The ancient medina in Marraekch is a magical trip back in time and the snake charmers in Marrakech play a big part in this. These snake charmers in Marrakech have been around for over 100 years, long before western tourists started to visit. Marrakech was once a strategic point on the caravan trade route for merchants travelling up from other regions in Morocco, North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, and the snake charmers in Marrakech established themselves in the main square of Jemaa el Fna as a means of earning money from visitors.
Some of the snakes are poisonous, but don't worry, they've all either had their teeth removed or the poison removed, so there is no danger.
The snake charmers in Marrakech believe they have been blessed with a gift allowing them to handle these reptiles with no fear of their bite. With their "ghaita", or flute, they tease the snakes out of their baskets - it's an impressive show.
If you're not comfortable watching from up close, you can watch from a safe distance from the terrace of one of the nearby cafés.
A word of caution:
If you walk too close to the snake charmers in Marrakech you can suddenly find you have a snake around your neck. The charmers delight in shocking and scaring tourists, but don't be alarmed, the charmers do know how to handle the snakes and you are in no danger. Keep your sense of humour, smile and ask them calmly to take it off!
The whole reason for the snake charmers in Marrakech is for them to make money and they will ask for absurd amounts for you to hold them, or take a photo with the snake. Don't ever pay more than 10-20 dirhams, they'll ask for 200 dirhams, so you'll have to be firm, but always with a big smile!
A riad in Marrakech is the perfect base to explore the sights and sounds of this fascinating medieval city. Contact us today to reserve your preferred travel dates.