Visiting Marrakech? Know These Crucial Travel Tips

Marrakech is the most popular city in Morocco for tourists to visit. There are some important things to know before visiting Marrakech that will help you have an amazing trip in the city.

A lot of people find Marrakech overwhelming at first. I sure did.

But as you understand the city more, you quickly fall in love. I sure did.

If you know the tips covered in this article before visiting Marrakech, you’ll be less overwhelmed and get to the falling in love part quicker.

I certainly wish I knew most of this stuff before visiting Marrakech. I would have felt more comfortable, confident, and it wouldn’t have taken me as long to get my feet under me and truly explore the city.

Is Marrakech safe for solo female travellers?

1. Arabic and French are Both Widely Spoken

Both Arabic and French are widely spoken in Marrakech. Most people will be able to understand you if you speak French even though Arabic is the primary language in Morocco.

This is very helpful to tourists who don’t know any Arabic but know French basics.

Knowing that French is widely spoken is something I really wish I knew before visiting Marrakech.

I spent four semesters in university studying French and really wish I had freshened up on my language skills before arriving in Marrakech.

English is often spoken in the most popular tourist destinations, but there is no guarantee that anybody will speak English. And they may not be able to help you if you need assistance.

And trust me, it is very easy to get lost in the souks and winding streets, so you may have to ask for directions.

Luckily, I was able to sneak by with the little French I had, but I would have been lost without it.

So, I highly recommend that you either know a little bit of Arabic or French before visiting Marrakech.

It’ll make your trip go much smoother.

Plus it’s always nice (and respectful) to know a little bit of the local language anywhere you travel.

Marrakech, Morocco

2. Currency Exchange is Tricky

If there is one thing you need to know before visiting Marrakech, it is that currency exchange is a little bit tricky.

You’re only able to exchange your money into Moroccan Dirham when you arrive in Morocco. You’re not supposed to be able to get any Dirham outside of Morocco.

I have heard a few stories of people being able to get a very small amount of Dirham from their local bank before arriving in Morocco, but I wouldn’t count on that.

You can exchange your money in lots of places in Marrakech, but I recommend doing the exchange at the airport.

They know most people who arrive in Marrakech will need to exchange their currency, and they’ve set up an efficient process.

There are lots of tellers to exchange the currency quickly, and you get a reasonable rate.

I know a lot of airport currency exchange locations don’t always give a fair rate, but that isn’t the case in Morocco.

So, leave some extra time when you land at the airport to exchange your currency, and you’ll be all set for your visit to Marrakech.

Additionally, you need to exchange your Dirham back to another currency before you leave Morocco. Again, I would just do this at the airport for convenience.

I’ve found that you tend to get the best rate when you’re exchanging your Dirham to USD, Euro, or GBP. But they have tons of different currency if you don’t want to exchange to any of those three currencies.

Anyways, the moral of the story is to have a plan for exchanging your currency inside Morocco, so you’re not left in a panic when you land in Morocco.

3. Haggling is a Way of Life

You’ll need to haggle for anything you buy at a local vendor/stall in Morocco. This is something I knew before visiting Marrakech.

But I wanted to warn you as well, so you can work on your haggling skills or work up the courage to haggle if you’re like me.

I hate haggling. Even though I know it’s common in many part of the world, I always feel awkward, uncomfortable, and rude whenever I haggle.

You won’t have to haggle at a restaurant, if you’re buying street food, or if you’re visiting a larger souvenir store.

You’ll have to haggle in souks and other street stalls.

Well, technically you don’t have to haggle, but you’ll be way overpaying if you don’t.

If you know you want to buy a specific souvenir in Morocco, be sure to research ahead of time a range of what you should expect to pay for it.

This will allow you to be prepared and understand whether or not you’re being offered a fair price for the item.

I’m a terrible haggler, so I’m not going to give you any haggling tips.

My only tip is to know what you’re comfortable paying and don’t pay more than that. I’ve just resigned myself to the fact that I overpay for everything I buy when I attempt to haggle.

But I never feel bad because I paid what I felt comfortable with, and the vendor made a little extra money that day.

Marrakech, Morocco

4. The Importance of Internet Safety

I will never stop telling you that you need to be more aware of your internet safety when travelling.

You rely on public wifi networks, and that puts you are serious risk of having your online data stolen.

Any time you use a hotel, restaurant, or transportation wifi network, you’re leaving your online information vulnerable and ready to be stolen.

And, yes, even wifi networks that have passwords aren’t safe. Anybody can access that password, and they’re only mildly more secure than a completely public wifi network.

Protecting your personal online information and data may not be on the top of your list of things to do before visiting Marrakech, but it should be.

You’ll deeply regret not taking your internet safety seriously if someone steals your banking information, and you’re left scrambling trying to cancel credit cards and bank accounts while on holiday.

That is never fun.

The only way you can stay safe while using public wifi networks is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN puts a forcefield around your devices that makes it impossible for any prying eyes to access your online information.

It makes using public wifi networks just as safe as using your home wifi network where you’re the only person who knows the password.

A tourist’s guide to wifi in Morocco

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of different VPNs over my years of travel. Frankly, most of them are terrible.

VPNs are notorious for slowing your internet connection to a snail’s pace and making the internet frustrating to use.

There have been many times where I’ve turned off my VPN and risked my online data being stolen because the VPN I was using at the time was so painfully slow, and I couldn’t even do a basic Google search.

My frustration ended when I discovered NordVPN.

NordVPN is the fastest VPN on the market, which is why I love it. I’ve been using it for years and years and recommend it to all my friends and family.

You need a fast internet connection when travelling, and that’s why I love NordVPN and feel comfortable recommending it to you my fellow travel lovers.

It is by far the best VPN I’ve used and feel confident it is protecting my online information, privacy, and data without slowing my internet connection down.

In fact, more of the times, I don’t notice I’ve using a VPN at all because there is so little slow down when using NordVPN.

The best part?

NordVPN is super affordable!

The cost per month of a two-year subscription is less than a single Starbuck’s latte. You get amazing protection and online privacy for a super low price.

My philosophy is that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your personal online information with a VPN.

It’s a small price to pay for the security and peace of mind you get in return.

Don’t Forget to Install an Esim on Your Phone!

Esims are an amazing new technology that allows you to easily access the internet with phone data with just a few clicks.

All you have to do is purchase an esim either on the website or app and install it onto your phone. After the esim is installed on your phone, you use your phone data just like you would at home.

Esims are the easiest way to get phone data while you travel. You no longer have to rely on data roaming from your home phone company or purchase a local sim card when you arrive in a new country.

I personally use Airalo. It has the best coverage of any esim company, is extremely affordable, and has reliable data access, so you’ll never be stuck somewhere without access to data.

If you don’t use much data, you may want to consider using Drimsim. They charge you per MB used. You can get away with only spending a couple of dollars for data while in Morocco as long as you don’t use it often.

If you use Drimsim, be sure to turn off your data when you’re not using it. This ensures your data isn’t accidentally running in the background and helps keep your costs down.

But, since Airalo is so affordable, it’s still my esim of choice even when I don’t use a ton of data wherever I’m travelling.

5. The Food is Incredible

One thing I was not prepared for when visiting Marrakech was how incredible Moroccan food is.

It is legitimately one of my favourite cuisines now, and I even brought a tagine and spices home with me, so I could cook Moroccan food at home. And that tagine gets a workout let me tell you.

It is essential that you try traditional Moroccan food while visiting Marrakech.

You won’t be disappointed!

Tagine is my favourite. You can get a variety of types of tagines ranging from vegetable to chicken to beef.

The thing they all have in common is that they’re cooked in ceramic or clay cooking vessel. The cooking process takes a long time, and you’re left with the most tender, delicious, flavourful food.

Some tagines just have broth, and some have couscous in the bottom. My preference is just the broth, but I think most people enjoy the couscous version better.

But, not matter what, promise me you’ll try tagine in Marrakech.

In addition to tagine, you can try delicious kabobs, tips, and breads.

The only thing I tended to steer away from in Marrakech (and Morocco in general) was the street food on small streets.

There tended to be flies hanging around them, and I wasn’t sure how long the food had been sitting out for. I wasn’t prepared to take a risk.

Street food in high traffic areas are normally pretty safe. They get lots of customers, and the food doesn’t sit around for very long before it is sold.

If you want to be safe, I would stick to restaurants. You know food is going to be fresh.

Be sure to try some new foods in Marrakech even if you’ve never heard of them. One of the most beautiful parts of travel is trying new food, and you don’t want to leave Marrakech without trying Moroccan food!

Marrakech, Morocco

6. Beware of Scammers

Just like anywhere else in the world, there are scams you need to be aware of when visiting Marrakech.

I’m not going to go over all the common scams in Marrakech, but I’ll cover a few of the most common ones you need to be aware of.

Taxi Scam

Unsurprisingly, taxi scams are common in Marrakech. The scam works just like taxi scams all over the world.

You get into a taxi, and they say their meter is broken, and you end up paying an extremely high fare. The easiest way to avoid this scam is either by insisting the driver turn on the meter before you get in the car or by agreeing on a price before you get in the car.

Tea Scam

Another common scam happen when a seller in a souk invites you in and offers you a free tea- no strings attached.

You accept the tea, and then when you go to leave, the seller insists you purchase something because you accepted their free tea.

The issue with this scam is that you never know whether or not it is truly a scam or a seller being kind.

I’ve had experiences where a seller has genuinely offered me a tea without expecting me (or hassling me) to make a purchase.

However, there are also tons of cases where the seller isn’t being genuine and is trying to scam you.

Use you gut. And if you get in a situation where they’re demanding you buy an item, politely say no and then leave. You’re under no obligation to purchase anything from them.

If you want to be safe, simply refuse any offering of tea.

The Helper Scam

The last scam I want to talk about is the the gate is locked or I’ll take you the right way scam.

This is where a “kind” stranger spots you as a tourist and “helps” you find your way.

There are varying degrees of this. Some people are just looking for a small tip, and others are taking you in completely the wrong direction and will insist you pay them quite a bit of money or maybe arrange a taxi for you that charges you a very high fare.

To avoid this scam, politely tell people you don’t need their help.

Some people will follow you (and still expect a tip for showing you the way), but the biggest scammers will try to find someone else they can get more money out of.

Be sure to have your wits about you and always do what you’re comfortable with. If you’re lost and need help, go to the main square and ask either a police officer or tourist booth employer for help.

