Is Tangier Safe to Visit? Find Out Now!

Is Tangier safe to visit? This is a question I get all the time. I get where people are coming from since safety is a huge concern when traveling, whether you’re with small kids or by yourself.

I personally had zero issues in Tangier and think it’s totally safe. That being said, it is a big city. So, you need to take normal precautions like watch out for your belongings and never leave them unattended, especially at the beach.

But, do remember that bad things can happen to you no matter where you travel. So, always be careful. But, I didn’t feel unsafe or like Tangier was an overly dangerous city. It’s definitely not the most dangerous city I’ve been to in Morocco.

I even walked around at night alone and had zero problems. But, everyone’s experience is different and I am sure some travelers have horror stories about visiting Tangier.

I can only say that I have been here a couple of times, both alone and with my partner, and have never encountered any problems.

However, to help put your mind at ease, I’ve created this epic local guide filled with tips and tricks on how to stay safe in Tangier, Morocco.

This way you (hopefully) won’t run into any issues during your visit and can enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

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Is Tangier Safe for Tourists? The Bottom Line

I think Tangier is very safe for tourists, especially if you plan to stick to well-visited areas and want to try things like the best cooking classes in Tangier.

I have zero issues as a solo traveler and received a lot less unwanted male attention here than when I was solo in Marrakech. So, Tangier is safe for women, just like Morocco is safe for women.

I also know that in recent years, the Moroccan government has taken a lot of steps to help make the city a safer place to visit. So, you’ll see more police on the street and there are a lot more CCTV cameras in the city.

That being said, this is a big city. So, while there is not a huge risk of violent crimes, petty theft and pickpocketing are fairly common near the beach and other touristy areas.

So, never leave your belongings unattended. I also like to carry only the valuables I need for the day inside a Pacsafe backpack (I love mine and have had it forever.

The rest of my belongings I leave in the safe back at my hotel. This way, if something should happen, I also have credit cards and cash to use back at the hotel after doing a cool day trip from Tangier.

Where is Tangier?

Tangier is located on the northernmost coast of Morocco and sits just 39 kilometers away from Spain.

Many people use the ferry and enjoy a 1.5-hour ride across the straight of Gibraltar from Spain to Morocco to enjoy the unusual things to do in Tangier.

Because of this, Tangier is a vibrant, culturally diverse city that is home to incredible beaches and a unique fusion of Arab, Berber, and European cultures.

Additionally, this is a very historic city with a wealth of Tangier landmarks since it was a major port along the trade route between Africa and Europe.

There is even a historic Medina that consists of a maze of streets filled with vendors, restaurants, and shops. It’s a fun place to walk around and one of the many reasons why Tangier is worth visiting.

Tangier is also well-located near Tetouan and connected to Rabat and Casablanca by high-speed train. You could even do a cool day trip to Chefchaouen from Tangier if you have the time.

Crime Rates in Tangier

From my personal experience, crime rates were very low in Tangier. Yes, you should safeguard yourself against petty theft but I personally think that there is a very low risk of violent crime.

However, to give you a better idea of what to expect, I have attached a screenshot of Tangier crime rates from Numbeo.

Have a look to get a general idea of safety in the city. Just be aware that data was submitted by 54 participants. So, that is a very small sample size and the results could be biased.

Cultural Concerns in Tangier

As you probably already know, Morocco is a Muslim country, Therefore, things are probably a bit more conservative here than what you are used to.

I mean, unmarried Moroccan couples are not allowed to sleep in the same room. Don’t worry though, unmarried foreigners totally can share a hotel room, so don’t freak out.

But, those are just the type of laws that are in place in Morocco. So, some things to remember before you spend a day in Tangier are:

• Dress conservatively, especially women – Just keep your shoulders and knees covered and you should be fine at some of the best restaurants in Tangier and some of the coolest cafes in Tangier. I have heard people say men should not wear shorts but I don’t know about that. My partner is a Moroccan man and wears shorts all the time. LOL.

• No PDA – PDA, or public displays of affection, are very much not okay in Morocco, and you shouldn’t do it. You absolutely can hold hands, put your arm around your partner, or hug your partner, but that’s it. No kissing or making out in public because it is seen as super disrespectful as you enjoy free activities in Tangier.

• Respect Ramadan – Ramadan usually falls sometime between March and April. I can’t say exactly when since the dates depend on the moon cycle and change from year to year. But, if you visit Tangier during Ramadan you should dress conservatively since it is a holy month. Many restaurants will also be closed during the day and you should try not to eat/drink in public since it is rude to people who are fasting. No one will say anything but it’s better to eat in a cafe than while you’re walking down the street during Ramadan.

Safety Tips for Tangier

1. Check Government Websites for the Latest Safety information

Regardless of where I travel, I always check the US State Department website for up-to-date information on safety concerns for my chosen destination.

I’m American which is why I use this website. However, most countries (UK, Canada, etc.) have their own website that features travel alerts for countries around the world.

It’s nice because the US Department of State gives countries quick rankings from Level 1, exercise normal precautions, to Level 4, do not travel.

You can even register with the Department of State before you travel. This way, if any issues arise and you need to be evacuated, you can quickly, easily, and safely leave the country.

I did this when I was living in South Korea since tensions with North Korea were really high. Just be aware that only citizens of the United States can register with the US State Department.

It’s also worth noting that government websites tend to be a bit overly cautious and can convince that nowhere in the world is safe.

So, use your judgment when it comes to these advisories. In general, I like to reach out to people who have recently traveled to my chosen destination via Facebook groups.

I ask them what the conditions on the ground are really like so I know what to expect when I travel.

2. Never Carry All of Your Valuables

I mentioned this Tangier safety tip before and I’ll mention it again since I had my wallet stolen in Barcelona and don’t want that to happen to anyone else.

So, petty crime and pickpocketing are fairly common in Tangier, just like in NYC, London, and Paris. Yeah, sadly, this is a common occurrence in big cities with a lot of tourists.

Now, the best way to protect yourself is to get anti-theft, RFID-blocking gear. I use this PacSafe backpack and love it.

I take it with me everywhere I go and it is still going strong after almost 2+ years of daily use. However, feel free to use whatever devices work for you. I know this backpack is a little pricey and may be out of some people’s budgets.

The other thing I recommend doing is carrying only what you need for the day. Bring just enough cash to meet your daily expenses and leave the rest of your valuables at the safe back at your hotel.

This way if you do get pickpocketed, you still have money and credit cards at the hotel that you can use to pay for things.

I also never carry my passport and just have a copy on my phone, as well as a paper copy with me. I just don’t want it to get stolen if someone steals from me.

3. Be Vigilant on Buses

Sadly, there is no tram or train to help you get around Tangier, not like in Rabat and Casablanca. So, everyone uses buses, or group taxis, to navigate this giant city.

Yeah, Tangier is surprisingly big and it is like a 45-minute drive out to places like Cap Spartel. So, you will probably need to use the bus at some point, unless you want to take taxis everywhere.

Well, when you use the bus, it can be packed with locals who are trying to navigate the city in a cheap way.

So, watch out for pickpockets and always watch your belongings in these types of closed-in spaces with people packed together like Sardines.

It just makes it easy for people to pick your pocket without you even noticing.

4. Always be Aware of Your Surroundings

This is one of those general travel safety rules that you should always practice, regardless of the place you visit.

But when you’re navigating the crowded, itty bitty streets of the Medina or are riding on a bus packed with people, it’s important to be aware of what people are doing since it’s really easy for people to pick your pocket.

But, this is also true even if you are just walking down the street. I know I once caught a guy following me in Athens and almost called the police because I practiced vigilance and was aware of my surroundings.

I would also trust your gut. If a place feels unsafe and makes you uneasy, then get out of there. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

But again, I had no issue any time I have visited Tangier but have definitely heard stories from people who were followed by men down the street.

5. Ask for Help if You Need It

I know this sometimes gets lost in the language barrier but Moroccans are super friendly and community-oriented. So, if you ask for help they will help you.

I mean, my partner has gotten free bus tickets and has used countless cell phones because people are just really kind and very ready to help if you are in trouble.

Plus, this is throughout the country and not just in one city. Even in Casablanca, kind locals were always telling me to put my phone away because they didn’t want it to get stolen from me.

So, even if you do not speak Arabic and cannot verbally ask for help, make it clear that you are in distress and locals will assist you.

It’s to the point that if locals see someone trying to steal something they will yell at them and deter them even if it is not their stuff. This is just what Moroccans do.

Therefore, if you feel in danger or someone is making you uncomfortable, get help and speak up. You can also ask for help from anyone at your riad in Tangier.

6. Dress Appropriately

Because Tangier is so close to Spain, I assumed the general vibe of this place would be super chill and very much “wear what you want”.

