What to Wear in Morocco + Packing List for Women
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Wondering what to wear in Morocco as a female traveler? I thought figuring out how to get to Chefchaouen would be the biggest headache in planning our girls’ trip to Morocco, but how to dress in Morocco was the most common subject in our group chat.
Morocco is a destination that blends ancient traditions with modern attractions. Although Morocco gets millions of tourists from Europe, North America, and other parts of the world, it is still a Muslim country, and it’s essential to dress comfortably while respecting local Moroccan culture and traditions. We’re so used to short skirts, shorts, and crop tops traveling to warm destinations, so finding appropriate clothing for Morocco was tough.
If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to wear in Morocco to ensure you’re both chic and culturally sensitive and a checklist of what to pack for a week in Morocco.
Is it Safe to go to Morocco as a Female?
Morocco is generally a safe destination for female travelers, and many women visit the country without issues. However, like any travel destination, safety is the most important thing, so take precautions to ensure an enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for female travelers in Morocco:
- Dress Modestly: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and it is respectful to dress modestly, especially in smaller cities. Wear long skirts or loose pants and cover your shoulders.
- Be Aware of Cultural Norms: Familiarize yourself with local culture, customs, and traditions. For example, it’s polite to accept tea if offered.
- Use Reliable Transportation: When using transportation services, choose reputable options. Official taxis, registered guides, and well-known transportation companies can enhance your safety.
- Avoid Empty Streets at Night: Avoid poorly lit or empty streets at night. Stick to well-populated tourist areas if you’re exploring after dark.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places like markets and tourist attractions. Use a money belt or secure travel wallet to keep your valuables safe.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. Be cautious about accepting invitations from strangers.
- Stay Connected: Keep in touch with family and friends, and let them know your whereabouts. Having a working phone and sharing your itinerary can be valuable for your safety.
- Use Reputable Accommodations: Choose well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods. Check online reviews and recommendations from fellow travelers.
- Learn Basic Phrases: While many Moroccans speak French or English, learning basic Arabic phrases can be helpful.
- Local Women’s Advice: If you have questions or concerns, consider seeking advice from Moroccan women or other female tourists.
Best Time to Visit Morocco
Morocco is a year-round destination, but the best time of year to visit is in the fall (September-November) or early spring (March-April). The weather is typically warm during these times, so you’ll avoid extreme heat and cold nights versus visiting during the summer months.
What to Wear in Morocco as a Woman
Women traveling to Morocco should dress modestly to align with cultural norms for local women. While Morocco is diverse, and the dress code can vary depending on the city, it is advisable to dress on the more conservative side to avoid any potential discomfort, street harassment, or unwanted attention from Moroccan men. Here are some tips on how to dress in Morocco as a woman:
1. Cover Shoulders and Knees:
- Choose tops with sleeves that cover at least the shoulders.
- Wear long skirts, dresses, and pants that cover the knees.
2. Wear Loose and Lightweight Clothing:
- Opt for loose-fitting and breathable fabrics to stay cool in the warm climate.
- Flowy dresses and skirts are stylish choices that provide comfort and modesty.
3. Bring a Scarf or Shawl:
- Carry a lightweight scarf or shawl that can be used to cover your head or shoulders when entering religious sites.
- It can also offer additional protection from the sun.
4. Avoid Revealing Outfits:
- Refrain from wearing revealing clothing, such as low-cut shirts, tank tops, or shorts, especially in more conservative areas.
- Swimsuits are appropriate only at designated beach areas or resorts.
5. Wear Comfortable Shoes:
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to explore markets and historical sites with bumpy terrain.
6. Adapt to Location:
- Recognize that dress codes may vary in different regions. You may find a more relaxed atmosphere in bigger cities like Marrakech, but smaller towns may have stricter expectations.
7. Bring a Cardigan or Light Jacket:
- Pack a cardigan or light jacket for cooler evenings, especially if you plan to dine outdoors or attend events.
8. Accessorize:
- Accessorize with local jewelry or scarves to add a personal touch to your look.
