Sounds Of The Souks

Category: Safety For Solo Female Travellers

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

How to keep yourself safe in Marrakech.

  • Is Marrakech Safe For Solo Female Travellers?

    What every female should know before arriving in the red city.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I would say that Marrakech is perfectly safe for women who travel alone..

    The overall crime rate is relatively low, and most female travellers have a wonderful experience.

    However, there are certain things to consider to help you feel confident and fit into Moroccan society.

    Women in Marrakech dress modestly.

    How you want to be treated will depend on how you present yourself.

    Although Marrakech is a Muslim city, it is quite liberal and used to tourists, but showing too much flesh would be considered inappropriate.

    Whilst you’re not expecting to adopt the hijab, you will certainly be regarded favourably if you dress slightly more conservatively.

    Long, silk, or cotton dresses are perfect and keep you cool at the same time.

    Palazzo trousers are comfortable and elegant.

    I wore turbans, and I loved that my hair was tucked away, keeping me from feeling too hot whilst feeling sophisticated.

    Many tourists wear the same style of clothing that they would back at home, so it’s really a matter of choice.

    I would certainly encourage dressing appropriately if you’re visiting religious sites, though.

    It’s a matter of respect.

    You’ll notice how happy a small gesture like this makes the locals happy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The people in Marrakesh are friendly and hospitable.

    There may be situations where you will be asked if you need help to find your riad or the main square.

    Simply decline the offer politely and go about your business.

    Stand your ground when negotiating a price for something. Show you are confident and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy.

    Some men may cat call or make comments, which may feel slightly intrusive.

    Ignore them and move away. If anyone follows you, find a shop vendor or restaurant to sit in or threaten to find a police officer.

    It’s rare that this happens, though, and police are everywhere around Marrakech, making sure that tourists are not hassled.

    Knowing a few words in Arabic or French is always useful.

    ‘Non merci’ or ‘La Shukran’ for ‘no thank you’ will automatically bring a smile to the locals’ faces.

    On the whole, I have never felt uncomfortable as a solo female traveller in Marrakech.

    There are plenty of us about wandering through the souks and enjoying the tourist hot-spots.

    Consider using a tour guide or joining a guided tour of the medina if you’re slightly anxious about exploring by yourself or if it’s your first time.

    There are night tours, street food tours, and registered guides for visiting the local attractions.

    Marrakech is a great place to visit as a solo female traveller if you treat it the same way as you would any other country wandering around by yourself.

    In some ways, I would consider it safer than some European countries.

    Most local people can’t wait to tell you all about their fascinating city.

    Educate yourself on the cultural norms and differences and respect the local customs and traditions, and you will be perfectly safe.

    You could carry a personal alarm with you if it helps you to feel less vulnerable.

    Overall, you will feel perfectly safe.

    Marrakech is very touristic, and there’s always crowds of people around.

    Just be extra vigilant in busy, congested areas with your belongings.

    The same way you would be anywhere else in the world.

    Relax and trust that the people of Marrakech are friendly, kind, and caring.

    You will have a truly wonderful time.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • A Few Scams To Be Aware Of Around Marrakech.

    Popular tourist traps.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech is a safe place for travellers with a relatively low crime rate, but scams can happen.

    Like any other destination, there are several things to be mindful of as a first-time visitor to the red city.

    There are a few potential scams that visitors for the first time to Marrakech should know about.

    .The road is closed.

    This is a regular scam that can leave tourists confused.

    You’re trying to locate your riad or a point of interest, and someone (usually a young male) tells you that the road ahead is closed.

    He asks you your destination and offers to escort you via an alternative route.

    Before you know it, you’re wandering endlessly through the souks until you arrive at his friends shop.

    You’re still lost, and now you’re being offered mint tea whilst his friend brings out a multitude of exotic spices or rugs.

    The male who took you there gets a commission for safely delivering you there.

    Slightly more if you buy.

    If you’re approached in this way, a firm no thank you or La shoukran usually does the trick.

    If he is very persistent, head to a nearest trader, and ask their advice about whether the road is closed or not.

    Make your boundaries clear but remain polite and try not to get too impatient.

