What to Wear in Morocco
When planning a visit to Morocco, one common question that arises is about what to wear in Morocco. The beauty of Morocco lies in its diversity, and this extends to fashion as well. There is no strict dress code here, you won’t be confined to a particular style. Moroccans themselves dress in a wide array of fashions, and there’s no expectation for visitors to conform to a specific dress code. However, it’s a thoughtful gesture to dress modestly, especially when exploring smaller towns and rural areas, where local customs and traditions may appreciate it. While major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca embrace a more relaxed dress code, it’s easy to strike a balance between fashion and respect for local norms during your visit.
What to Wear in Morocco According to the Season?
Morocco strategic location along the Atlantic Ocean blesses it with a diverse climate. Coastal cities, where many of Morocco urban centers are nestled, enjoy hot and humid summers. In contrast, winters bring cooler and milder temperatures. When it comes to dressing for the Moroccan climate, here is what you should consider throughout the year.
- Check out the best time to visit Morocco
What to Wear in Morocco in Spring
If you are planning your visit during the delightful spring months (March to May) or the pleasant autumn period (October to November), you can comfortably don shirts and lightweight pants without the need for excessive layers. However, it’s a good idea to have a sweater or cardigan on hand, especially for cooler evenings or if your itinerary includes a desert adventure, as desert temperatures can plummet after sundown.
What to Wear in Morocco in Winter
For those planning a visit during Morocco winter season (December to February), it’s worth noting that while the climate is generally mild, central heating is not commonly available. To stay comfortable, consider packing extra layers, including long-sleeve or thermal base shirts, cozy sweaters, and warm socks. A packable winter jacket can prove to be an incredibly versatile addition to your wardrobe, especially when temperatures take a dip. If your travel plans include cities in the Central Atlas Mountains, such as Fes and Meknes, it’s even more critical to prepare for cooler nights, as these areas are drier than the coastal regions, and nighttime temperatures can be quite chilly.
What to Wear in Morocco in Summer
Despite the scorching temperatures, summer stands out as Morocco peak tourist season. If your travel plans lead you here during the summer months (June to September), your best bet is to opt for the lightest fabrics available, such as breathable cotton and airy linen. Be prepared for the high humidity; it’s a good idea to pack extra clothing and plan for frequent washing, as the moisture in the air can quickly penetrate your attire.
What Should Female Travelers Wear in Morocco?
As part of Best Morocco Travel philosophy, respecting local cultures and customs is paramount for meaningful interactions and experiences. While female travelers aren’t required to adhere to local dress codes, it’s a wise idea to have clothing options for modesty.
In major cities, consider wearing knee-length pants or skirts and short-sleeved t-shirts, opting for loose-fitting attire for comfort in Morocco heat. It’s essential to avoid overly form-fitting outfits, as they might draw unwanted attention.
Visiting mosques requires dressing more conservatively, covering from ankle to elbow, and wearing a headscarf. Don’t fret about a perfectly wrapped scarf, the effort matters most.
Moroccans are accustomed to foreign visitors and are generally understanding of fashion choices. Focus on comfortable attire to fully immerse yourself in the culture without worrying about your outfit.
What to Wear in Morocco for Hiking
Morocco stunning landscapes offer incredible diversity, from the Sahara vast expanses to snow-capped mountains, often reachable in a single day. If you plan to explore these breathtaking outdoor spaces, knowing what to wear is key.
For outdoor adventures, consider adding the following to your packing list:
Loose hiking pants for sun protection and guarding against prickly plants and insects. In spring and summer, shorts paired with knee-high socks are an option.
- Sturdy hiking boots are suitable for year-round use, especially in wet conditions.
- A fleece top is almost a necessity in mountainous areas regardless of the season.
- A warm, waterproof coat if you will be in the mountains from October to May.
Now, let’s talk about some of our favorite shops in Morocco. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it’s a great starting point to discover unique finds. While it’s ideal to explore these shops in person, some offer international shipping for a preview of their products before your Morocco trip.
What Do You Wear to the Beach in Morocco?
Concerns about attire in Morocco often include questions about wearing bikinis or swimsuits. Morocco, known for its more conservative culture, raises these queries.
Generally, wearing a bikini at Moroccan beaches is acceptable. While cities like Rabat and Casablanca may lean slightly conservative, beach attire is less of a concern. Morocco is relatively open about beachwear.
