I’ve traveled to Morocco multiple times now, and every time I visit, I have a shopping list! The chaotic souks sell everything you can imagine, from beautiful pottery, to spices, and traditional shoes. If it was up to me, I’d buy everything, but as my luggage space is usually limited, I settle for some smaller local items! On your next trip to Morocco, skip the shot glasses and magnets, and invest in some local treasures! Below is the ultimate list of what to buy in Morocco!
TIPS FOR SHOPPING IN THE MOROCCAN SOUKS
Wandering through the winding souks for the first time can be very overwhelming! Always make sure to stay alert, and keep your belongings close. Below are some tips to make your experience in Morocco smoother, and let you focus on the shopping!
Compare Prices
Browse the souks for a while, as I’m sure that scarf you just have to have will be at another stall further down. Compare prices between the vendors, and use that to your advantage to get a lower price on the item that you really want!
Haggle
The most important tip to remember when shopping in Morocco is that no price is final! The salesmen expect you to haggle, and therefore, increase the prices by at least double for the tourists My tip is to always ask for half immediately, and then try to negotiate a fair price from there.
Walk Away
If after several attempts at bartering for the perfect price, the salesman still does not give in, walk away. They will usually come after you, and offer something closer to your original offer!
WHAT TO BUY IN MOROCCO
Argan Oil/ Moroccan Oil
About five years ago Argan oil became the “it” ingredient in beauty products, and a popular cosmetic staple for celebrities. However, the Moroccans have been using this ‘liquid gold’ for centuries! The oil is native to Morocco, and is beneficial for the hair and skin. I personally swear by Moroccan oil, as it leaves my hair soft and shiny, and my skin smooth and clear! The oil can also be used as skin moisturizer, hair conditioner, an anti-aging remedy, or an acne treatment. Luckily, you don’t have to be rich and famous to buy your own ‘liquid gold,’ as it’s sold in all souks and pharmacies throughout Morocco for about 50-100 Dirhams (5-10 euros).
Natural Medicine and Beauty Remedies
Morocco has deeply routed traditions of purification, cleanliness, and use of natural medicines that make them experts when it comes to beauty and wellness! Stop at any pharmacy to buy some natural cosmetics, and medicines. Some of my favorites are the khol, which is used as eyeliner and creates the best smoky eye of your life, rose oil, and orange flower water for beautiful skin.
Spices
Morocco is the land of spices! Take a stroll through any Moroccan city, and you’ll notice the stalls with endless bins of colorful spices. The spices are a staple in Moroccan cuisine. They mix a variety of different spices into a single dish for a unique flavor that will have your taste buds buzzing! Most are indigenous to Morocco, and include, cayenne, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, paprika, saffron, cumin, and black pepper. If you’re hoping for a unique and useful souvenir from Morocco, head to the souks and buy some saffron, cumin, and paprika (the most essential and flavorful spices).
Scarves
Every time I go to Morocco, I make sure to buy a cashmere scarf. I just love all the colorful designs and soft fabrics! A scarf is also the perfect accessory to wear while traveling, as they cover your shoulders while keeping you cool during the hottest days. If you take a trip to the desert, they keep sand out of your hair and eyes. You’ll find stalls selling pashminas throughout the souks. The average price for a pashmina in Morocco is about 50 Durhams (5 euros), but most will try to sell them for more until you haggle for a lower price!
Ceramics
Handmade pottery is a must buy in Morocco (if you have the luggage space of course). Morocco is known for its beautiful, bright geometric ceramic pieces. You can buy anything from a mini tagine to a larger bowl or vase. Purchase some fun mugs and plates to add some color to your kitchen. Prices vary depending on the size and type of item. Nonetheless, remember to use your new found haggling skills, as prices are never final in Morocco!
Textiles
Apart from scarves, Morocco produces beautiful textiles. Stop by a local shop to witness a worker lacing different colored threads together to produce a unique, vibrant fabric. The artisan textiles are then used to create purses, pillowcases, blouses, rugs, blankets, and even hammocks. If you have plenty of space in your suitcase, opt for a vibrant, intricate rug to give your home a special Moroccan touch. If you tend to over pack like me, a smaller piece of memorabilia, like a coin purse or pillowcase, is the perfect keepsake from an unforgettable Moroccan adventure!
Shopping in Morocco is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming adventure. Make sure to pick up some of these unique pieces next time you are in Morocco as a special reminder of your trip.
Safe Travels,
Vip <3
Read More:
What to Expect when Traveling in Morocco
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