My Solo Trip in Marrakech: The Honest Experiences (and What Surprised Me)
(Visited Marrakech the end of February 2025 - solo)
Solo travel in Marrakech as a female? And slow travel as well? And through the senses?
Yes please! Oui s’il vous plait! All of that - and more - is possible.
A Little Background on this Blog:
Morocco has been getting a lot more attention and features lately in travel mags and instagram - particularly Marrakech. United added a direct flight from Newark, NJ to Marrakech in 2024, making it more accessible for people from the U.S. to visit. No surprise then from all these sources that there is an uptick in tourism.
Curious and admittedly wanting to experience it before it becomes overly crowded or commercialized, I planned a 12-day trip to explore what it’s really like to travel solo as a woman in Morocco, particularly Marrakech —a topic with mixed information online.
Having traveled solo to 25 countries, lived abroad in three, and embraced slow travel in many, I’ve developed a refined sense of what makes a solo destination feel safe, aligned, and fulfilling. My priorities? Experiencing a place through a local lens—with safety, comfort, and soul.
This post isn’t your typical ‘top 10 must-dos’ list—because I believe travel is deeply personal and meant to be experienced in ways that speak to you (and your soul). Telling someone what they must do assumes a lot—and that’s not my style. Instead, I’m sharing what I personally experienced in Marrakech as a solo female traveler: the activities and rhythms that helped me feel safe, empowered, and grounded. This is what worked for me—and why I wholeheartedly believe that if a woman feels called to solo travel in Morocco, she should go.
You’ll find some honest insights here, not to deter, but to empower and support your sense of ease and security.
I personally love having autonomy when I travel—to explore on my own schedule, to take as much (or as little) time as I like. Maybe that means sleeping in, enjoying a long lunch, or spending a few hours in a garden. Or perhaps it’s wandering the souks at my own pace, stopping to smell the herbs, examining handmade shoes and bags, and taking breaks when I feel like it.
Weaving slow travel into the experience means it’s not a race to check boxes. You may even skip a few sights—and that’s okay. To me, it’s about experiencing a place energetically and through the senses—deeply, slowly, and in ways that leave lasting impressions and invite subtle internal shifts. This is the lens through which I travel, write, and offer ideas—to inspire and gently guide, never prescribe.
The beauty of solo travel is designing a trip that’s all about you—your pace, your curiosities, your energy. In Marrakech, that meant diving into history, exploring local products, visiting serene gardens, experiencing hammams, and marveling at the intricate architecture and craftsmanship.
Marrakech was the first stop on my trip—and the second Muslim-majority country I’ve visited. It felt dramatically different from my travels through Europe, Central, and South America, especially as a woman. There’s an immediate sense of “elsewhere”: the rich mix of languages, the vibrant colors, the sensory overload of spices, textiles, leather, perfumes. The medina alone is an experience—alive with sounds, movement, and constant vigilance (yes, even in the souks you’ll need to dodge mopeds). Keep your bag close, your phone secured, and your wits about you. It’s a lot—and it’s unforgettable.
Let’s just say: the hammam becomes part of your nervous system regulation.
I’ve now visited over 15 places across Morocco, and from that experience, I can confidently say that Marrakech is the most tourist-oriented city. There’s nothing wrong with that—and in fact, it can be a benefit for solo female travelers, especially those newer to solo adventures. You’ll find more English speakers here than in other parts of the country, which can feel like a lifeline when navigating a place where Arabic or French is the norm. I always encourage learning key phrases out of respect (and practicality), but it’s helpful to know that you can often get by in English here, especially in restaurants or shops geared toward travelers.
That said, I still encountered plenty of moments where communication was limited, especially when negotiating prices. A little prep—and a bit of patience—goes a long way.
So…The million dollar question:
Is Marrakech safe for solo female travelers?
In my experience—yes.
I felt confident and empowered throughout my time there, and I believe that’s entirely possible for other women, too. However. I can easily see the noise, ‘risks’ and concerns posed. I talk about those later in the blog. Let’s start with how I navigated the magical, vibrant, sensory abundant and possibly overwhelming chaos that is Marrakech.