7. Make Time for a Day Trip

Marrakech is stunning, but you should make time in your schedule to take a day trip from Marrakech.

There are so many amazing places to see in Morocco that are near Marrakech.

The most popular day trips from Marrakech are an adventure out into the desert and a visit to Ouzoud Falls.

My preference is Ouzoud Falls.

It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever seen, and I recommend it to anybody I know who is visiting Marrakech.

Trust me. The pictures don’t do it justice!

Another great option is visiting Essaouira. I personally think you need multiple days in Essaouira to get the full experience, but if you only have one day, that’s better than nothing.

No matter where you choose to go, I think it is always worth it to take a day trip from Marrakech.

You get to see a different side of Morocco and get out of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Solo travel in Morocco

8. It’s Hot, and You Need to Dress Modestly

Morocco is a desert country, and it gets hot.

The good type of hot- dry hot. You won’t be sweating to death because of the humidity.

But, you will still be hot. And there are certain clothing expectations you should abide by.

For women, this means no shoulders showing, no cleavage, and long shorts/skirts/dresses or pants.

For men, you should cover your shoulders and avoid shorter shorts.

It’s pretty easy to find the right clothing to pack when visiting Marrakech, but it is something you should be aware of before you arrive in Morocco.

You don’t want to pack mostly tank tops and short skirts and then have nothing to wear while in Marrakech.

And bring a fan. And lots of sunscreen!

Marrakech, Morocco

9. You’ll Get Hassled

Unfortunately, there is no delicate way to word this point, you will get hassled when visiting Marrakech.

Especially if you’re a woman travelling alone or a group of women travelling alone.

Even if you’re a mixed group of men and women, you’ll still get hassled. Whether it is people trying to get your attention to shop in their store or someone trying to get you to fall for a local scam, be prepared to have lots of people yelling at you to get your attention or following you.

Most people are harmless and are just trying to make some money off you.

Say no thank you politely and keep walking. Even if someone starts following you, keep walking.

They’ll eventually give up or you’ll arrive at your destination.

I wouldn’t call the hasseling you’ll experience in Marrakech as a safety threat. I’ve never felt unsafe in Marrakech when people were trying to get my attention or get a tip out of me.

I would call it a bit annoying though. By the end of the week, I definitely had less patience for it than at the beginning of the week.

Kindness and politeness goes a long way. People aren’t trying to be rude or annoying. They’re trying to make enough money to support their lifestyle.

10. Riads are the Best Place to Stay

Riads are the very best place to stay in Morocco. They’re a traditional type of Moroccan architecture and absolutely beautiful.

They also tend to be run by locals and are more affordable than most hotels, which is a huge plus.

I had the most amazing time staying in a riad.

The staff were incredible kind, the building was beautiful, and the complimentary breakfast was made fresh for each person every morning no matter what time you got your day started.

It definitely gave my trip to Marrakech a more authentic feel, and it was extremely relaxing to come back to that environment after a busy day of exploring the city.

Recommended Activities in Marrakech

explore morocco

Conclusion

Marrakech is a fantastic city, but it can be an overwhelming city for tourists to navigate.

I hope these things to know before visiting Marrakech help you plan your trip and make your experience in Marrakech more enjoyable.

I know the first couple of days in Marrakech can be difficult for some tourists. It is worth feeling a bit uncomfortable at first and getting to explore and fall in love with Morocco and Marrakech.

It’s worth it. Trust me.

Marrakech has so much to offer. The sights are stunning, the food delicious, and the nature will take your breath away.

How to Easily Travel from Marrakech to Casablanca

Marrakech and Casablanca are two of the most popular cities in Morocco for tourists to visit. Luckily, it is very easy to travel from Marrakech to Casablanca.

Looking at a map, it may seem like you have to choose to either visit Marrakech or Casablanca on your Moroccan vacation.

They look quite a ways away, but, in reality, it is very easy to travel from Marrakech to Casablanca. You can definitely visit both cities when you’re in Morocco if you want.

You’ll have to choose to either take the train from Marrakech to Casablanca or the bus from Marrakech to Casablanca. Both have their pros and cons, but I believe the train is the best option.

However, you may find the the bus is the best option for you and your travel style.

That’s why we’re going to cover every way to travel from Marrakech to Casablanca as well as discuss the pros and cons of each transportation method.

How to travel from Marrakech to Essaouira

Option One: Taking the Train from Marrakech to Casablanca

As I mentioned, my favourite way to travel between Marrakech and Casablanca is to take the train.

It isn’t the cheapest option, but it is significantly faster than the bus.

And I’m willing to pay a bit more to shave a few hours off my travel schedule!

How Long Does the Train from Marrakech to Casablanca Take?

The train to Casablanca from Marrakech takes just under 3 hours.

Some trains are quicker than others, and it depends on how busy the tracks are and what time of day you travel.

But, in general, your train journey should take about three hours.

Casablanca, Morocco

How Much Does a Train Ticket Cost?

Just like the length of your journey, the price of your train ride depends on when you travel.

If you travel during peak times and on the weekend, you can expect to pay more than if you travelled during off-peak times on a weekday.

In general, you can expect to pay between 90 MAD (about $10 USD) and 190 MAD (about $20 USD).

