Morocco is a land of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history—and the best part? It doesn’t have to break the bank! From navigating the bustling souks of Marrakech to relaxing in the Blue Pearl of Chefchaouen, a budget-friendly Moroccan adventure is completely within reach.
Here is your guide to experiencing the magic of Morocco affordably.
🛏️ Smart Stays: Finding Cheap Accommodation
Accommodation can be one of the biggest expenses, but Morocco offers plenty of charming, low-cost options:
- Hostels: Your most budget-friendly choice, perfect for solo travelers. Dorm beds in major cities like Marrakech, Fez, and Chefchaouen can start as low as $10–$15 USD per night.
- Budget Riads & Guesthouses: A Riad (a traditional Moroccan house with an inner courtyard) is a must-try experience. Look for smaller, locally-owned riads or guesthouses on the outskirts of the medina where private rooms with simple amenities can be found for around $25–$50 USD per night.
- Location Matters: While staying far from the city center might be cheaper, factor in the cost of taxis. Staying just a short walk from the main attractions often saves you money and time in the long run.
🍽️ Eat Like a Local: Affordable Food
Moroccan cuisine is delicious, hearty, and incredibly inexpensive if you know where to look.
- Embrace Street Food: This is your best friend! For just a few dollars ($1–$5 USD), you can enjoy authentic street eats:
- Tagine and Couscous: Look for small, local eateries (snack or mâas) away from the main tourist squares. A full, satisfying meal can cost around $4–$10 USD.
- Harira Soup: A traditional chickpea and lentil soup—perfect for a cheap and filling snack.
- Msemen: Flaky, buttery flatbread often enjoyed for breakfast or a snack.
- The Golden Rule: Follow the locals! If a place is packed with Moroccan families, it’s a sure sign of good quality and fair prices. Avoid the overly touristy restaurants right on the main squares.
- Self-Catering: Shop at local souks (open-air marketplaces) for fresh produce, bread (khobz), and snacks. If your hostel or apartment has a kitchen, cooking a few meals can save you a bundle.
🚌 Getting Around: Budget Transportation
Travel between cities is efficient and surprisingly affordable using public transport.
- Intercity Buses: Companies like CTM and Supratours offer reliable, comfortable, and affordable routes between major cities like Marrakech, Fez, and Essaouira, with tickets ranging from $8–$25 USD.
- Trains (ONCF): The national rail network connects key cities and is a comfortable option. Second-class tickets are the most budget-friendly, typically costing $10–$50 USD depending on the distance.
- Grand Taxis: These are shared taxis that travel between cities or to fixed destinations outside of a town. They charge a set fare per person and are a cheap, local way to travel for short-to-mid-range distances ($5–$20 USD per person).
- In-City Travel: The best and cheapest way to explore the Medinas is on foot. For longer distances, use Petits Taxis and always ask the driver to use the meter or negotiate the fare before you get in.
🏛️ Free & Low-Cost Activities
Many of Morocco’s most memorable experiences are free or very low-cost.
- Wander the Medinas: Simply getting lost in the labyrinthine alleyways of cities like Fez and Marrakech is an activities in itself—and it’s completely free.
- Explore Squares: Spend an evening people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere at Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakech or the main squares of other cities.
- Visit Palaces & Gardens: Entrance fees to stunning sites like the Bahia Palace or Le Jardin Secret are usually very low, often around $5–$7 USD.
- Free Walking Tours: Look for free walking tours in major cities. You only pay a tip to the guide at the end.
- Public Hammam: Skip the expensive spa and try a traditional, no-frills public hammam (bathhouse) for an authentic scrub and steam experience for just a few dollars ($5–$15 USD).
🤝 The Essential Budget Skill: Haggle!
In markets (souks) and for taxis without a meter, haggling is expected. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price—start at about half of the asking price and work your way up. It’s a cultural exchange, not a confrontation, and it’s key to keeping your costs down!
By following these tips, you can comfortably travel Morocco on a budget of around $30–$60 USD per day, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the country’s beauty without emptying your wallet.
Are you planning a trip to Morocco? I can help you find cheap flights or compare accommodation prices for a specific city like Marrakech or Fez!