Here’s how I supported my nervous system and what helped me stay grounded, energized, and safe:
✧ I had support.
For the first time ever, I worked with a local DMC (destination management company) to help arrange logistics, guided tours, and transfers. We struck a balance that allowed for lots of autonomy—because that’s how I prefer to travel—but the logistical support was invaluable. Many DMCs I explored offered rigid, pre-set itineraries that wouldn’t work for me, so I was careful in choosing one that gave me flexibility.
Because I didn’t know other women who had traveled solo through Morocco, and because reliable information was limited, having this support structure made sense. I’m so glad I did it. While Morocco has solid public transport, there was something truly easeful about having a dedicated driver.
This - ie - having support, but from a fellow female solo traveler who gets it is part of my purpose with empowering and supporting other women to travel solo.
✧ I listened to my body and intuition.
I rested. I hydrated. I found nourishing meals. I explored slowly—on foot, in gardens, at my own pace. I didn’t force early mornings or rush to fit everything in. I followed what felt good.
And… I payed attention to my ‘intuition’ with safety and comfort. As is typical and normal in new places (even sometimes familiar), the nervous system is activated and on alert. Being able to assess and know what and where truly is risky (ie dark streets when the only female) can come from traveling solo…and just strengthening your intuition. This also means you’re not constantly walking around in fear mode and on alert - defeating the enjoyability of an experience.
✧ I embraced standing out.
Perhaps a unique consideration. Many people commented that it was “brave” to travel solo in Morocco. I understand where that sentiment comes from. But for me, solo travel is about connecting with myself, trusting my intuition, and being okay with standing out—or standing alone. That sense of self-trust is something I’ve cultivated through years of solo adventures, and I believe when used wisely, equips (us) to move through new places confidently and comfortably.
✧ I prioritized wellness.
I intentionally built in experiences that fed my soul—hammams, gardens, rooftop tea breaks, sensory experiences, gentle yoga in my room and moments of stillness. These helped me stay grounded and joyful, even in the intensity of a city like Marrakech.
✧ I traveled smartly and safely.
For me, this meant a few non-negotiables:
- I shared my location with a close friend and family member, familiarized myself with where my riad was located (even though, admittedly, I still got lost returning to it each night).
- I used a cross-body purse to keep my belongings secure.
- I kept my phone on a string and was mindful about when and where I pulled it out.
- I made it a point to head back before dark, and while I carried a small mace for peace of mind, I didn’t need to use it. Personally, I often feel safer walking than taking taxis—but I did take one while in Marrakech. It wasn’t the smoothest experience: the driver initially tried to drop me off outside the medina, but I was able to communicate enough to get closer to my riad. I also made a conscious choice not to stay out late.
- I always have data on my cell phone. My current phone plan from Verizon extends internationally (with 10 g), which works the majority of the time (every now and then there is not good service). I’ll also use wifi at the riad or a restaurant (I know some question the security).
These small but intentional actions helped me feel grounded and in control—aware of my surroundings without being on edge.
So what made my solo time in Marrakech so special—and helped me feel confident as a woman traveling alone?
It was the blend:
The structure I intentionally created, the flexibility I allowed myself within that structure, and the presence I practiced throughout it all. It was a balance of support and intuition, intention and ease. A easeful mix of meaningful experiences—some wellness-based, some cultural, all aligned with what I personally needed to feel nourished, engaged, and empowered and soul connected.
THIS is what surprised me - the blend of wellness and cultural experiences, the ease of being able to connect with myself and experience this truly foreign place in ways that felt exciting and out of my comfort zone, yet supportive, safe and grounded.
And I genuinely believe the same is possible for any woman who feels called to explore Morocco solo.
Marrakech Moments: My Favorite Solo-Friendly Experiences
Here’s what I loved doing solo:
Hammam - a must - especially for spa lovers. Hammams in Morocco date back to the 8th century. An important part of society - used as both a gathering place to socialize and for cleansing (back in the day, they were where people went to bathe before bathrooms with tubs and showers became part of private houses (though I recently learned there are some housing communities that do not have full bathrooms - and people use the hammam for their deep weekly body cleaning). Men and women are separated except for in a few places in Marrakech where couples can go together. The cleaning ritual is an experience - depending on the spa, there are a variety of options. Most involve a circuit of scrubbing with a mit, lathering with natural ingredients, like black soap, laying on a hot stone slab, hair washing and a rinse. In the local spots, it’s your friendly neighbor or family member or friend who trades duties with you; whereas I opted for a professional to do the work. It’s admittedly an interesting experience as an adult to have someone cleaning and scrubbing your body - somewhat intimate, but also vigorous and restorative. Today, people visit less frequently, often when in need of a reset. There’s a wide range as well, with very high end (and expensive) options (private sessions) to the traditional, local no frills where it’s all about being in community. Visiting a hammam solo is a great way to experience this ritual and recharge as there’s no need to have a companion. I visited 2 during my trip. No photos
Les Bains d’Orient: Beautiful, tranquil and quality hammam experience and massage. I’d return and recommend.
Le Bain Bleu: Lovely space and overall ok experience. However, it was really busy - many people - and it felt more chaotic and less relaxing. Not to mention, the masseuse left the room at the end of the massage without saying anything and never returned which was odd.
Make Your Own Argan Oil Class: There are several classes available. I found through airbnb experiences and highly recommend. I enjoyed tremendously; the host/teacher was fantastic, with the blend of education, technique and actually producing the oil I took home, her warmth and energy elevated the experience. Another amazing ‘solo traveler’ activity as you are part of a group (typically all women!) who are also taking the class. Classes like this can be opportunities to connect with other travelers. For example, there was one other solo traveler. After class we grabbed dinner and wandered the souks - then parted ways. The ‘upside’ of these types of experiences is that there’s no expectation for doing things together - like there can be when traveling with a group, which can be very refreshing.
Photo session: Found and booked through airbnb- something I’ve started doing - to have a cool experience of seeing parts of a city through a different lens and having fabulous professional photos as a souvenir. A great solo experience and activity - as the photographer guides and takes you to the spots they know of; you don’t have to ask anyone to take your photo and as I had a woman from Marrakech, a cool way to connect with a local female. (I look at this as supporting the local people, as I may not have found without the platform; this is not directly supporting airbnb).
Perfume making: Amongst the many things Morocco is known for, intoxicating fragrances and perfumes are one of my favorites. What better way to learn, indulge your senses and have a memorable souvenir than to create your own unique fragrance blend. (and the perfumes are reasonably priced!). Fragrantica Marrakech has a beautiful aesthetic. Being able to fully customize - with just the right blend - the guy will see that you walk out with your perfect unique scent. It’s a fabulous solo activity because you’re focused on creating your unique fragrance, and to be able to spend as much time as you like tinkering with the fragrances without feeling rushed is pretty cool.
Le Musée du Parfum Marrakech: Around the corner from Fragrantica Marrakech is the perfume museum where you can learn about the natural products that have been used for centuries in fragrances and are deeply rooted in Moroccan history. Another solo activity that can be done on your schedule and pace, where you can visit for as long (or short) as you like. You can also experiment and explore fragrances here - I found more chill (and I was the only one) at the Fragrantica Marrakech.
Le Jardin Secret (Secret Garden) Marrakech: A beautiful and spacious reprieve in the heart of the Medina, this garden offers a serene escape filled with flourishing flora, gentle fauna, and stunning architectural details. When I visited, it wasn’t crowded—a welcome contrast to the energy of the souks (though I’m not sure how busy it gets at other times, especially since many visitors opt for Jardin Majorelle instead). The calm, peaceful atmosphere felt like the perfect balance to the sensory buzz of the city. And as someone who adores citrus trees, blooming flowers, and lush greenery, I was in heaven—free to wander slowly, take it all in, and savor the stillness at my own pace - a perfect solo activity.
Anima Gardens: About 30 minutes outside of Marrakech for a calming change of scenery, this beautiful and vast garden was the perfect way to ground and be in nature. There is a shuttle to/from Marrakech (schedule online).
