Morocco is one of the most vibrant, captivating places to visit. Surprisingly, it’s also one of the most affordable. In fact, some of the most memorable parts of a trip can also be the cheapest. That’s why this Morocco budget travel guide has been put together. From booking affordable accommodations and avoiding tourist-priced meals to knowing when to haggle and when to splurge, this post has everything you need to know before your own trip.
Morocco is one of those destinations where your budget really depends on how you choose to travel. Even without travel points or miles, Morocco is one of the easiest destinations to visit affordably. My advice? Set a budget first, then decide where it makes sense to splurge. For most travelers, activities and lodging are affordable, it’s tours and transportation that vary the most.
Flights to Morocco
The two most common airports to fly into Morocco are Marrakech (RAK) and Casablanca (CMN). Depending on your itinerary, one may make more sense than the other. If you can take a positioning flight to major hubs like New York, Chicago, or Washington D.C., it’s often possible to find roundtrip economy tickets to Morocco for $500-$650. When it comes to booking a cheap flight to Morocco, flexibility is everything.
If you want to fly to Morocco for nearly free, travel points are your best friend. For instance, you could fly Delta but transfer your points to Air France. I booked a flight to Casablanca with Iberia Avios that I transferred from my American Express points. If you’re new to this, I highly recommend trying Point.Me. This tool helps you find the best use of your points for any destination, worldwide.
Transportation in Morocco
Getting around Morocco can be a little tricky as a tourist, especially if you’re trying to keep your costs low. Taxis tend to be overpriced for non-locals, and not all transportation options are well-marked or straightforward.
Read also: Tangier's Luxurious Villa Josephine
Trains Between Major Cities
Morocco’s train system is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to travel between major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech.
Buses Between Cities
While buses can be a cheaper option than trains, they’re sometimes less reliable. If you do take one, stick to reputable companies like CTM or Supratours. They have designated bus stations and I was really impressed with their services.
Grand Taxis
For shorter regional trips, shared grand taxis are a smart and affordable option. These taxis run fixed routes between towns. It’s not the most luxurious ride, but the price is fair and consistent.
Airport Transfers
Many hotels charge inflated prices for airport pickups. A better option is booking your transfer online in advance through a trusted service.
Taxis
Taxis in Morocco rarely run the meter unless you ask. And even then, they may refuse. Always negotiate the price before getting in, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the rate seems high.
Read also: Argan Oil for Hair
Accommodation in Morocco
Hotels in Morocco come in a wide range of price points. From inexpensive guesthouses to high-end riads, there’s something for every budget. An easy way to save even more is by booking through sites like Expedia or Booking.com while logged in to your account. Location matters, too. While you might find cheaper accommodations on the outskirts of town, staying closer to the medina or main attractions can save you money in the long run. Finally, check if breakfast is included.
One of the best ways to save thousands on accommodations is by using points for your hotel nights. I love using the Awayz tool to find award hotels. Morocco has limited award hotels options but there are some, especially with partnerships with boutique riads. And, if you’re not familiar with how to use points for hotels, it’s easier than you might think! Many credit cards offer the ability to earn points through everyday spending, which you can then transfer to hotel loyalty programs.
Tours and Activities
MARRAKECH, MOROCCO | 10 BEST Things To Do In & Around Marrakech
Guided tours in Morocco are still relatively affordable compared to many other destinations. You can find food tours for under $40, guided walks through the medina for around $20, and even quad bike rides starting at $18. One of the best ways to make the most of your money is to prebook tours in advance. This gives you time to read reviews, compare prices, and choose the best value with the highest-rated guides. I personally recommend booking through GetYourGuide. The site makes it easy to compare tours, check verified reviews, and cancel if your plans change.
To really stretch your budget, mix paid tours with DIY activities. Museums, cultural centers, and gardens are often inexpensive and easy to visit on your own. Be cautious with tours that seem too cheap. If you see a full-day excursion with multiple stops priced under $30, it likely comes with strings attached. These often include detours to souvenir shops where guides earn commission.
