When packing for your tour in Morocco, it’s worth thinking about both the weather and the local culture.

In the main cities like Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca, many people dress in Western style, just as you would find in London, New York, or Paris. But away from the cities, especially in the countryside, the tradition is that both men and women wear something long (trousers or skirt), and a top which covers arms to the elbows.  It is worth remembering that you may be cooler and will certainly have better protection from the sun if you cover your legs and arms.  However, no one will be rude to you if you wear shorts, T-shirts or sleeveless vests.

If you are travelling in the mountains or the desert, be sure to bring a hat to protect you from the sun, and a warm fleece or pullover and long trousers for the evenings.  Believe it or not, except in the high summer from late May to late August, it can get cold even in the Sahara Desert after dark! For an idea of the temperatures and weather just before you travel, you can check The Weather Channel app or website.  This will show all the main cities, and when away from the cities you can search for example for Ait Youl, Suss-Massa-Draa, Morocco, which is in the Dades Valley, and Rissani, Meknes-Tafilalet, Morocco, which is near Merzouga and the Sahara Desert.

In summer, make sure you also have sun protection cream or spray with you, as well as plenty of water.

In winter, you will need warm layers, and a hat, scarf and gloves – the weather can be nice and warm in the daytime, but the wind can be cold, and the temperature really drops at night, sometimes to below freezing in the mountains.  It is useful to bring insect repellent just in case you are troubled by flying insects, though these are not generally a problem in Morocco.

For hiking, lightweight hiking boots or good strong trainers are recommended. A windcheater jacket is also useful, as it can be windy or cool in the mountains.  It’s worth bringing a small rucksack to carry your water, picnic lunch or snacks, and spare pullover.

For camel trekking, loose or stretchy long trousers will be most comfortable.  It is useful to bring a lightweight packable bag for your overnight things if you are staying in a desert camp.  Your Sahara Atlas Tours driver-guide will keep your main luggage securely with him overnight.

You’ll see a lot of clothing for sale in Morocco, much of which is very cheap.  A good buy, especially if you can haggle for one at a country market, is a woollen djellaba for winter.  The djellaba is a long, hooded robe that fits loosely and is very comfortable.  Some of our clients have loved to take these home as winter dressing gowns or lounge wear!