Best 10 Travel Gifts to Buy from Morocco:

Best Travel Gifts to Buy from Morocco: A Guide to Authentic Souvenirs and Unique Finds

If you’re visiting Morocco, there’s a good chance that you’ll be enchanted by the country’s vibrant culture, intricate art, and unique crafts. Morocco is famous for its handicrafts, spices, and diverse array of goods that make excellent souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home. To make your gift shopping experience more enjoyable, here’s a comprehensive guide on some of the best travel gifts to buy from Morocco.

1. Moroccan Carpets and Rugs

One of the most iconic souvenirs from Morocco is the handmade carpet or rug, crafted by artisans using traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations. Moroccan rugs come in a variety of styles:

• Beni Ourain Rugs: Made from wool, these rugs often feature simple geometric patterns, usually in black on an ivory background. They’re minimalist yet rich in cultural meaning.
• Kilim Rugs: Made with vibrant colors and intricate designs, Kilim rugs are perfect for adding a splash of color to any room.
• Azilal Rugs: These rugs are woven by Berber women in the Azilal region and combine bold, abstract patterns and lively colors.

Be sure to check the authenticity of the rug, as many are made by hand and priced accordingly. Most large cities like Marrakech and Fes have specialized souks (markets) dedicated to carpets, and you can often watch artisans at work. A rug from Morocco isn’t just a floor covering—it’s a piece of art that tells a story.

---

2. Argan Oil

Argan oil is often called “liquid gold” and is one of Morocco’s most sought-after products. This oil is made from the nuts of the argan tree, which grows in southwestern Morocco. You can buy either culinary argan oil (for cooking) or cosmetic argan oil (for skincare and haircare).

Look for organic, 100% pure argan oil, ideally from women’s cooperatives where the oil is cold-pressed by hand. Not only does argan oil have many health and beauty benefits, but purchasing from cooperatives also supports local communities and fair trade.

---

3. Moroccan Spices

If you’re a foodie or know someone who loves to cook, Moroccan spices make for a perfect travel gift. Moroccan cuisine is known for its depth of flavor, which is created using a blend of spices such as:

• Ras el Hanout: A complex spice mix used in many Moroccan dishes, it typically contains over a dozen spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger.
• Saffron: This luxurious spice, produced in the Taliouine region, is prized worldwide.
• Cumin, Paprika, and Turmeric: Common in Moroccan cuisine, these spices make excellent gifts for cooking enthusiasts.

You can buy spices at souks or specialized spice shops where you can ask for small quantities of various blends, often vacuum-sealed to preserve freshness. For a ready-to-go gift, look for spice sets or collections that come in decorative containers.

---

4. Traditional Moroccan Pottery

Moroccan pottery, especially tagines and decorative plates, is renowned for its beauty and functionality. The tagine, a cone-shaped earthenware pot, is essential in Moroccan cooking. When buying pottery, consider:

• Hand-Painted Plates and Bowls: These are beautifully designed and often feature geometric patterns and bold colors.
• Tagines: While you can find decorative tagines, authentic cooking tagines are usually unglazed and perfect for slow-cooked dishes.
• Safis and Fassi Ceramics: Fes and Safi are famous pottery centers, and pieces from these regions are especially renowned for their quality.

Choose pieces carefully, as Moroccan ceramics are often handmade, and each item is unique. Pack them securely for travel to ensure they arrive home safely.

---

5. Leather Goods

Morocco is famous for its high-quality leather goods, particularly in the city of Fez, which is home to one of the world’s oldest leather tanneries. Leather gifts from Morocco can include:

• Babouches: These traditional leather slippers come in various colors and styles.
• Leather Bags: Morocco has a wide range of handmade leather bags, from crossbody bags to backpacks and totes.
• Jackets and Belts: High-quality leather jackets and belts are also available and make for stylish gifts.

You can find leather goods in the souks of major cities like Marrakech and Fez. Many items are hand-dyed and crafted by artisans, so look for pieces that feel soft and smell fresh, which is a sign of good quality.

---

6. Jewelry and Berber Accessories

For a unique and personal gift, Moroccan jewelry is a top choice. Berber jewelry, in particular, is known for its intricate designs and bold use of silver and colorful stones. Common jewelry items include:

• Silver Bracelets and Rings: Often engraved with traditional symbols, these pieces make for beautiful and meaningful gifts.
• Beaded Necklaces: Many necklaces feature colorful beads and amber, often sourced locally.
• Berber Fibulae: These are traditional brooches that were historically used to fasten cloaks, often adorned with vibrant stones and intricate silverwork.

Many jewelry shops will allow you to see the artisans at work, giving you insight into the craftsmanship involved. Berber jewelry is also rich with symbolism, and each piece tells a story, making it a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

---

7. Handmade Lanterns

Moroccan lanterns are intricately designed and add a touch of elegance and warmth to any space. They’re often crafted from metals like brass or copper and feature colored glass or intricate cutouts that cast beautiful shadows. Popular options include:

• Hanging Lanterns: Perfect for creating ambient lighting in any room.
• Tabletop Lanterns: Smaller lanterns that can be placed on a table or shelf.
• Wall Sconces: These are usually more elaborate and are great for adding Moroccan flair to home decor.

Look for lanterns that are handmade for the most authentic and unique designs, and consider carefully packing them to prevent damage during travel.

---

8. Moroccan Tea Sets and Glasses

Mint tea is a staple of Moroccan culture, and a traditional tea set makes a perfect souvenir. A typical Moroccan tea set includes:

• Silver Teapots: Often adorned with decorative engravings and intricate designs.
• Colorful Glasses: Moroccan tea glasses are usually brightly colored or embellished with gold patterns.
• Serving Trays: Large, decorative trays are used to serve tea, often made from silver or brass.

A Moroccan tea set is not only functional but also a great piece of decor. For tea lovers, consider adding some loose Moroccan mint tea to complete the gift.

---

9. Djellabas and Kaftans

A Moroccan djellaba or kaftan is a beautiful gift for anyone who appreciates traditional clothing. Djellabas are long, hooded robes often made from lightweight fabrics, perfect for both men and women. Kaftans are typically more formal, worn for special occasions and come in various luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and satin.

Choose from simpler styles for everyday wear or more elaborate, embellished kaftans for special occasions. You can find a wide range in Moroccan souks, or even have one tailored to fit.

---

10. Henna Products

Henna, a natural dye used for body art, holds significant cultural value in Morocco. You can find:

• Henna Cones: Ready-made cones for temporary tattoos.
• Henna Powder: This can be used to make a paste for creating designs at home.
• Henna-inspired Home Decor: Some artisans incorporate henna designs onto items like candles, bowls, and wall hangings.

For a gift with a cultural touch, buy a set of henna products and maybe include a small guide on how to create traditional Moroccan designs.

https://www.visitmorocco.com/fr

Read Also : Africa….