Those are really good prices!

Even if your ticket costs closer to the high end of the price range, it is still affordable for most people.

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets

The best way for tourists to purchase train tickets is by going to the train station.

You can go to the train station anytime and purchase tickets for a future departure date.

You can purchase train tickets at any train station even if your train doesn’t depart from that station, which is quite convenient.

The reason I say it’s easiest for tourists to purchase their tickets at the train station is because if you purchase them online, you need to have a Moroccan card.

This is a national identification card, and you can’t get one as a tourists.

So, go to the train station and purchase your train ticket from Marrakech to Casablanca.

I suggest going to the station and buying your ticket a few days in advance of your intended departure date.

The trip from Marrakech to Casablanca is quite popular, and there is a chance train tickets will be sold out on the day you want to depart.

You can show up at the train station the day you want to leave and try to buy a ticket, but there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to get one.

Where Does the Train Depart from in Marrakech?

Trains to Casablanca depart from Marrakech Railway Station. It’s the main station in Marrakech.

The train station is slightly outside of the heart of Marrakech.

You can walk to the train station, but it’s probably in your best interest to catch a taxi, so you’re not trying to navigate your bags along the busy roads.

Marrakech, Morocco

Where Does the Train Arrive at in Casablanca?

There are three train station in Casablanca.

Trains from Marrakech arrive at Casa Oasis.

The train station is a few kilometres away from the central part of Casablanca. You probably don’t want to walk to your accommodation.

You can take a bus or you can take a taxi.

I would personally take a taxi. Just be sure you negotiate a decent price with the driver or insist they turn on the meter.

Never accept the first price the taxi driver quotes you.

A tourist’s guide to wifi in Morocco

Advantages of Taking the Train from Marrakech to Casablanca

  • It’s quick
  • Convenient arrival and departure locations
  • Relatively inexpensive

Disadvantages of Taking the Train from Marrakech to Casablanca

  • It’s more expensive than the bus
  • You can’t purchase your ticket online
  • Limited luggage storage space

Option Two: Taking the Bus from Marrakech to Casablanca

Your next option is to take the bus from Marrakech to Casablanca.

The bus is a bit cheaper than the train, but it takes longer. You need to decide if the money you save is worth the extra time in transit.

If you’re on a long trip, taking the bus isn’t going to eat into your time in Morocco very much.

However, if you’re on a short one-week vacation, saving a little bit of time in transit can be a huge deal.

How Long Does the Bus from Marrakech to Casablanca Take?

The bus to Casablanca from Marrakech takes about 4 hours.

It could be longer or shorter depending on the traffic. That’s the big unknown when it comes to taking the bus rather than the train.

Marrakech, Morocco

How Much Does a Bus Ticket Cost?

Bus tickets vary more in price than train tickets. You can find a really good price that saves you a lot compared to the train or you can pay basically the same amount as a train ticket.

You can expect to pay between 65 MAD (approximately $7 USD) and 190 MAD (approximately $20 USD).

As you can see, the bus is often less expensive than the train but not by much.

The bus takes an extra hour compared to the train. If you take the bus, be sure to find an inexpensive ticket, so you’re paying less than the price of the train.

If you can’t get a good deal on a bus ticket, then you’ll probably want to just take the train.

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets

Just like train tickets, you’ll have to purchase your bus ticket at the station before you depart.

The bus station is right next door to the train station, so you can easily go from one to the other to check out ticket prices if you want.

Buses are a very popular mode of transportation in Morocco, and it isn’t unheard of for buses to be sold out.

I recommend buying your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get on the bus you want.

If you leave it to the last minute, there’s a high probability that you won’t be able to buy a ticket for the next bus and will have to wait for the one following that.

There are plenty of buses that run from Marrakech to Casablanca each day, so you’ll be able to make it to Casablanca.

It might just be later than you thought it would.

Is Marrakech safe for solo female travellers?

Where Does the Bus Depart from in Marrakech?

As mentioned, the bus station is right next door to the railway station.

The bus station is called CTM bus station.

You’ll likely take a taxi to the bus station, so be sure to tell them what bus station you need to go to. You don’t want to accidentally show up at the wrong station!

Where Does the Bus Arrive at in Casablanca?

The bus arrives at CMT bus station in Casablanca.

CMT is the name of the bus company in case you’re wondering why the stations have the same name.

The bus station is much closer to central Casablanca than the train station.

Assuming you’re staying in the heart of the tourist part of town, you can walk to your accommodation in about half an hour.

You can also take the local bus or hire a taxi if you can’t want to walk.

Marrakech, Morocco

Advantages of Taking the Bus from Marrakech to Casablanca

  • The least expensive option
  • Buses depart every hour
  • Luggage storage room under the bus

Disadvantages of Taking the Bus from Marrakech to Casablanca

  • It takes the longest
  • Isn’t that much cheaper than the train
  • Buses often sell out

Other Ways to Travel from Marrakech to Casablanca

There are a few other ways you can travel to Casablanca from Marrakech.

I’m not giving each of them their own dedicated section like the bus and train because I don’t really recommend these options unless you’re in a specific circumstance.

For the average traveller, you should take the bus or train.

Flying from Marrakech to Casablanca

Both Marrakech and Casablanca have airports. If you really wanted, you could fly between the two cities.

