Is Morocco expensive? Absolutely NOT! Here’s my personal Morocco travel budget for driving around the country for 30 days.
Hi Trisha! I’ve seen that you spent a lot of time in Morocco and I am going there really soon. I know it is cheap but I want to see how much money to prepare. Can you please share your Morocco travel budget? Many thanks and more power!
-Ella Kjær, Denmark
Thank you for your e-mail, Ella!
My Morocco travel budget was very minimal. I made sure I don’t go over $30 USD per day which is already a lot in this country. I got tired of Moroccan food easily so I opted to cook in the remaining weeks that I was in Morocco.
In this Morocco travel budget report, I will walk you through what I spent in Morocco – food, transportation, accommodations, shopping, tours, etc.
Below you will find the “content” list – just click on them to jump to the content you are looking for. I hope you enjoy Morocco. It’s one of my favorite countries and I always loved going back!
Xx,
Trisha
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💸 Is Morocco expensive?
Morocco is a very cheap country so many of its European visitors frequent this country. Europeans can fly direct to Morocco for less than $100 USD with budget airlines.
Because of this, Euros are accepted in Morocco but I still exchanged my money for dirhams when I visited.
The currency in Morocco is called the Moroccan dirham (MAD). $1 MAD = $0.097 USD.
With this price, you will be able to buy 1 liter of whole fat milk, 1 kg of tomatoes, 1 kg of potatoes, and a loaf of bread for 2 people.
It is very important to know what you can buy for a dollar in Morocco so you can compare it to your home country. This way, you have a better idea of how much your Morocco travel budget should be.
🇲🇦 Planning your trip to Morocco? I can help you with that! From itinerary planning to safety in traveling to Morocco, I can give you genuine tips on a 1-1 call. Let’s chat! [Book a call with Trisha]
Is Morocco expensive for US citizens?
No, Morocco is not expensive for US citizens. For $1 USD, you can already eat Moroccan dishes like Moroccan salad or Bissara (fava bean soup).
This is also the starting range for entrance fees to historical sites and museums. As a US citizen on a budget, you can easily spend $30 USD per day in Morocco by staying in hostels and eating street food.
See also:
📆 Cheapest months to visit Morocco
Like many other travel destinations in the world, Morocco has different cities with different price points so we can’t really generalize a general price for the whole country.
However, while reviewing my Morocco travel budget, I realized that they don’t really have an extreme price difference per area.
In general, the cheapest months to visit Morocco are during the off-peak and shoulder seasons.
Low season in Morocco
Mid-June to August is summer in Morocco, and while the coast has a pleasant climate, the inland areas, especially cities like Marrakech and Fez, can become scorching hot.
Because of the intense heat in many popular destinations, fewer tourists tend to visit during this period, leading to lower prices for accommodations and sometimes even tours.
November to February are the Winter months and can be quite cold, especially in the Atlas Mountains and inland cities. If you’re planning to visit the Sahara Desert, nights can be chilly.
While this is technically the low season for many inland areas, coastal cities like Essaouira can still be pleasantly mild, and this might also coincide with the peak season for them.
Shoulder Season in Morocco
March to May and September to October: These months often offer a balance between good weather and reasonable prices.
It’s not as busy as the high season, so you can often get good deals on accommodations and tours, but the weather is generally more pleasant than in the peak summer heat or the chill of winter.
A piece of advice: Morocco is not expensive so even if you visit during the high season, it won’t really cost a lot. I just prefer to travel to Morocco during the low season because there are fewer tourists.
I even spent a whole month of Ramadan here because I was traveling slowly. But if you are traveling to Morocco on a specific number of days, Ramadan isn’t really a good time to travel to Morocco.
💰 My personal Morocco travel budget
My Morocco travel budget is a mix of budget, mid-range and luxury. For accommodations, I opted mostly for riads, which are the popular accommodations in Morocco.
A Moroccan riad is a traditional house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. The term “riad” originates from the Arabian term for garden, “ryad”.
These houses are typically found in Morocco’s medinas (old city centers) and are notable for their unique architectural and design elements.
You probably want to try this at least once and mind you, they are not expensive in Morocco!
How much money do you need to spend per day in Morocco?
The daily travel costs in Morocco depend on your travel preferences. As for me, I prioritized riads and food.
Here is my personal Morocco travel budget (one person). Again, you don’t have to spend the same as I did. This is just an overview for you to have an idea of how much to prepare for your trip.
All prices are in US dollars (USD):
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Budget Hostel | $5-$15 per night |
| Mid-range Hotel/Riad | $30-$70 per night |
| Luxury Hotel/Riad | $80+ per night |
| Street Food Meal | $2-$5 |
| Restaurant Meal | $5-$15 |
| Fine Dining | $20+ |
| City buses or shared taxis | $0.50-$2 per ride |
| Intercity buses (e.g., CTM or Supratours) | $5-$15 depending on distance |
| Intercity trains | $10-$30 depending on class and distance |
| Domestic Flights | $30-$100 |
| Car Rental | From $20-$50 per day |
| Entry to major historical sites or attractions | $1-$7 |
| Guided tours | $20-$50 |
| Sahara Desert tours | $40-$100 per day |
| Morocco sim card | $5-$10 initial cost |
✈️ Cost of flights to Morocco
There are many airports in Morocco and most Europeans can fly to any destination in the country. The major airports that serve many destinations worldwide are:
- Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca
- Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) in Marrakech
- Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ) in Fez
- Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG) in Tangier
If you are flying to Morocco from the USA, Casablanca has cheaper options and frequent flights from $600 USD (2-way).
Royal Air Maroc is a great airline to look at. However, you have to stop in Europe (Barcelona) to get to Morocco from the US. If you already have plans to travel to Europe, it is more realistic to just add Morocco to your Eurotrip.
From Heathrow Airport (London), flights to Morocco start for as low as $300 USD (2-way). The flight duration is 3 hours and 5 minutes and is a direct flight.
If you are flying from Australia to Morocco, the easiest route is via Dubai. It’s only one-stop though the flight can take up to 25 hours. Prices start at $1,500 USD.
As usual, these are just estimates so if you want to see a more specific price for flights to Morocco, use the widget below by putting your departure city/airport:
🏨 Morocco hotel prices
Accommodations in Morocco are really cheap. In Marrakesh, you can get a decent dorm in a hostel from $5-$7 USD. However, the most popular accommodation type in Morocco is the riads.
Riads in Morocco are really beautiful (pictured above) and are part of the tourist attraction list in Morocco. Many people opt to stay in riads for the complete Moroccan experience.
They may look expensive but you’d be surprised to find a $35 USD riad in major cities. Luxury accommodations may be all-inclusive (massages, meals, etc) range from $80 – $100 USD.
Below are my favorite hotels in Morocco with corresponding estimated prices. Note that these hotels are also less than 1 KM from the city center so you can walk!
| Destination | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Riad Dar Hamid Hotel & Spa (Marrakech) | $117 | 9.6/10 |
| ODYSSEE Boutique Hotel (Casablanca) | $113 | 8.2/10 |
| Riad Dar-tus (Tangier) | $304 | 9.8/10 |
| Dar El Fanne (Chefchaouen) | $42 | 9.4/10 |
The hotels in the table above are 4-5 stars so there are still many other accommodations that are cheaper than these!
🍲 Food prices in Morocco
There is a lot of French influence when it comes to Moroccan food. Couscous and tajine are the most common food sold on the streets.
You can always find $1 USD eats everywhere, especially in the souks. I traveled to Morocco for 30 days and I honestly got tired of Moroccan food.
However, there are also a lot of Western cuisines, mostly French and Italian. I found it hard to find American food options (burgers, pizza) as Moroccan cuisine is very European.
Even if you find a burger joint, I don’t believe it will be as good. Morocco is also a fan of fast food where McDonald’s and KFC are very popular among the locals.
Alcohol is not sold everywhere in Morocco. You have to go to special places and present a legal ID when buying alcohol.
How much does a meal cost in Morocco?
Below are the rough estimates for food costs in Morocco for a single traveler:
| Food | Price |
|---|---|
| Sandwich (e.g., Shawarma or Kefta) | 2-$4 |
| Harira (traditional soup) | $0.50-$1.50 |
| Bread (Khobz) | $0.10-$0.50 |
| Pastries (like msemen or beghrir) | $0.50-$1 |
| Tajine (meat or vegetarian) | $3-$6 |
| Couscous (typically available on Fridays) | $4-$7 |
| Grilled fish or meats | $5-$10 |
| Bissara (fava bean soup) | $1-$2 |
| Moroccan salad | $1-$3 |
| Mint tea | $0.50-$1.50 |
| Full-course meal with starter, main, and dessert | $10-$30 |
| Moroccan wine or beer | $3-$7 |
| Luxury dining experience or gourmet meals | $30-$80 |
| Sweets and desserts (like baklava or chebakia) | $0.50-$3 |
| Soft drinks | $0.50-$1.50 |
| Freshly squeezed orange juice | $0.50-$2 |
| Coffee | $0.70-$2 |
🚌 Transportation costs in Morocco
Morocco’s transportation is really efficient and modern. The first time I went to Morocco, it was so easy to hop on a bus or a train – the trips are very frequent.
