Traditional Hammam & Spa Experience

Traditional Moroccan steam bath with black soap scrub, exfoliation, and argan oil massage.

About this experience

No visit to Morocco is complete without experiencing a traditional hammam (steam bath and exfoliation ritual), and Tangier offers excellent options for both traditional public hammams and luxury spa experiences. For the most authentic experience, check into a riad with a traditional spa (such as La Tangerina in the Kasbah, which has a domed-ceiling hammam). The traditional hammam ritual involves: relaxing in a steam room to open pores, a vigorous scrub with a black soap made from olive oil and ground olives, exfoliation using a kessa glove (rough glove that removes dead skin), a warm rinse, and optionally a massage with argan oil. The result is incredibly soft, glowing skin. For luxury spa treatments, the four-star hotels in the Ville Nouvelle have full-service spas. Public hammams are also available for a local experience (much cheaper but bring your own products and expect a more basic facility). Women visiting public hammams should cover up and may prefer women-only hours (check locally). The spa experience typically takes 1-2 hours. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in riads.[citation:1]

Insider Tips

• La Tangerina in the Kasbah has a beautiful domed-ceiling hammam
• Book in advance - especially in riads
• Public hammams are cheaper (50 MAD) but bring your own products
• The traditional process: steam, black soap, scrub, rinse, massage
• Women-only hours available at many public hammams

Best Time to Visit

Best experienced during: Afternoon, Evening, Year-round