A traditional hammam runs in four stages: the steam, the black soap, the scrub with a kessa glove, then the rinse. Allow about an hour. You need a swimming costume, everything else is provided.
A hammam is not a sauna. The heat is damp and less fierce, which makes it bearable for much longer. It is as much a moment of cleaning as a moment of rest.
How it runs, in four stages
- 01The steam. Twenty minutes or so, doing nothing, the time it takes for the skin to open up.
- 02The black soap. An olive paste applied all over the body, left on for a few minutes.
- 03The scrub. With a kessa glove, firm and vigorous. This is the part that surprises people the first time.
- 04The rinse, then ghassoul on the hair and the skin if you wish.
What to bring
A swimming costume. Towels and products are provided. Drink before going in, and avoid it just after a meal.
If you are pregnant, or if you have blood pressure trouble, say so: the temperature is adjusted. If in doubt, step out and come back, nobody will hold it against you.
And afterwards
Plan nothing demanding for afterwards. The hammam relaxes you far more than you would expect. That is why we suggest it at the end of the day, or after a long walk in the medina.
Frequently asked questions
- Does the hammam need to be booked?
- Yes, let us know in advance: it needs time to heat up before it reaches the right temperature.
- Can several of you go in together?
- Yes, that is the custom. The hammam at the house stays a private space, not a communal one.
- Does the scrub hurt?
- No, but it is firm. Say if you prefer it gentler, it is easily adjusted.
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