Today I'm tackling an important subject you've probably asked yourself while planning a visit to Morocco…what souvenirs to take home from Morocco! It's true we have some amazing shopping but don't worry if shopping isn't for you. You'll find so many amazing gifts from Morocco you'll probably wish you'd brought a second bag.
If you're planning a visit take a read through these things to buy in Morocco that also include an idea of prices to consider while you're shopping.
Depending on where your visit to Morocco takes you will alter what you should bring home for souvenirs. While it's true you can get most anything, anywhere there are different cities and regions that produce specific goods. For example argan oil in Tangier is going to be much more expensive, and potentially a worse quality than if you bought it in Agadir. Morocco is a shopping paradise but take care to ensure you're getting the best quality goods possible.
Argan
It goes without saying that if you're interested in buying argan Morocco is the place to do it. If you're wondering what is Morocco famous for? This is it! For the best souvenirs from Morocco you want something that is extra special. You can't go wrong with argan.
Argan is grown in the southern regions of the country. The oil is extracted from roasted seeds. There are two types of argan; cosmetic and culinary. You'll want to specify which you're after. True argan is thick, a golden yellow color and smells very nutty. It is sold in bottles as just oil and you'll also find many products with argan infused into them. Some of my favorites are argan shampoo and argan hand lotion.
Remember argan is made only in Morocco so stock up while you're here.
Best locations to purchase: Agadir, Essaouira and smaller villages in the region.
Price: This varies widely depending on argan production that year. For 100mL of cosmetic oil you should expect to pay at least 50-75dh up to 150dh. Culinary argan is a little more expensive.
See More: The Secret Life of Argan Amlou Cookies
Ceramics
There is no doubt that you will see hundreds of different types of handmade pottery and Moroccan ceramics during your visit. Plates, bowls, cups, decorative pieces the list goes on and on. Moroccans love bright colors but there are more and more neutral tones popping up in the souks.
Most cities have small shops that sell a piece or two to tourists but also have wholesale shops that sell in larger numbers. If you can find the wholesale shops you'll have a wider selection and you'll also likely be able to get a better deal. If you only plan to buy one or two things, the extra effort probably isn't worth it but if you're wanting to buy in a larger quantity it can pay off.
If you are after a particular color or style don't hesitate to ask the shopkeeper. If you're flying you can also ask to have these items wrapped or better yet if you are planning to purchase these items add some bubble wrap to your bag. There's nothing worse than discovering shattered pottery in your luggage.
Best locations to purchase: Each city has a specific color and style they're known for. The cities of Safi, Fez, and Meknes are best known for their pottery and designs.
Price Moroccan ceramics: Small bowls can cost as little as 20dh. For larger pieces up to 200-300dh. The price for a Moroccan tajine, without decoration, ranges from 20dh for a small tajine to 100dh for a large tajine.
Read More: Safi: The Pottery Capital of Morocco
Zellige (Tilework)
You can't miss the traditional tilework that adorns most places across Morocco. While it's a bit impractical to consider taking home a tile wall, smaller pieces of this intricate art are available for purchase. Moroccan tiles are a really unique craft. Traditionally each of the shapes is chipped by hand. It can take up to 10 years of apprenticeship before someone is considered a master tile maker.
The design is created upside down; meaning the tile maker doesn't arrange based on color but by memorizing the pattern and shapes, arranging them upside down and then sealing them. One mistake means the pattern is off. Just watching this at work is truly amazing!
Best locations to purchase: Fez and Tetouan
Prices of tile pieces: This is completely dependent on the item, size of the item and the pattern (how complex or elaborate it is). You can buy small tile wall hangings that may be a few hundred dirham or tile fountains that can cost thousands of dirham. It's good to consider the amount of work that goes into each piece when looking at prices. Some can take weeks or months to complete.
Read More: Tetouan, Morocco is for Art Lovers
Clothing
From fanciful dresses to basic djallabas, there are plenty of clothes to buy in Morocco. Many items are still handmade and very affordable. For women tunic tops and linen dresses are great purchases to make in Morocco. Be careful with bright colored items and wash separately for the first few times in case the color bleeds. Flowy kaftans are another popular item that can be worn when you're home either around the house, outside, or as a pool/beach cover up.
