Weavers Cooperative Medina
Discover exquisite handwoven Berber rugs and traditional textiles crafted by skilled artisans in the heart of Chefchaouen's medina.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Weavers Cooperative Medina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover exquisite handwoven Berber rugs and traditional textiles crafted by skilled artisans in the heart of Chefchaouen's medina.
"Wonderful place with good quality rugs and very friendly people, can't visit without visiting this traditional corner."
🎯 Clarify Final Price in MAD
Always confirm the final price in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) to avoid currency confusion.
🤝 Negotiate with Patience
Be prepared to negotiate, but do so politely. If the price isn't right, it's okay to move on.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artisan Berber Rugs
Discover a stunning array of handwoven Berber rugs, showcasing intricate patterns and vibrant colors. A true taste of Moroccan craftsmanship.
Talented Local Artisans
Witness skilled artisans, like Haj, meticulously crafting beautiful textiles with traditional techniques. A glimpse into living heritage.
Global Shipping Options
Love a rug but can't take it home? They are DHL partners and offer worldwide shipping, making it easy to bring a piece of Morocco to you.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Rug Negotiations
Patience is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
In chefchaouen, is 1400 too much for this rug?
🎯 Clarify Final Price in MAD
Always confirm the final price in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) to avoid currency confusion.
🤝 Negotiate with Patience
Be prepared to negotiate, but do so politely. If the price isn't right, it's okay to move on.
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush your decision. Explore different options and enjoy the process of finding your perfect rug.
✈️ Worldwide Shipping Available
They partner with DHL for global shipping, so you can get your finds delivered anywhere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Clarify Final Price in MAD
Always confirm the final price in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) to avoid currency confusion.
🤝 Negotiate with Patience
Be prepared to negotiate, but do so politely. If the price isn't right, it's okay to move on.
⏳ Take Your Time
Don't rush your decision. Explore different options and enjoy the process of finding your perfect rug.
✈️ Worldwide Shipping Available
They partner with DHL for global shipping, so you can get your finds delivered anywhere.
🌟 Look for Local Crafts
Consider if the rugs are locally made or sourced from elsewhere for potentially better prices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Weavers Cooperative Medina for its beautiful artisan Berber rugs and the welcoming, patient nature of the staff. Many appreciate the opportunity to witness traditional craftsmanship and find unique textiles. However, some reviews caution about inflated initial prices and the importance of clear negotiation in Moroccan Dirhams to avoid misunderstandings or feeling misled.
"We went over 2 days to buy our carpets and they reserved the ones we liked overnight and were very patient with all the different directions we were going in. They gave us what I think is a very fair price for 4 carpets of different sizes. All prices were always in MAD, so there was no confusion at all."
Y B
"Beautiful artisan Berber rugs, for sure, but what I thought was a negotiation and purchase made in good-faith turned out to be unethical business practice by the merchant. My partner and I visited the shop and were shown many nice rugs but we weren't very interested, especially with the exorbitant prices they were asking for.
I stated that I understood the quality of the rugs but could not afford the prices. They continued to ask which of the rugs was our favorite and the maximum price I'd be willing to pay. I said I could not afford to pay more than $400 USD for a rug and they kept trying to get me to go higher. However, I politely and firmly said that my maximum budget was $400 USD (I seriously was not trying to negotiate). We were walking out of the shop when they said they would sell it to us for $400 USD. My partner was present when the merchant said "400 dollars" and shook on it. The unethical behavior occurred at the moment of payment when the merchant charged my credit card 4000 Moroccan Dirhams, which I did not realize. To negotiate in one currency and then switch payment to another to get more money at the last minute is clearly fraudulent and unethical business practice. The result was being charged almost 10% more than was expected and agreed on.
First entering this place they claimed there was no pressure to buy but then they aggressively try to get you buy something and don't even end up honoring the negotiated price. Very disappointing."
