Exploring a Berber market in Morocco is one of the best cultural experiences you can have in the country.
One of the largest Berber markets takes place in Amizmiz, a dusty village at the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains.
Every Tuesday, farmers travel to Amizmiz to sell and trade their crops and livestock. Meanwhile, merchants from Marrakech set up stalls at the market to sell products that are unavailable in remote mountain villages.
So, here’s what to expect when you visit a Berber market in Morocco.
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How to get to Amizmiz from Marrakech
Amizmiz is only an hour’s drive from Marrakech, and a trip to the town can be combined with a trek through the High Atlas Mountains. There’s a direct bus, no. 45, that departs from Sidi Mimoun bus stop in Marrakech to Amizmiz every 40 minutes.
Amizmiz is the last town on route 45. You’ll want to get off at the taxi stand, then walk up the hill to get to the market.
Amizmiz is not a very big town, so you’ll be okay on your own. However, I recommend getting a local guide.
Our trip to Amizmiz and the High Atlas Mountains was led by Jamal, who runs Berber Travel Adventures.
Together with a team of qualified, English-speaking guides, Jamal organises tailor-made hiking trips in Morocco. He was born and raised in Amizmiz, and we couldn’t have asked for a better guide to show us around Amizmiz (and beyond!).
What to expect in Amizmiz
Well off the tourist radar, the market in Amizmiz offers a fascinating glimpse into Berber life and culture.
A good way to absorb the town’s ambiance is to sit down at one of the coffee houses near the taxi stand with a glass of mint tea. This is possibly the busiest part of Amizmiz, where merchants arrive in vans loaded with all sorts of products.
Donkeys are widely used as a method of transportation in rural Morocco, especially to carry goods to mountain villages that are inaccessible by car.
Just like Marrakech, Amizmiz can be a shock to the senses, but at least you don’t have to weave your way through crowds of tourists and deal with insistent shopkeepers.
The market is crammed with makeshift stalls, and teeming locals looking for the best deals. The food stalls are generally overflowing with sacks of grains, pasta and dates, while crates of fresh vegetables and fruits spill onto the path.
Some areas of the market are not for the faint-hearted. Chickens are slaughtered and plucked on the spot. The overwhelming smell of raw meat might make your stomach churn – but it’s all part of the experience.
Walking around the market can be exhausting. Hawkers’ cries, unpleasant smells, crowded paths – you’ll be craving some fresh air after all that, and possibly some food.
You can end your morning in Amizmiz by going for a short trek in the mountains and stopping for a quiet lunch (and a much-needed rest) in a Berber home.
Tips for visiting a Berber market in Morocco
Visiting a Berber market in Morocco is a unique cultural experience, full of vibrant colors, sounds, and flavors. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit.
Time your visit
Most Berber markets take place on specific days of the week. It’s important to find out the exact market day for the area you’re visiting.
You’ll also want to arrive early in the morning to see the market at its liveliest and to get the best selection of goods.
Note that the market’s atmosphere and offerings can change with the seasons. For example, you’ll find different fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts depending on the time of year.
Haggle well
Bargaining is expected in Moroccan markets. Start by offering about half of the initial asking price and negotiate from there. Keep it friendly and respectful.
It’s helpful to have an idea of what items are worth before you start bargaining. Observing other transactions or asking locals can give you a benchmark.
Learn the lingo
Learning a few Berber (Tamazight) or Arabic phrases can go a long way in building rapport. Even if you can’t speak the language fluently, greetings and basic phrases are appreciated.
French is widely spoken and can be useful if you don’t speak Berber or Arabic.
Be respectful
Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of people. In some areas, locals might not appreciate being photographed, or they may expect a small tip.
It’s also important that you respect local customs by dressing modestly. This usually means covering your shoulders, chest, and knees.
You might be invited for tea by a vendor. This is a sign of hospitality. Accepting the invitation can be a wonderful opportunity to connect with locals, but there’s no obligation to make a purchase afterward.
Stay safe
Like in any crowded market, you’ll want to be mindful of your belongings. Keep your valuables close, and consider using an anti-theft bag.
Additionally, you’ll want to bring hand sanitizer and consider using it before eating, especially if you’re sampling street food.
If you’re buying fruit, make sure to rinse it thoroughly with bottled water (not tap water) before eating it.
What to buy at a Berber market in Morocco
Not sure what to buy from a Berber market? Here are some ideas.
- Local Handicrafts. Look for unique Berber handicrafts such as carpets, pottery, jewelry, and woven textiles. These items are often handmade and reflect the local culture and traditions.
- Spices and Herbs. The market is a great place to stock up on high-quality spices and herbs, such as saffron, cumin, and ras el hanout, a special Moroccan spice blend.
- Argan Oil. If you’re visiting an area where argan oil is produced, this is an excellent place to buy it directly from the source.
Remember to take a rucksack with you!