Men can find traditional and woven hats as well as well made tailored items if time permits. They too may be interested in a thobe that's ideal for relaxing in the summer heat.
One word of caution. Avoid purchasing items that you think look great on the streets of Morocco but might not bode so well when you're home. While you may blend in great in Morocco, back home it might not be the same.
Also look outside the souks. Many Moroccan cities have new districts with boutiques creating items that reflect traditional styles and patterns but have a modern appeal. These are really good choices if you like the colors or design esthetics of Moroccan style but want something that also can transition when you go home.
Best locations to purchase: anywhere. You may see some difference in styles and designs based on the region.
Prices of Moroccan clothing: Very simple kaftans can be purchased for 50-100dh (less if you find a good sale!) Shirts for 100dh, fancy takshita dresses can range anywhere from 1500-15,000dh!
Read More: Shopping in Marrakech: Beyond the Souks
Leather
Today in Morocco leather is being made in much the same way it has been for hundreds of years. The famous tanning souks of Fez are one of the most photographed sites in all of North Africa and the techniques used haven't changed over time. Leather is used to make any number of things, from leather bags to slippers, poufs to book bindings.
You will find many different qualities of leather made with different types of skin including; camel, cow, sheep, and goat. The price of the product depends on the type of leather, the quality of the work and the item itself.
Buying leather in Marrakech or just buying leather in Fez is ultimately the same process. Seek out a shop that either only sells leather or is a workshop making leather goods. They'll offer the best prices and have a connection to the pieces. Don't be afraid to ask for something slightly different or if you have time you can have things custom made.
Typically it takes a few days to have something made custom (depending on what the item is). But, you can do it for far less in Morocco than in other countries even if you have to pay extra to have it rushed. If you know what you want come equipped with a picture or drawing to see what the artists can do for you.
Best locations to purchase: Fez, Marrakech, and Rissani
Price of leather goods in Morocco: a medium bag (as purchased) 450dh. Leather slippers from 50dh. Leather jackets from 800dh – 2500dh. Remember if you have time many products can be custom made in a few days.
Lanterns
A handmade Moroccan lamp or lantern is a great souvenir to take home and be instantly transported back to Morocco each time you look at it. You will find a wide range of sizes, weights, and materials. Lighter weight lanterns are the most affordable but are typically made from aluminum. You won't want to pack these in your baggage as they'll likely bend and if you don't have space to carry it on, paying to send it home may not really be worth the value. This lesser quality metal also tends to rust or discolor quickly.
If you really want to bring home this type of souvenir invest in a more heavy-duty fixture. Metal lanterns with glass are suitable for indoor or outdoor display. For indoor use you can find metal cut lanterns as well as glass plated lanterns to hang. You'll also want to pay attention to lanterns that come strung with the electrical fixture. In many cases you will need to rewire this to match up with your home electricity.
Best locations to purchase: lanterns are largely the same across the country but you may find subtle differences between craftsmen and geographical locations.
What to pay for a Moroccan lamp: There are two qualities to look for. The lightweight lamps you can expect to pay 100dh- 500dh depending on size and craftsmanship. For the heavier, metal lamps prices start around 300dh for small pieces to 1000-2000 dirham for large lamps.
Hammered Metalworks
A long lasting tradition in Morocco is the creation of etched metal. Much of the work is on decorative pieces but is also found on more practical things like teapots, trays, and jewelry. The items that can be bought are a mixture of hand stamped and machine stamped pieces. A careful inspection should be able to indicate which is which.
In the souks of most Moroccan cities you will be able to find workshops where metal items are being made. You can see which are done by hand and which are done by machine – though many hand made items do use a machine for some parts of the process. Hand etching is a very honored tradition in Morocco so if you're interested in this type of souvenir seek out an artist who is doing the work in plain view for your purchase.
Anything machine created will be uniform whereas even the best artist will vary slightly with his design. You can purchase brass, silver, and copper etched items. You also will find metal items that have been shaped and designed with a metal cutting saw; such as lantern designs and light covers.
