One of the most authentic and rejuvenating cultural experiences you can have in Morocco is visiting a hammam. Far more than just a place to get clean, the traditional Moroccan bathhouse is a centuries-old ritual for cleansing the body and soul, and a cornerstone of social life. This guide will demystify the experience and help you prepare for your first visit.

What is a Hammam? Public vs. Private

A hammam is essentially a public steam room or bathhouse. There are two main types you can experience in Morocco:

  • The Public Hammam (or 'Populaire'): This is the authentic, local experience. These are separated by gender, either with separate buildings or different operating hours. You'll join locals in a series of steam-filled rooms for a deep, no-frills cleanse. It's a fantastic cultural immersion.
  • The Private/Spa Hammam: Found in riads and modern spas, this is a more luxurious, tourist-oriented version. They offer private rooms, often allow couples, and include additional treatments like massages. This is a great, gentle introduction for first-timers.

The Hammam Ritual: What to Expect

Whether public or private, the core ritual is the same, designed for deep exfoliation.

  1. Steam and Soap: You'll start by relaxing in a hot steam room to open up your pores. You then lather up with savon beldi, a unique black soap made from olive oil, which softens the skin.
  2. The Gommage (Scrub): After the soap has worked its magic, the exfoliation begins. Using a coarse exfoliating glove called a kiis, you (or an attendant) will vigorously scrub your entire body. You will be amazed (and perhaps a little horrified) at the amount of dead skin that comes off.
  3. Rinsing and Clay Masks: After the scrub, you rinse off with buckets of warm water. Many treatments follow with a ghassoul, a natural mineral clay mask applied to the body and hair to purify the skin.
  4. Relaxation: The ritual ends with a final rinse and a period of relaxation, often with a glass of sweet mint tea. You'll leave feeling cleaner and softer than ever before.

Tips for Your First Hammam Visit

  • What to Wear: It's customary to be semi-nude. Most people keep their underwear bottoms on. Spas will often provide disposable underwear.
  • What to Bring (for Public Hammams): You'll need a towel, flip-flops, your own soap, shampoo, and a kiis (you can buy one in any souk). Spas provide everything for you.
  • Don't Be Shy: Body positivity is the norm in a hammam. Everyone is there for the same reason, so try to relax and embrace the experience.
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water before and after, as you will sweat a lot in the steam rooms.

A hammam is a must-try experience in Morocco. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local culture, unwind after a long day of sightseeing, and leave with glowing, baby-soft skin.