These are general guidelines, but knowing specific expectations in the areas you plan to visit is important.
What to Pack for Morocco
Packing for a week-long trip to Morocco requires a thoughtful selection of clothing, accessories, important items, and other essentials to ensure you’re prepared for the experiences you’ll encounter. Below are some Morocco outfit ideas for your trip.
Maxi or Midi Dress and Cardigan
When choosing what to pack for Morocco, be mindful of the weather. Opt for comfortable fabrics like cotton or linen to combat the hot weather. It was very hot in Marrakesh, so we wore cotton maxi dresses and maxi skirts. If you have a strapless or sleeveless maxi dress, bring a cardigan or shawl to cover your shoulders and arms.
Loose-fitting tunics with Leggings or Jeans
Cover your bum and wear a tunic with ankle or calf-length leggings or skinny jeans. I’d suggest wearing jeans at night since it gets cooler. It also gives mosquitoes less opportunity to feast on your legs.
Jumpsuit and Duster
I love jumpsuits. They’re comfortable, and you can dress them up or down. Pictured above is the jumpsuit I wore during our food tour in Marrakech.
Comfortable Shoes and Clothes
Whether you’re seeing the sites or shopping for goods, you’ll probably be doing a lot of walking around. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes so your feet won’t hurt as much at the end of the day.
No need for heels since the sidewalks and roads are a bit bumpy, but I suggest packing a pair of cute flats or sandals in case you go to a fancy restaurant for dinner.
Stick to cotton, linen, and other lightweight materials that won’t cause you to sweat. Also, make sure to pack solid-colored clothing, as some graphic tees may be considered offensive.
Anything covering your shoulders and knees works well in most areas. Driving to Marrakech from Fez, I wore shorts and a sleeveless top, but for most of the 10+ hour ride, I was on a coach bus making stops only for food, beverages, and the bathroom.
Kaftan Dress or Traditional Moroccan Clothing
When all else fails, shop the souks in Moroccan medinas for traditional Moroccan clothing. A Kaftan (or caftan) is a variant of a robe or tunic that can be worn on casual and formal occasions. It is often worn as a coat or an overdress, reaching to the ankles, with long sleeves.
Are Bikinis and Other Swimwear Appropriate Clothing for Morocco?
Bikinis and other swimwear are appropriate clothing for Morocco and are allowed if you visit a beach in a coastal city or stay in a hotel with a pool. You can pack one or two-piece swimsuits, but remember to cover up in public areas like the hotel lobby or in restaurants.
Morocco Packing List
Here’s a list of essentials for what to pack for Morocco for women. Remember to tailor this list based on your specific needs and the activities for your trip to Morocco.
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable tops
- Long-sleeved shirts or blouses for modesty
- Long dresses or skirts
- Comfortable long pants or harem pants
- Scarves or shawls for covering shoulders or head when needed
- Bathing suit (for beach areas or resorts)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals for warmer days
- Hat or sun hat for sun protection
- Cardigan or light jacket for cooler evenings
Accessories:
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Travel-sized toiletries
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
- Travel adapter for electronics
- Travel-sized first aid kit
- Personal hygiene items
Money and Documents:
- Passport and visa (if required)
- Travel insurance information
- Printed copies of important documents (passport, itinerary, accommodation details)
- Money belt or secure travel wallet
- Credit/debit cards
Health and Safety:
- Prescription medications
- Basic over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, antidiarrheal, etc.)
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Portable phone charger
- Travel-sized sewing kit
Technology:
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Portable charger for electronic devices
- Travel-sized power bank
Miscellaneous:
- Day pack or small backpack for day trips
- Snacks (especially if you have dietary restrictions)
- Travel guidebook or maps
- Language phrasebook
- Travel pillow and eye mask for long journeys
I hope this guide sharing what to wear in Morocco and the packing list was helpful for your trip planning. It is also helpful if you visit other Muslim countries and destinations like The UAE, Turkey, or Egypt. Make sure to share it with your social community and pin it for future reference. Contact me directly if you would like assistance planning a trip to Morocco.
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Have you visited Morocco before?