What Souvenirs to Bring Back from a Trip to Morocco?
Heading to Morocco soon for your vacation? Make sure to leave plenty of room in your suitcase: you'll want to bring back many souvenirs!
Heading to Morocco soon for your vacation? Make sure to leave plenty of room in your suitcase : you'll want to bring back many souvenirs ! A land of artisans, Morocco offers beautiful handmade souvenirs at every corner, and it's hard not to be tempted ! Bring back a few objects to decorate your living room, and some spices or food items to enjoy the scent of Morocco at home. Here are some ideas (not exhaustive !) for souvenirs to bring back from a trip to Morocco.
Moroccan Pastries
This is surely what you'll miss most after you return home: Moroccan cuisine. Perfectly seasoned and highly aromatic, it delights the palates of all travelers. And for those with a sweet tooth, nothing compares to the famous Moroccan pastries, now sold around the world. Made with honey and often almonds, they are true delicacies. Don't hesitate to bring several kilograms to share with loved ones and colleagues.
Argan Oil
Argan is a souvenir you absolutely must bring back from Morocco, because the argan tree is endemic to Morocco ! Although a few other plantations exist in the world, it's only in Morocco that argan is naturally grown. It's notably Essaouira, the white city, that is known for its argan.
Argan oil is good for both cooking and cosmetics. Thick, golden in color, and with a strong nutty aroma, it offers numerous benefits. In the kitchen, drizzle it over your salads: it's delicious ! You can also buy lotions, creams, shampoos, and other beauty products made with argan.
Babouches
Morocco is also known for its leather production: everywhere in the markets, medinas, and souvenir shops, you'll see a wide range of leather products on display. In fact, Moroccan leather is considered some of the finest in the world.
A typical souvenir, babouches are traditional Moroccan slippers. They can be worn both indoors and outdoors. You can also buy other leather items, such as beautiful handbags at lower prices – these will certainly be easier to carry than slippers – or lanterns. If you have a bit of time, commission something custom-made (the bag of your dreams, boots in your size) from an artisan: you won't regret it !
Tableware
Bring back ceramic plates or a beautiful Moroccan tea set from Morocco. These are often decorated with silver and very elegant, plus they're unique with their glasses that serve as cups. If you love cooking, buy a traditional earthenware tajine to prepare delicious Moroccan dishes at home !
Berber Rugs
If you're looking for durable home décor, opt for a Berber rug. Handwoven by Berbers from North Africa, they are made entirely of wool and in a natural way. You'll need to wash them several times to remove the sheep smell, but that's a guarantee of quality and originality ! Each rug is unique and handmade, symbolizing Berber beliefs and traditions, passed down from generation to generation for centuries.
Silver Jewelry
Finally, Morocco is the ideal place to fill your jewelry box: you'll find numerous creations, particularly in silver, in the souks and specialty shops. If you're looking for jewelry that serves as a souvenir, opt for a bracelet or necklace with Berber motifs.
Frequently asked questions
To buy authentic souvenirs, prioritize artisan cooperatives (especially for argan oil and rugs), the medinas of Fès, Marrakech, or Essaouira, as well as shops certified by the Moroccan government. Avoid shops located just at the entrance of tourist sites, where prices are often inflated.
Quality argan oil is produced by certified women's cooperatives, often located near Essaouira or Agadir. It should have a golden color, a slightly thick texture, and a pronounced roasted nutty aroma. Be wary of abnormally low prices, which may indicate a diluted or fake product.
Yes, it's generally possible to bring Moroccan pastries on a plane in your checked or carry-on luggage, as long as they're well wrapped. However, check the customs regulations of your destination country, particularly for products containing honey or almonds.
Yes, negotiation is a common cultural practice and is expected in Moroccan souks. It's typical to start negotiating at around 50-60% of the stated price, then reach an agreement. Stay respectful and smiling: negotiation is a friendly exchange, not a power struggle.
The lightest and easiest souvenirs to transport are Moroccan spices (ras-el-hanout, saffron), well-wrapped pastries, silver jewelry, and small bottles of argan oil. Berber rugs and tableware require more space and careful packing.
