Traveling alone with my 10-year-old daughter in Morocco

Hello,

I traveled to Morocco in 2019 all by myself, getting around by public transport, and I didn’t have any problems. I often travel alone and just try not to draw too much attention to myself.

That said, like all tourists—men or women—you’ll often be approached to buy various items. It’s enough to say no with a smile or mention that you’ll come back later if it’s a shop.

Hello, No problem traveling alone with your daughter in Morocco. You’ll be warmly welcomed, and you won’t be more at risk of bad intentions than in France.

Clothing: No need to wear a veil anywhere. In the most remote areas, it’s wise to avoid tank tops, shorts, or short skirts. But this is just advice, not a strict rule. Behavior: Everywhere, it’s best to avoid overt displays of frustration.

For asking for information, advice, or directions: it’s better to ask women or local authorities. Hotel and hostel staff are also often good sources of advice. The public transport network is well-developed. Three main options (aside from city buses or "petits taxis"): trains (ONCF), only in the northwest of the country (the southernmost station is Marrakech); buses: two well-developed companies covering the whole country, with reliable schedules and websites (CTM and Supratours—Supratours is affiliated with ONCF); and a multitude of "local" companies. Cheaper, but often unpredictable with schedules (and safety varies for some companies), and they gather in bus stations. CTM and Supratours often have their own terminals. Grand taxis: fixed routes. They have their own "stations," often near bus terminals. Slightly more expensive than buses. They don’t leave until all 6 seats are taken (or at least paid for). This can take 5 minutes or 2 hours (depending on the destination, schedule, and competition with buses). Reaching small villages can be tricky—sometimes there’s no public transport. In that case, you’ll need to improvise: ask about market days (sometimes the only days with shared vans), or see if professionals can help you out.

Itinerary: Three weeks gives you plenty to do. Everywhere in Morocco, you can meet local families. To do this, you’ll need to settle in somewhere for a bit, away from tourist centers (outskirts of big cities, small towns, or villages). This applies to Taghazout, which has become *very* touristy with Westernized infrastructure. But originally, it was a small fishing village, and you can still find its charm by staying away from the hyper-center. There are other small fishing villages along the coast for day trips, though not all have accommodations. To reach them, you might need to plan around market days—sometimes the only days with public transport (and not always in the right direction).

Try different "savoir-faire" (crafts). Essaouira is a hub for various arts: music, woodwork, leather, and all kinds of recycling. That said, it’s still a touristy city. To mix things up, you can add seaside, desert (with or without sand), mountains, or valleys. Personally, I love the area from Ouarzazate to Merzouga (very well-connected by public transport).

I’m not sure Agadir is the best starting point.

Here are a few initial suggestions. Other travelers will likely have more ideas.

Murielle

Hi Romain, No need to cover your head in Morocco, just like it’s been said, avoid clothes that are too short. You’re right to head south because in February, it can get cold. By the way, it’s snowing right now around Tafraoute where we were in October and it was really hot then. On the coast, it should be nicer in February. You might want to consider heading toward Sidi Ifni...

We were cold at night and in the morning in the South at the end of March, so check if the accommodations you're interested in are heated. Plan for layered clothing—it’s cold in the morning and warmer in the afternoon. Why Agadir? It’s not the most interesting city. Instead, consider Marrakech as a base, Essaouira is really pretty with its fortress, lovely port, and crafts. Head toward Ait Ben Haddou, the Dades Gorges, and the Todra Gorges, Tineghir and its oasis, and don’t forget Merzouga for a night in the dunes... Have a great trip!

If you're looking for authentic spots that aren’t too touristy, avoid Ait Benhadou—it’s packed with tourists and souvenir vendors. Near Ouarzazate, there’s the Fint Oasis, a really pretty and peaceful place with welcoming locals. We had couscous at a village woman’s house there. We were trying to buy some bread, and a woman we asked for directions took us to this local resident who welcomed us into her courtyard...

I wrote a travel journal on this forum about our stay in Morocco. You’ll find some useful info there that might help you.

Hi there, I totally get your hesitation—I’ve been to Morocco several times, and I’d also heard really mixed opinions before going. In the end, I always left very happy and, most importantly, I never felt unsafe while I was there, nor did I ever feel like I was being "stared at" in an uncomfortable way. As solo female travelers (and with a child), it can absolutely go smoothly. The only thing I really noticed is that in very touristy areas—souks, big squares, busy spots—you might get some persistent offers: vendors who really want you to step into their shop, or people offering to "guide" you. But it’s not dangerous in itself—you just need to dare to respond firmly while staying polite ("Thanks, we know the area well, we’re not interested. We already have a guide / we’re meeting someone." And keep walking without justifying yourself). About your question on the headscarf: it’s not necessary to cover your head to be "appropriate." That said, like in Oman, the most important thing is to respect local customs: opt for modest clothing (shoulders and thighs covered, discreet neckline), especially in less touristy areas. Many travelers simply wear a long dress / flowy pants + a light cardigan, and that works just fine. If it helps, I’ve jotted down my Morocco itinerary and impressions here: https://aventures-sans-mesaventure.blogspot.com/2026/01/visiter-marrakech-en-1-semaine.html What a wonderful project—wishing you both an amazing trip! !

A big thank you to everyone for your detailed replies.

Hi there, We recently traveled to southern Morocco (Agadir, Atlantic coast down to Mirleft) and, honestly, yes: you can absolutely feel at ease as a solo woman with your daughter. There’s no need to cover your head. Respectful clothing (shoulders and knees covered, nothing too tight) is more than enough. February is a great time: 18–22°C, fewer crowds, soft light. Taghazout is easy to reach by public transport from Agadir. If you have three weeks and are looking for more authenticity, I’d recommend heading down to Mirleft or Tiznit: silver craftsmanship, argan cooperatives, and a very local vibe. We spent a week in Mirleft and barely saw five other tourists. Peaceful atmosphere, welcoming families, wild beaches. I’ve detailed our experience here if you’re interested :) 👋 https://aventures-sans-mesaventure.com/maroc-hors-des-sentiers-battus-1-semaine-a-mirleft/

Happy planning and safe travels! !