Step into Morocco’s busy markets and old towns, where traditional crafts come to life. As a local guide, I’ll show you places filled with the smell of spices, colorful carpets, and beautiful handmade lanterns.
Skilled workers use old methods to create leather goods, metalwork, and textiles that have been made the same way for generations.
When you shop here, you’re not just buying souvenirs, you’re supporting families and keeping these traditions alive.
Get ready to bargain, explore, and find special items that truly show the spirit of Morocco.
The Basics of Shopping in Morocco
As your local guide, I’ll tell you that the best shopping in Morocco happens in the traditional souks, where you’ll find everything from spices to handwoven rugs laid out in winding alleyways.
You’ll want to bring cash in Moroccan dirhams, as many smaller vendors don’t accept cards, and most prices start at least 40% higher than what you should actually pay.
When you’re ready to buy, remember that bargaining is expected.
I usually suggest offering about half the initial asking price and working up from there, though the final price typically lands around 70% of what was first quoted.
A. Where to Shop?
When you’re ready to start shopping in Morocco, you’ll want to head straight to the souks, the traditional markets that form the heart of commerce in every city.
As your local guide, I’ll tell you that these bustling marketplaces are typically nestled within the ancient medinas, protected by historic city walls that have stood for centuries.
You’ll find most of the authentic shopping experiences concentrated in these historic districts, where narrow alleyways lead to specialized sections for different crafts and goods.
I always recommend my visitors explore the souk areas during mid-morning when shops are opening and crowds are manageable.
While the main tourist souks can be overwhelming, don’t forget to venture into smaller, residential neighborhood markets where locals shop; you’ll often find better prices and more genuine interactions there.
B. Money
Before you start browsing the colorful souks, you’ll need to understand how money works in Morocco.
As your guide, I’ll tell you that cash is absolutely essential here, since most of the vendors don’t accept credit cards.
You’ll want to make sure you have plenty of Moroccan Dirhams (Dhs) with you before entering the markets.
Let me help you understand the currency better. The exchange rate is pretty simple to calculate: 10 Dirhams equals roughly one US dollar.
I always recommend my tourists to get their currency exchanged at official banks or exchange offices, not from street vendors who might offer better rates.
Trust me, it’s safer this way, and you won’t have to worry about counterfeit bills while you’re shopping in the bustling markets.
C. Prices and Negotiating
While I’ve guided countless tourists through the vibrant markets, I’ve noticed that many struggle to know if they’re getting a fair price.
Before making any purchases, I recommend visiting several shops to compare prices, especially those tucked away in side alleys where rates tend to be lower than in tourist areas.
When it comes to negotiating, start by offering half of the vendor’s initial price; it may seem bold, but it’s expected.
You’ll likely settle somewhere in between. Don’t hesitate to walk away; vendors often call you back to continue bargaining.
If you’re serious about buying, accept their offer of tea, but decline if you’re just browsing.
Watch for “Fixed Price” signs where haggling isn’t welcome.
10 Unique Morocco Souvenirs to Bring Home
As your local guide, I’ll tell you that Morocco’s most distinctive souvenirs include handwoven straw bags from the mountain villages, intricate brass lanterns that cast beautiful shadows, and pure argan oil from the women’s cooperatives.
The famous leather goods, especially soft poufs and jackets from Fez’s tanneries, offer amazing value when you know where to look and how to negotiate.
You’ll find these treasures scattered throughout the souks, but I recommend starting at the Ensemble Artisanal in Marrakech, where fixed prices and authentic craftsmanship make shopping easier for first-time visitors.
1. Basket and Straw Bags
Fashion-savvy shoppers won’t want to miss Morocco’s stunning basket and straw bags, which have become Instagram sensations for good reason.
I can tell you these versatile accessories come in countless designs, from colorful to neutral, and you’ll find them perfect for both travel and everyday use.
I always take my visitors to the souk near Café des Epices in Marrakech, where you’ll find the best selection at reasonable prices.
A large bag typically costs around 100 Dhs (about $10 USD), and many artisans will personalize your purchase with embroidery, pompoms, or tassels.
Beyond personal accessories, you’ll discover beautiful baskets for home decor and storage solutions.
Just remember to choose carefully, there’s such a tempting variety that you might end up buying more than one!
2. Lanterns
Moroccan lanterns cast their enchanting glow throughout the medinas, beckoning shoppers with intricate metalwork and colorful glass panels.
I’ll tell you that these stunning pieces come in both hanging and freestanding styles, with hundreds of tiny embossed holes creating magical light patterns in the dark.
You’ll find the best lantern shops in Marrakech, Fes, and Meknes, where shop owners will eagerly demonstrate their glow by plugging them in.
When shopping, I always advise my clients to examine the quality closely, look for sturdy materials and intricate craftsmanship rather than thin, easily bendable metal.
While simple designs start around 200 Dirhams ($20 USD), more elaborate pieces will cost more.
Trust me, it’s worth investing in better quality that’ll last for years.
3. Argan Oil
The golden treasure of argan oil has become one of Morocco’s most sought-after products, and I’ll show you exactly what to look for when shopping.
You’ll find it everywhere in Marrakech’s medinas, but quality varies dramatically.
As a local, I always recommend visiting women’s cooperatives, where you’ll support our Berber communities directly instead of foreign-owned operations.
When shopping, I’ll teach you my tricks: genuine argan oil should cost around 200 Dhs for a quality bottle.
Don’t fall for the cheap versions you’ll spot in tourist stalls. Look carefully at the color, texture, and aroma. I’ve seen too many visitors end up with fake products.
