separate place, as it’s illegal to send passports by post in Morocco Discover more safety tips in this article.

3. Cultural Differences and Harassment

Morocco’s conservative culture can catch some travelers off guard. Women, especially those traveling solo, may face catcalling or unwanted attention, particularly in touristy cities. A post on X warned that Morocco might not be ideal for women traveling alone due to men acting “like ANIMALS”. Dressing modestly (think loose, long pants and shoulder-covering tops) can help reduce attention.

Same-sex relationships are illegal, and public displays of affection can lead to trouble, so LGBTQ+ travelers need to be discreet.

During Ramadan, eating or drinking in public during the day can offend locals, as Muslims are fasting redact fasting.

Read more about Morocco in safety terms from this extensive guide.

How to Handle It: Dress conservatively to blend in and respect local customs. Avoid public affection, especially near religious sites. If you’re traveling during Ramadan, be mindful about eating or drinking in public spaces during daylight hours. For women, traveling with a companion or joining group tours can make things feel safer and more comfortable.

4. Overwhelming Heat and Environmental Challenges

If you visit Morocco in the summer (June to August), brace yourself for intense heat, especially in places like Marrakech, where temperatures can soar with little breeze for relief. Some travelers also complain about dirty beaches or unpleasant smells in certain urban areas. Heavy rain in winter can cause flash flooding in mountainous or river-adjacent areas, which might disrupt your plans. I found his harsh article about 15 reasons to not visit Morocco. Most reasons are true, however, some others have became less occurrent

How to Handle It: Plan your trip for spring or fall for milder weather. Pack light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated. Check weather forecasts, especially if you’re heading to rural or mountainous regions, and follow local guidance during floods. Stick to well-maintained beaches like those in Essaouira for a cleaner experience.[](https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/morocco/safety-and-security)

5. Underwhelming Nightlife and Dining

If you’re expecting a vibrant nightlife, Morocco might disappoint. Alcohol is restricted due to cultural norms, and nightlife in cities like Marrakech and Casablanca can feel “soulless” and expensive, with limited options for dancing or socializing. Some travelers find the food bland compared to expectations, with tagines and couscous dominating but lacking variety in some places.

How to Handle It: Research restaurants with good reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor for authentic, high-quality meals. For nightlife, seek out upscale hotels or tourist-friendly venues that serve alcohol, but expect higher prices. If you’re after local flavor, embrace street food stalls for fresh, affordable eats—just check for hygiene.

6. Negative Perceptions and Racism

Some X posts highlight concerns about racism, particularly toward Black travelers, with one user advising Black tourists to travel in groups for safety. A 2022 survey noted that 37% of Moroccans see racial discrimination as an issue, with anti-Black racism being a notable problem. This can make some visitors feel unwelcome or uncomfortable.

How to Handle It: Traveling in groups or with a guide can provide a buffer. Engage with locals respectfully to foster positive interactions, and seek out inclusive, tourist-friendly spaces like riads or established tour groups. Awareness and preparation can help you navigate these challenges.

7. Infrastructure and Service Issues

Some travelers report spotty infrastructure, like power or water outages in hotels, especially outside major cities. Service quality can vary, with complaints about overpriced or mediocre restaurants and accommodations. Driving can also be chaotic, with reports of reckless drivers and even “corruption” like bribing for licenses.

How to Handle It: Book accommodations with solid reviews on sites like Booking.com, and consider staying in riads for a more reliable, authentic experience. Avoid self-driving; opt for a hired driver or public transport like trains for safer travel between cities. Always confirm prices for services upfront to avoid surprises.[](https://www.globalguardian.com/global-digest/is-morocco-safe)

Final Thoughts: Is Morocco Worth It?

Despite these drawbacks, Morocco remains a breathtaking destination with warm, welcoming people and unforgettable experiences. The key is preparation. knowing what to expect lets you focus on the magic of the country. By staying savvy about scams, dressing respectfully, and planning around the weather, you can dodge many of these issues and have a trip to remember for all the right reasons.

Have you been to Morocco and faced any of these challenges? Drop a comment or hit me up on X to share your tips for navigating the ups and downs of this country.