Just like Al Mouggar says, nothing can replace the Souk because of its focal functions that serve many aspects. Besides the commercial function, souks have an ancestral significance. These are gathering places where tribal and familial relationships can be strengthened, and where tea can be enjoyed over a lively debate. Vibrant and bright, offering both the useful and the new, as well as treasure and antique object.
Discover a magnificent cultural and economic legacy, while experiencing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that combines exoticism and authenticity.
An open space
Gathered in Rahba (square), the weekly souks are frequently made up of open-air kiosks, arranged depending on the nature of the exhibited product: fruits and vegetables, meats, fabrics, spices, crafts, and so on. It is an environment full of colors and sounds, and beautiful scenes to be taken in pictures.
The route of 1000 kasbahs is filled with authentic souks, including the spectacular Skoura’s, Khmiss Telouet, Tinjdad, Rissani, Nkob, Agdz, and Alnif. Held every Wednesday, you will also have the opportunity to visit Souk Kelaat M’Gouna where you can purchase the Valley of Roses’ unique products. While exploring the iconic Todgha Gorges, you should also visit Msemrir, where an amazing souk takes place every Saturday. The High Atlas plateaus are home to souks positioned at elevations of over 2000 meters, such as the famous Souk of Rich or Khmiss Boumia and its pottery market. It is also worth mentioning the magnificent souks that stand at the entrance of the Great Sahara, such as Khmiss Merzouga, Had Zagora, and the Mhamid El Ghizlane fair.
These stops will allow you to restock during road trips while enjoying a unique human experience.
City shopping
Known as Kissariats, The cities also have souks, which are central markets. Unlike rural souks, the Kissariats are covered and contain shops and shops. They are also full of endless products and services.
Souk Lhad is an important crossroads in Errachidia for the date trade from Ziz palm grove. There is a wide range of goods available, including a big selection of aromatic and medicinal plants, found in herbalists, commonly used to season local food. Souk Erfoud, a bit further south, has excellent fossil and mineral stores.
If you like handicrafts, don’t miss Kissariat Ouarzazate. It is filled with treasures from everywhere, including Tamegroute pottery, Ouzguita rugs, Azlag daggers, and even traditional outfits representing the entire region. The Bazaars of Zagora, Merzouga, and M’hamid El Ghizlane provide a unique opportunity to purchase all Touareg accessories. While in Midelt, consider stopping by the Andaz Nouska Cooperative, which specializes in embroidery and tapestry from the eastern High Atlas.
More than 900 souks or weekly rural markets are active in Morocco, which serves 4 to 5 million people per week, nearly half of the rural population. Called Al Mouggar in Amazigh, it means “forum” or “place where people gather.”