Morocco is one of the most interesting countries I’ve visited so far! It made it to my top 5 countries (out of 49 I’ve been to at the time of updating this post) and it’s a place I’d tell anyone to visit. The trickiest part of planning a trip there is wondering what to wear in Morocco as a woman.
I’ve broken it all down for you so that you’re prepared and ready to explore Morocco!
Like this post? Read a similar guide I wrote about how to pack for a trip to Egypt here.
The Best Tours I’ve Done in Morocco
If you’re in the middle of planning a trip to Morocco, you can find the best tours I’d recommend after travelling there 3 times!
- Sandboarding in the Moroccan Desert! Pickup is from Agadir or Taghazout and it was beautiful at sunset.
- Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech – Learn how to select the best veggies from the local market, how to make tagine from scratch and much more (including the spices used in most dishes)!
*Make sure to tip your tour guides as they don’t usually earn very much and it can be a thankless job!
Consider the Cultural Differences
You may already know that Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, which means that they dress more conservatively than most Western countries.
While tourists are not expected to cover their hair or wear traditional clothing, you should keep their cultural values in mind. Before going to Morocco, I was utterly confused as to what to pack and what type of clothing would be acceptable.
After spending a few days in Egypt, I had anticipated it to be a similar situation. However, I was fairly surprised by how differently women dressed in Morocco.
Yes, many are still very much covered from head to toe but there weren’t as many locals with headscarfs. I only spent time in the south so I’m not entirely sure if that had something to do with it. Regardless, it seems as if Morocco is more lenient with how they dress in comparison to Egypt.
As a rule of thumb, I would still recommend covering your shoulders and wearing shorts/skirts that aren’t too short. This is mostly to avoid uncomfortable stares but I personally didn’t experience any of that when I was there.
When Are You Visiting?
The time of year you choose to visit Morocco will have a big influence on the clothing you bring.
I first visited in winter (early December), where temperatures in Marrakesh and other parts in the south were around 20-23 degrees Celsius during the day. This was actually a great time to visit because it wasn’t too hot and it wasn’t too touristy!
With that being said, the north of the country is much cooler so that’s something to keep in mind if you plan on travelling to Morocco during the low season.
In the summer months, you can expect temperatures in the 40-degree range so it’s probably best to visit during the shoulder seasons (April-June & October-December) for the best weather.
If you’re visiting in the cooler months, you won’t have to consider dressing conservatively because it will be too cold for tank tops most of the time. Instead, you should think about travelling with layers because you’ll never know when you might need a sweater and the evenings really cool down!
In the summer, you’ll want to stick to flowy and lightweight materials but I’ll get into that in more detail below.
What to Wear in Morocco
Although most of your typical clothes from home will work for a trip to Morocco, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Neutrals – Morocco might be the most vibrant and colourful place I’ve visited. If you want to get some great shots on your trip, I’d recommend bringing solid or neutral-coloured clothes. If you’re wearing clothes that are super bright, they might not look the best in photos.
- Avoid crazy prints – Once again, because there is already so much colour throughout Morocco, crazy prints might be a bit much.
- Flowy & lightweight – This could be dresses, skirts or linen shirts! Those were staples for me on my trip!
Is There a Moroccan Dress Code?
There isn’t a spoken Moroccan dress code for tourists but as a predominantly Muslim and conservative country, it’s important to dress respectfully, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
While Moroccan women wear a mix of traditional and modern clothing—ranging from djellabas and kaftans to jeans and tunics—tourists are not expected to follow the same customs. That said, I chose to dress modestly to avoid any unwanted attention.
In cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, you’ll see a mix of styles, including more relaxed Western fashion on occasion, but covering your shoulders, cleavage, and knees is still recommended.
Loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics like linen or cotton is ideal for comfort in Morocco’s warm climate.
If you plan to visit mosques (such as the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, one of the few open to non-Muslims), women are required to cover their hair, arms, and legs.
Although there aren’t any strict rules, I’d dress somewhat conservatively as a sign of respect for the culture.
Morocco Outfit Ideas
When choosing outfits for a trip to Morocco, aim for a mix of comfort, style, and modesty.
Cotton and linen will keep you cool, while loose-fitting clothing helps respect local customs.
Here are some versatile outfit ideas for different occasions:
Casual Daytime Look
- A flowy maxi dress with short or long sleeves
- Wide-leg linen pants paired with a tucked-in shirt
- A midi skirt with a lightweight tunic
- Comfortable sandals or shoes for walking
Exploring the Souks & Cities
- A jumpsuit or loose trousers with a breathable top
- A midi dress layered with a light scarf for extra coverage
- A crossbody bag for convenience
Desert & Adventure Wear
- Pants or joggers with a long-sleeve cotton shirt for sun protection
- A lightweight scarf to shield from dust and sun
- Closed-toe shoes or comfortable hiking sandals
Evening & Cooler Weather Looks
- A long dress with a shawl or denim jacket
- A knit sweater with flowy pants
- Ankle boots or closed shoes for warmth
Adding a scarf to any outfit is a simple way to adapt to Morocco’s dress norms!