    It can be difficult if you’re tired or overwhelmed, but showing your weakness will only show how vulnerable you are feeling, and you may become a target for more opportunists.

    . I can take you to your riad.

    When you first arrive in the medina, you are faced with a maze of alleyways and tunnels.

    Often, your riad will be tucked away inside the souks or down one of these alleyways, hidden from view.

    A tourist who looks as though they’re lost will invite the so-called ‘ helpful guide’ to your side who can show you exactly where you need to go.

    He will escort you, taking the long route to your riad, and then demand a payment from you.

    He may become quite persistent and insult you if you refuse to cough up.

    I was taken off guard seconds away from my riad.

    A young male basically nudged me along the narrow alleyway shoulder to shoulder. He demanded a payment, holding his hand out as I knocked on the door of my riad.

    I told him I wasn’t lost and knew where I was going and that I hadn’t requested his help. He was quite cross with me and began insulting me in Arabic.

    I stood my ground and ignored him until, eventually, the door opened, and I was let inside my riad.

    This can feel somewhat intimidating, but don’t give in.

    There are occasions when friendly locals really do want to genuinely help you find your way, and you will be grateful for their knowledge of the area.

    Especially after a long flight.

    However, this is a common problem and can become irritating, to say the least, if you have luggage with you.

    Marrakech has a good police presence, and, in the worst case scenario, threatening persistent hangers on with that often does the trick.

    Most will back off before it gets to that situation, though.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    .Over inflated prices for tourists.

    There is a price for the attractions around the medina for tourists and a price for Moroccan residents.

    This happens in many countries nowadays and you can’t protest much about it.

    On the other hand, prices for street food and things you might wish to purchase in the souks are often much higher than they should be.

    Learn to bargain with the salesperson, try dropping around 25%, and eventually, the pair of you will reach a price you’re both happy with.

    Haggling is an art form, and it takes time to feel confident, but it’s a way of life in Marrakesh and can be quite a rewarding experience when you think you’ve managed to buy something for a fair price.

    If you’re not happy, shop around. There are plenty of places selling the same goods around the souks.

    There are also fixed price stores such as Dar Bouchaib in the kasbah.

    . Gambling games in Jamaa El Fna.

    During the evening, when the square comes to life, there are a few pockets of entertainment where gambling games take place.

    These are scams that involve the winners working with the person in charge of the game.

    They impersonate curious onlookers and ask to take part. They win, and a prize is exchanged.

    These are not genuine participants, and the likelihood of you winning a cash prize is virtually nil.

    . Unofficial tour guides.

    Some tourists mentioned being approached by unofficial tour guides whilst visiting some of the attractions around the medina.

    Males who begin by asking where you’re from, then following you around telling you a brief history of the place.

    After some time, they ask you for a fee.

    If you want a genuine tour guide, check the website of the attraction you’re visiting or consider booking an activity through Get Your Guide.

    Booking. Com also offers attractions with a guided tour and transport.

    Payment is upfront, and the guides are very friendly and knowledgeable.

    Marrakech is an amazing destination with so much to see and do.

    I have pointed out a few negative aspects that you should be aware of.

    You may not experience any of these things.

    I have been incredibly lucky with taxi drivers who often get a bad press for inflating prices.

    I have had some positive experiences with taxis and felt very safe whilst travelling back to my hotel in a remote area.

    Generally, the locals are very friendly, and tourists are  made to feel very welcome.

    There are the occasional poor people in Marrakech who see tourists as financially secure with more money than sense.

    My advice is to make your boundaries clear from the start.

    Get yourself some data by buying an Orange SIM for negotiating your way around the medina, and learn a few words of Arabic or French to help you to say no thank you.

    Like anywhere else in the world, keep your wits about you in crowded places, and stay calm.

    You will have an incredible time in Marrakesh.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Which Clothing Should I Pack For A Visit To Marrakech?

    A useful guide for choosing the correct clothing for your trip.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech can get very hot in summer, and temperatures  can exeed 40° Celsius.

    Even the cooler months can feel warm and humid, especially walking around the busy souks and popular points of interest.

    Marrakech is also a conservative city with a majority Muslim population.

    The locals are extremely hospitable, but respect is a big thing in Marrakech.

    So, what should you wear to feel comfortable yet still appear respectable?

    For female visitors, I would suggest palazzo trousers.

    These are flowing and elegant, keeping you nice and cool.

    They pair well with smart cotton blouses and can be worn underneath a silk kimono, adding a touch of glamour.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Lightweight cotton or linen trousers also look smart, and neutral colours give a sophisticated, modest appearance.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Silk (including recycled sari silk) maxi dresses are very versatile and keep you cool. They can be worn with a drawstring sari petticoat underneath for modesty if the dress is sheer.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Linen is perfect and always looks polished.

    It may get slightly creased, so I would suggest bringing along a portable steamer. They’re a life-saver and take up very little space in your suitcase.

    However, most accommodations have an ironing and laundry service at your disposal.

    Cotton tee-shirts and blouses are ideal and can look very flattering with the right accessories.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Yoga pants are also perfect for a day exploring.

    They are loose fitting and comfortable.

    Headscarves are fashionable and can be used as a head covering whilst visiting some of the religious sights or as a convenient wrap around for covering your shoulders.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I like to wear turbans to cover my locs.

    They keep my head and neck cool, and at the same time, I feel well put together.

    Silk scarves roll up really small and fit perfectly in your bag.

    They are versatile and can be used as a hair tie, head covering, or pretty accessory.

    Marrakech is definitely more liberal than other morroccan cities. However, exposing too much flesh is definitely frowned upon.

    You may attract unwanted attention from both males and females, spoiling your overall experience by making you feel self-conscious.

    How you present yourself will determine the kind of experience you have in Marrakesh.

    In your hotel or riad, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear shorts and swimwear for sunbathing, so pack those items of clothing also.

    Males can wear knee-length shorts with linen or cotton short-sleeved shirts to look smart yet casual.

    Many high-end restaurants won’t accept men wearing sandals, but smart leather sliders are deemed acceptable.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Linen or cotton long trousers for men are ideal and keep the body cool.

    Men’s clothing is definitely more liberal than females.

    They don’t invite the same attention but are still expected to dress for the occasion when visiting certain establishments.

    I wouldn’t advise a male to walk around without a shirt on.

    That is best left for beach holidays..

    So, to summarise, staying smartly dressed whilst comfortable is the only thing men need to consider.

    On the other hand, women are expected to respect the cultural norms of the country unless they’re going to the clubs in the Gueliz or Hivenage part of Marrakech.

    It’s acceptable to dress more provocatively if you’re having a night out there.

    You can still look and feel good in appropriate clothing.

    It’s about choosing nice accessories to elevate your outfit.

    Marrakech has no shortage of beautiful jewellery and handbags.

    Regarding footwear, there is a lot of walking around the medina, so comfortable footwear is certainly essential.

    Trainers, pumps, or sandals are all acceptable.

    A little tip I found useful is to take a couple of outfits in my travel bag, and once I arrived, I bought the rest of my clothing in the souks.

    It wasn’t too expensive, and I felt as if I blended in with the locals better.

    I enjoyed wearing the traditional Moroccan dresses, kaftans, and djellabas.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Finally, I have never needed to take a warm coat to Marrakech.

    Depending on the season and whether you plan a trip into the Atlas mountains or not, a lightweight weatherproof jacket is enough

    I usually take a shawl or cardigan, and it’s always been  sufficient for cooler evenings.

    Winter in Marrakech is better suited to layers.

    A trip to Agafay desert can get very blustery whilst watching the sunset in the open air.

    A thin thermal skin worn underneath a long dress or trousers is usually enough to protect from the drop in temperature.

    I wore long sleeved tee-shirts underneath my dresses during the evenings.

    A comfortable hoodie can also be useful.

    Keeping your eyes on the weather forecast before travelling will also help you to plan accordingly for your trip.

    So, to summarise,

    Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for a day exploring the medina and tourist hot spots is the most important thing to consider.

    You will walk a lot, and it can get humid.

    To discourage unwanted attention and negative vibes from the locals, female travellers should refrain from dressing too provocatively.

