Bab Debbagh Marrakesh
Witness the ancient art of leather dyeing at Bab Debbagh Tannery, a vibrant spectacle of color and tradition in Marrakesh's Medina.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Bab Debbagh Marrakesh
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the ancient art of leather dyeing at Bab Debbagh Tannery, a vibrant spectacle of color and tradition in Marrakesh's Medina.
"The view from the top is amazing! Go to the M10 Tannery and get a view from their balcony."
🎯 Clarify Costs Beforehand
Always agree on prices for tours or photos before you start. Avoid unsolicited guides.
⬆️ Seek Rooftop Views
The best views are from the top. Ask shopkeepers if you can go up for a small tip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Tannery Views
Rooftops of surrounding shops/tanneries
Witness the vibrant, ancient dyeing pits from above. A truly unique and colorful spectacle.
The Dyeing Pits
Ground level of the tannery
See the traditional leather dyeing process up close, a sensory experience with strong aromas.
Leather Goods Shops
Surrounding the tannery
Browse a variety of handcrafted leather items, from bags to slippers, often available for purchase.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Tannery Experience
Tipping Etiquette and Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Clarify Costs Beforehand
Always agree on prices for tours or photos before you start. Avoid unsolicited guides. +1
⬆️ Seek Rooftop Views
The best views are from the top. Ask shopkeepers if you can go up for a small tip.
👃 Mint for the Smell
You'll likely be offered mint to mask the strong tannery odor. +1
💰 Be Prepared to Tip
Tipping is customary, but be firm about amounts. Carry small denominations. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Clarify Costs Beforehand
Always agree on prices for tours or photos before you start. Avoid unsolicited guides. +1
⬆️ Seek Rooftop Views
The best views are from the top. Ask shopkeepers if you can go up for a small tip.
👃 Mint for the Smell
You'll likely be offered mint to mask the strong tannery odor. +1
💰 Be Prepared to Tip
Tipping is customary, but be firm about amounts. Carry small denominations. +1
📸 Photo Etiquette
Be mindful when taking photos of locals; ask permission or be aware of potential charges.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bab Debbagh Tannery offers a visually striking, albeit pungent, experience of traditional leather dyeing. While the panoramic views from rooftops are highly praised, many visitors report aggressive tactics and tourist scams, leading to uncomfortable encounters and unexpected costs. It's a place that requires significant caution and clear negotiation to enjoy fully.
"I can’t believe the awful photos posted here! Don’t just go to the base and leave after you’ve come all this way. The view from the top is amazing! Go to the M10 Tannery and get a view from their balcony. They didn’t require any money, but we gave a 50 dirham tip (just $5) for letting us view it from their shop. They’ll also give you a brief description. Worth it."
Tom
"Tourist scam – avoid this place.
We were approached by a man claiming there was a 3-day Berber festival and offered to show us the famous tannery. They gave us mint to mask the smell, rushed us upstairs for photos, and gave a rehearsed speech. On the way out, we were surrounded and pressured to pay 5 euros each. We managed to leave after paying 150 dirhams. It was tense and uncomfortable. Stay away and be cautious."
Batuhan Demirtaş
"Be careful – this is a classic tourist trap. A guy approached us on the street, saying there was a Berber festival and offered to show us the tannery. He seemed harmless, so we agreed. They handed us mint to block the smell, rushed us upstairs, gave a quick spiel, and had us take photos. But on the way out, several men surrounded us and demanded 5 euros per person. We ended up paying 150 dirhams just to get out of there. It was a tense and uncomfortable experience. I wouldn’t recommend it – stay alert."
Can Kavanoz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bab Debbagh Tannery is located in the old Medina of Marrakesh. You can reach it by walking through the narrow alleyways of the Medina. Taxis can drop you off near the entrance to the Medina, and from there, it's a short walk. Some visitors recommend using ride-sharing apps like 'Indrive' as Uber is not available. +1
Finding the tannery can be a bit challenging due to the maze-like streets of the Medina. It's advisable to use a map app or ask locals for directions, but be prepared for some to offer 'guided' tours.
For getting around Marrakesh, taxis are a common option. Ensure the driver activates the meter or agree on a price beforehand. Ride-sharing apps like 'Indrive' are also popular and allow you to set your price. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a formal ticket system for entry to the tannery area itself. However, you will likely be approached by individuals offering tours or access to viewpoints, for which they expect payment or a tip. +1
While the tannery itself doesn't have an entrance fee, be prepared for 'guides' to demand payment, often around 5 euros per person or more. Some visitors have reported paying up to 150-300 Dirhams (approx. $15-30 USD) for what they considered a 'free tour.' +2
The tanneries operate during daylight hours, as the dyeing process is dependent on natural light. It's best to visit in the morning or late afternoon for optimal viewing and photography.
It's possible to wander into the general area, but you'll likely be approached by many people offering to show you around. If you wish to see the pits up close, a guide or access through a shop is usually necessary.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, especially from the viewpoints. However, be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, as some may expect payment.
The best light for photography is typically in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower, creating a beautiful golden hour glow on the colorful dye pits.
Yes, the most iconic photos are taken from the rooftops of the surrounding leather shops or tanneries. These offer a panoramic view of the entire dyeing process.
🎫 ⚠️ Safety & Scams
Yes, Bab Debbagh is known for tourist scams. Be wary of unsolicited guides offering 'free tours' or claiming there's a festival. They often lead you to a shop and then demand payment. +3
Be firm, say no to unsolicited offers, and clarify all costs upfront. If you want a view, try to arrange it directly with a shop owner for a clear price. +1
While the area itself isn't inherently dangerous, the prevalence of scams can make it feel uncomfortable. Solo travelers should be extra vigilant and stick to well-trodden paths or arrange visits through reputable sources. +1
Stay calm and firm. If you feel threatened, try to leave the situation quickly. It's often best to pay a small amount to de-escalate if you feel unsafe, but report aggressive behavior if possible. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during quieter times to minimize stress. If your children are sensitive to smells or crowds, this might not be the most enjoyable experience. However, for adventurous families, the unique sight of the dyeing pits can be a memorable part of their Marrakesh adventure. Ensure you have a clear plan for getting there and back, perhaps using a pre-booked taxi or a trusted local recommendation.
💰 Budget Travelers
Avoid purchasing leather goods unless you are a confident bargainer and have researched fair prices. The initial prices in the shops are usually very high. Instead of paying for a guided tour, try to observe the process from a distance or from a rooftop. If you do decide to pay for a view, make sure the price is clear and confirmed before you go up.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Tannery Process
While the visual spectacle is captivating, it's crucial to be aware of the commercial aspect. Many of the 'tours' are designed to lead you into shops selling leather goods. While these items are often of good quality, the pressure to buy can be intense. If you're interested in purchasing, remember that bargaining is expected in Moroccan souks, and starting prices are usually negotiable.
The best way to experience the tannery is often by finding a reputable shop owner who will allow you access to their rooftop for a panoramic view. This provides an excellent vantage point for photography and understanding the scale of the operation without necessarily engaging in a pressured sales pitch. A small tip is usually appreciated for this privilege.
Navigating Tourist Traps and Scams
Upon exiting, you'll likely be surrounded by several individuals demanding payment, often an inflated amount like 5 euros per person or more. Some visitors have reported paying hundreds of Dirhams for what was presented as a free experience. The key is to be firm and clear from the outset. If someone offers a tour, politely decline or immediately ask for the exact cost and what it includes.
To mitigate risks, consider visiting during less busy times or arranging access through your riad or a trusted local. If you do decide to engage with someone, agree on a price beforehand and get it in writing if possible, though this is rarely feasible. Remember that the most rewarding views are often from the rooftops of shops, so if you're interested in that, approach a shopkeeper directly and negotiate a tip for access.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit