Rabat – It is easy to get lost while wandering the winding roads of Morocco’s largest souks. Full of artisans selling their goods like spices, pottery, leather goods, perfumes, jewellery, carpets, mirrors and so much more, these bustling centers of commerce stay open well into the night.
With limited time and budgets, it’s impossible to get everything. So here’s a guide to help you figure out what to buy and where to find it.
To find traditional and rural crafts, look no further than the souks of the oldest and most traditional cities – Fez and Marrakech.
The souk within the Medina of Marrakech is vibrant and immersive. You can truly find anything in this souk, but keep an eye out for the natural beauty products that use ingredients from the High Atlas Mountains, as well as handmade rugs from the rural villages.
Brass and copper tea sets, mirrors, and lanterns are also popular in Marrakech.
Similarly, Fez also offers a wide array of traditional crafts and is famous for its labyrinthine layout and vibrant atmosphere that pulls you back into the medieval days.
Most famous are the leather products from the ancient tanneries. There are three main tanneries still operating in the Medina, the largest and most popular of which is Chouara, where you can buy belts, bags, and babouches (the traditional slippers).
If you’re seeking more modern Moroccan fashion, consider shopping for clothes in the metropolitan city; Casablanca.
Alternatively, Tangier is an international hub blending Moroccan and European fashion. Standout fashion items include locally made kaftans and djellabas in a flowing northern style, as well as vintage leather goods and artworks.
The mountainous city of Chefchouen and coastal port Essaouira are both the ideal shopping center for your bohemian kind of buyer – full of unique handmade crafts, fashion, art and jewellery.
Safi is known for its local pottery and ceramics. It’s rare to have a boring looking plate when the shops hold such treasures.
There is no better place to buy Morocco’s treasured liquid gold than from Agadir. Many cooperatives and shops specialize in argan oil production and offer freshly ground Amlou as well.
Located near the desert that is full of mysteries, Ouarzarzat is the fossil capital of Morocco. The city is known as the hollywood of the country where you can also find movie memorabilia from the countless films set here.
So next time you’re feeling lost in a souk, keep your eyes open for one of the traditional goods of the city.