Wandering and exploring the souks. Winding streets, hidden corners full of vibrant colors and unique crafts, a delight for the senses - the vibrant colors, smells, constant buzz in the air, the textured fabrics and tastes when stopping to sample the local sweets, often with honey or savor a tagine.
OTHER ACTIVITIES I ENJOYED:
I had a private guided walking tour of the Medina and historical sites. Highlights included Madrasa Ben Youssef and Bahia Palace. The architecture and history - in general - of Marrakech - are impressive. The guide (connected with through the DMC) - adjusted the tour to me - and didn’t over pack the time together which I appreciated.
EAT:
Tagine - deliciousness cooked and served in a clay or ceramic/ earthware pot (pictured). The meat or fish and vegetables all cook together in this claycone shaped pot, sometimes with fruit. My first night, I happened to stumble upon the highly rated and local Zouhal Food and experienced the incredible lemon chicken tagine pictured below for roughly $6 usd. Mouthwatering deliciousness at that price? Yes please!
Admittedly, I wasn’t impressed with most of the restaurants I ate at - none were memorable like that tagine mentioned above. For the pricing, quality and service - perhaps because some of these were definitely geared towards tourists… though perhaps you would have better experiences so don’t only take my word!!
Sometimes opting for restaurants that specify ‘gluten free’ (when you can find as they’re not all that common here - but they exist!) is a win to eliminate confusion and worry.
NOMAD Marrakech satisfies with several gluten free options, deliciously and locally sourced ingredients and a chic space. I had the beef tagine - it was tasty - but not hot (a trend throughout Morocco unless you get a tagine..)
Le Slimana I wanted to like this spot and see why the ratings are 4.8 and its supposedly hard to get into … I went early as it was raining and I wanted to get out of the rain… the menu does not specify gluten free; some of the staff speak fluent English so understood and directed me to gluten free options…. I opted for the octopus and fries - both were cold - and I sent back, which was an ordeal. It’s a beautiful space and rooftop - but with the rain I couldn’t experience.
Couscous is a traditional dish which admittedly I didn’t try because of the gluten.
DRINK:
Fresh mint tea. Often served as a welcome, and found in all restaurants, its easy to understand how this is a stable.
Fly:
From the U.S., United launched a direct flight in 2024 from Newark to Marrakech (which I took). Air France and RAM (Royal Air Maroc) also offer direct flights at times throughout the year from various locations.
Within Morocco:
~ Train service between Casablanca and Marrakech
~ Hire a driver (working with a travel advisor / agency can arrange)
~ Drive
GETTING AROUND:
Once there, if staying in the Medina and near souks its easy to go by foot everywhere (my fav). Otherwise, taxis and buses are available outside the Medina.
STAY:
For first time visits, staying in the Medinas (old walled city) is easier, more convenient and efficient, and can offer a more unique experience. In Marrakech, its best to stay more central, near the souk, as well.
I stayed in a lovely Riad, near the outskirts of the Medina run by a few women. Overall a nice experience, however, I recommend staying more central. But if curious - happy to privately pass on the information! It was lovely and reasonable.
What exactly is a Riad? It is a traditional home or palace, typically with different types and sizes of rooms, each with unique character. None I stayed in were accessible; some had steep and uneven stairs as well.
Why stay in a Riad? These stays offer unique ‘local’ experiences as the building formerly was a large ‘home’. There’s a range of options and price points. I found throughout my time in Morocco staying in riads, typically the hosts remember your name, preferences, can help with local needs and often simply enjoy chatting, which offers a more authentic experience.
HERE’S WHAT I WISH I KNEW (and had done) BEFORE:
Buy tickets for Jardin Majorelle (if a priority) in advance.
Make rooftop sunset reservations in advance. Watching the sunset over the city is a popular activity, and I admittedly didn’t prioritize it—despite loving sunsets. In February, the sun set early (by 6pm), and I wasn’t sure how special it would be over the city. Last minute? I was out of luck.
Give more time between activities and don’t overbook. I had to move some things around and ended up having to cut the massage short, rushing between commitments and felt stretched and not in flow.
