Is Morocco Cheap to Visit? A Guide to Budget Travel in Morocco
24 Oct 2024Morocco, with its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities, has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers from around the world. One of the most frequent questions potential visitors ask is, "Is Morocco cheap to visit?" The short answer is yes—Morocco can be an affordable destination, especially for travelers who are mindful of their spending and know how to navigate the country on a budget. Here's a breakdown of what makes Morocco a budget-friendly destination and tips for traveling affordably.
1. Affordable Accommodation Options
Morocco offers a wide range of accommodation options that can fit any budget, from luxury hotels to affordable hostels and traditional riads (Moroccan guesthouses).
Riads and Guesthouses: Staying in a riad is one of the most authentic Moroccan experiences, and you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy it. Many budget riads in cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen offer beautiful rooms with traditional decor at prices ranging from $30 to $60 per night.
Hostels: For budget travelers, hostels are widely available in major cities and offer beds for as little as $10 to $20 per night. Many hostels also include breakfast, making it an even better deal.
Camping: In desert areas like Merzouga and Zagora, travelers can find affordable desert camps that provide a true Sahara experience, with overnight stays in traditional tents starting at around $25 to $40 per night.
2. Inexpensive Food and Dining
Moroccan cuisine is not only delicious but also very affordable. Whether you’re dining at a local restaurant or enjoying street food, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly options.
Street Food: Morocco’s street food scene offers plenty of cheap and tasty options, including tagines, couscous, mechoui (roast lamb), and b'stilla (a savory-sweet pie). You can easily find street food meals for under $5.
Local Restaurants: Dining in small local eateries or "hole-in-the-wall" spots can cost as little as $5 to $10 per meal, offering traditional Moroccan dishes like harira soup, kebabs, and vegetable couscous.
Cafes: Morocco’s many cafes serve inexpensive mint tea, pastries, and light snacks. A coffee or tea at a local cafe costs around $1 to $2, making it an affordable stop during your day of exploring.
3. Transportation on a Budget
Getting around Morocco can be quite affordable, especially when using public transportation. The country offers a variety of transport options that cater to different budgets.
Buses: Long-distance buses, such as those operated by CTM or Supratours, are reliable and inexpensive, with fares ranging from $5 to $20 depending on the distance. These buses are a great way to travel between major cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen.
Taxis: For short distances, petit taxis (small city taxis) are widely available and affordable. Most fares within a city cost between $1 to $5. For longer distances, grand taxis (shared taxis) are an economical option, especially if you share the ride with other travelers.
Trains: Morocco’s train network is well-developed and offers a convenient and affordable way to travel between cities. A train ride from Marrakech to Casablanca, for example, costs around $12 to $15 for a second-class ticket.
Car Rentals: If you prefer the flexibility of driving, RENTS.ma, Morocco’s leading rental platform, offers budget-friendly car rentals starting at around $20 to $30 per day. This can be a cost-effective option for exploring remote areas like the Atlas Mountains or the Sahara Desert.
4. Low-Cost Attractions and Sightseeing
Morocco offers a wealth of attractions that are either free or come with a low entry fee, making it easy to experience the country's culture and history without overspending.
Medinas and Souks: Exploring the ancient medinas (old towns) and vibrant souks (markets) is free and offers a cultural experience like no other. Wander through the bustling markets of Marrakech or Fes, where you can admire the architecture, shop for handicrafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Historic Sites: Entry fees to many of Morocco’s most famous attractions, such as the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace in Marrakech, and the Al Quaraouiyine University in Fes, are relatively low, usually between $2 and $5.
Beaches: Morocco’s Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts offer beautiful beaches that are free to visit. Towns like Essaouira, Agadir, and Taghazout are perfect for enjoying the sun and sea without paying any entrance fees.
Museums: Entrance fees to museums are typically affordable, ranging from $1 to $5. Museums like the Dar Si Said Museum in Marrakech and the Batha Museum in Fes provide insight into Morocco’s art, culture, and history at a low cost.
5. Shopping in Morocco on a Budget
Shopping in Morocco’s souks can be an affordable way to bring home souvenirs, as long as you're prepared to haggle. Bargaining is a common practice in Moroccan markets, and you can often get great deals on items such as:
Handcrafted goods: Traditional Moroccan goods like rugs, leather products, ceramics, and jewelry are popular buys in the souks. After negotiating, you can often purchase quality items at reasonable prices.
Spices and Argan Oil: Morocco is known for its spices and argan oil, both of which make excellent, budget-friendly souvenirs. A small bottle of argan oil can cost between $5 to $10.
Tips for Budget Travel in Morocco
Haggle: Bargaining is expected in most Moroccan markets, especially in the souks. Start by offering around half of the initial asking price and negotiate from there.
Eat Local: Opt for local food stalls and small restaurants rather than high-end tourist spots to save money while experiencing authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Use Public Transportation: Public buses, shared taxis, and trains are all affordable and reliable ways to get around Morocco.
Travel Off-Season: Visiting Morocco during the off-peak season (from November to February) can help you avoid high prices on accommodation and tours while still enjoying the country’s attractions.
Conclusion
Morocco is a budget-friendly destination that offers rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and affordable travel options. Whether you're looking for cheap accommodation, inexpensive food, or low-cost transportation, there are plenty of ways to explore Morocco without overspending. With careful planning and some smart choices, you can experience the magic of Morocco on a budget.