However, when you take into account getting to the airport early, waiting for your flight, flying, deplaning, waiting for your luggage, and getting to your accommodation in Casablanca, it isn’t really any faster than the train.

The flight itself is only 50 minutes, but it is everything else that comes with flying that slows you down.

The only time I would recommend flying from Marrakech to Casablanca is if you land in Marrakech and are going directly to Casablanca without going into the city.

Driving from Marrakech to Casablanca

Next up is driving from Marrakech to Casablanca.

The drive only takes 2.5 hours, but you should decide to drive just because it is quicker than the bus or train.

I only recommend driving to Casablanca if it is part of a bigger road trip across the country.

Don’t just drive from Marrakech to Casablanca and then return your car.

Marrakech, Morocco

Taking a Guided Tour from Marrakech to Casablanca

A guided tour can be one of two things:

  • A guided tour across Morocco or
  • A private car that drives you from Marrakech to Casablanca

You may want to consider these options if you don’t want to plan your entire trip around Morocco or are nervous about travelling through Morocco by yourself.

I figure if you’re going to take a private tour, you probably aren’t reading this post, so I’m not going to go into any detail about it.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a number of ways you can travel from Marrakech to Casablanca.

It all comes down to personal choice and what transportation method works best for you.

I prefer to take the train between the two cities, but you could decide to take the bus or a private tour.

The important thing to take away from this article is that it is super easy to travel from Marrakech to Casablanca.

You shouldn’t let the fact that the two cities look far away on the map deter you from visiting both of them on your trip to Morocco!

How to Easily Travel from Marrakesh to Essaouira

Wondering how to travel from Marrakesh to Essaouira? This post’s got you covered!

Marrakesh is one of the most popular cities in Morocco for tourists to visit. It is an amazing city, but you should also get out of Marrakesh and see a different side of Morocco.

My favourite city in Morocco is Essaouira. It is a small coastal town that is full of charm.

It is very different from the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh!

Some people choose to do a day trip from Marrakesh to Essaouira, but I think Essaouira is worth spending at least two days in.

Whether you visit it as a day trip or spend a few days in the city, you need to know how to travel from Marrakesh to Essaouira no matter what.

Luckily, it is very easy to travel between the two cities!

You have two main options for travelling from Marrakesh to Essaouira. You can either take the bus or arrange private transportation.

The bus is the cheapest option and is just as easy as taking a private car to Essaouira.

However, the purpose of this post is to help you decide the best way to travel to Essaouira from Marrakesh.

We’ll go over the pros and cons of each option, and you’ll have a much better idea of what transportation method works best for you by the end of this article!

Is Marrakesh safe?!

Option One: Taking the Bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira

My favourite way of travelling between Marrakesh and Essaouira is by bus.

It is quick, convenient, and inexpensive.

How Long Does the Bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira Take?

The bus to Essaouira from Marrakesh takes just 3 hours!

It is quite efficient, and there aren’t many stops along the way.

Of course, it could take a little bit more or less time to get to Essaouira. It all depends on the traffic.

However, from my experience, it isn’t likely you’ll run into a traffic jam along the way that slows you down.

Marrakech, Morocco

How Much Does a Bus Ticket Cost?

Bus tickets vary a little bit depending on what day of the week and what time you travel.

You can expect your ticket to cost between 75 MAD and 130 MAD. That’s between approximately $8 and $12 USD.

From my experience, my bus tickets have been at the lower end of the spectrum, which is nice.

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets

You purchase your bus tickets in person at the bus station, and I believe only cash is accepted.

That could have changed since the last time I was in Morocco, but it was the case when I last took the bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira.

Important Note!

Tickets for the bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira sell out very quickly.

The first time I travelled to Essaouira from Marrakesh, I showed up at the bus station 30 minutes before the bus departed, and the tickets for that bus were already sold out.

I had to wait until the next bus before I could get a ticket.

Luckily, buses run very frequently between the two cities. If the bus you want to take is sold out, you likely won’t have to wait too long before the next one.

If you really need to take the bus at a certain time, you way want to go to the bus station a day or two in advance and purchase a ticket.

Also, when I arrive in Essaouira, I always purchase a bus ticket for my return to Marrakesh as soon as I arrive.

Where Does the Bus Depart from in Marrakesh?

Buses to Essaouira depart from CTM bus station.

It is right next to the train station and a short walk from central Marrakesh.

Although, if you have a lot of luggage, you may want to take a taxi to the bus station rather than trying to navigate your luggage through the busy streets.

Essaouira, Morocco

Where Does the Bus Arrive at in Essaouira?

The bus arrives at Mahatta, which is the only bus station in Essaouira.

It is located just outside the old town (where most tourists stay), and you can easily walk to your accommodation from the bus station.

If you’re not quite sure how to get to your accommodation, there is a map at the bus station, and I’ve found the employees are always super nice and can help point you in the right direction.

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Advantages of Taking the Bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira

  • It is the cheapest option
  • Convenient departure and arrival locations
  • The buses are very comfortable

Disadvantages of Taking the Bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira

  • They’ve very busy
  • The bus you want to take may be sold out
  • Some people are nervous about taking the bus in Morocco

Option Two: Taking Private Transportation from Marrakesh to Essaouira

Your second option is to arrange a private car to take you from Marrakesh to Essaouira.