Best locations to purchase: Fez and Sefrou
What to pay for metalwork: Handmade teapots range from 150-300dh. Etched plates 100-500dh depending on size and intricacy. Plain copper ware is less expensive than etched pieces.
Musical Instruments
There are two primary types of instruments found in Morocco; Arab and indigenous inspired. The famous Gnawa musicians of southern Morocco introduced a variety of instruments to the spectrum. You can purchase oud's- the traditional Arabic guitar across the country. For gnawa instruments head to the southern coasts or the Sahara to find authentic pieces and possibly even a lesson or two!
The most common type of instrument you'll see available for purchase are drums like in this picture. They are meant to be played with the hands and are commonly used in festivals and celebrations. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase a smaller size and make a fun souvenir for kids.
Best locations to purchase: Marrakech, Essaouira, and the cities near the Sahara
What to pay: A drum like in this picture is about 100dh. You can purchase the hand cymbals used by gnawa musicians for 10-20dh a piece. Larger instruments will really depend on age and quality.
See More: Making Moroccan Drums in Fez, Morocco
Spices and Dried Goods
The quality and flavor of spices from Morocco is much better than you'll be able to find in most markets in North America and Europe. They also make an inexpensive and easy gift to transport. Saffron, turmeric, cumin, and ras al hanout are some of the most well known spices to purchase here. When buying ask at the shop if they will grind the spices fresh for you.
The best spices to buy in Morocco are the spices that you will use – don't purchase things just because it sounds appealing if you aren't likely to use it. Some of my favorite spices include; cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and white pepper. The flavor of all of these is so much more intense than what you can find in a regular grocery market.
Other food items include almonds, walnuts, figs, dates, and olives. Argan oil (culinary grade) is also a prized item. You can pick them up at nearly any hanout (the name for a shop) selling dried goods. Avoid shops that appear only to sell to tourists as you are sure to be heavily overcharged.
You may want to wait until the end of your journey to purchase these items so they're the most fresh. That is of course unless you're somewhere that the spice is grown and sold – like saffron.
Best locations to purchase: across Morocco. Saffron comes almost exclusively from Tailouine. Depending on the region and the time of year you may be able to get better quality. For example dates are harvested in November/December in the Sahara and almonds appear in early spring throughout the north.
Price of spices in Morocco: (These are averages and based on 100 grams). Saffron (1 gram) 50-70dh. Ras al hanout: 30dh. Cumin, paprika, turmeric: 20dh. Pepper, ginger, cinnamon: 15dh. Dry mint: 10dh
See More: Saffron Fills the Senses, Medicinal Uses of Moroccan Spices
Rugs and Carpets
The most prized purchase for many visitors to Morocco? A rug, and for good reason! Moroccan rugs are beautiful and there are dozens of options and price ranges available. Even the most expensive rug bought in Morocco will be far less expensive than if it were purchased in the United States.
This is one purchase you may want to save until the end of your trip. This will give you the opportunity to see what is out there and practice your bargaining skills- you'll need them! While many purchases in Morocco can be done quite quickly, you should expect a rug purchase to take much longer.
Some basic advice is; take your time choosing, don't show too much interest, bargain hard, and be willing to walk away if the price isn't right. You also should remain realistic as many rugs can take several weeks to make. I
know many people are wondering how and where to get a cheap Moroccan rug. I wish there were a solid answer I could give you but there's so much that goes into the making, procurement and sale of rugs that there is no easy answer. A lot of the price will also depend on how old the rug is, which type of rug it is and how big it is.
The best way to get a good price? Be open minded, bargain hard -really hard, and be willing to walk away.
Best locations to purchase: there are many different kinds of rugs, you're more likely to find the best deals on the rugs that are local to the region you are in.
Just a heads up, gone are the days of buying a $50 Moroccan rug. You should realistically plan to spend a few hundred dollars on a good rug.
