Experience the Rejuvenating Tradition of Hammams in Marrakesh

Adventure awaits around every corner in Marrakesh. A walk through the centuries-old medina fills your eyes with vivid colours from every spot on the spectrum. However, you’re bound to get lost navigating the busy streets teeming with people and animals. After a day of shopping and exploring this beautifully chaotic city, you’ll want to relax, and fortunately, Marrakesh has just the treat.

One of the most popular and traditional ways to unwind is by visiting a hammam, a Moroccan bathhouse. Hammams are found in every neighbourhood in Marrakesh, and they are a weekly ritual for many locals, which is worth adopting while you’re here.

A Brief History of Hammams

Communal bathhouses originated in Roman times. Initially, these baths were solely reserved for men; however, over time, they opened up to women and soon became an important part of life for everyone. It’s not known when the hammam first came to Morocco, but Hammam Mouassine, the oldest and one of the best in Marrakesh, dates back to 1572. Cleanliness is an imperative part of life in Islamic societies, and washing rituals are performed before prayers. In the past, the lack of indoor plumbing and reliable hot water made hammams not only a necessity but also a welcome treat. Today, they serve as a vital space for socialising.

The Hammam Procedure

Hammams are segregated by gender. In public neighbourhood hammams, men and women have separate days or times to bathe. Conversely, in private hammams operated by hotels or run as a business, it will likely be just you and the attendant.

Upon arrival, you’ll be guided to a changing room to strip down to your underwear. Then, you’ll step into a hot steam room with the attendant, who will pour warm water over you, along with savon noir, a special soap made with olive oil. The soap is left to soak for a few minutes, followed by a rinse-off and a thorough scrub with a special glove to remove dead skin. After exfoliation, you’ll be directed to wash yourself off with soap and shampoo.

What to Bring

For a private hammam, you’ll only need to pack clothes to change into after your session. Some private hammams provide disposable underwear, or you can wear your own. If you feel more comfortable covering up more than this, you can, although the attendant will likely adjust your bathing suit during the full body scrub.

Visiting a traditional neighbourhood hammam is more economical (around Dh10) than a private hamman, however, it requires bringing a small DIY kit: a bowl for scooping water, a kessa (scrubbing mitt), savon noir, your own shampoo and toiletries, a plastic mat for the floor, a change of clothes, and a towel to dry off. Everything is typically provided in private hammams, but for neighbourhood hammams, your accommodation can often assist you in arranging the necessary items. You can choose to scrub yourself or pay an attendant an additional Dh50 to Dh100 for help.

Marrakesh’s Best Hammams

Marrakesh offers an extensive range of quality hammam options, from incredibly affordable (around Dh20) to over-the-top luxury that exceed Dh1000. Regardless of your budget, each hammam experience presents a chance to immerse yourself in this Moroccan tradition. It’s advisable to choose a hammam close to your accommodation, so you can float back in bliss after your treatment.

Royal Mansour

The Royal Mansour on the southwestern edge of the medina is the most glamorous spa and hammam in Marrakesh. This place isn’t just using the ‘royal’ title casually—it’s owned by the king of Morocco and modelled after the royal palace. The exemplary service and top-notch products will make you feel like royalty. Hidden among palm trees and gardens, this spa boasts an impressive white foyer with soaring ceilings and a stunning interior. Although budget travellers might balk at the high prices (treatments start at Dh1400), it’s the ultimate splurge for those looking to indulge.

Hammam Rosa Bonheur

Simple yet elegant, Hammam Rosa Bonheur is located in a riad and features various treatment rooms on each floor. The hammam rooms are beautifully decorated with colourful geometric Moroccan tiles and tadelakt, a traditional waterproof plaster often found in Moroccan homes. Enjoy a hammam treatment starting from Dh250 and consider adding a massage and lunch for an additional cost. Although this hammam is nestled in Marrakesh’s labyrinthine medina, you need not worry about getting lost. Pickup service is often available to whisk you directly there for your treatment.

Heritage Spa

If you’re seeking affordable luxury, Heritage Spa in the Bab Doukkala neighbourhood is an excellent option. Each treatment room showcases exquisite traditional Moroccan craftsmanship with beautiful tilework, while attendants utilize all-natural plant-based soaps and essential oils. Don’t miss the Hammam Beldi Detox (Dh290) for a thorough scrub and rejuvenation using soothing argan and bitter orange oils.

Hammam Mouassine

The oldest hammam in Marrakesh, Hammam Mouassine, is also one of the best and most authentic. This hamman has been operational since the 16th century. While it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing bathhouse, it certainly makes up for it in history. Traditional hammams like this are designed for functionality, with three tadelakt-plastered rooms that vary in temperature. Water nozzles line the wall, ensuring a constant supply of hot and cold water for bathers. There are no designated treatment areas, and hammam-goers simply claim a section of the floor to scrub themselves or pay Dh50 to Dh100 for an attendant. Hammam Mouassine is public, so remember to bring along your own bathing supplies. Entry starts at Dh10.

Neighbourhood Hammams

If you’re on a budget or seeking an authentic experience, consider visiting a neighbourhood hammam. They are located in every quarter of the city and are open to the public. Ask the staff at your riad or hotel concierge to assist you in finding one. Choosing a hammam near your accommodation can make your experience smoother, as these establishments often lack formal names or addresses. Additionally, smaller neighbourhood hammams typically alternate opening times for men and women.