On my second visit, I rented a car for one month which cost me $17 USD per day for the car rental. This is not including gasoline (1 liter of gas in Morocco costs $1.05 USD) and tolls but both are quite cheap.
I recommend renting a car if you are a couple or group of 3 because it is cheaper and you’ll be able to take your time. Driving in Morocco is pretty easy, too! It’s not as crazy as India if that’s what you’re comparing it to.
Taxi rates in Morocco are at $4.36 USD for every 5 miles. It is encouraged to agree to a price with the driver before hopping in.
In my experience, I find train and bus prices in Morocco pretty much the same, as well as the travel time. There are more things to see while on the bus but the train rides are quite spectacular, too.
To check the prices and schedules of busses in Morocco, CTM is the best website where you can reserve your tickets as well.
If you are interested in experiencing Moroccan trains, they are very frequent and travels throughout the country. Check ONCF for train prices and schedules.
Below are more transportation options in Morocco with corresponding prices:
| Transportation | Price |
|---|---|
| Intra-city rides | $0.50-$1.50 |
| Petit taxis (small city taxis) | $1-$3 for short rides |
| Grand taxis (shared inter-city taxis) | $5 to $15 |
| 2nd class train ticket from Marrakech to Casablanca | $10-$15 |
| 1st class train ticket from Marrakech to Casablanca | $15-$23 |
| A flight between Marrakech and Fez | $40-$120 |
| CTM and Supratours Buses | $8-$12 |
🛍️ Shopping in Morocco
Shopping in Morocco is a big business and is one of the reasons for Morocco’s tourism to explode throughout the years. Morocco is famous for textiles, carpets, and interior pieces.
I bought a tea set for $15 USD with a dozen of thick Moroccan glasses and a silver teapot. The seller originally wanted $25 USD for it but I bargained so he gave it to me for the price I wanted. I almost paid his asking price, though!
I also bought a large carpet that cost me $45 USD. You might wonder how I was able to transport this carpet home but they pack it really nice and small.
I also bought soaps as gifts for my friends which cost me $1 USD per bar. Moroccan plates are sold in sets and range from $10 – $15 USD.
Bargaining in Morocco is very common so always do it 50% of the seller’s original price – they will give it to you no matter what. As long as you are firm with your asking price.
🧭 Morocco tour prices
Tour prices in Morocco vary and are often priced at European prices but there are many places where I didn’t sign up for a tour – I just did it myself.
To have an idea of the tour prices in Morocco, please see below:
The prices above are just samples for you to have an idea of the prices of Morocco tours. It doesn’t mean that you need to avail them. You can always choose cheaper tour agencies or do it yourself.
| Tour | Price |
|---|---|
| 3-day Marrakech, Fez, and Sahara Desert Tour | $205 |
| 3 days Marrakech and Sahara Desert | $108 |
| 3 days tour to Marrakech and Chefchaouen | $524 |
| 2 days Casablanca and Chefchaouen tour | $420 |
Additionally, I organize customized tours in Morocco so feel free to get in touch if you need an all-inclusive trip planning
💵 Money handling in Morocco
The currency in Morocco is called the Moroccan dirham (MAD). $1 MAD = $0.097 USD. For each of my visit, I always bring cash to Morocco as it is still a cash country.
I also use my Wise card, an international bank account that allows me to withdraw multiple currencies all over the world without converting them!
The conversions are real-time and you will actually see what you withdraw on the app.
ATM withdrawals in Morocco
Remember that Morocco is still a cash country so make sure you have enough when you arrive. One of the best ways to get cash in Morocco is through ATM withdrawals.
You can withdraw from the airport using your debit card from your home country (or use Wise as I recommended above).
ATM machines and banks that accept international cards in Morocco and are guaranteed safe include BMCE, Banque Populaire, and Attijariwafa Bank.
ATMs in Morocco typically have a withdrawal limit per transaction or per day. The specific limit can vary based on the bank and the type of ATM.
The common withdrawal limit for ATMs operated by Moroccan banks ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 dirhams ($292 USD) per transaction.
Exchanging USD, Euros or GBP in Morocco
I really don’t do this since I find that debit card withdrawals are the same but if you are someone who brings their local currency when they travel (i.e. USD or Euros), the best way to exchange cash in Morocco is through banks.
Most banks will exchange popular foreign currencies like USD, EUR, or GBP. However, the rate might not be as favorable as specialized currency that’s why this is not my preferred method.
Hotels also offer currency exchange but it is more or less the same as the banks.