OTHER INSIGHT:
Here’s where ‘know before you go’ is super helpful:
Dress: To both respect local culture and not stick out, its best to dress conservatively. Hello flowy dresses and a scarf to cover the shoulders. A good opportunity to buy and wear a beautiful kaftan perhaps as well as a unique souvenir;). Short shorts, skimpy tank tops or dresses will attract (unwanted) attention (from both men and women), so using good judgment can help and allow you to feel more comfortable.
Things to be on alert and look out for: Scams, pickpocketers, beggers, and people, particularly men, yelling or possibly harassing. I did not (fortunately) have any of these experiences - though I know they are prevalent. Keeping to yourself and continuing moving is a best practice.
Guides that are not licensed who will approach and want to show you or tell you where something is. Politely say no thank you and keep moving.
Kids offering help or directions (or adults too) - looking for money!
Performers/ artists - particularly snake charmers, henna tattoo artists and others - they will want money if you take a photo.
Taxis - best to either pre-arrange including from the airport or have your Riad assist to be sure you don’t get overcharged. If you do take one, insist they use the meter.
Fake goods in the souk. Particularly stones/gems - admittedly its hard to know for sure - if pricing is too good to be true, safe to say its a fake.
Safety: Always being aware of surroundings - the same applies anywhere. Keep phone secure - the string helps and finding a secure spot to check for directions etc. I carry a small mace but have fortunately never had to use.
Food safety: While part of travel often involves culinary experiences, being mindful of what you consume can lessen the likelihood of getting sick - especially if you have a sensitive stomach like yours truly. Keep in mind - even slight changes in how food is prepared in a different country can cause the body to feel off. Doing your best, using good judgment if you can’t resist - ensuring meats are fully cooked. Perhaps passing on the raw salad. Buying produce? Be sure to wash thoroughly. And of course hand washing hygiene… All can lessen chances of ending up stomach issues that impact your experience. I always travel with activated charcoal and imodium for those emergency situations (that do happen!)
Water: Buy bottle unless your Riad or hotel has a filtration system (many do).
Languages: Arabic and French. English is spoken in tourist areas. Berber is also spoken.
Currency/ Payment: Dirham - best to have cash available for use at the souks and small shops and restaurants. Credit cards are accepted in some restaurants and stores.
Time of year to visit:
Weather - Summer gets really hot. (90s F). I enjoyed February - late ‘winter’/early spring as it was comfortable with light layers and long dresses.
Ramadan - the month long Islamic religious observation, changes dates every year. Visiting Morocco during this time offers a really difference unique experience. Quieter and calmer, with less people in general in many locations. Throughout the country, many restaurants and shops were closed during the day, with only some opening after sundown when the owners broke their fast. Riads served breakfast in the morning as typical and large hotels served meals as usual as well. It’s helpful to be prepared as oftentimes Google maps didn’t properly reflect hours and openings. Being prepared with either food in your flat, snacks, and consulting with with your staying can help should you want to eat mid-day.
I did not experience Marrakech during Ramadan; however, based on what I understand, as it does cater to visitors and non-Muslims you’ll find more options than in other parts of Morocco.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
As I do with all my blogs, here’s some personal insights related to the mindful and soulful aspects of this trip.
Intention:
~ Be in my feminine, open, and curious. Lean into the experience of being in a very different type of country where customs, standards and more offer another way of living. (I can successfully say I did pretty well;)
WHAT SPARKED JOY ON THIS JOURNEY?
~ Slow travel at its best. I could have condensed my time in Marrakech into 3 rather than 4 days; however, because we had to reschedule my photo shoot due to the weather it worked out well. I was able to experience Marrakech without feeling rushed, visiting 2 hammams, 2 gardens, the activities I shared above, exploring the medina and souks slowly, I appreciated the un-rushed time.
I hope this was both helpful and inspiring. Planning an upcoming trip? Curious to learn more about Marrakech and or Morocco? I can help! As a certified travel advisor and experienced traveler, it would give me joy to support you in having an amazing journey.
xoxo,
Megan Joy
