Travelling to Marrakech? Not sure what to pack? This guide outlines exactly what you’ll need, from what weather you can expect in this Moroccan city, to how you need to dress to be culturally sensitive.
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Although it’s usually hot in Marrakech – even the coldest months see temperatures of around 20 degrees in the day – it’s a conservative destination, and one where you should always consider what you’re wearing before you head out and about.
Don’t miss: 10 Essential Tips for Visiting Marrakech
So to make sure you’re fully prepared for your trip, here’s a guide to help you pack for Marrakech, so you can have the best time without worrying about what’s in your suitcase.
Weather in Marrakech
No matter when you travel to Marrakech, the weather is bound to be warm and sunny – or, if you’re there in the middle of summer, possibly downright scorching.
In the hottest months (July – September) the average high temperatures can reach almost 37 degrees Celsius, and at night it remains balmy, staying at around 20 degrees.
If that sounds a bit too extreme for you, spring and autumn are a little milder, with high temperatures in the mid-twenties or low thirties, and night-time temperatures in the teens.
The winter is still pretty warm (by English standards, that is), with average days hovering just above 18 degrees, and the nights dipping to a chilly six or seven degrees.
If you’re doing an overnight trip from Marrakech into the desert, it’s important to keep in mind that the night-times get incredibly cold, even if the days are intensely hot. So bring a jacket!
Dressing for the culture & customs
Tourism in Marrakech has been on the rise for a number of years now, so seeing tourists in ‘western’ clothes isn’t exactly a shock to the locals, but it is considered to be disrespectful to reveal too much skin.
There’s no need to worry about what to pack for Marrakech, though. With just a few simple tips and accessories, you can stay cool and comfortable, while also being sensitive to the conservative culture.
It can be tempting to wear fewer clothes because of the heat, but for the sake of being respectful, it’s best to dress conservatively. There’s no official dress code, or laws around what is or isn’t allowed, but a good rule of thumb is to keep your shoulders and knees covered when out in the Medina (the old town). The modern areas as slightly more laid-back, but to be safe, try to cover up as much as possible when you’re in public areas.
Ultimately, the longer the better, for both sleeves and hemlines – this goes for guys, too. Above the knee shorts or vest tops are a no-no, so do keep that in mind when you’re packing.
What should I pack for Marrakech?
Even though Marrakech has a hot climate, it’s a city, so your trip won’t be all about relaxing by the water in a bikini. Chances are, you’ll be spending a lot of time walking around the dusty, chaotic city, so comfortable footwear is a must. Although it may be hot, I’d opt for something closed, unless you want your feet to be filthy by the time you get back to your accommodation at night.
In terms of clothing, maxi or midi dresses with sleeves (or at least with the shoulders covered) are perfect, as well as loose trousers and t-shirts. Try to avoid low necklines or anything too figure-hugging, as you might gain some unwanted attention (a.k.a. hassling) out on the streets.
The aim of the game is light and loose clothes so that even if you’re covered up, you won’t get hot and bothered.
Another essential to pack for Marrakech is a light scarf that can be wrapped around you, for a bit of warmth in the cool evenings, as protection from the sun during the day, or to cover up if you’re feeling like you’re getting a few too many stares. A light jacket would do the same thing, and may be better for cooler months in Marrakech.
Dressing for your hotel and pool
Most hotels and riads in Marrakech cater for western tourists, so they don’t expect their guests to dress traditionally on their properties. When you’re by the poolside, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear regular swimwear, and within the hotel itself, sundresses and shorts are fine.
As soon as you step outside the doors of your hotel, though, be sure to cover up again.
Read my review of the amazing Riad Zaouia 44 here.
A packing list for Marrakech
Aside from the items I’ve listed above, there are some essentials you won’t want to leave behind when you travel to Marrakech. Make sure you pack:
- Sunglasses – trust me, you don’t want to leave home without them.
- Camera – I have the older version of this one and I LOVE it.
- Hat – be sun smart (and this one’s cute as well as practical).
- Shoulder bag – try to avoid a backpack as pickpockets operate in the Medina, so it’s best to have your belongings where you can see them.
- Swimsuit – for your hotel or riad.
- Sun cream – as they say in Australia: slip, slop, slap (slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat)!
- Hiking boots – if you’re leaving the city.
- Jacket – if you’ll be in the desert overnight.
- Reusable water bottle – because reducing plastic, plus hydration!
- Biodegradable makeup wipes – because regular ones are plastic – ew.
- Portable charger – so you can access Google maps anytime!
In the end, there’s no need to stress about what to pack for Marrakech. Because if you forget something, chances are you can purchase it in the intoxicating souks of Marrakech while you’re there, anyway!
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