See More: 7 Tips for Buying a Rug in Marrakech and How to Clean Moroccan Rugs at Home
What to Buy Where
I'm breaking this down city by city (at least the major ones) in case you want a quick reference guide!
What to Buy in Marrakech
You can really find most everything in Marrakech because it is the tourist center of the country and also has been a cross-roads of trading for centuries. You may discover that prices are higher because of the high numbers of tourists but this also means you can likely bargain a bit harder to get lower prices.
- rugs
- saffron and spices
- lighting fixtures / lanterns
What to Buy in Tangier
Tangier has a feel that is uniquely Moroccan and not really Moroccan at the same time. It was an international city for many years and as such has developed it's own feel. You'll certainly find Moroccan elements but don't be surprised to find a little bit of everything jumbled together.
- antiques – thanks to Tangiers' international status for decades you can find a little bit of everything!
- woven goods (visit Fondouk Chejra – the weaver's market)
- Riffian style tasseled hats and clothing
What to Buy in Fez
Fez has been an artisanal hub for generations and so it's a very popular destination to buy traditional Moroccan handicrafts. Many traditions are still in place and the quality of products coming from here remains top notch.
- pottery
- leather goods
- zellige (tile work)
- a Fez hat of course!
What to Buy in Essaouira/Agadir
The best thing you can buy in these places is argan, due to their close proximity to the argan growing trees of Morocco. But this part of the country also has a slightly different climate and traditions so you can find things that don't exist – or would cost a lot more – in other parts of Morocco.
- argan oil
- wooden items like trays
- gnawa instruments
What to Buy in Casablanca/Rabat
Many tourists visit Casablanca on arrival in Morocco and while there is shopping to be found, the artisan markets just aren't quite the same here. Rabat's medina retains a traditional feel while nearby Sale (just across the river) has a market where bargains can be had.
- clothing – many boutiques can be found in Casablanca fusing tradition and modern
- pottery – especially in Rabat where it's made.
- antiques – harder to find a bargain but plenty remains from Moroccan history and the French occupation.
Missed your chance and want to buy some things? Here are 20 Morocco Inspired Gifts that will help you find Moroccan souvenirs online!
With this information in your arsenal you'll be on your way to bringing home the best souvenirs.
Sarita says
Hi! I traveled to Morocco last year and fell in love with it! I purchased a necklace that I like and want to purchase more of them but cannot find them. Can you help??
Amanda Mouttaki says
I can try.
TheFisayo says
When I visited Kenya I bought alot of Kenyan beads and jewelries, while in Uganda I bough a lot of clothes and the Masai’s wrapper. It looks like I should be planning to get some ceramics in Morocco. Thank you for this article.
Lara says
Hi Amanda,
I will be travelling in April on a tour. I want to purchase a beni ourain carpet. Is it better to buy in Marrakech or in the mountain region? Also, where is the best place to buy a Moroccan wedding blanket?
Thanks
Amanda Mouttaki says
My best advice is to buy it where you see the one you like. Honestly! No two rugs are the same and if you see one somewhere you probably won’t see another one like it again. Same for wedding blankets. That being said if you can’t get them for the price you like in one place don’t be afraid to keep looking.
Sue Schaumann says
I’m traveling to Morocco at the end of July 2019, for two weeks, with my son and daughter, ages 20 & 18. We like to see historical things, shopping and cultural things. Can you recommend the best things to see in Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, Tangier and Essaouira. There are so many choices on the tourist websites. Also, is Meknes worth going to?
Do you think we can stay in one of these cities and just do train day trips to the other cities or do you recommend we stay a few days in each city?
You mentioned in your blog that staying in Riads is good price wise; are they also safe enough for three Americans…..or are hotels a better bet?
What are a few things to stay away from if we don’t want to get sick, like types of food to stay away from?
I appreciate your assistance and look forward to hearing back from you.
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hello – afraid this may be too late and you’ve likely already planned much of your trip but for anyone reading back – none of those cities are great options to make daytrips to other cities from. You’d want to spend some time in each. It’s honestly a bit too broad for me to tell you specifics to see and do (though I have destination guides on each of those cities if you look in the navigation bar under destination guides). I do also offer one on one trip consulting that would be a better option to give that level of advice. I do hope you have a great trip!