    Unless they’re in the bars and clubs, which are more liberally minded.

    Choosing natural fibres is the best way to stay cool, and long, loose-fitting garments are ideal because they look modest and feminine.

    Lastly, don’t forget to bring the sunscreen.

    You don’t want to walk around looking like a lobster.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Shopping In The Souks.

    The bustling souks in Marrakech are exciting.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is everything that you could possibly dream of buying in the wonderful souks of Marrakech.

    As you meander through the maze of colourful alleyways, be prepared for a complete assault on the senses.

    From beautiful jewellery to exotic spices, leather shoes and bags, to Morroccan lamps and ceramics.

    It’s all here crammed into narrow alleyways and calling out to be bought and taken back home with you.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The skilled craftsmanship is astonishing, and you can find areas dedicated to making and selling different things.

    There is a separate place for leather goods, a place where metal workers make  beautiful Moroccan lamps and metal sculptures.

    An area where wooden things are handmade and rug weaving is demonstrated.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s a lovely experience watching the locals make their goods to sell, and there is also the opportunity to have a go at making things yourself, such as a pair of babouche shoes.

    Berber rugs hang proudly around the medina. Each colour and pattern is a feast for the eyes.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia float on the gentle breeze.

    The smell is so fragrant in the souks.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl, chess sets, and traditional toys tempt you for the perfect souvenir to take back for your family and friends.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The soft furnishings such as cushion covers made from cactus silk are eye-catching and colourful.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Then there’s the nuts, sweets, and pastries for sale.

    Moroccan sweets are a delicacy, and you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The medicinal herbs and spices are a cacophony of colours and fragrances.

    Fresh olives with a hint of spice pop with colour.

    Paintings and prints of traditional Morroccan doors, Amazigh people and camels crossing the Sahara desert.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    For people who love to  shop until they drop like I do, Marrakech is an absolute delight.

    It’s not all fun and laughs, though.

    The souks are incredibly busy with tourists.

    You also have to dodge motorcycles, donkeys, and vendors with carts.

    You can expect to get lost, but that’s all part of the experience.

    No one went into the souks and was never heard from again…

    So, fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy every minute.

    It’s unforgettable.

    It will invoke the spirit of camel caravans and ancient trade routes from centuries ago in you.

    A way to fully delve into the wonderful culture of Marrakech.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Here are a few helpful tips to help you enjoy the souks.

    First of all, pace yourself.

    The souks are very busy and can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat.

    Stop for a drink and rehydrate.

    Rest for a while, and try a spot of lunch on a rooftop cafe. There are plenty inside the souks.

    Be prepared to haggle. It may seem daunting at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it.

    Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you.

    Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen just like anywhere else in the world.

    In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body.

    If you’re lost, look for signs above your head pointing you back to Jamaa El Fna.

    Having an orange sim is useful but may not always work in the denser parts of the souks.

    If you need help, ask a shop vendor. They’re usually more than happy to help you.

    Don’t be tempted to accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop so that they can get commission if you buy something.

    You may struggle to get away, and you may find yourself seated and drinking mint tea before you know it.

    Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price.

    You will usually find yourself being called back, and a realistic price can often be reached.

    If not, the same items will most likely be found on sale elsewhere in the souks.

    Exercise patience.

    Remember, this is someone’s livelihood, and it’s a different culture to what you may be used to.

    Wages are not very high for most people in Marrakesh, and tourists with money to spend are fair game for boosting the take-home salary of most vendors.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Although the souks can often feel overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience.

    You will be dazzled by the number of weird and wonderful items on display.

    The sights, sounds, and smells will stay with you a long time after you leave this fascinating city.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • A Few Things You Need To Know Before Coming To Marrakech.

    Helpful advice for visiting Marrakesh for the first time.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I’ve put together a few useful tips to help your trip run smoothly.

    Marrakech is a cash society. Although many cafes and restaurants take cards, cash is often the preferred method of payment.

    In the main square called Jamaa El Fna, you will need cash to purchase almost everything.

    There are plenty of 🏧 machines located around the city.

    I use the one outside the post office where the horse and carriages stand, close to the taxi rank.