Besides cooking, you can use it for your hair and skin, making it a versatile souvenir that’s worth the investment.
4. Leather Poufs
Colorful leather poufs beckon from every corner of our souks, and I’m excited to share why they’re one of my favorite souvenirs to recommend.
These versatile home accessories are incredibly practical to transport since you’ll purchase them unstuffed, making them easy to pack in your suitcase for the journey home.
While you’ll see these poufs displayed in their full, stuffed glory throughout the markets, don’t let that worry you about transportation.
I recommend looking for high-quality leather pieces, which typically range from 150 to 300 dirhams ($15-30 USD) depending on size.
You’ll find similar poufs in boutique shops back home, but they’ll cost significantly more.
Just remember, as with all souk shopping, be discerning and take your time to find the best quality for your money.
5. Leather Clothing
Moving beyond decorative poufs, stunning leather clothing represents another treasure you’ll discover in Morocco’s bustling markets.
As your guide, I recommend heading straight to the Chaouwara tannery inside Fes medina, where you’ll find the country’s finest leather garments surrounding an ancient dyeing courtyard.
You’ll be amazed by the selection of vibrant biker jackets, stylish bombers with unique details, and countless accessories like belts and shoes.
While the tannery’s strong smell might surprise you, the quality and prices make it worthwhile.
I’ve helped many visitors score incredible deals, like premium leather jackets for around 2,000 Dirhams ($200), a fraction of European prices.
Remember to bargain hard, and don’t hesitate to walk away if the price isn’t right.
6. Tea
Savoring mint tea represents a cherished daily ritual in my homeland, and I’ll help you discover the perfect tea souvenirs to bring back from your Moroccan adventure.
In the teashops, you’ll find an incredible variety of loose-leaf teas displayed from floor to ceiling, offering countless flavors and aromas to explore.
I recommend visiting specialty tea shops in Marrakech, where you’ll discover the iconic mint tea alongside unique blends infused with local spices.
The decorative metal teapots we use, reminiscent of magical genie lamps, make wonderful keepsakes that’ll transport you back to Morocco with every pour.
While shopping, don’t hesitate to sample different varieties, and remember you can always request less sugar in your tea.
These affordable treasures, along with complementary spices and oils, capture the essence of the tea culture.
7. Berber carpets
Now that you’ve explored the tea traditions, let me show you one of my favorite Moroccan treasures, the handwoven Berber carpets.
Each piece tells a unique story through intricate patterns and symbols, woven by skilled artisans who’ve preserved these techniques for generations.
While the main markets offer plenty of options, I recommend venturing into the Atlas Mountains, where you’ll find authentic Azilal rugs made on vertical looms.
Here, weavers incorporate meaningful symbols representing protection and family bonds into their designs.
As your guide, I’ll share an insider tip: don’t purchase the first carpet that catches your eye.
Take time to explore different vendors, build relationships, and negotiate prices.
You might even get invited to watch the weaving process, which makes your purchase even more meaningful.
8. Blankets from Chefchaouen
When you stroll through Chefchaouen’s winding streets, you’ll discover the city’s most treasured handicraft, the signature wool blankets that reflect the vibrant spirit of Morocco’s Blue Pearl.
As your local guide, I’ll tell you that while these blankets are everywhere in the shops, finding authentic handwoven pieces requires patience and attention to detail.
I always advise my visitors to look closely at the craftsmanship, especially the stitching and wool quality.
The deep blue versions are particularly special, and you’ll spot them adorning many of the local hotels and restaurants.
If blankets seem too bulky for your suitcase, don’t worry, you’ll find the same beautiful wool crafted into lighter alternatives like shawls and decorative lanterns, all carrying the distinct charm of the blue city.
9. Thuya Wood Boxes from Essaouria
Moving south from Chefchaouen’s blue-tinted treasures, I often guide my visitors to Essaouira’s charming medina, where you’ll discover our city’s remarkable Thuya wood boxes.
As your local guide, I’ll tell you that these polished wooden masterpieces are truly unique to the coastal region, crafted from the native Thuya shrubs by skilled artisans.
You’ll find boxes for every budget in the medina stalls.
Simple pieces start at just 10 Dhs, while the more elaborate ones, decorated with bone, mother of pearl, or aluminum wire inlays, range from 70-80 Dhs.
My personal favorites are the clever “magic boxes” that challenge you to figure out their opening mechanisms; some slide apart mysteriously, while others conceal hidden keys in secret compartments.
10. Rose Water and Rose Oil
The sweet fragrances of rose oil and rose water from our beloved Dades Valley make perfect souvenirs to carry Morocco’s essence home with you.
As your local guide, I’ll tell you that it takes an incredible 10,000 roses to create just 5ml of pure oil, making these products truly precious and worth seeking out.
When you’re shopping with me in our local markets, I’ll show you how to identify quality products.
You’ll find both distilled and extracted oils, while distilled versions command higher prices, extracted oils often provide stronger scents.
I always take my travelers to trusted spice shops where we can sample oils in small bowls. Don’t let price alone guide you, as expensive doesn’t always mean better.
For the most magical experience, join me in May during the Valley of Roses Festival.
Final Words
Shopping in Morocco isn’t just about buying souvenirs, it’s about immersing yourself in its rich cultural traditions.
You’ll find everything from handwoven carpets to aromatic spices in the bustling souks, where bargaining is part of the experience.
Remember to bring cash in dirhams, start negotiations at 40% of the asking price, and take time to learn about the craftsmanship behind each piece.
Trust me, you’ll return home with treasures and memories that’ll last a lifetime.