Sahara Desert Tours
For many travelers, visiting the Sahara Desert is a must and I highly recommend it. It’s an unforgettable experience. But while there are plenty of ways to save money throughout Morocco, this isn’t one of them. Tour prices vary depending on the length of the trip, group size, and level of accommodation. You’ll find options as low as $70 per day, and others that run over $500 per day. In most cases, the quality of the experience increases with the price. To avoid disappointment, look for tours that cost at least $250 per person for a 3-day trip.
Read also: Architecture of Moroccan Synagogues
Food and Drink
Eating in Morocco can be incredibly affordable if you stick to local spots. Tourist restaurants, especially those in the medina or near major attractions, tend to be overpriced and underwhelming. Instead, look for family-run, open-air establishments with sandwich boards or large posted menus. The good news is that these kinds of restaurants are easy to find if you are willing to walk a few blocks from the main square.
That said, I found that many Moroccans assume visitors want something more Western in experience. They may offer well-meaning recommendations to pricier restaurants that they would not normally eat at themselves. If you are traveling on a tight budget, splitting dishes is a great way to save. Moroccan portions are generous, and it is common for two people to share a tajine, a bowl of lentils, and some fresh bread or tea.
Morocco also has a large selection of street food, especially in cities like Casablanca, Fes and Marrakech. You’ll find options like msemen and kefta at cheap prices. Most street food is safe for foreigners. One more tip: skip the alcohol. Drinks are expensive and rarely worth it. A basic cocktail like an Aperol spritz can cost up to twenty dollars, and most bartenders do not drink themselves, so the quality can be questionable.
Haggling Tips
The first day of my group trip, our guide looked and said, “Haggling is just part of the culture.” And he was right. Prices in Moroccan markets often start two to three times higher than what you should actually pay. Do not show too much excitement about an item. If you seem overly eager, sellers are much less likely to lower the price. Start by asking for the shop’s “best price.” It will not be their lowest offer, but it gives you a baseline to work from. If they ask you to name your price, understand that it is a tactic to test your knowledge. A simple trick that works well is to mention you saw the same item elsewhere for a lower price. As a general rule, aim to pay about fifty percent of the initial price. And if you really want a smoother experience, consider shopping with a local.
Additional Tips for Budget Travel in Morocco
There are so many things I loved about traveling in Morocco but also a few I learned the hard way when it came to sticking to a budget. These are the tips I wish someone had told me before my first trip.
- Bartering isn’t optional, it’s expected At markets and souks, you’re expected to negotiate. Prices usually start two to three times higher than what you should actually pay. If you don’t haggle, you’re likely getting overcharged.
- Negotiate taxi fares every time Taxis almost never use the meter, especially in tourist-heavy cities like Marrakech. Always agree on a price before you get in. If the price seems too high, walk away.
- Tourist restaurant pricing is no joke The restaurants right near the main square or inside the medina walls can charge double or triple what you’ll pay just a few blocks away.
- Booking tours in advance makes a big difference Don’t wait to book day trips or desert tours until you arrive. Prices tend to be higher in person, and it’s harder to know which companies are reputable.
Is Morocco Budget Friendly?
Yes, Morocco is one of the most budget-friendly destinations to visit. You can eat well, explore major cities, and even experience the Sahara without spending a fortune, especially if you avoid tourist traps, use local transportation, and plan ahead.
Average Daily Cost
For a mid-range traveler, expect to spend around $75 to $125 per day. That includes accommodations, food, transportation, and activities. You can spend less if you’re traveling ultra-budget style or as a couple. Or a bit more if you choose to splurge on tours or boutique riads.
Morocco Travel Budget
Morocco is a very cheap country. Here is my personal Morocco travel budget (one person):
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (hostel dorm) | $5-$7 per night |
| Riads in major cities | $35 per night |
| Food (street food, local meals) | $1-$5 per meal |
| Taxi rates | $4.36 for every 5 miles |
| Train ticket (Marrakesh to Casablanca) | $50 |
| Tea set with glasses and teapot | $15 |
| Large carpet | $45 |
| Soap (per bar) | $1 |
Top Booking Resources
These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.
- Skyscanner - Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine.
- Booking.com - The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation.
- Get Your Guide - Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions.
- SafetyWing - Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers.
Whether you’re on a backpacker budget or something more comfortable, Morocco offers loads of value for money.
Popular articles:
tags: #Morocco
