A practice steeped in history
Learn all about the timeless traditions of Moroccan tea with a deep dive into the best brews in Marrakech and Fez.
A taste of tradition
When it comes to the origins of Moroccan tea, getting a straight answer can be a strain. Some say the brew was introduced to the region by 12th-century Phoenicians or the first nomadic Imazighen, while others believe Arabs or – much later – Queen Victoria brought it to the Kingdom. What is certain, however, is that these little leaves made a big cultural impact. The flavour, ceremony and sharing of Moroccan tea has become an iconic symbol of the country, offering visitors a sip of tradition for any occasion.
Standing on ceremony in Marrakech
Native to Morocco, the herbal tea tradition involves combining fresh local herbs – such as mint, absinthe, verbena or rosemary – with sugar, water and gunpowder green tea, a variety in which each leaf is rolled into a small pellet. After rinsing the tea and extracting its essence, the ingredients are carefully combined, and the tea is aerated by pouring it from increasingly impressive heights. Served from ornate Moroccan teapots in delicate glasses or inherited tea sets, the age-old ritual transcends refreshment and represents a moment of reconnection, generosity and mindfulness across the country.
You’ll likely start your tea-drinking journey in Marrakech. Luckily, from the city’s souks to riads, there’s no shortage of street corner cafés and hidden terraces to enjoy a hot drink. Close to Ben Youssef Madrasa, you’ll find rooftop spots that boast incredible medina views to rival their delicious fresh tea, while tea rooms at higher-end hotels offer upmarket afternoon tea experiences – often served in lush poolside gardens or palatial galleries. If you’ve built up an appetite, join a street food tour and enjoy your tea with msemen pancakes, baklava or kaab el ghazal cookies.
On the tea trail in Fez
A city that ranks highly for traditional tea is cultural capital, Fez. You’ll find hole-in-the-wall tea shops scattered throughout the antique El Bali medina. Many of the most notable sit just off Place Seffarine – a lively bazaar square of coppersmiths near the University of al-Qarawiyyin. Enjoy aromatic herb blends and tailored tea recipes, perfected over decades of steeping and pouring. It’s a perfectly quaint setting to see the ancient ceremony in action and to get a true taste of the Kingdom.
The ceremony and sharing of tea is an iconic Moroccan ritual.
After sipping through the old city, make your way to Fez’ famous Blue Gate and grab a table at one of the area’s many authentic restaurants and bistros. Order a sizzling tagine with khobz and wash it down with – you guessed it – more tea. As night falls, share a pot amidst the serene greenery of a café courtyard or savour one last brew at an elegant rooftop lounge.
From regal riads and luxury hotels to affordable hideaways, explore our curated selection of hotels and resorts to find your perfect stay.
Morocco, kingdom of light
