Marrakeschs farbenfrohe Souks

We booked this tour for our first full day in Marrakech, after reading how easy it is to get lost in the souk! The tour certainly helped us to explore the different parts of the souk, and we learned lots about the culture and history in Marrakech from Mohamed, Sadly, we didn't really get much opportunity to shop at all! We didn't even enter a shop until quite some time into the tour! Then apart from the standard pharmacy sales pitch (which it seems happens on every tour of Marrakech!), we were whisked in and out of shops, with no real time to browse or purchase. I was trying to look at some goods, and the tour was already moving on, so I had to leave! We were hoping for more of an introduction to shopping, to haggling and it would have been more helpful if Mohamed had consulted with the group about what they wanted to buy or see.

Mohammed was a really interesting and informative guide. He's very knowledgeable about Marrakesh and the local area. He guided us around the medina and deep into the souk, stopping frequently and explaining interesting facts. The tour visits several artists and shops, meeting the shopkeepers plying their skills whilst making a living. As it was our first day in Marrakesh, Mo was also very helpful in giving us tips whilst answering our questions.

The organiser of the tour is responsive, punctual and flexible. Several tours start at the same time and it is never too late to change the group. I really enjoyed the experience.

We really enjoyed this tour. The guide was very knowledgeable and we really felt that we that we got to see another, secret, side of the souks. Very interesting. It left us more confident going through them the next day ourselves. I would recommend this tour. However, do not buy from the vendors you visit on the tour. Unfortunately we were over charged for goods, specifically in the carpet shop. I understand there is bartering going on, but even after lots of negotiations, the things we bought were half the price in other shops the next day! We felt let down and disappointed that our guide stood by while we were talked into paying more than we should have. I suppose there was commission in it for him, but this should have been explained.

This wast the first tour, we did when we arrived. It allowed us to get a feel for the city. Mohammad was a helpful guide. He took us to a couple of nice shops and was a true gentlemen with my Mother by helping with her bags and protecting us from the crazy traffic.

We wouldn't have made it through the souks without Mohamed. The alleys were narrow and confusing. Having Mohamed, who was so kind, made the heat of the day become an afterthought. He was patient, kind and advised us on things that are considered disrespectful to vendors (ie taking pictures in certain areas). Lunch was amazing, as was the tour and personal presentations by certain vendors. Mohamed created our tour based on our requests and was patient enough to take us back to our first stop (of very many) to make an additional purchase. I recommend a private tour with Mohamed for everyone visiting the souk!

For once i use to do this kind of activity during a stay in a city. But wahou, it will be the last time if my life. At first, it’s expensive, the guide were stressed and upset about Time, they’ve explained almost nothing and They bring us to an Herboristerie (apotheke) to get extra explications and probably a nice commission.