What to Wear in Morocco 2025
Planning your Moroccan adventure but not sure what to pack? You're not alone! As someone who's helped countless travelers prepare for their journeys through our guided Morocco tours, I've put together this comprehensive guide to help you dress comfortably and respectfully while exploring this beautiful country.
Understanding Morocco's Cultural Context
Morocco is a fascinating blend of traditional Islamic culture and modern influences. While major cities like Casablanca and Rabat are quite cosmopolitan, rural areas tend to be more conservative. As a visitor, showing respect through appropriate clothing choices will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
Weather Considerations: Morocco's Diverse Climate
Before we dive into specific clothing recommendations, let's talk about Morocco's varied climate:
Coastal regions (Casablanca, Rabat, Essaouira): Mild year-round with humid summers and cool, rainy winters.
Interior cities (Marrakech, Fez): Hot, dry summers (95°F/35°C+) and cooler winters with occasional rain.
Atlas Mountains: Significantly cooler, with snow in winter and mild summers.
Sahara Desert: Extremely hot days (100°F/38°C+) but surprisingly cold nights, especially in winter.
What to Wear for Women
For Everyday Sightseeing
- Loose-fitting pants or maxi skirts that cover the knees
- Tops with elbow-length or longer sleeves to cover shoulders
- Light scarves for covering shoulders or hair when entering religious sites
- Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay comfortable in the heat
For Cities and Tourist Areas
- Modest dresses that cover knees and shoulders
- Lightweight cardigans to layer over sleeveless tops
- Comfortable walking shoes for navigating medinas and uneven streets
For Beaches and Resorts
- Standard swimwear is fine at private hotel pools and beaches
- Cover-ups for walking to and from the beach
- Casual resort wear is acceptable within international hotel grounds
What to Wear for Men
For Everyday Explorations
- Lightweight pants or longer shorts that reach the knee
- Short or long-sleeved shirts (t-shirts are generally fine)
- Comfortable closed shoes for walking cobblestone streets
For Religious Sites
- Long pants (not shorts)
- Shirts that cover shoulders
- Removed hats when entering mosques (if visitors are permitted)
For Beaches and Resorts
- Swimming trunks at beaches and pools
- T-shirts and shorts are fine at resorts and tourist beaches
Seasonal Considerations
Summer (June-September)
- Breathable, lightweight fabrics are essential
- Sun protection including hats, sunglasses, and light layers
- Modest swimwear for coast visits
Winter (December-February)
- Warm layers for cold evenings, especially in the mountains and desert
- Light jacket or coat for coastal areas
- Heavier coat and boots if visiting the Atlas Mountains
Spring & Fall
- Layerable clothes for temperature fluctuations
- Light raincoat for occasional showers
- Comfortable walking shoes that can handle light rain
Special Situations
Visiting Mosques
Most mosques in Morocco aren't open to non-Muslims, with the exception of Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and a few others. When visiting these:
- Women should cover hair, arms, and legs
- Men should wear long pants and covered shoulders
- Everyone removes shoes before entering
Hiking in the Atlas
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Moisture-wicking layers
- Warm jacket (even in summer, it gets cold at higher elevations)
- Sun protection including hat and high-SPF sunscreen
If you're planning an Atlas Mountains trek, our guided hiking tours include equipment recommendations and can arrange local guides familiar with the terrain.
Desert Excursions
- Lightweight, loose clothing for hot days
- Warm layers for cold nights
- Scarf or shemagh to protect from sun and sand
- Closed shoes to protect from hot sand
Experience the magic of the Sahara with our overnight desert tours where we provide traditional clothing options and guidance on desert attire.
What NOT to Bring
- Very revealing clothing (crop tops, short shorts, etc.)
- Tight or transparent clothing
- Offensive graphics or slogans on t-shirts
- Expensive jewelry that might attract unwanted attention
My Personal Recommendations
After years of traveling in Morocco, here's what I always pack:
- 2-3 loose, long-sleeved tunics that can be dressed up or down
- A couple of maxi dresses/skirts (for women)
- Lightweight pants that convert to shorts (for men)
- Comfortable walking sandals and closed shoes
- A large, lightweight scarf that serves multiple purposes
- A cardigan or light jacket for air-conditioned spaces and evening temperature drops
Frequently Asked Questions
"Can I wear shorts in Morocco?" Men can wear longer shorts in tourist areas and beaches, though long pants are better for local neighborhoods. Women should generally avoid shorts except at resorts.
"Do women need to cover their hair in Morocco?" Only when entering mosques. Otherwise, hair covering is not required, though a scarf on hand is useful.
"Can I wear sleeveless tops or dresses?" In very touristy areas or resorts, yes, but having a light scarf or cardigan to cover shoulders when needed is wise.
"What's appropriate for hammam visits?" Bring a swimsuit bottom or underwear. Most hammams provide necessary items, but check ahead.
Packing Checklist
- Loose, long pants/skirts
- Shirts covering shoulders
- Lightweight scarf (especially for women)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Modest swimwear
- Light jacket or cardigan
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Appropriate sleepwear (if staying with locals)
Remember, dressing respectfully isn't just about following rules—it's about showing appreciation for local culture and creating positive interactions with the amazing people you'll meet throughout your Moroccan journey.
Have specific questions about what to pack for your upcoming trip? Drop them in the comments below, and I'll be happy to help with personalized recommendations!
Experience Morocco with Expert Guidance
Want to explore Morocco without worrying about logistics? Our customized Morocco tours handle all the details while you focus on creating memories. From arranging transportation to booking authentic accommodations, our local guides will ensure you experience the real Morocco in comfort.
Check out our popular tour packages that include:
- Imperial Cities Cultural Exploration
- Coastal Paradise Getaways
- Atlas Mountains Adventure Treks
- Sahara Desert Experiences
Contact us to plan your perfect Moroccan journey with clothing recommendations tailored to your specific itinerary!