Morocco First-Timer Guide: Everything Before You Go

This is one of the most-searched Morocco questions and it matters more than most travel guides acknowledge.

The principle: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country. In the medina cities (Marrakech, Fes, Meknes), modest dress is both respectful and practical. In coastal cities (Essaouira, Agadir) and Chefchaouen, the dress code is more relaxed.

For women in medina cities:

• Loose linen trousers or a long skirt. Three pairs of linen trousers cover almost everything, pack them for heat and comfort anyway.
• Tops that cover shoulders. A loose linen shirt or blouse.
• A light scarf (pashmina or cotton). Useful for covering shoulders when needed, cool enough for 35°C.

For women in coastal cities and Chefchaouen:

• The above still works. Shorts and bare shoulders are less likely to attract comment than in Marrakech but are still not the norm.

For men:

• Shorts are fine in tourist areas. Long trousers are better in the medinas. Covered shoulders are appreciated at religious sites.

In the Sahara:

• The desert is cold at night (below 10°C in spring and autumn, below freezing in winter). Pack layers regardless of the daytime temperature.

This is not about cultural submission. It is about practicality and about reducing unnecessary friction. Loose linen is also just the right clothing for a hot, dusty, walkable destination.

See the full women’s packing and dress guide.

Morocco hits hard on arrival for most first-timers. Here is an honest description of what the first few hours are like, so it does not catch you off guard.

Marrakech airport is manageable. The exit is where the first approach from unofficial taxi drivers happens: ignore them and proceed to the official taxi rank or your arranged transfer.

The drive to the medina is fine. The arrival at the medina gate is where most first-timers feel the overwhelm. The alleyways narrow. The sounds multiply. A tout appears and offers to help you find your riad. Say “la shukran” and consult your offline map.

Your riad will have a locked door. Ring the bell. Go inside. Sit down. Have tea.

Most people describe the first day as the hardest and then note that “once you find your footing, it settles quickly.” That is accurate. Day two in Marrakech feels significantly different from day one. The medina that felt hostile and chaotic on arrival becomes navigable. The city that felt overwhelming reveals its rhythm.

The worst way to start a Morocco trip is to go out from the airport straight into Jemaa el-Fnaa at 4pm. The best way is to arrive at your riad, settle in, walk gently in the surrounding streets, and leave the main square for sunset or the following day.

“I had a feeling it wouldn’t be long before I was huddled up in a corner of my riad, trembling and refusing to go outside.” That is how a first day in Morocco can feel. Give it 24 hours. The city meets you once you stop fighting it.