What to Buy in Morocco: the Souvenir Guide
Morocco is a shopper's paradise - the souks overflow with craftsmanship perfected over centuries. Here are the buys actually worth your suitcase space, what to pay and how to spot quality. First, brush up on our bargaining guide - you will need it.
The Best Things to Buy
| Item | Why / tips |
|---|---|
| Berber rug | The big one - hand-knotted wool; quality, age and size set the price. See our carpet guide |
| Leather goods | Poufs, bags, babouches from Fes tanneries - smell for quality, check stitching |
| Argan oil | Culinary and cosmetic - buy from cooperatives, not tourist stalls |
| Lanterns and lamps | Pierced brass and colored glass - stunning, but check they pack flat |
| Ceramics and zellige | Fes blue pottery and tagines; hand-cut zellige tiles and tables |
| Spices | Ras el hanout, cumin, saffron (buy real saffron carefully) - cheap and light |
| Babouches | Leather slippers in every color - the classic light souvenir |
| Beauty products | Ghassoul clay, black soap, rose water - the hammam kit |
| Silver and Berber jewelry | Amazigh fibulas and pieces from the south - ask about silver content |
| Kaftan / textiles | Embroidered fabrics, blankets, the handira wedding blanket |
Quality and Getting It Home
- Cooperatives and government craft stores (Ensemble Artisanal) have fixed, fair prices - useful for calibrating before you haggle in the souk.
- Shipping: reputable rug and furniture sellers arrange international shipping - get it in writing.
- Customs: check your country's limits on leather, foodstuffs and volumes.
- Budget for it - see how shopping fits your Morocco budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to buy in Morocco?
A hand-knotted Berber rug is the iconic buy, but leather goods, argan oil, lanterns and ceramics are all excellent. For light souvenirs: babouches, spices and beauty products.
Is it cheaper to buy argan oil in Morocco?
Yes, especially from a women's cooperative - far cheaper than abroad and better quality. Avoid cut-price "argan" in tourist souks.
Do Moroccan shops ship internationally?
Reputable rug and furniture dealers do, often reliably. Get the terms and tracking in writing before paying.
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