Are you considering Casablanca for your next vacation?
It’s a good idea, as this economic metropolis promises a good time with its Art Deco architecture, charming medina and the Hassan II Mosque overlooking the Atlantic.
Here are all the details to answer your question: is Casablanca safe?
With all our tips for a carefree vacation.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
How safe is Casablanca?
Yes, on the whole, Casablanca is a relatively safe destination for tourists. In this city of architectural contrasts and diverse atmospheres, between business centers and historic districts, there are certain risks to be aware of. For example, petty theft, scams in the souks and, as in any major metropolis, some neighborhoods should be avoided at night.
Traffic can also be quite sporty, with lots of traffic jams, so be sure to stay alert when traveling and protect yourself from pollution.
Risks in the ocean
Casablanca is renowned for its beautiful Corniche promenade along the Atlantic Ocean and for its many beaches, such as Aïn Diab and Madame Choual. Note that even good swimmers can be surprised: the waves are powerful and the currents can be very strong, especially offshore. Some beaches are not regularly supervised, especially outside the high season. We therefore recommend that you limit yourself to the designated bathing areas and respect the warning flags. On the other hand, you should know that there is no danger from marine animals: swimming in Casablanca presents no risk of dangerous jellyfish or sharks.
Theft and incivilities
As in all major metropolises, you’ll find petty crime such as snatching, especially in tourist areas and on public transport.
In the medina and near the Hassan II Mosque, some may try classic pickpocketing techniques such as distraction. We have also observed pickpockets on crowded streetcars during rush hour. Note that, as in many big cities, car theft does occur, but is limited to vehicles parked on the street without surveillance. By choosing guarded or hotel parking lots, you can considerably reduce the risk.
Advice:
- Make sure you don’t display any valuables such as watches, jewelry or the latest smartphones, to avoid tempting potential thieves.
- In crowded areas, keep your valuables safe in a discreet pouch or shoulder bag that’s always in front of you. Drawstring phone covers can also come in handy.
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Tourist scams
As Casablanca is a major tourist destination, you will come across attempted scams as in many major tourist cities. The most common include bogus guides who approach you near sites such as the Hassan II Mosque, pushy salesmen in the souks of the old town center, or certain cab drivers who forget to set the meter or who direct you to stores for a commission.
Advice:
- Before getting into a cab, make sure the meter is on or agree a price in advance.
- Take official cabs (red in Casablanca) or VTCs with geolocation.
- Avoid following unofficial people who spontaneously offer their services as guides.
- In the souks, remain courteous but do not hesitate to end the discussion if the sale becomes too insistent.
- Avoid giving money directly to the children; if you want to help, give preference to local associations.
Safety for women travelers
Women can travel in Casablanca without any particular difficulties, but it’s best to keep certain precautions in mind. Verbal harassment can occur, especially on public transport and near tourist sites. Some travelers choose to wear revealing clothing to feel more comfortable in the face of insistent stares. Note, however, that this remains a personal choice, as women are free to dress as they wish in Maroc. In fact, you’ll see a wide variety of clothing styles on the streets.
Women can book and stay alone in Casablanca hotels without difficulty. This situation is commonplace and perfectly acceptable. Restrictions only apply to certain couples where one partner is Moroccan, but this does not affect solo female travelers.
Advice:
- Travel with an escort at night and stay in busy areas.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- In the evening, use official (red) cabs or VTCs rather than public transport.
- Keep a firm, assertive stance when faced with solicitations
Traffic hazards and pollution
Casablanca has extremely dense traffic, which can be daunting for inexperienced drivers. Traffic is particularly heavy during rush hour and in the city center, especially at traffic circles. Traffic regulations are not always respected, and air pollution can be severe during rush hour. In practice, pedestrians do not always have priority, even on crosswalks.
Advice:
- Always cross at crosswalks, looking carefully in all directions, and wait for a lull in traffic.
- If you suffer from respiratory problems, prefer long walks outside rush hour.
Counterfeiting
Be aware that some popular markets sell counterfeit goods (bags, watches, clothes, etc.) in Casablanca. We remind you that it is forbidden to bring counterfeit goods across borders, as this practice is prohibited in almost all countries.
Is it dangerous to drive in Casablanca?
Driving in Casablanca can be a challenge for the unaccustomed, but you need to be aware of the dense traffic, the traffic jams and the local driving style. The rules are not always obeyed: some pedestrians cross outside the crossings, priority on the right exists but is not always respected, and many two-wheelers and bicycles weave in and out of cars. Not to mention parking, which can be a real headache in the town center. We recommend that visitors unfamiliar with this style of driving use cabs or the streetcar, which are particularly efficient for getting around.
Can we drink the water in Casablanca?
It’s best to avoid tap water in Casablanca. There is no serious health risk, but it can cause digestive problems for visitors who are not used to it.
We recommend that you only drink bottled, capped water. Most restaurants, supermarkets and hotels offer mineral water. Avoid ice cubes and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Emergency numbers in Casablanca
Emergency numbers in Casablanca, Morocco, are 15 (fire department), 141 (medical emergencies), +212 (0)522 98 98 65 (Casablanca central police station), 19 (police in town), +212 (0)688 81 71 87 for SOS Médecins, +212 (0)537 68 64 64 for the Poison Control Center or 117 (Royal Gendarmerie outside town).
Neighborhood safety
How safe is downtown Casablanca?
Casablanca city center is generally safe for travelers during the day, especially around Place Mohammed V, Place des Nations Unies and the Maârif district. However, some areas can become less safe in the evening, especially the narrow streets near the port. We recommend avoiding venturing into these areas alone after dark.
How safe is Casablanca’s medina?
Casablanca’s medina is smaller than those of Fez or Marrakech, but still requires caution. Pickpockets can operate in the souks, and it’s easy to get lost despite its small size. We visited this area during the day without any problems, so it’s best to plan a daytime visit.
How safe is the Ain Diab district?
On the coast, the Corniche de Aïn Diab is generally safe for tourists, being well frequented and patrolled. It’s a modern area where we had no trouble strolling along the beaches, restaurants and beach clubs. Beware, however, of the sometimes strong waves if you go swimming, and don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach.
Is the Habous district safe?
Absolutely! We’re very fond of the Habous district, and have become particularly attached to this place for its colors, warm atmosphere and authenticity. Built in the early 20th century, this historic district harmoniously combines traditional Moroccan architecture with colonial influences. You’ll discover a typical, lively atmosphere with its narrow streets and craftsmen’s shops. We took a leisurely stroll during the day, but as everywhere else, be careful with your personal belongings.
How safe is the Anfa district?
Anfa is one of Casablanca’s most residential and chic neighborhoods, known for its villas, its few embassies and its quiet avenues. The area is generally considered safe, day and night, with a regular police presence. As everywhere, you are advised to be careful with your personal belongings, especially in shopping areas. Travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and sense of security, which contrasts with the livelier central areas.
Which districts to avoid in Casablanca?
The majority of Casablanca’s districts are easily visited, especially during the day, but some outlying areas such as Sbata, Sidi Moumen and Ben M’Sick are not particularly interesting for tourists and are less suitable for visitors. In the center, the Ouled Ziane bus station and its surroundings are less pleasant for travelers and prone to insistent solicitation. So it’s best to stick to well-frequented neighborhoods and cultural areas (Maârif, Gauthier, Anfa, Corniche, Habous, Sidi Belyout). As everywhere else, avoiding walking alone at night is a standard precaution in any large city.
