Culture & etiquette
How much do you pay snake charmers for a photo?
For a photo with a snake charmer or monkey handler in Jemaa el-Fnaa, expect to pay around 20–50 dirhams, and agree the amount before any snake is draped on you or a photo taken. These performers make their living from tourist photos and can demand much more afterwards if you don’t settle the price up front.
Be firm and clear: state what you’ll pay, take your photo, hand over the agreed note and move on. If you don’t want to pay, don’t stop, make eye contact or let them place anything on you, as that’s treated as consent to charge.
Some travellers avoid it altogether on animal-welfare grounds, since the snakes and monkeys are often poorly treated. If you do take part, small notes ready in your pocket make the transaction quick and painless.
Planning a trip and want this sorted for you? We’re a local Berber team in Merzouga — tell us your dates and we’ll build a route, handle the logistics, and answer every question like this one before you arrive.