The Guide to Exploring Morocco: A Solo Female Traveler’s Journey

My adventure began in Casablanca, a city that beautifully blends modernity with tradition. The Hassan II Mosque, with its stunning architecture, was a highlight. Please note that this is one of the largest cities in the country, so some precautions come into play when traveling solo in Morocco. I walked to dinner at night but made sure to walk with a group. Pickpockets on scooters are known to grab purses, so make sure to wear any bags in a crossbody fashion and stay aware. 

During my trip, I had the pleasure of dining at Le Rooftop Royal Mansour Casablanca, a restaurant renowned for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. The menu featured a variety of authentic dishes, and I opted for the chicken tagine with potatoes and vegetables. This delightful dish was served table-side in a traditional tagine clay dish, enhancing the overall dining experience. The flavors were rich and aromatic, showcasing the best of Moroccan culinary traditions. To complement the meal, I enjoyed a refreshing mint tea, which was a real treat. 

The restaurant’s atmosphere was equally impressive, adorned with Moroccan textiles that added to the authentic ambiance. Despite the high quality of the food and the unique dining experience, the cost was very reasonable, with most dishes priced around $8-10 USD. It’s worth noting that the restaurant operates on a cash-only basis, so be prepared accordingly.

Fez, with its labyrinthine medina, was like stepping back in time – a cannot-miss when visiting Morocco. The narrow streets are filled with vibrant souks, historical sites, and an array of sensory experiences. However, the medinas are VERY crowded. Keep your bag close and make sure to hire a guide as it is very easy to get lost. This will help you navigate the maze-like streets and avoid unwanted attention. 

While in Fez, I visited the mosaic factory just outside of the city, Poterie De Fes, where all pieces are handmade onsite. The pricing is quite reasonable, ranging from $5-25 per piece. Another highlight was visiting the Tanneries De Fes and the surrounding leather shops, where you can find high-quality leathers for a fraction of US prices. I even got a custom-made saffron-dyed leather jacket for $300 USD. 

For lunch or dinner in Fez, I highly recommend Dar Tagine in the medina. The chicken pastilla, a savory pastry filled with spiced chicken, almonds, and eggs, wrapped in flaky phyllo dough and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, is a must-try. Although the pricing is a bit higher due to its central location, a massive pastilla still costs less than $15 USD, including small plates prior to the meal. 

The atmosphere of Dar Tagine is enchanting; walking into the restaurant feels like entering a different world after the hustle and bustle of the medina. The interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics, antique carved furniture, and the service is excellent. 

For a more upscale dining experience, I also recommend MB Restaurant and Lounge. Here, you can enjoy dishes like petite filet and grilled octopus, along with high-end wine selections, which are a rarity in Morocco. Pricing is similar to USD scale, with entrees priced around $35-60 USD and bottles of wine starting around $40 USD and going up into the hundreds.

Merzouga was a stark contrast to the bustling cities. Here, we experienced the serene beauty of the Sahara Desert. Among many things to do in Morocco, riding camels and spending a night under the stars was unforgettable. I felt the safest in Merzouga, but it’s still crucial to stay with your group and follow your guide’s advice, especially in the desert’s vast expanse. 

I stayed at Hotel Kanz Erremal, which has a camel stable right next door. They allow guests to see how the animals are kept and their living conditions before arranging sunset or sunrise rides into the Sahara. Animal tourism is always something to be conscious of in other countries, and the full transparency here added to the overall experience.

The ride into the desert takes about 45 minutes to reach the larger dunes. You’ll need to climb the last bit off the camel to see the sunrise just above the dune, which is an incredible sight. This location is only 20 miles from the Algerian border. 

Merzouga is more spread out, so I opted to have meals at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, which sits right beside the dunes. The menu features traditional Moroccan dishes, including tagines, pastillas, and lemon chicken, with prices ranging from $8-15 USD per plate. Eating any meal with that view is amazing, no matter the time of day. The star gazing here is a highlight, with virtually zero light pollution. If you venture onto the dunes at night, it’s best to go in pairs or with a guide.

Known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” Ouarzazate is famous for its film studios and the stunning Ait Benhaddou. The town itself is relatively quiet and felt safe for solo travelers. If you plan to visit the gate in front of the Ait Benhaddou Kasbah, be aware that there are a lot of children who will try to help you cross the river and they expect to be paid. If you do not want to do this, you will need to be very firm in saying no and not taking their hands.

The climb to Ait Benhaddou can be somewhat difficult, but it’s worth it for the incredible views. Along the way, there are lots of shops and restaurants to check out, providing a great opportunity to rest and explore. Most of the people here will also be tourists, adding to the lively atmosphere. 

For dinner in Ouarzazate, I recommend Restaurant Obelix, where you must try the camel burger. Although I wasn’t a huge fan due to the strong flavors from the herbs camels eat in the desert, it’s still worth a try since it’s a unique experience. Pricing here ranges from $10-$20 USD for an entree. 

Additionally, I highly recommend staying or at least having a drink at the Berber Palace Hotel. I stayed here, and it was the nicest hotel of the trip. The grounds feature a massive pool and even a bar, which is rare for Morocco. Note that pricing is on the higher end, typically around $15-18 USD for a glass of wine.

Marrakech was the final stop on our journey. The city’s vibrant energy, bustling souks, and historical sites like the Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace were captivating. However, Marrakech is very similar to Casablanca with scooter theft. 

For a high-end dining experience, I recommend La Trattoria. The atmosphere is intimate and moody, with a pool in the middle of the restaurant and Moroccan lamps strung overhead. The menu features dishes like tomahawk steaks, specialty pastas, and some seafood options. The date ice cream is a great way to wrap up the meal. Entrée pricing is around $30-$45 USD. 

A great way to spend an afternoon here is to participate in a Moroccan cooking class. I did one on the rooftop of the Dar Cherifa restaurant downtown, and it was an amazing experience to see how the dishes I had been eating all week were prepared. 

While strolling the markets, make sure to grab some pomegranate juice. There are stands on almost every corner, and it is a great way to beat the desert heat. 

Moroccan Travel Tip: don’t pay more than a few Dirhams for the juice.

Dress Modestly: While Morocco is relatively liberal, dressing modestly helps avoid unwanted attention. Long skirts, loose pants, and tops that cover your shoulders are recommended.

Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like the medina. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables.

Ignore Harassment: Unfortunately, street harassment can be common. It’s best to ignore catcalls and avoid engaging with persistent touts. Wearing sunglasses and headphones can help you avoid unwanted interactions.

Travel in Groups: Whenever possible, explore Morocco with your tour group or fellow travelers. There’s safety in numbers, and it can make your experience more enjoyable.

Use Trusted Transportation: Stick to reputable taxis or arrange transportation through your hotel or tour operator. Avoid accepting rides from strangers.

Traveling through Morocco as a solo female traveler was an enriching experience. The country’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality made it a trip to remember. While there are safety concerns, being prepared and staying vigilant can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. If you’re considering a solo trip to Morocco, don’t let fear hold you back. Embrace the adventure, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable memories.