Walking through a traditional Moroccan medina is an incredible sensory experience, and it is impossible to leave without wanting to take a piece of that magic home with you. With countless artisans, colorful stalls, and bustling souks, you might be wondering exactly What to Buy in Morocco. From handwoven carpets to aromatic spices, Shopping in Morocco is an adventure all on its own. This guide highlights the absolute Best Souvenirs from Morocco, where to find them, and how to spot genuine quality. Let us explore the Best Things to Buy in Morocco so you can pack your suitcase with authentic treasures.
1. Handwoven Moroccan Rugs and Carpets
If you only buy one major item during your trip, it should probably be a rug. Moroccan carpets are world-famous for their incredible quality, bold colors, and unique geometric patterns. Each piece tells a story and reflects the specific region or tribe where it was made.
- Beni Ourain: These are the trendy, thick, plush wool rugs typically featuring a white or cream background with dark geometric lines.
- Azilal and Boucherouite: If you want vibrant colors, these rugs from the Atlas Mountains are incredibly bright and artistic.
- Kilims: These are flat-woven, lighter carpets that are much easier to fold up and carry in standard luggage.
2. Authentic Leather Goods
The country has been tanning and dyeing leather using traditional, natural methods for centuries. The quality is fantastic, and the prices are highly competitive if you know how to negotiate.
- Leather Poufs: These colorful seating cushions are a staple of Moroccan home decor. The best part is that they are almost always sold unstuffed, meaning they fold completely flat and take up very little room in your suitcase.
- Babouches: These are the traditional Moroccan slippers worn by locals. They come in endless colors, are extremely comfortable for wearing around the house, and make fantastic gifts.
- Bags and Jackets: For the best selection of larger leather items like duffel bags, belts, and jackets, the ancient tanneries in the Fes medina are the ultimate shopping destination.
3. Pure Argan Oil
Known as liquid gold, Argan oil is produced exclusively in the southwestern region of Morocco, primarily between Essaouira and Agadir. It comes in two distinct varieties:
- Cosmetic Oil: Used for hydrating skin, treating hair, and anti-aging skincare routines.
- Culinary Oil: Toasted before pressing, this version has a rich, nutty flavor that is delicious drizzled over salads or used to make Amlou (a sweet almond and argan paste).
For the best quality, try to purchase your oil directly from women’s cooperatives in the countryside, ensuring your money supports local workers rather than middlemen in the city souks.
4. Aromatic Spices and Mint Tea
The smells of the spice markets are unforgettable, and bringing home dry goods is a cheap, lightweight way to capture the flavors of your trip.
- Ras el Hanout: This is a complex, traditional spice blend used in tagines and meat dishes. Every shop has its own unique recipe, sometimes blending over 30 different spices.
- Saffron: Morocco produces excellent saffron, but be careful of scams. Genuine saffron has deep red threads; if it looks powdery or suspiciously cheap, it is likely fake.
- Mint Tea: You will drink liters of sweet mint tea during your trip. You can buy pure dried mint leaves blended with gunpowder green tea from almost any market stall.
5. Ceramics and Tagine Pots
Colorful pottery is everywhere. You can find intricately painted bowls, plates, and cups in almost any city, though Safi and Fes are the most famous hubs for handmade ceramics.
If you want to recreate the meals you had on your trip, buying a traditional clay tagine pot is a must. If you plan to actually cook with it (rather than just using it for decoration), look for the plain, unglazed clay versions, as they withstand stovetop heat much better than the highly painted ones.
6. Brass Lanterns and Metalwork
To bring a touch of Moroccan architecture into your home, look for the intricate brass and copper lanterns. Whether you choose a large hanging pendant or a small table lamp, the detailed metalwork casts incredibly beautiful, textured shadows across the room. Ensure you check the weight and durability; heavier metals will survive the flight home much better than thin, easily dented aluminum.
Quick Reference: Top Souvenirs and Where to Find Them
| Souvenir Category | Best City or Region to Buy | Packing Tip |
| Rugs and Carpets | Marrakech, Atlas Mountains, Fes | Shipped internationally by the seller, or vacuum-sealed for your suitcase. |
| Leather Goods | Fes (Tanneries), Marrakech | Buy poufs unstuffed so they fold completely flat. |
| Argan Oil | Essaouira, Agadir | Wrap glass bottles tightly in clothing and pack in checked luggage. |
| Ceramics | Safi, Fes | Carry fragile plates or tagines in your hand luggage to avoid breaking. |
| Spices | Any major medina | Ask the vendor to double-seal the plastic bags to trap the scent. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to negotiate prices in the souks?
Yes, haggling is a standard part of the culture. Vendors typically start with a high price, expecting you to counter. Always negotiate with a smile, treat it as a friendly game, and only pay what you feel the item is worth to you.
Can I use credit cards in the markets?
Most small stalls in the medinas operate strictly on cash (Moroccan Dirhams). However, larger, established shops selling high-ticket items like expensive rugs or leather jackets will usually accept major credit cards.
How do I safely get large items home?
If you buy a large carpet, most reputable dealers can arrange reliable international shipping directly to your home via DHL or FedEx. For smaller fragile items like ceramics or lanterns, it is highly recommended to bring an extra foldable duffel bag to use as a carry-on for your flight.
How do I manage my shopping bags while traveling between cities?
Carrying heavy ceramics and rugs onto public buses or trains can be exhausting. This is where booking a private tour or transfer with a local agency like SaharaVia makes a massive difference. Having a private, spacious vehicle means you can safely store your souvenirs in the trunk as you travel across the country, leaving you completely hands-free to enjoy the sights.
Final Thoughts
Shopping in Morocco is an unforgettable part of the travel experience. From vibrant spices to handcrafted leather, the Best Souvenirs from Morocco are items you will use and cherish for years to come. Leave some extra room in your suitcase, practice your negotiating skills, and enjoy discovering the incredible craftsmanship this country has to offer.