This option is significantly more expensive than taking the bus, but it is more convenient. Arranging private transportation can also be valuable for people travelling in a larger group, so the cost per person goes down.

Essaouira, Morocco

How Long Does Private Transportation Take?

You can expect your private transport from Marrakesh to Essaouira to take just under 2.5 hours.

This is if you don’t stop along the way and if you don’t run into traffic.

Private transportation tends to take about 40 minutes less than the bus, which is a significant amount of time.

How Much Does Private Transportation Cost?

Hiring a private car to drive you from Marrakesh to Essaouira costs 1,400 MAD or approximately $150 USD.

That’s not chump change, so you really need to consider the cost before you book a private car.

Tourist’s Guide to Wifi in Morocco

Where to Hire a Private Car

There are a few places you can hire a private car.

I’ve never taken a private car from Marrakesh to Essaouira, so I can’t advise on who offers the best service. Be sure to read reviews before booking!

One option is to go through a third-party site like Viator to book your transfer. They have a number of different options, and it is a safe bet that the companies on the site are safe.

Another option is to book through Tangier Taxi. I’ve never used them, but they look like a legit company based on my research.

But, again, please do your own research before booking any private transfer!

Where Does a Private Car Depart from in Marrakesh?

Your private car should pick you up directly at your hotel or other accommodation!

Where Does a Private Car Arrive at in Essaouira?

Your arrival location depends on where you’re staying.

If you’re staying outside the old city, your car will drive you straight to the door of your hotel.

If you’re staying inside the old city, your car will drop you off at the gate closest to your hotel. Cars aren’t allowed in the old city, so they can’t drop you off right at your door.

Marrakech, Morocco

Advantages of Taking a Private Car from Marrakesh to Essaouira

  • Very convenient
  • Can depart whenever you want
  • Very comfortable ride

Disadvantages of Taking a Private Car from Marrakesh to Essaouira

  • It is very expensive
  • You need to research to make sure the company is legitimate
  • Some companies have hidden fees

Conclusion

Travelling to Essaouira from Marrakesh is very easy. Being nervous about travelling between cities in Morocco shouldn’t stop you from visiting Essaouira.

It is an amazing city, and I don’t know anybody who regrets visiting it!

I prefer to take the bust from Marrakesh to Essaouira, but I understand why some people prefer to hire a private car to drive them.

A private car can make you feel more confident in a country where you might be experiencing culture shock.

No matter how you choose to travel from Marrakesh to Essaouira, just do it! It’ll be worth the time and effort.

Is Marrakech Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Marrakech is a very popular tourist destination, but a lot of solo travellers are put off from visiting because they wonder is Marrakech safe or not.

I totally understand the question and potential hesitation.

Especially if you’re new to solo travelling!

My parents had the same concerns and were trying to convince me not to visit Morocco, but I’m glad I did!

So, to answer your question is Marrakech safe for solo female travellers, my answers is yes! But there are some very important things you need to know before you arrive in Marrakech to ensure you’re safe.

If you’re used to travelling around in Europe, and that is your only solo travel experience, visiting Marrakech will be a bit of a shock.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go though!

I thoroughly believe that exploring places that are very unlike your own is important. It can be a bit intimidating, but that’s how you grow as a person and traveller.

By the end of this article, you’ll know how to safely navigate Marrakech and have an amazing solo trip to Morocco!

Benefits of travelling alone

Is Marrakech Safe?

Just in case you skimmed the intro (I don’t blame you), I want to reiterate that Marrakech is safe for solo female travellers.

It is no more dangerous than most other popular solo travel destinations.

However, the culture is different in Marrakech, and there are some additional things you need to know to feel safe in the city.

These are small things that will help you navigate the new city with confidence and avoid some of the common scams in Morocco.

The answer to the question is Marrakech safe may be subjective, but, in general, I think it is.

Anywhere is as safe as you make it. If you go around breaking Moroccan laws and acting recklessly, then it isn’t going to be safe.

If you travel in a safe way and do your best to adhere to local culture, pretty much anywhere you travel is safe- including Morocco!

Marrakech is a vibrant city, and I don’t want you to miss out on experiencing it just because someone in your life is telling you it isn’t safe.

They’ve probably never been there and are just fear mongering.

Listen to the people who have been there, take their tips to heart, and decide for yourself whether you’re confident enough in your solo travel skills to explore a new culture and region.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech Safety Tips

As I said, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to be as safe in Marrakech as possible.

Some of these may seem like common sense, but they are even more important to pay attention to in Marrakech than other parts of the world.

As long as you follow these tips, you’ll be safe and having the time of your life in Marrakech.

Never Look Lost

One of my biggest tips I can give you is never, ever, ever look lost when in Marrakech.

If you have no idea where you are, wait to pull out your map until you’re in a store, bathroom, or restaurant.

Morocco is a tipping culture. If someone sees you looking lost or unsure, they will come up and “help” you even if you don’t ask or need it.

And once they’re done helping you, they expect a tip and won’t leave until you give them one.

If you are a solo female traveller in Marrakech and even give off the slightest hint of being lost, it won’t be long until there are at least two or three people around you trying to help you out.