Can You Wear a Bikini in Morocco?
Besides swimming at a traditional Riad in Marrakech, you might be considering visiting a beach town.
If that’s the case, you NEED to check out a small beach town called Imsouane! It was our favourite part of our trip because you basically have the entire beach to yourself. There are many surfers but barely anyone on the beach and the views are insane.
So if you find yourself by the beach in Morocco, you can definitely wear a bikini!
I was a little timid at first and always walked around with a shirt/dress and shorts over my bikini while walking around Imsouane, however, because it’s a small surfer town, no one cared. It honestly didn’t even feel like it was part of Morocco. Hippie surfers in camper vans were running around the town in just a bikini and it didn’t seem like a problem.
Of course, you should still be respectful of the culture but if you’re in a small beach town, it’s nothing to worry about! I would often throw a light cardigan or linen top over my bikini top as well just for comfort.
All About the Dresses
Dresses were my biggest staple when travelling through Morocco!
They look great in photos and they’re super comfy when you’re out all day.
The one featured in the left image is from Arnhem Clothing and the blue dress in the right image is from Fortunate One Store. The other white dress in the middle I brought with me was from a market in Cape Town and was just a simple flowy dress.
Remember that you don’t need to buy a bunch of new clothes before a trip! I buy a lot of my clothes second-hand from thrift stores, on Depop or from those reselling on social media. It will save you a LOT of money if you’re travelling on a budget and it’s a sustainable option.
Morocco Packing List for Backpackers (carry-on)
Are you travelling with a backpack and are still not sure what to wear in Morocco?
Believe it or not, my boyfriend Sam and I travelled with one small suitcase as a carry-on COMBINED. So if we could manage sharing a carry-on, you’ll have more than enough space!
Here’s what I’d suggest bringing with you:
- Flowy dresses (3) – I had two coloured dresses (see above) and 1 white dress. They were so comfy and were perfect for visiting cultural sites as 2 of them had sleeves and I felt were long enough.
- Loose skirts (1-2) – I don’t actually have any skirts with me but I’ve been meaning to get one because they’re a great alternative to pants or dresses. They’d also look amazing in photos!
- Loose pants (2) – I don’t travel without my loose pants because they’re great for travel days and hot weather when you need an option that’s a little more conservative.
- T-shirts (4-5) – Stick to neutrals and colours that pair well with your pants/skirts/shorts.
- Tank tops (3) – See above ^.
- Athletic shorts/jean shorts (1) – Great if you’re visiting in the summer months. I probably wouldn’t wear shorts in Marrakesh and big cities but by the beach is fine!
- Sandals (1) – Take one pair of black or white sandals, depending on what goes best with the clothes you’re bringing.
- Shoes (1) – I’m not going to lie … I brought my running shoes and never wore them! However, they’re good to have if you’re travelling through the north or plan on doing some hikes!
- Bikinis (2-3) – I love having a few bikini options and they barely take up any space so bring your faves for swimming at Riads or for beaches.
- Cardigan/sweater (1) – Morocco cools down a lot in the evening. You’ll want at least one sweater or cardigan if you get cold easily.
- Windbreaker (1) – Some places can be quite windy (seaside towns) so if you have room, pack a thin windbreaker!
- Bucket hat (1) – Morocco usually has great, sunny weather so have one hat with you. I used mine more than I expected.
- Scarf (optional) – It’s nice to have a scarf on hand to use as an accessory or in case you want to cover your hair. With that being said, I never felt as if I had to cover my hair.
What NOT to Wear in Morocco
While Morocco is more relaxed in tourist areas, there are certainly a few things you should avoid wearing!
1. Revealing Clothing
- Avoid crop tops, low-cut tops, or anything that exposes too much cleavage.
- Short shorts and mini skirts are not culturally appropriate, especially outside of beach towns. Stick to midi or maxi lengths instead.
- Tight leggings or bodycon dresses can feel uncomfortable in more traditional areas—opt for looser-fitting alternatives.
2. Sleeveless Tops Without a Cover-Up
- While tank tops might be fine in private resorts, it’s best to wear a light shawl or cardigan over your shoulders when walking around.
3. Sheer or See-Through Fabrics
- Lightweight clothing is great for the heat, but make sure it’s not too sheer, especially in bright sunlight.
4. Beachwear in the Wrong Places
- Bikinis are fine at resorts and private beaches, but in public areas, a one-piece or a modest swimsuit with a cover-up is more appropriate.
5. Flashy or Expensive Jewelry
- Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or designer bags that might attract pickpockets, especially in crowded markets.
By dressing appropriately, you’ll feel more comfortable and confident as you explore!
What to Wear in Marrakech
Marrakech is a stylish yet conservative city, so dressing modestly while staying comfortable is key.
Flowy maxi dresses, midi skirts, or loose linen pants paired with lightweight shirts work well for exploring the Medina.
A scarf or shawl is useful for covering shoulders and protecting from the sun.
For evenings, a chic maxi dress with a wrap is perfect for rooftop dining.
If visiting mosques, wear long skirts or trousers and bring a scarf for your hair.
What to Wear in Tangier
Tangier, a coastal city with European and Moroccan influences, is generally more relaxed than Marrakech when it comes to dress code, but modesty is still appreciated.
You don’t need to dress as conservatively as in smaller towns, but covering shoulders and knees is recommended, especially in non-touristy areas.
Flowy maxi dresses, loose trousers with a lightweight blouse, or a midi skirt work well for exploring. A scarf isn’t always necessary but can be useful for layering.
Beachwear is fine at private resorts, but a cover-up is advised for public beaches. Comfortable sandals or sneakers are best for walking around.
What to Wear in Morocco as a Woman in October
October in Morocco brings mild to warm temperatures, making it one of the best times to visit.
Days are comfortable, but evenings can be cooler, so layering is key.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal for daytime, while a light jacket or cardigan is useful for cooler mornings and nights. Maxi dresses, midi skirts, or loose trousers paired with blouses work well for exploring cities.
A scarf is handy for covering shoulders or adding warmth. If visiting the desert or mountains, bring a sweater and closed-toe shoes.
I’ve found it’s always best to have a couple of layers with you in Morocco, especially if you’re visiting different parts of the country where the temperatures change.
What to Wear in Morocco as a Woman in Summer
Deciding what to wear in Morocco as a woman in summer can be tricky!
Summer in Morocco is hot, especially in cities like Marrakech and Fez, where temperatures often exceed 35°C (95°F).
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon are essential to stay cool while dressing modestly. Loose-fitting maxi dresses, wide-leg linen pants, and flowy skirts paired with lightweight blouses work well for staying comfortable.
Avoid tight or heavy fabrics, as they can trap heat.
A scarf or shawl is useful for covering shoulders when needed and protecting from the sun. If you’re visiting religious sites, pack a long-sleeve top and a maxi skirt or loose trousers. A wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves for sun protection.
For shoes, opt for comfortable sandals or breathable shoes for city walks and sturdy footwear for desert trips.
If you’re heading to the coast, a swimsuit with a cover-up is best for public beaches, while bikinis are fine at private resorts.
Evenings can be slightly cooler, so a light cardigan is good to have on hand!
What to Wear in Morocco as a Man
As you can probably guess, men don’t have to think as much about what to wear in Morocco as women do.
That said, men in Morocco typically dress modestly, and while tourists have more flexibility, it’s best to wear lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the warm climate.
If you’re travelling to Morocco with a man, they should pack loose linen or cotton shirts paired with chinos or lightweight trousers.
Shorts are acceptable in tourist areas but are less common among locals, so opt for longer styles if you wear them.
A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings, especially in the mountains or desert.
And of course, comfortable shoes or sandals work well for walking. If visiting mosques, wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless tops out of respect.
How Long Should You Spend in Morocco?
I’ve visited Morocco on 3 separate occasions and still have so much left to see!
The ideal duration for a trip to Morocco depends on the experiences you want to have and how much you wish to explore the country.
For a first-time visitor, 10-14 days is a good amount of time to get a well-rounded experience. This allows you to visit multiple cities, see diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in Moroccan culture.
In 10 days, you could visit the major cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca, with time for a desert trip to Merzouga or Zagora. This allows you to explore the medinas, souks, and historical sites, and experience the stunning landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert.
For those with more time, 2-3 weeks allows you to dive deeper into the country. You could include coastal cities like Essaouira and Tangier to relax by the sea, along with the inland cities. You’d also have time for day trips to places like Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City, or the Valley of the Roses.
If you’re more interested in nature or hiking, 10-14 days is ideal for exploring the Atlas Mountains or the Sahara, with a few days for trekking and camping.
However, if you’re pressed for time and want to focus on the cities, 5-7 days is enough to get a taste of Morocco, with time to visit Marrakech, Fes, and a quick desert excursion.
Ultimately, the longer you have, the more you can explore, but Morocco is rich enough in culture and history to enjoy no matter the length of your stay.
Ready to See Morocco?
As you can see, with a few good staples, it’s easy to know what to wear in Morocco as a woman!
Before you head out on your trip, don’t forget about insurance. I’ve been using SafetyWing for over a year and don’t go anywhere without them. Their plans are super affordable and will ensure you’re covered in case anything happens during your trip.
I’ll be back with another blog later this week but in the meantime, follow my adventures on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube!
Cheers,
Amy xx