NIkki Ward says
Hi Amanda – I thought I read awhile ago that different rug patterns can be based on different tribes / locations within Morocco. Is there a recommended website or article that details this? Thanks!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Yes to some degree but usually more than just patterns, a combination of patterns/style/designs. Sadly there’s no really good resource online for this.
Manuela says
Hi Amanda!
Great tips! Do you have any idea where I can buy one of those “genie” lamps?
TIA!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Nowhere specific that I can think of but you’ll easily find them just about everywhere!
Ty says
Hi Amanda, nice blog here. I wish I’d seen it before arriving Maroc. I leave on Saturday. I saw a colorful ‘I love Morroco’ female t shirt, v neck on a friend’s video and I do not know where to look. I am in Agadir, but have not seen it in the souk, would remember if I did. Any idea where? Thanks.
Michelle says
Thanks so much for your time to help us tourists out!! Are the prices listed on this article still applicable in 2019 or have they changed a bit?? Also, how much approximately is a pillow cover?? Thank you again!!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Yes they’re accurate ( I regularly update this post) a pillow cover, depends on size/material/condition etc. I’d say between 150-400 dh depending on those things.
Nancy Munford says
Is there an area in the Marrakesh souks just for musical instruments? My son is interested in looking at some drums/drum-makers. Thanks!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Not on a large scale but you’ll find music shops scattered throughout the medina.
Nabila says
Hi Amanda! Do you have any recs for where to buy real saffron? I’ve heard there are many spice stores that scam you on this and so want to make sure I buy from somewhere credible! Thanks.
Amanda Mouttaki says
I think the best tip is to just check the quality. Take a thread or two in your hand and crush it and it should make a brilliant yellow color. It also will have a distinct smell and should be slightly damp. If the saffron is crumbly and has no smell it’s not good.
Evan says
Hey thanks so much for all of this cool information. My father collects knives, so whenever I travel I try to find him one of the traditional knives for the area. Do you know where you can get a traditional Berber khomiya or jambiya in Morocco?
Amanda Mouttaki says
I’m sorry but I’m not well versed in knives I’m afraid. There are some shops that sell artifacts (antiques and more modern things) that might be your best bet.
Ty says
I saw some ornament handled knives in the big souk of the old Medina, Marrakesh. If you would go to the metal work part of the market. Beware, it is a huge place. Hope this helps.
Simona says
Your posts are incredibly helpful! I visited Morocco few months ago and went through your posts prior to my visit. Thanks a lot! Being back home now, I regret not getting one of those beautiful pom pom clutches from the souks( 20-60 dhm). Would you be able to let me know if I could find any of those online and shipping to Europe? Are there true online soul shops with pom pom goodies?:)
Amanda Mouttaki says
I’m sorry I’m not sure of any online shops in Europe that sell them! I’m sure there are but it would take some research.
sala muzik says
Nice blog, your blog is really nice….thank you for sharing and providing such a nice information.
shani says
Hi,
I am travelling to Fez in January and would like to buy Tayfers (containers for henna gifts for the bride). Where should I look for them in Fez? is there a shop? souk? stall? that I should consider? any idea on price?
Also any shop / souk / area in Fez that sell wedding favour things and in general wedding items
Also I would like to buy some muslim prayer beads and prayer mats – Is there a souk / shop / area that sell these and other religious things please?
Many thanks
Many thanks
Amanda Mouttaki says
You can find all these things in the shopping area near the Karouine mosque – lots of shops selling them!
Katrina says
Hi Amanda
Great article!
I’ll be travelling to Casablanca in December & was wonder if you could recommend a cheap & safe way to get from the airport to my hotel.
Amanda Mouttaki says
The train is the easiest if you have time. Trains depart regularly from Casablanca Oasis station directly to the airport. A taxi is also an option depending on your flight time but will be more expensive. The airport is about 20km+ outside the city depending on where you’re staying.
Hassan says
Hey Amanda,
First of all, great article – loved it.