    The exchange rate is good, and it was usually working.

    You can get cash at the airport, but the exchange rate isn’t great.

    There are also plenty of places to exchange money around the city.

    It’s advisable to carry a small amount of cash with you for tipping, small purchases in the souks, and picking up a bottle of water.

    Something you may want to consider if you don’t have  cash at the airport is to ask your accommodation to organise a taxi to your hotel or riad in advance.

    Most accommodations will do this for you when you book. It’s prepaid, so you won’t have to worry.

    You will probably need a SIM card.

    I got an Orange SIM in the airport, and they put it into my phone for me.

    This saved me any hassle, and I had data from the moment I arrived in Marrakech.

    Having data gave me reassurance as a solo female traveller.

    I could use Google maps in the medina, which was helpful in case I got lost.

    It’s worth noting that Google Maps may not work in some areas of the souks, though.

    Tipping is not customery in Marrakesh, but the food and service are usually very good, so it’s nice to be nice.

    I generally leave a small tip of approximately 20-30 dirhams.

    You can drink the tap water allegedly, but personally, I  wouldn’t recommend it.

    Some tourists have what’s called a GRAYL water bottle, which takes out the bad stuff, but I haven’t tried one myself.

    I preferred to air on the side of caution, plus the water doesn’t taste that good and water purifiers don’t change the taste of the water.

    There are plenty of places selling bottled water around the medina, and riads or hotels also sell it.

    Non Muslims can’t go inside the Mosques, with the exception of Hassan ll Mosque in Casablanca.

    Koutoubia Mosque has the most beautiful gardens, which are well worth a visit. They are open to everyone, and particularly nice in the evening when they’re lit up.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    Some tourist attractions get incredibly busy, so try to arrive at opening times for the best experience.

    Places like Bacha Coffee can have waiting times for up to 2 hours, so come early and join the queue.

    The same applies to Bahia Palace and the Madrasa Ben Youseff.

    I found shopping in the souks early in the morning favourable.

    It was less crammed with tourists, and I avoided the mid afternoon heat.

    Although Marrakech is an Islamic city, it’s fairly relaxed and liberal.

    However, out of respect for the culture of your hosting country, it’s appropriate to cover your shoulders when visiting certain religious places.

    Aim to dress modestly without exposing too much flesh, and you’ll have a great experience.

    I have written a separate post on what to wear when you’re visiting Marrakech.

    Marrakech is a dry city. However, there are bars and clubs that cater to Western tourists.

    There are a few nice bars selling alcohol and cocktails around the medina, such as Le Pergola and Kabana rooftop bar.

    Gueliz and Hivenage have plenty of clubs and bars if you want a night out with alcoholic beverages and entertainment.

    Some high-end riads and hotels will also serve alcohol.

    It’s forbidden to consume alcohol in the medina unless you’re in a place that is licensed to sell it.

    If you get tired of haggling in the souks, there is an artisans market.

    The prices are slightly higher but you can simply buy the products without having to bargain for them.

    There is also a fixed price store in the Kasbah called Dar Bouchaib.

    People in Marrakesh can be quite camera shy.

    It’s best not to take photographs unless they specifically say you can.

    Be prepared to have to pay for the privilege, too.

    Most travellers are discouraged from starting conversations about the King of Morocco.

    Try sticking to conversations about the history of Marrakech and Amazigh culture.

    The locals will love telling you all about it..

    There are a few scams going on in the square, but it’s mainly opportunists trying to make a few dirhams.

    I haven’t had any problems myself, but just keep your wits about you and don’t fall prey to anything.

    Marrakech is relatively safe, but just like anywhere else in the world, exercise caution with your personal belongings in crowded areas.

    Keep your personal items in front of you and don’t carry large amounts of money around.

    The Souks close around 9.00 to 10.00 pm, so be careful if you’re walking around after that, especially if you’re a solo female traveller.

    I haven’t experienced anything unpleasant, but it can feel rather unnerving in the dark alleyways after dark.

    See my separate post about solo female travellers in Marrakech.

    I hope some of these nuggets of advice help you to have the best experience in Marrakech.

    Happy Travels.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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