What to Wear in Morocco: A Guide to Dressing Appropriately for Your Trip
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
As someone who has had the pleasure of visiting Morocco, I can attest to the fact that it is a beautiful and culturally rich country.
However, as with any new place, it’s important to be aware of the local customs and dress appropriately.
Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and while it is relatively liberal compared to other Muslim countries, it is still important to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture.
So, what should you wear in Morocco? For starters, it’s important to keep in mind that the dress code can vary depending on where you are in the country.
In more rural areas, it’s best to err on the side of caution and dress more conservatively. This means avoiding anything too tight or revealing, and opting for longer pants and skirts instead of shorts and short dresses.
In the cities, the dress code is generally more relaxed, but it’s still a good idea to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture.
Cultural Considerations
As a visitor to Morocco, it’s important to be aware of cultural norms and customs. Morocco is a Muslim country, and it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture.
For women, this means that the upper arms, upper legs, and chest should be covered. Long pants or skirts and long-sleeved shirts are appropriate clothing choices.
Avoid tight or revealing clothing, such as shorts and tank tops, as these can be seen as disrespectful.
It’s also important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to tipping. In Morocco, it’s customary to tip waiters in cafes and restaurants, museum and monument curators, gardiens de voitures, filling station attendants, and porters who load your baggage onto buses.
It’s recommended to tip around 5-10% in upmarket places and 1dh per person in cafes.
When it comes to footwear, it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that are easy to walk in.
Morocco is known for its bustling markets and narrow streets, so it’s important to wear shoes that can handle the terrain.
Sandals or flip flops may not be the best choice, as they can be difficult to walk in and may not provide enough support.
Weather and Climate
As someone who has traveled to Morocco, I can attest to the fact that the weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the region you are in.
Morocco has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it experiences mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
The best time to visit Morocco is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.
During these seasons, you can expect warm days and cool nights, so it is a good idea to pack layers.
The temperature during the day can range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit, while the temperature at night can drop to the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit.
If you are planning to visit Morocco during the summer (June to August), be prepared for scorching hot temperatures, especially in the desert regions.
The temperature during the day can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is important to pack light, breathable clothing.
During the winter (December to February), Morocco can get quite cold, especially in the mountainous regions.
The temperature during the day can range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit, while the temperature at night can drop to the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit.
It is a good idea to pack warm clothing, such as a jacket or sweater, if you are planning to visit during this time.
Recommended Clothing for Women
As a woman traveling to Morocco, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully. This means avoiding anything too tight, short, or revealing.
While it’s not necessary to cover your head, it’s recommended to bring a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders and head when entering mosques or other religious sites.
When packing for your trip, consider bringing loose-fitting pants or long skirts that cover your knees. Pair them with a comfortable t-shirt or blouse that covers your shoulders.
It’s also a good idea to bring a lightweight jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings.
For footwear, opt for comfortable closed-toe shoes or sandals. Avoid high heels or anything too flashy. It’s also a good idea to bring a pair of sneakers or hiking shoes if you plan on doing any outdoor activities.
When it comes to swimwear, it’s best to save it for private beaches or swimming pools. If you do plan on swimming, consider wearing a one-piece swimsuit or a modest tankini.
Overall, the key is to dress modestly and respectfully while still being comfortable. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to blend in with the locals and avoid any unwanted attention.
Recommended Clothing for Men
As a man traveling to Morocco, it’s important to dress appropriately for the culture and climate. While Morocco is a relatively modern and liberal country, it’s still respectful to dress conservatively in public.
Here are my recommendations for clothing to bring on your trip:
Long pants: It’s best to leave the shorts at home and opt for long pants instead. Not only will this help you blend in with the locals, but it will also protect your legs from the sun and insect bites. Lightweight cotton or linen pants are a good choice for staying cool in the heat.
Shirts: Short-sleeved button-up shirts are a good option for staying cool while still looking put-together. Avoid tank tops and shirts with offensive graphics or language. It’s also a good idea to bring at least one long-sleeved shirt for cooler evenings or visits to religious sites.
Jacket: Even in the warmer months, it can get chilly at night in Morocco. A lightweight jacket or sweater is a good addition to your packing list. A waterproof jacket may also come in handy if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
Shoes: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for exploring Morocco’s cities and hiking in the mountains. Sneakers or hiking shoes are a good choice, but avoid sandals or flip-flops, as they’re not practical for walking on uneven terrain.
Accessories: A wide-brimmed hat is a good way to protect your face and neck from the sun, and a scarf can be useful for covering your head or shoulders when visiting religious sites. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also important to protect your skin from the strong Moroccan sun.
Overall, it’s important to remember that dressing appropriately in Morocco is a sign of respect for the country’s culture and traditions.
By following these recommendations, you’ll be comfortable and respectful during your trip.
Footwear
When it comes to footwear in Morocco, comfort is key. The streets can be dusty and uneven, so it’s important to wear shoes that can handle some walking.
I recommend bringing a few different pairs of shoes to switch between depending on the activity and weather.
For exploring the cities and towns, a comfortable pair of sandals or sneakers is ideal. Closed-toe shoes are also a good option to protect your feet from the dust and dirt.
Avoid wearing high heels or other impractical shoes as they can be difficult to walk in and may not be suitable for the terrain.
If you plan on doing any hiking or trekking, a sturdy pair of hiking boots is a must. Make sure they are broken in before your trip to avoid blisters, and consider bringing extra socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
For the beach or coastal towns, a pair of flip-flops or water shoes is essential. The sand can be hot and the water can be rocky, so it’s important to have something to protect your feet.
Overall, it’s important to pack a variety of shoes to accommodate different activities and terrains. Comfort and practicality should be the top priorities when selecting footwear for your trip to Morocco.
Accessories
When it comes to accessories in Morocco, less is more. It’s important to keep in mind that Morocco is a conservative country, and so it’s best to avoid anything too flashy or revealing.
For women, a scarf is a must-have accessory. Not only can it be used to cover your head or shoulders when visiting religious sites, but it can also be used to add a pop of color to your outfit.
A crossbody bag is also a great option for keeping your belongings safe while exploring the souks. For men, a hat is a practical accessory to protect against the sun, and a messenger bag can be a stylish way to carry your essentials.
Both men and women should also consider wearing sunglasses to protect their eyes from the bright Moroccan sun. When it comes to jewelry, it’s best to keep it simple.
A pair of stud earrings or a delicate necklace can add a touch of elegance to your outfit without being too over-the-top.
Overall, it’s important to remember that in Morocco, it’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to accessories. Stick to simple, practical pieces that won’t draw too much attention.