My situation:
– first time visit to Morocco
– I get into Casablanca next Sat noon
– Will spend a night there – need to be in Marrakesh by 9pm next day
– 3 nights in Marrakesh- I will have the opportunity to go around every evening/ night.
I request for two recommendations:
1- For the time I have in Casablanca, could you suggest places to see or shops to visit, the likes of which, I would not be able to experience/ see, in Marrakesh.
2- What mode of transport do you recommend (safe, reliable and convenient – not necessarily cheapest) to go from Casablanca to Morocco. I want to get to my hotel latest by 9pm
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi — so if you were in Casablanca the only thing I would go see is the Hassan II mosque. To get to Marrakech – the train is fast, easy and pretty reliable. It leaves every 2 hours or so and takes about 4 hours to get to Marrakech. You can look up the schedule on http://www.oncf.ma
patrick fahy says
hi Amanda,i am going to Agadir with my 83 yr old mother on march 18 for a week,as we cannot travel too fare from the resort,is Agadir the best place to buy souvenirs. first time tourists to morocco.
great website,lots of interesting information.
from Ireland.
Amanda Mouttaki says
You will find somethings but maybe not the best place for souvenirs. I would say stick to things that are from that local area; anything wooden, argan oil, and the like. Anywhere you see artisans actually doing work it’s a good option to buy directly there. Avoid shops that just sell a little bit of everything.
Michelle says
Hi Amanda – I really enjoyed this read. I have a 20 hour layover in Casablanca and I’ve booked a room at the Sofitel. I will be there Fri night – Sat late afternoon. I really just want to shop and see beautiful decor. I am very rusty on my Egyptian Arabic, same for French. I’m an American female travelling solo.
Can you suggest what I can do/plan or where I can go to optimize my trip experience and minimize overly touristy experiences? I love tea, hookah, clothes, textiles, decor, vegetarian food, art … would love to take in a traditional-type event that night maybe? Any help would be VERY appreciated. I’m definitely looking for a 2-person tea set glass/metal/ornate.
Are taxis to be trusted? Should I find a taxi driver and hire for a tour? Will the beach be worth a visit in early Feb?
Thanks!!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi Michelle, I’m so sorry this comment got buried in the spam. I think by now your trip is over but I hope you had a great time. I’ afraid I don’t know Casablanca that well to be able to offer advice here to others reading.
Eva says
Hi Amanda!
I’m going to work for two months there and I don’t speak moroccan or french. Would that be fine to speak english? And do you think i can make friends with other girls/ladies?
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi – it will depend on where you are going to live but only speaking English will be difficult. I’m sure you can get by for a short period and probably pick up some Arabic and French along the way. You might make friends but again it’s so short of a time it may be difficult, again depends where you’ll be.
Judi says
Eva, many professionals speak English as do quite a lot of nonprofessionals. I’m always so impressed by how multilingual Moroccans are.
But if know you’ll be there for 2 months, I recommend making the effort to learn some basic phrases in Darija, (the colloquial term for Moroccan Arabic) and then grow that vocabulary with whatever comes up in daily conversation.
I was there for 10 days, learned 5 ways to say “crazy” and it was such an icebreaker! = ) The Lonely Planet has a phrasebook that I found really helpful and I kept writing new phrases and pronunciation in what little space was in the margins.
Enjoy this adventure!
Christina says
Hey! This is so helpful. I’m traveling to Tangier in January with the intention of looking for rugs. What is a reasonable price for area rugs? Also, how did you ship them back?
Thanks!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi Christina – this is really hard to give advice on as a lot of it really depends on the style of rug, how old it is, how big it is etc. My best advice is take whatever price they start with and cut it by 2/3 and begin negotiating. If you have a figure in mind that you’re not willing to pay more than, stick to it!
Noorhayaty Ismail says
Hi
I thought of visiting Morroco for 4 days only, where is the best place to stay and visit.
Am a muslim, love to see sights and shoppings. I am from Singapore.
Anywhere where the hotel is near market, shopping and restaurant. Any a day or two city tour available? Thanks.
Amanda Mouttaki says
I think you’ll want to choose one city for a short time. Marrakech is more touristy. Fez is more spiritual. There are also many smaller cities to consider. Will you fly into Casablanca? If so then choose one city.
SELMAFeinberg says
Would love to buy a sheepskin rug large enough to cover my double bed. Would such a thing be available in Morocco? I bought one in Greece many years ago, had it lined and shipped home..Warm as toast! Would there be such an item in Morocco and where would I find it?
Amanda Mouttaki says
I know you can get some really beautiful woven wool blankets that would cover a bed but have never seen a sheepskin itself that large.
Renee says
Hey Amanda love your website I’m going to be in Marrakech on May 28. Would you know how much it is to send like a 5 lbs box to the states? I want to buy some leather goods and dishes but we are traveling for another 6 months so I don’t want to carry it. Thank you!!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi – sorry for the late reply. It should be about $50 – ask for the slower shipping if you don’t need it right away (only like a week longer), it will save $$.
Vicki Thebus says
Oh, also, we are planning on renting apartments. Is this a good idea for accommodation or is there a more cost effective way to stay in Morocco? We’d like to be comfortable but also not spend too much money as we’d like to shop and do things and eat, haha. We are from South Africa.
Vicki Thebus says
Hi Amanda,
My boyfriend and I are traveling to Morocco in Feb 2017 to celebrate our anniversary and plan on visiting Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca. This shopping post was really helpful. Are there any exciting activities we may do besides the camel riding (this is on the list of course).
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi — well just as an aside I’d skip Casablanca and maybe go for Rabat instead if you’re looking for a 3rd place. I would say to certainly look into staying in riads in Fez and Marrakech – there are many very nice riads that are still very affordable – and often less than apartments. Camel riding….you can do this kind of in Marrakech but it’s not the desert so if you are after that authentic experience you’ll want to go to the Sahara. (maybe consider doing Fez – Sahara- Marrakech – or vice versa instead) You might also think about doing a cooking class in either of those cities. Drop me an email via the contact form with the things you like to do and I can send a few other ideas.
Caitlin says
Hi!
I’m travelling to Morocco next week and I’m just loving all of your posts – so helpful and informative! I was just wondering if there was a particular city you’d recommend for buying leather items – bags, purses, backpacks etc. I know you mentioned Fez, Marrakech and Rissani but I’ve been reading a lot of forums and the general consensus from tourists seemed to be that leather is better in Marrakech than Fez. Have you found this to be the case or would it just be that there is different types of leather being sold? Also is there anywhere you would recommend for cotton or embroidered items – table linens, bed spreads and the like?
Thanks so much,
Caitlin
Amanda Mouttaki says
Personally I don’t really think there’s a big difference between the two. Fez is actually more well known for leather than Marrakech. I think you just need to pay attention as there’s lots more options in Fez. Buy away from the tanneries, buy only in shops selling leather products and do a close inspection. Embroidered things…again anywhere but I have seen more in Marrakech – check out al Kawtar a co-op that helps disabled women learn to embroider and then they sell their products.
Amalia says
Hi Amanda!
I’m from Canada and have been following your instagram for a few months and just discovered your website! I’m curious if you have any pointers for determining the quality of a rug and what to look for. My husband and I are travelling to Morocco in early February to celebrate our nuptials and think this would be a priceless memento to remind us of our trip.
Much gratitude,
Amalia
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi Amalia, You should be able to tell pretty easily by looking at them. The weight and how tight the knots are usually give a good indication. I would look for brighter colors as it means that it hasn’t been “aged” on purpose.
Dale says
Hi Amanda,
I’m also from Canada….. My husband and daughters are visiting in April and I was hoping to purchase 4 lanterns. From your post I’m not sure this is the best idea…. Perhaps too fragile. Thanks for the post though….. Lots of help
Amanda Mouttaki says
If you want to, it’s worth buying the lamps that are a bit more heavy duty and not the light weight variety.
leah says
I’ll be travelling to Morocco in May and will definitely be picking up at least one rug, what price points should I be considering? Just to be aware of what is a good price range to bargain within?
Amanda Mouttaki says
This really varies depending on the style, size, and age of the rug. It’s impossible for me to give even an estimate with so many variables. They can start for under 1000 dirham for a small rug and go well over 20,000 dirham for larger, more rare rugs. You will need to bargain and should prepare for a lengthy process. You’ll want to offer at least half (if not less) than the first price they give you).
Jayne says
Thank you for this great information! I didn’t see anything specific to Tangier. What types of things should I look for there? Thanks!
Amanda Mouttaki says
That’s a good question Jayne. Right now I can’t think of anything off the top of my head that is specific to Tangier. But, we’re planning a trip up that way soon so watch for posts dedicated to Tangier soon!
mariam says
salaam marocmama, i love reading this article. it gives me insight view of what i might encounter in my trip to morocco. insya allah and thanks for the time you put up. i have question, standard arabic spoken example, saudi arabia vs arabic spoken in maroc, does it make any much differences?
Amanda Mouttaki says
Moroccan people will understand MSA but most people who speak MSA can not understand Moroccan Arabic. Most all Moroccans can however speak MSA so if they see you’re using that then they will use it.
Jessica says
Will stores ship home to the United States or how do you recommend bringing larger pieces home, like a rug?
Amanda Mouttaki says
Yes most places will ship things home. You can also mail yourself from the post office but it’s worth having the shop ship them.
Gina Marie says
Morocco is one of my favorite places! I really liked this article. It makes me want to go back!
Louise Brinton says
Hi, does anyone have recommendations for reputable stores in Marrakech to shop for carpets? I know Marrakech may not be the optimal place to buy carpets, but that is where I am going to be and I’d appreciate any leads as to dealers who have a good inventory, are knowledgeable and honest in their dealings with clients. Any leads appreciated!
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi Louise, I’m going to be writing a post that lists some of my favorite shops but to be honest they seem to mostly be a dime a dozen. They all tend to work together in some capacity (like if you want a rug they don’t have they’ll find it for you and negotiate for the “owner”.
Isa Ramirez says
Hi there! I’m from Portugal. I’ve been in Marraquesh in November 2014. I simple love your country. I’ve learn a lot with your notes. I just stay for a week but i want to return soon. I made some friends in marraquesh, the morocann people honor a lot there words. i felt at home. It’s strange but its true. i could live im morocco. 🙂 the food, the spices, the smells, the colors! We went to essaouira by bus. It was an adventure 🙂 We have eaten in small restaurants we look the places were morocan people eated. it was funny, i had the chance to eat fresh fried fish, harira soup, snails and other delicious food. we went to this vegetable market and we eated with locals. amazing!!! i both some spices and cumin black seeds for sinusite. Some arnica oil and of course argan oil. I love Maroc!!
Take care!
Isa
Whitney says
Hello,
I love reading your posts, they’re so helpful! I am planning a trip to Marrakech in February and was wondering if you knew of a place where I could make a small drum. Also will I be able to buy Argan oil hair products in Marrakech also? Do you know of a good place?
Thanks in advance! =)
-Whitney
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi Whitney – I’m not sure of a place where you can actually make the drum but know there are several places to purchase them already made. Argan is just about everywhere. Off the square in the northwest corner is a street that has shops selling nuts and dried fruits. Go there and ask in the shops for argan.
Jennie says
Hi Marocmama,
We’re going to visit Morocco in March (first time).
Your article about what to buy there is very interesting. It would be great if you could add some prices –
We know it is very important to negotiate and even fun, but it would be helpful to know where prices are approximate.
Would you have a another tip for two travel-mad girls? 🙂
Thanks in advance,
Jennie & Anne
Amanda Mouttaki says
Hi Jennie — I thought about adding prices but it’s really too hard because they will vary greatly depending on where you are, what the quality is, what the materials are etc. With shopping just remember to cut the prices by 2/3 to start and then go from there. Check out my Morocco section, there’s loads of articles on traveling in Morocco!
Alyson says
Morocco is shopping heaven! We still have a pair of pointy toes goat skin slippers stashed away somewhere.