Robert
"Wonderful place in chefchaoun, with good quality of rugs, they have a very talented man « haj » who still working until now with his perfectional hand, the manager is very nice and friendly. The prices are good and the approach quality/ price is very acceptable, can’t visit this charming city without visiting this traditional corner of the city"
Maha TAZI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Weavers Cooperative Medina is located within the charming blue city of Chefchaouen. It's easily accessible by walking through the medina's narrow streets. If you're arriving in Chefchaouen, taxis are readily available to take you to the medina entrance.
While the medina can be a maze, most shops are well-signposted. Asking locals for directions to the 'carpet shops' or 'weavers cooperative' will usually get you there.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, shops in the medina are open throughout the day, from morning until early evening. It's best to visit during standard business hours for the full experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees to visit the Weavers Cooperative Medina. It's an open area within the city where you can browse the shops freely.
Entry to the cooperative and its shops is free. You only pay if you decide to purchase any rugs or textiles.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy browsing the beautiful textiles and observing the craftsmanship without any pressure to buy.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Negotiation
Negotiation is expected. Start with a lower offer than you're willing to pay and be polite but firm. Clarify the final price in Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) to avoid misunderstandings.
Yes, prices are generally negotiable. It's part of the cultural experience of shopping in Moroccan souks.
If you feel pressured, politely state your budget or that you're just browsing. It's okay to thank them and leave if you're not comfortable.
While prices are often quoted in MAD, some merchants may accept other currencies. Always confirm the final agreed-upon price in MAD to prevent last-minute discrepancies.
Yes, many cooperatives, including this one, are DHL partners and offer worldwide shipping for your purchases.
🎫 🎨 Crafts & Quality
The primary craft is handwoven Berber rugs and blankets, featuring traditional patterns and high-quality wool. You'll find a wide variety of sizes and designs.
Look for tight knots, consistent patterns, and vibrant, natural dyes. Feel the texture of the wool; it should be soft and durable.
The cooperative aims to showcase authentic artisan work. However, as with any market, it's wise to ask about the origin and materials.
Yes, you might have the opportunity to see talented artisans, like Haj, working on their crafts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the process.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you plan to purchase a rug, involve older children in the selection process. It can be a fun way for them to learn about negotiation and decision-making. Remember that shipping options are available, so you don't need to worry about transporting a large rug immediately. The friendly nature of the staff often makes for a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider setting a firm budget beforehand and sticking to it. If you're looking for a smaller, more affordable textile like a blanket or cushion cover, these might be more budget-friendly options. Take your time to compare prices and styles before committing to a purchase. Remember that the cost of shipping can add up, so factor that into your overall budget if you plan to have items sent home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Rug Negotiation
Don't be afraid to express your budget clearly and firmly. If a price feels too high or the negotiation becomes uncomfortable, it's perfectly acceptable to thank the seller and move on. Some travelers suggest that while the cooperative offers beautiful rugs, similar local crafts might be found at lower prices elsewhere in Chefchaouen, as the cooperative's items may be sourced from further afield.
Ultimately, the goal is to find a rug you love at a price you're comfortable with. Patience, clear communication, and a friendly demeanor go a long way in ensuring a positive shopping experience. Many visitors appreciate the staff's willingness to unroll numerous options and find pieces that match specific color and size needs.
Understanding Berber Rugs
When selecting a rug, pay attention to the quality of the wool and the tightness of the knots. Higher quality rugs will feel soft, durable, and have a consistent weave. Many rugs are dyed using natural pigments, contributing to their vibrant and earthy tones. You might encounter different styles, from the geometric patterns of the Beni Ourain to the more intricate designs of the Azilal tribes.
Observing the artisans at work, if possible, offers a profound appreciation for the skill and labor involved. The cooperative often highlights talented individuals like Haj, who continue to practice traditional weaving techniques. This direct connection to the craft adds immense value to your purchase, making it a meaningful souvenir of your Moroccan journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit