Canadian Government Issues Urgent Travel Warning for Morocco

UPDATE: Canadians are being urgently warned about potential risks when traveling to Morocco following violent protests that have erupted across the nation. The Canadian government updated its travel advisory on October 2, 2023, urging citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” due to escalating violence and the threat of terrorism.

Protests, which began at the end of September, have turned violent in multiple cities, including major urban centers like Rabat and Casablanca. The advisory explicitly states, “Avoid large gatherings and protests,” as even peaceful demonstrations can quickly escalate into violence. The Canadian government emphasizes that such incidents have caused significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

In a clear indication of the ongoing risks, the advisory notes that violent incidents have been reported in various locations, underscoring the urgency for Canadians to reconsider their travel plans. Authorities recommend avoiding any areas where protests are occurring, particularly near government buildings and other strategic locations.

Moreover, the Canadian government has reiterated previous warnings against traveling to regions near the borders with Western Sahara and Algeria. For the Western Sahara border, they advise avoiding all travel within 30 kilometers of the militarized zone known as the Berm due to a heavy military presence and an unpredictable security situation. Travel to Western Sahara itself is highly discouraged because of the threats posed by terrorism and unexploded landmines.

Travelers are also cautioned against going within 20 kilometers of the border with Algeria, where increased military activity and unstable conditions persist, making navigation difficult and dangerous.

As the situation develops, Canadians are advised to stay updated through official channels and reconsider any non-essential travel to Morocco. This advisory highlights the immediate risks and serves as an essential reminder for travelers to prioritize their safety.

For more information on travel safety and updates, Canadians are encouraged to monitor the official government websites and local news sources. Share this urgent update to keep others informed about the evolving situation in Morocco.