There isn’t anything wrong with this, and the people helping you aren’t unsafe, but it can still be a bit annoying and unwanted.

Especially if you have an idea of where you want to go and was just checking your route.

I spent some time in Essaouira and then took a bus back to Marrakech and stayed in the same hotel in Marrakech as I had previously.

I knew the way and didn’t show any doubt in where I was going, but two men walked with me to “show” me the way and then wouldn’t leave until I tipped them for their help when we got to the hotel.

Again, nothing wrong with a tipping society, but it can make a lot of solo female travellers feel uncomfortable.

So, if you want to wander around and try to be as invisible as possible (I do!), then it is in your best interest to walk with confidence and try not to look too lost or unsure of yourself.

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Avoid Sketchy Street Food

Marrakech is home to some of the most delicious food I’ve ever eaten.

I’m salivating right now just thinking of it.

However, you need to be a bit cautious when choosing what street food to indulge in.

Sometimes the food sits in carts on the street without proper cooling tools used. And Marrakech is hot all year around, so it doesn’t take long for a food to get a little bit too much of the heat.

There are also sometimes issues with bugs swarming around the food.

I’m not saying don’t indulge in the street food.

You should 100% take advantage of the yummy food and try it out. All I’m saying is make your choices wisely.

If you’re going to eat street food, make sure it is from somewhere the locals seem to eat, and, preferably, order hot food that is cooked right in front of you.

That way you know it is fresh!

You don’t want to accidentally eat something that will upset your stomach and have to miss out on some of your time exploring Marrakech because you’re sick.

Marrakech, Morocco

Learn to Say No Forcefully

This tip goes back to the first tip on this list.

Morocco (and especially Marrakech) is built on a tipping culture. Locals are looking out for tourists they can help guide around for a tip.

As a solo female traveller, you’ll likely garner a lot of attention.

If you’re like me and just want to wander around alone, you’ll have to learn how to say no forcefully to get the point across that you don’t want any help.

This doesn’t always work, but it will work in a lot of situations.

I know it feels weird (it certainly did to me as a soft-spoken introvert), but it is what it is, and you have to learn how to do it.

Another extremely important skill you need to learn is haggling.

If you’re purchasing anything in the souk or taking a taxi somewhere, haggle, haggle, haggle.

This is still a challenge for me to this day, but it it is an important skill to try to learn. People will try to rip you off and/or not listen to you, and you need to be forceful with your words and haggle to a reasonable price.

Of course, you want to pay a fair price because this is how people make a living, but most of the time the starting price is ridiculously too high. Even for me as someone who is more than willing to overpay to avoid as much haggling as possible.

I know this tip doesn’t really answer the question is Marrakech safe for solo female travellers, but standing your ground is an important part of making Marrakech the safest place for you.

Of course, you could be the exact opposite of me and enjoy the help from the locals.

But, you still need to know how to haggle and say no forcefully if the situation calls for it.

Be Cautious in the Souks

I don’t know why, but it seems like the rules of society go out the window when you enter the Marrakech souk.

Things that would never be considered appropriate are fair game.

As a solo female traveller, you need to be prepared for the tight, winding lanes of the souks and for more direct and forward advances.

The souk was the only place in Marrakech where I felt a little uncomfortable.

Men would cat call me at every turn, they would grab me by the wrist, and a few times I was even touched in my lower back.

It definitely took me by surprise since it was completely different to what I had experienced in the rest of Marrakech.

The first time I visited the souk was the only time I wondered is Marrakech safe?

As soon as I realized this was something that may or may not happen when I wandered through the souk, I was able to prepare for it.

I gave myself a little pep talk before I entered the souk, walked as confidentially as I could, and took a few calming breathes.

It is my philosophy not to comment or make a fuss when things like that happen no matter where in the world I am.

I may not enjoy it, but I’m a visitor in their country. I can’t impose my beliefs on them.

I just walk by, ignore them, and remember what stall they’re at, so I know not to purchase something from them in the future.

All in all, most people in the souks are incredibly kind, helpful, and just want to make a sale (get your haggling skills ready).

But, just like anything, there are a few exceptions.

I don’t want to taint your opinion of Marrakech in any way because it is a fabulous city.

I went back and forth whether or not I should include this point, but I finally decided that I wish it was something I was more prepared for when I visited the souk for the first time.

Marrakech, Morocco

Dress Appropriately

I personally think it is important to dress according to the standards of the country you’re visiting.

I know some people feel that they should be able to dress however they want, but I think it is important to be respectful of local customs.

In Marrakech, that means dressing more on the conservative side.

You by no means have to wear a head covering, but you should wear something that covers you shoulders, knees, and definitely not show cleavage or your stomach.

It is not only respectful to the locals, but it also makes Marrakech a bit more safe.

Again, not that Marrakech isn’t safe!

Dressing conservatively will help you blend in and avoid unwanted attention.

It is a simple thing you can do to respect the locals and make your visit to Marrakech as safe as possible.

Overcome your fear of solo travel

Be Internet Safe

No matter where you travel, you rely on public wifi networks. Marrakech is no exception.

Physical safety is always talked about, but not enough people talk about the need to be internet safe.

Using a public wifi network puts you at risk of having your personal online data stolen. This is a headache at the best of times but even worse when you’re travelling.

