Traveling Solo as a Woman to Morocco: What You Should Really Know

“Can I travel solo as a woman to your destination?”

This is one of the most common questions I get.

At La Crique, part of my role is answering guest questions, designing the experience, handling operations and business development, and wearing the hat of mindset coach for Surf & Stay groups.

If I had to list the top three questions we’re asked, they would be:

Is there surf for my level during the time I’m coming?
Is equipment included?
Can I travel solo as a woman to Morocco?

The answer to all three is yes.

But that last question deserves more than a one-word answer.

Where Does the Fear Come From?

Most concerns about women traveling alone to Morocco don’t come from personal experience.

They come from perceived ideas about Muslim countries.

Stories passed on through social media. Sensational headlines. Isolated incidents amplified by news cycles. A general confusion between religion, culture, and safety.

Unfortunately, Islam is often misunderstood, and Muslim-majority countries are frequently portrayed through a negative lens, especially when it comes to women.

This doesn’t mean bad things never happen. They do. Everywhere.

But perception and reality are often very far apart.

Morocco in Reality, Not in Headlines

Morocco is one of the most open-minded countries in the Muslim world.

It has a long history of religious coexistence. Muslims, Jews, and Christians have lived side by side here for centuries. Other beliefs and lifestyles are tolerated, even if they are not always fully understood.

It is also one of the most visited countries in Africa.

In 2025, Morocco welcomed over 19 million tourists, breaking all previous records. Those visitors were not only families and couples, but also a large number of solo travelers, including women.

If Morocco were as unsafe as some imagine, that simply wouldn’t be the case.

Many women who have traveled extensively say Morocco is one of the safest places they’ve ever visited.

And statistically, cities like Paris or New York rank higher for certain types of crime than most Moroccan cities.

“But I Heard Bad Stories…”

Bad experiences can happen anywhere.

They happen in Europe. They happen in the United States. They happen in Morocco too.

The key difference is often cultural misunderstanding, not danger.

Many travelers arrive expecting social rules to be identical to those back home. When they’re not, confusion can turn into disappointment or fear.

This is where cultural intelligence matters.

Cultural Intelligence: The Missing Piece

Cultural intelligence doesn’t mean being paranoid.

It means being aware.

Here’s a simple example.

In many European countries, when someone offers help, it is usually voluntary. In Morocco, when someone gives you their time or assistance, there may be an expectation of compensation.

This is not about dishonesty. It reflects different social norms and economic realities.

Life can be more demanding for some people here, and time and effort are valuable resources.

Misunderstandings arise when travelers assume help is free and feel offended when money is mentioned.

At the same time, many Moroccans offer help generously with no expectation at all. Hospitality is deeply rooted in the culture.

Both realities exist at once.

Travel Smart, Not Fearful

Traveling solo as a woman in Morocco does not require fear.

It requires common sense.

Be aware of your surroundings.
Avoid following unsolicited guides.
Don’t walk around distracted by your phone.
Choose trusted accommodations and activities.
Ask locals or hosts when unsure.

These are not Morocco-specific rules. They apply everywhere.

Women Traveling Alone for Surf Trips

This is important to say clearly.

We host many women traveling solo for surf trips. Some are first-time solo travelers. Others have traveled the world.

They often arrive a little nervous.

They leave confident.

Surf environments, when well structured, are supportive by nature. Shared meals, shared sessions, shared experiences. Connection happens naturally.

At La Crique, solo female travelers are common, not an exception.

They surf. They explore. They rest. They connect. They feel safe.

Moroccan Hospitality Is Real

Moroccans are naturally welcoming.

There is curiosity toward visitors, but it is usually curiosity, not threat. People want to talk, help, share tea, share meals, share stories, and often share waves.

As everywhere, there are also scammers, fake guides, opportunists, and so-called “cowboy” surf coaches.

The key is knowing who to trust and when to say no.

The Balanced Truth

Morocco is not a fantasy paradise.

And it is not a dangerous place.

It is a real country with real people, cultural differences, beauty, imperfections, generosity, and complexity.

Women traveling alone can and do travel safely here every day.

Those who arrive open, curious, respectful, and aware usually have deeply positive experiences.

Those who arrive fearful, closed off, or expecting everything to work exactly like home often struggle.

Final Takeaway

Traveling solo as a woman to Morocco is not reckless.

For many, it is empowering.

The key is not fear.

The key is understanding.

Cultural intelligence, smart travel habits, and choosing the right environment make all the difference.

And yes, women come alone for surf trips. And yes, they thrive.