And while you don’t have to cover every inch of your body, I would wear more modest clothes and have your shoulders and knees covered. especially if you visit during Ramadan which is not the best time to go to Tangier.

Yeah, we had someone complain and almost ask us to leave a restaurant because I put my arm around my partner.

FYI, this is totally normal and okay in every other part of the country. But, we arrived here and this guy was not about it. Sure, it could have just been him but this was in the city center and we were very cautious after this.

So, I think this is one of those cities where it’s good to dress a bit more modestly. Just pretend like you are heading to your conservative grandma’s house and you should be just fine.

Local Tip: If you receive a lot of unwanted male attention as a female (I received very little unwanted male attention in this city), dress conservatively and walk around with a male friend or people you meet at your hotel.

Usually, the attention disappears as soon as you have a male around or at least this is exactly what happened to me.

7. Use Licensed Taxis Only, Discuss Fares Before Entering, and Use the Meter

Outside of Essaouira, taxis are annoying in basically every city in Morocco. They are constantly trying to scam you and it’s just irritating in a city like Tangier where you need them to get around.

Yes, there is a bus network. But, I didn’t find it reliable and we ended up using a lot of taxis after waiting forever for the bus.

So, if you are gonna use taxis then my advice is to only use licensed taxis. You should never get in an unmarked vehicle and ask to use the meter before getting into a taxi.

You are entitled to use the meter and if they refuse, mention the “police”. They will usually back down since what they are doing is not tolerated by the police.

I would also discuss the fare before you get in so that you are not shocked by the price of your taxi ride when you arrive.

If you want, ask your hotel how much it should cost to get to your chosen destination. This way you know what a fair price looks like.

8. Avoid Overly Friendly Strangers

There’s a fine line between being friendly and being downright creepy. So, when all else fails, listen to your gut and if something feels unsafe, get out of there.

But on the whole, Moroccans are friendly, but not overly so. Guys may give females unwanted attention but will usually leave you alone if you ignore them or if you firmly say, “No thank you.”

So, if someone follows you or tries to touch you that is a red flag. Additionally, if someone is offering unsolicited advice that is also a red flag.

Yes, Moroccans are happy to help you but that is usually after you ask for help. They typically won’t just go up to you and offer help or give you directions.

So, be wary of these people since these type of people tend to be scammers.

9. Only Stay in Reputable Hotels in Safe Areas

If you stay anywhere near the Medina or around the Kasbah you should be fine. I stayed in these areas and had no problems. I also loved that they were really well-located near many on the top attractions in Tangier.

Many of the beachfront hotels in Malabata are also great places to stay in the city. So, if you’re wondering, “Is Tangier safe to visit?” then just stay in one of these hotels and you’ll be fine.

Additionally, Marshan is a super luxurious neighborhood in the city where many expats live. So, it’s a great place to stay and is home to a ton of super fancy hotels.

But, always check a hotel’s latest reviews before you book to see if there are any common issues. What sometimes happens is a hotel changes owners and then becomes super sketchy.

So, recent reviews are key when finding a safe place to stay.

Is Tangier Safe to Visit FAQs

What is the Safest City in Morocco for Tourists?

I found all of the cities I visited in Morocco safe, minus Casablanca. And even in Casablanca I didn’t feel like anyone was gonna do me bodily harm.

But if I had to pick the safest city in Morocco, I would pick Marrakech or Fes since both cities are pretty safe. Fes is just annoying for solo female travelers since the male attention you get is insane. I got hit on 20+ times a day.

Is Tangier Good for a Holiday?

Yes, Tangier is a great place for a holiday. You can relax by the beach, explore the Medina, see historic landmarks, and even take a fun day trip to Cap Spartel and visit the beaches there.

Is Tangier Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Yes, I think Tangier is safe for solo female travelers. I visited solo and had no problems walking around day or night. Just use proper precautions and you should be fine.

You’ll also probably receive a lot of unwanted male attention walking around alone and can deter this by dressing conservatively and by walking around with a male friend from that hostel you’re staying at.

Can You Drink Alcohol in Tangier?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in Tangier and all of Morocco. But, it is sold only at licensed hotels, bars, and tourist spots. You can also find it at the grocery store but it’s usually in a separate room off the main supermarket.

That wraps up this guide about whether or not Tangier is safe to visit. I hope you found this post useful and feel better about visiting Tangier.

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