You do not want to have to deal with trying to cancel debit and credit cards because your information was stolen because you were being careless online.

And, yes, even if wifi you’re using has a passcode, it is still a public wifi network because basically anybody can get the passcode.

The only way you can make sure you’re being safe when using a public wifi network is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN basically puts an invisible forcefield around your phone that makes it impossible for a hacker to access your private information and data.

A VPN makes using public wifi just as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the passcode.

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of different VPNs over my many years of travel. To be honest, most of them suck!

VPNs are known to slow down your internet, and it can be extremely painful using a VPN when you’re trying to quickly Google or stream something.

That all changed when I discovered NordVPN.

It is the fastest VPN on the market, and you barely notice a reduction in your internet speed when you use it.

That’s why I love it and recommend it to all my fellow travel lovers!

I’ve been using NordVPN for years and don’t plan on ever changing providers, which is saying a lot!

They’re the first VPN I’ve ever used past one year and have renewed my subscription to.

You can install your NordVPN on up to 6 devices, so you can protect your online data everywhere for one low price.

A two-year subscription to NordVPN costs less than the price of a latte per month. You don’t have an excuse to not protect your online data when you travel!

My philosophy is that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to install a VPN on your devices and protect your online information.

It is a small price to pay to sleep easy knowing nobody can steal your private information and data.

Learn Common Scams

No matter where you go, it is important to be aware of the local scams in the area.

Knowing about local scams before you arrive in a city is essential. It prevents you from falling victim to a scam, losing money, and putting yourself at risk.

I’ve fallen victim to many scams around the world (although none in Morocco), and I don’t want you to go through the same horrible feeling I have.

The most common scams in Marrakech to look out for include:

  • People “leading” you to the medina but take you the wrong way
  • Offering something for free and then insisting you pay for it
  • The rug scam (they offer you free tea to enter their store and then get mad if you don’t purchase a rug that costs thousands of dollars)
  • Fake goods

Be aware of these scams (and more) and be prepared to say no with force if you’re approached by someone you think is trying to scam you.

Avoid Drinking Alcohol in Public

Drinking in Morocco is legal, but tourists are the only people allowed to drink in public.

While you totally can drink in public legally, I recommend solo female travellers either refrain totally from drinking or only drink in private at their hotel.

A woman drinking alone in public will likely draw more attention than a woman just eating alone in public.

My philosophy when travelling alone is to blend in as much as possible and act as much like a local as I can.

And in Marrakech that includes not drinking in public even though it can be freaking hot and a cold beer would taste incredible.

This is totally your call because drinking is legal.

It all comes down to what makes you feel safest in Marrakech and gives you the most confidence.

For me, I’ll stick to water.

Marrakech, Morocco

Be Prepared for Some Culture Shock

Marrakech is the first place I experienced culture shock. I had mostly travelled around Europe before my trip to Morocco and was used to North America and Europe.

Marrakech was the first city I visited where things were really different from my own experiences, and it took a little while to get used to it.

I know this technically isn’t a Marrakech safety tip, but I still think it is important to know before you arrive in Morocco.

Marrakech is a loud and busy city. There are always things going around, and you can get a bit overwhelmed at first.

I suggest you plan an extra day or two in Marrakech to help you get used to Morocco if you’ve never visited a country like it before.

This gives you the chance to move slowly and go back to your hotel if you start feeling overwhelmed.

One of my mom’s friend’s daughters went to Marrakech alone and was so overwhelmed that she booked a flight out the next day.

So, if you want to be able to experience Marrakech and have time to get over the culture shock, take the first day or two slow.

It may even be in your best interest to go on a guided walking tour the first day, so you can get your bearings and feel more confident walking around alone the rest of your trip.

Be Careful Crossing the Street

The only thing that really makes you question whether Marrakech is safe or not is trying to navigate crossing the busy roads.

It isn’t an issue once you get a feel for what is going on.

And is certainly nothing compared to trying to cross a busy street in China!

My best tip for you is to stand back and watch how the locals cross the street for a few minutes before trying to cross the street yourself.

You’ll get an understanding of what the unwritten rules are and how to safely cross the street when there are scooters and cars buzzing around.

Better yet, you can wait until a local crosses the street and follow closely behind them.

You can mimic how they cross the street and ensure you get to the other side safely.

The odds of you getting hit while crossing the street (even if you do it poorly) are very low, but you don’t want the stress of causing a traffic jam and having people honking and yelling at you!

Tips for travelling alone for the first time

Marrakech, Morocco

Conclusion

There you have it! The answer to the question is Marrakech safe for solo female travellers.

There is a lot of mystery and misconceptions about Morocco and Marrakech. Some people assume that since it is a majority Muslim country, it isn’t safe for solo female travellers.

That simply isn’t true.

Marrakech is very safe, and you shouldn’t run into any issues when you visit the city.

The important thing is that you behave in a way that makes your visit to Marrakech safe.

Don’t do anything illegal or draw too much attention to yourself. If you dress conservatively, don’t wander around alone at night, and stand your ground, you’ll be fine.

I don’t want the thought of Marrakech not being safe to prevent you from exploring the beautiful city.

It may not be the best place for your first solo trip if you’re from North America, but once you have a little solo travel under your belt, you shouldn’t have any trouble exploring Marrakech alone.