Overview
Morocco is North Africa’s most popular destination, offering a sensory explosion of color, spice, and culture. From Marrakech’s medina to the blue city of Chefchaouen, the Sahara Desert to the Atlas Mountains, and Fes’s ancient tanneries to Essaouira’s Atlantic coast, Morocco delivers extraordinary experiences at bargain prices. The Moroccan dirham (MAD) keeps daily costs to $30-$80.
The local currency is MAD. Budget travelers can explore comfortably for $30-$45/day, mid-range visitors should plan $80-$112/day, and luxury travel runs $300+/day. Timing your visit during shoulder season and choosing local dining options over tourist restaurants will stretch your budget significantly.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget ($30-$45/day): Stay in budget accommodation ($10-$30/night), eat at local restaurants and street food ($4-$10/day), use public transport and walk, and enjoy free attractions and natural scenery.
Mid-Range ($80-$112/day): Book comfortable hotels ($40-$100/night), dine at restaurants ($12-$25/day), add guided tours and paid attractions, and use a mix of public and private transport.
Luxury ($300+/day): Reserve luxury accommodation ($120-$400+/night), enjoy fine dining ($30-$80/day), book private guides and exclusive experiences, and travel in maximum comfort.
How to Save Money
- Morocco is excellent value. Stay in riads for authentic experience. Eat at Jemaa el-Fna food stalls. Haggle in the souks — start at 30-50% of asking price. Use trains between major cities. Visit the Sahara, Chefchaouen, Fes, and the Atlas Mountains. Drink mint tea everywhere for free or nearly free.
Worth the Splurge
- The destination’s most iconic experience — the memory will outlast the cost.
- A signature local meal at a top-rated restaurant.
- A guided tour of the most important cultural or natural attraction.
- A unique activity that cannot be replicated elsewhere.