What to Wear in Morocco (Cities, Sahara and Mountains)

What to wear in Morocco is one of the most common questions we receive, especially from first-time visitors. The good news: there is no strict dress code for tourists. But dressing with a little care makes you more comfortable, helps you feel at ease in the medinas and is appreciated by local people. Here is our practical guide, for the cities and for the Sahara.

The general rule: light and covering

Morocco is a Muslim country, and in everyday life most people dress modestly. As a visitor you are not expected to dress like locals, but covering your shoulders and knees is a simple sign of respect, and loose, light clothes are also the most comfortable choice in the sun.

• Loose trousers, long skirts or dresses, and shorts that reach the knee
• T-shirts and shirts with short or long sleeves
• A light scarf: useful against the sun, the dust and to cover your shoulders when needed

For women

In Marrakech, Fes and the other medinas, many female travellers feel more comfortable in loose clothes that cover shoulders and knees. You do not need to cover your hair. In modern districts, hotels and riads, you can dress as you would at home. A scarf in your bag is always useful.

For men

Light trousers or knee-length shorts and a T-shirt are perfect. Very short shorts and sleeveless tops are uncommon in the cities, but nobody will stop you.

Visiting mosques and religious sites

Most mosques in Morocco are closed to non-Muslims. The main exception is the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which offers guided visits: shoulders and knees must be covered, and you will remove your shoes inside.

What to wear in the Sahara

The desert has two climates in one day: hot sun in the afternoon and cool, sometimes cold, nights.

• Layers: a T-shirt for the day, a warm sweater or fleece and a jacket for the evening, especially from November to March.
• A scarf or a chèche: the Berber turban protects your face from sun and sand. You can buy one on the way, and your driver will show you how to tie it.
• Comfortable trousers for the camel ride: leggings or loose trousers are better than shorts.
• Closed shoes or sandals you do not mind filling with sand. Walking barefoot on the dunes is lovely, but the sand is very hot in the middle of the day.
• Sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen.

Read more in our guide to what to expect on a Sahara tour.

What to wear in the Atlas Mountains

In the mountains the temperature drops quickly. Even in summer, bring a light jacket for a day trip to Imlil or the Ourika Valley, plus good walking shoes. In winter, the Tizi n'Tichka pass can have snow.

Packing list by season

• Spring and autumn: light clothes for the day, a sweater and a light jacket for the evening.
• Summer: very light, breathable clothes, a hat and a scarf. A sweater for the mountains.
• Winter: layers, a warm jacket, and a hat and gloves for nights in the desert.

Not sure when to travel? Read our guide to the best time to visit Morocco, or ask us: we are always happy to help you prepare.