The best things to buy in Morocco
Argan Oil
Buy from women's cooperatives (Coopérative Féminine) — guaranteed pure and fair trade. Culinary and cosmetic grades available.
Leather Goods
Fes leather is the gold standard. Visit the tannery viewing terraces, then buy in the surrounding shops — prices are more negotiable than in Marrakech.
Ceramics & Pottery
The blue pottery of Fes is the most famous. Check for hand-painting vs. transfer printing — real hand-painted pieces have slight irregularities.
Spices
Ras el hanout, saffron (buy from Taliouine origin), cumin, and dried rose petals. Avoid pre-packaged tourist mixes — buy loose from the spice souk.
Silver Jewellery
Amazigh (Berber) silver designs — fibula brooches, hand (khamsa) pendants, anklets. Ask to see the hallmark (925 or tifinagh stamp) on quality pieces.
Berber Rugs
Each High Atlas village weaves a distinctive style. Kilims (flat-weave) are lighter for travel than pile rugs. Prices are very negotiable — allow time.
Quick answer: How much should you bargain in Morocco?
In tourist souks (Marrakech especially), opening prices are typically 2–4× the fair price. Counter at 25–30% of the first price and negotiate upward. In fixed-price cooperatives and government shops, no bargaining is needed or expected. Never feel pressured — if a price feels wrong, walk away. A good guide pays fair prices automatically and protects you from the worst overcharging.