Use of credit cards in Morocco
While cash is king in many places in Morocco, credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and some shops in tourist areas. You still need cash!
These are the most widely accepted credit cards in Morocco. You’ll find that most hotels, restaurants, and stores in urban areas that do accept credit cards will take both Visa and Mastercard.
American Express is less commonly accepted, but you may still be able to use it at upscale hotels and some high-end restaurants.
Discover is limited in Morocco, so it’s advisable to have an alternative payment method if this is your primary card.
Tipping in Morocco
Tipping, known as “pourboire” in French or “baksheesh” in Arabic, is customary in Morocco. In upscale restaurants, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is customary if a service charge hasn’t been added.
For smaller orders like coffee or tea, rounding up to the nearest 5-10 dirhams ($1 USD) is common.
Tipping taxi drivers isn’t mandatory, but it’s a kind gesture to round up the fare. If the journey was long or the driver was particularly helpful (like assisting with heavy bags), a tip of 5-10 dirhams ($1 USD) is appropriate.
For hotel staff like housekeeping, 10-20 dirhams ($2 USD) per day is great. 100-200 dirhams ($20 USD) per day is a good tip for tour guides.
Money handling tips
- Always keep a small amount of cash for small purchases or places that don’t accept credit cards. Local shops, souks (markets), small restaurants, and taxis still operate on a cash-only basis.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use a money belt or concealed pouch for added security.
- Be wary of unofficial money changers who may approach you with seemingly attractive rates.
- Ensure you notify your bank or credit card company of your travel dates so your card doesn’t get flagged or blocked.
- Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) are a closed currency, meaning it’s best to exchange or spend your dirhams before leaving the country.
💱 Money-saving tips for Morocco travel
You don’t have to spend a lot on your Morocco vacation as it is really a cheap destination. Here are some money-saving tips to help you make the most of your trip to Morocco:
Use Shared Taxis: Known as “Grands Taxis,” these shared taxis often run set routes between cities or towns and can be more cost-effective than buses or trains, especially if you’re traveling in a group. Just be sure to agree on the fare before departing.
Opt for Local SIM Cards: If you plan to use the internet or make calls, buying a local SIM card from providers like Maroc Telecom, Inwi, or Orange can be much cheaper than international roaming.
Local Markets for Meals: Head to local food markets (souks) around lunchtime. You can find fresh produce and local eateries serving meals at a fraction of the restaurant price. Just look for where the locals are eating!
Refillable Water Bottles: Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in most parts of Morocco, but many hotels and riads have filtered water available. Bring a refillable water bottle to reduce the need to buy bottled water.
Shop Smart in the Medinas: Bargaining is an art in Morocco, and it’s expected in the medinas. Start by offering half or less of the initial price and negotiate from there. And remember, shopping later in the day can sometimes result in better deals.
Travel Overnight: If you’re taking longer train or bus journeys, consider traveling overnight. This way, you save on one night’s accommodation.
Explore On Foot: Many Moroccan cities, like Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen, are best explored on foot. This not only saves on transportation costs but also allows for a more immersive experience.
Student Discounts: If you’re a student, bring your international student card. Many attractions, like museums or historical sites, offer discounts to students.
The essence of traveling is not just about saving money but also about experiencing the local culture and environment.
Balance your efforts to save money with opportunities to engage authentically with Morocco’s rich heritage and traditions.
⁉️ FAQ: Morocco Travel Costs
Trisha is one of those people who left their comfortable life to travel the world and learn about life. Her style is to stay in one place she likes for 3 months (or more) to know what it feels like to eat, cook, speak, and sleep in another culture that isn’t hers. She’d like to believe she’s not traditionally traveling but she just chooses to be somewhere else all the time. In no particular order, her favorite cities in the world are Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, Mexico City, and Tel Aviv.
KATRIN SARAVIA
Tuesday 2nd of November 2021
Hi Miss Trish. I'm a Filipina working here IN SAUDI Arabia. Is it necessary to purchase a Travel Insurance when traveling to Morocco For 2weeks? Thank You. And can you refer a good travel insurance company?
Cinder Badillo
Wednesday 9th of December 2020
Hello good day, Hi , im cindy and im filipina. Im just planning travel to Morocco once the boarders open for tourist. I just want to know the requirements needed to exit the immigration here in philippines beside of course the 2 ways tickets. My friend moroccon shoulder my expenses like foods and lodging where i stay. The only want know the requirement to exit. Thank you looking forward the answer from yours.
Trisha Velarmino
Tuesday 15th of December 2020
Morocco is visa-free for Filipinos so they won't really ask you anything! It's just like entering Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, etc. Good luck!