How to bargain in the Marrakech souk

The first price you hear in the souk is not the price. It’s an invitation to negotiate. Start at 30–40% of the asking price, expect to land around 50–60%.

Phrases that work

Darija	English
Bshhal hada?	”How much is this?”
Ghali bezzaf	”Too expensive”
Akhir taman?	”Final price?”
Safi, bislama (and walk away)	“OK, goodbye”, this is the magic phrase

The walk-away works ~70% of the time. The shopkeeper will call you back with a better number.

What not to do

• Don’t bargain unless you intend to buy. It’s rude to negotiate down to a price and then leave.
• Don’t show enthusiasm before asking the price. Wandering eyes = higher opening offer.
• Don’t accept the first counter. There are always two more rounds in them.