What to Wear Morocco: The Ultimate Packing List for your Trip
Of course, traveling to Morocco is an adventure in itself, but as far as what to wear is concerned, this is somewhat trickier business. The culture of Morocco is a bit unique, and one finds oneself struggling to respect the culture in just about everything-just like clothes. From haggling your way through the souks of Marrakech to trekking across the Sahara Desert, even just catching your tan on the beaches in Essaouira, packing the right clothes will help you enjoy the trip in comfort and respect. In this guide, we take you through all you need to know regarding what to wear Morocco-including tips, outfit ideas, and a practical packing list.
Moroccan Culture and Dress Code
Morocco is an essentially Muslim country, and though considered to be rather liberal when compared with neighboring countries, clothing in general is modest, especially outside the larger cities. Marrakech and Fes have their fair share of modern/traditional mixed cities, but it’s always a good idea to dress appropriately out of respect for the culture.
- Women should try and wear clothes covering the shoulder, cleavage, and knees. The wearing of dresses or skirts is not out of bound but just that they be below the knee.
- The men can wear shorts but they would best avoid hugely short or too tight one, particularly in more conservatism areas of the county,
For example, upon going into mosques both men and women will have to have covered limbs.
What to Wear Morocco during Different Seasons
The weather in Morocco is seasonal and even varies with the regions. Let’s go by seasons so you can know how to pack accordingly.
Summer (From June to September)
- Weather: The weather is so hot in the summer, especially in desert parts or cities like Marrakech or Fes, it can get even as high as more than 100°F or 38°C.
- What to Wear Morocco: Loose and breathable is the best. Lighter cotton and linen clothes allow for good airflow, so think along the lines of:
- Lightweight dresses or skirts
- Loose pants or breathable trousers
- Short-sleeve shirts or blouses
- Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
- Comfortable walking shoes in which to tour the city and a pair of lightweight sandals for the beach
Winter (from December to February)
- Weather: In winter, Morocco is relatively cold. During the period, cities like Casablanca or Marrakech may boast mild winters, yet sometimes it gets quite cold in the evenings, like every other coastal area.
- Clothing: The key to layering during the winter months will be:
- Lightweight Warm jackets or sweaters-worn above light one for cities and heavy for the mountainous region.
- Long trousers or jeans
- Scarves against the night’s chill.
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes to walk in cooler weather
Fall and Spring (March to May & October to November)
- Weather: During spring and fall seasons of the year, the weather remains pretty moderate and ideal to take a trip.
- Clothing: Combine light layers with those warm enough to put on as
- Shirts and/or long sleeve shirts one could put a jacket over to layer if cool; jeans, leggings, skirts; comfortable walking shoes/sneakers; light jacket or cardigan for cooler evening times.
Footwear: Comfortable and Practical
You will do quite a bit of walking in Morocco, and most of the medinas you’ll be walking through are filled with cobblestone streets. Here’s what to pack:
- Comfortable walking shoes: Sneakers or cushioned sandals are a must to help navigate the busy cities such as Marrakech and Fes.
- Sandals: these will be helpful when going towards the beach or to coastal areas. Wearing good sandals would be appropriate.
- Shoes that cover the toes: These you will definitely want on any hikes or treks in places like the Atlas Mountains or Sahara Desert.
What to Wear Morocco: Accessories to Pack
Accessories you wear will add much glamour to your outfit but will also protect you from the elements. Following is a list of what to bring along:
- Sunglasses: The Moroccan sun can be really scorching, especially in summer, and so a good quality pair with UV protection comes in handy.
- Sun hat/scarf: A wide-brimmed hat or scarf can come very useful in the sun, especially in the deserts or sunny days of the cities.
- Scarf or shawl for women: A scarf comes in handy to cover your shoulders or head when visiting religious sites.
- Day backpack/cross-body bag: Small, safe bag handy for day trips; not too showy with valuables, because very crowded areas may sometimes cause a minor issue of pickpocketing.
What to Wear Morocco, When Visiting Religious Sites
Dress modestly while visiting mosques and various other places of worship around Morocco:
- Women: a long-sleeved shirt or blouse, loose-fitting trousers, or a long skirt and, at times, the head covered in going into mosques.
- Men: on religious sites-men are not allowed to wear shorts at all; it is recommended that they always change to long pants and a long sleeve shirt.
Packing List for Morocco
Following is a helpful packing list that should cover most everything for a trip to Morocco:
Clothing:
- Light, airy tops and blouses
- Loose pants and long skirts for women
- Comfortable shorts for men – just below the knee, best
- Dresses-knee length or longer for women
- Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler nights
- Warmer layers for mountains in winter
- Shoes-walking shoes, comfortable and sandals for the beach
- Swimwear-coast: modest at public beaches
Accessories:
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat or scarf
- Small travel bag cross-body or backpack
- Scarf or shawl
- Light scarf for the evening
Other Essentials:
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel guidebook or map-particularly helpful in the more far-flung parts
Conclusion: Dress comfortably and with respect in Morocco
Remember that comfort and respect are part of a successful journey through Morocco. Dress conservatively in respect of the call to local behavior, but bear in mind the weather in which you will travel, along with the activities to be done. This can help you plan your outfits so you can explore a lot of different landscapes, rich culture, and attractions while traveling in style and comfort.