While it’s advisable to opt for more conservative swimwear if available, wearing a bikini is generally fine. If you don’t have a one-piece suit and can’t purchase one, there is no need to worry. You can also gauge local attire, if others are dressed conservatively, consider choosing shorts and a T-shirt instead.
For men, wearing shorts at the beach is acceptable, and going topless is allowed.
What Should You Not Wear in Morocco?
While I’ve emphasized that wearing less conservative clothing is legal but not always preferred in Morocco, it’s essential to consider the local customs and values. In our travels at The Present Perspective, we’ve discovered that honoring these customs often leads to more meaningful connections with the local community.
For those who wish to be respectful, here is a general list of clothing items to avoid wearing in Morocco or to limit to tourist-heavy areas of major cities:
This is where you can list specific items or guidelines that travelers should be aware of to ensure they dress respectfully in Morocco.
Overview of Women Cultural Dress
Traditionally, Moroccan women, particularly in rural areas, often opt for tops with sleeves extending past their elbows. Loose and lengthy tops are commonplace. Many women choose to cover their heads or style their hair in a restrained manner rather than wearing it loose. The younger generation may embrace a more modern style, including jeans and longer shirts, while older women commonly don the traditional djellaba and headscarf.
Moroccan women do wear makeup without issue, contrary to some misconceptions. However, it’s essential to note that tourists might attract unwanted attention when sporting revealing clothing such as spaghetti straps or tight-fitting tops. Excessive or flashy jewelry is best avoided, not only to respect the culture but also to enhance safety during your Morocco travel.
Overview of Men Cultural Dress
While older Moroccan men typically adhere to the traditional djellaba, younger generations have adopted a more business-casual style when in public. It’s worth noting that shorts are seldom worn by most adult Moroccan men. While you may spot young men or boys sporting shorts, long pants are the prevailing choice. Collared shirts are the norm, and sleeveless T-shirts, particularly in rural regions, are generally avoided.
In terms of footwear, Moroccan men typically opt for closed-toed shoes rather than sandals when venturing outside their homes.”
Where Can I Get some Moroccan Style Clothes?
Exploring Morocco offers fantastic shopping experiences, and if you are interested in acquiring a Moroccan-style dress, you are in for a treat. The markets are brimming with options, and you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice. However, it’s essential to exercise a bit of shopping savvy. Don’t rush into your purchase, take the time to browse various stalls to gauge reasonable prices. Resist the urge to buy from the first vendor you encounter. In Morocco, there is a high chance that you will find more stalls just around the corner offering similar items.
Should I Wear a Moroccan Traditional Dress When I Visit?
Moroccan fashion is undeniably captivating! I couldn’t resist purchasing a beautiful blue tunic-style dress during my visit, and I adored it. However, it’s essential to note that while these traditional styles are fantastic, they might not necessarily help you blend in with the local attire. In reality, you might stand out more. If you aim to adopt a more ‘local’ appearance, it might not be the most effective strategy.
Nonetheless, if your goal is to find a unique and memorable outfit to commemorate your best Morocco trip, then feel free to explore the wide array of designs available. Some of the creations you will discover are truly stunning and make for wonderful mementos of your Moroccan adventure.
What to Wear in Mosques
While visiting Morocco, it’s important to note that, except for the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, most mosques are considered places of worship and are not open to non-Muslim tourists. However, you are not missing out, as the Hassan II Mosque is a remarkable destination in itself. It stands as the largest mosque in Africa, featuring the world’s second tallest minaret.
When visiting the Hassan II Mosque, it’s crucial to adhere to a respectful dress code. Both men and women should make sure their shoulders, chest, and knees are covered. While women are not required to cover their hair, modest dress is appreciated to show respect for the sacred site.
What to Wear for a Sahara Desert Tour
If you are visiting the Merzouga Desert (which is the more precise name of where tourist trips into the Moroccan Sahara begin), you will either ride a camel for a day trip or glamping overnight (glamorous camping, in luxury desert tents). Like all desert climates, be prepared for warm days and cold nights. Prepare by bringing an extra layer of clothing for the night.
Don’t wear your nicest pair of white Adidas. You will inevitably find sand in them when you get home. I recommend open-toed insoles, which can be easily rinsed and packed.