Would you ever put chaos and beauty in the same sentence when it comes to markets? It’s doubtful many people would. However, those two words describe the souks of Morocco perfectly.
A souk is a traditional open-air market in Morocco, with the primary/famous ones being in Marrakech and Fes. However, if you go to other large cities, the
Djemma del Fna Square in Marrakesh, the gateway to the souk of the city
neighborhood souks often have similar goods to those in Marrakech and Fes at better prices and fewer tourists, but the cost is the ambiance of the historical aspect and size of these famous souks.
In saying that, visiting a Moroccan souk isn’t about spending money per se; it’s a cultural pillar that needs to be experienced. Souks are where most Moroccan locals do their shopping, so seeing them living their daily lives and seeing all of the exquisite goods they craft on display is a real shift from the western life to which most are accustomed.
Intricate patterns of color draw buyers of Moroccan rugs from around the world.
Shoppers, you won’t need to spend time convincing your traveling companion to visit a souk.. Simply show them some photos of the beautiful products, explain that it’s a cultural experience not to be missed, and you’ll be on your way there! Most will find something that catches their eye in these bustling meccas.
Once you enter the medina, a walled area in the oldest part of the city, you will walk down narrow streets and alleys. Here you will find very old buildings, palaces, and mosques. You can almost feel the history!
As you finally reach the souk, your senses will be equally overwhelmed and excited as everywhere you look, you’ll see hundreds of stalls, dogs walking past, customers trying to get a bargain, people passing by on motorbikes, and locals chatting with friends. The streets wind and cross creating a labyrinth.
So, now you know what makes the souks so chaotic, what also makes them beautiful you may ask? The vibrant colors of the traditional Moroccan lanterns, the tantalizing smells of the spices, the creativity and handiwork of artisans at work, and the voices of the Moroccan shopkeepers trying to lure customers to consider their wares.
Donkeys transporting hides from a tannery in the souk in Fez.
Whether you are there to shop or experience the cultural atmosphere, it won’t be long before a shopkeeper eagerly invites you to look at their products. Each seller specializes in one thing,whether that be leather bags, spices, oils, metalwork, or jewelry. The list is endless.
No matter if this is your first time visiting a souk or your fifth, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and get lost in the maze of stalls. So, hire a licensed guide when you visit one of the larger souks in Morocco, especially in Marrakech or Fes.
With a guide, you will not only hear about the history and popular attractions surrounding the souk, but they will also help you find any specific products you might be seeking by guiding you to the area where these goods can be found. If you’re planning on purchasing a product, a guide will assist or guide you in bargaining, the only way to obtain a price from a shopkeeper. You don’t need to be intimidated, it’s the way the locals do it, but a guide may help you feel a bit more at ease.
Moroccan lamps are just one of the wares that provide magnificent displays of color in the souks of Morocco.
Even if you’re there just to marvel at the beautiful creations that the locals make, it’s worth hiring a guide. They often will know of unique artisans, historical spots or interesting people.
However, if you choose to wander through the souk without a guide, be aware of the guides who approach you. These “guides” tend to be associated with a specific shop
in the souk and will ultimately lead you there and pressure you into buying their products. If you see or think you see someone like this approaching you, just tell them “No thank you” and walk away.
The description of the souk as a labyrinth or maze is no understatement. The medina in Fes contains over 8000 alleys! Tall buildings and covered alleys block GPS signals in many areas. Getting lost easily happens. When visiting on your own, visitors should frequently orient themselves and note landmarks. When with a guide should you find yourself separated, stand still. Guides usually grew up in the area and know the souks well so can backtrack and find you. Moving only makes finding lost visitors more difficult.
Thousands of streets and alleys make up the old part of the city where the souk is located in Fes.
Whether a shopaholic or not, a visit to a souk will provide a lasting sensual memory. It’s a cultural experience worth the time and perhaps some nervousness with this very different way of life. After all, you may feel different kinds of excitement, confusion, and anxiety, but you may also and feel closer to the culture of Morocco because you’re right in the heart of it.
Ready to explore an authentic Morocco, call me to talk about a trip!
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