Few names are as redolent of history, mysticism, and hot desert winds as “Morocco.” With a coastline that extends nearly 300 miles along the Mediterranean Sea, this African country has an ancient history in spades.
“The traditional domain of indigenous peoples now collectively known as Berbers … Morocco has been subject to extensive migration and has long been the location of urban communities that were originally settled by peoples from outside the region,” explains Encyclopedia Brittanica.
Controlled early by Carthage, then Rome after the former civilization fell, it then moved into the hands of Islamic peoples in the 7th century CE.
Over time, its influence spread to other parts of North Africa and the Mediterranean, including Spain. Not until 1912 did Europe get its hooks in the country, which is why you can still find French-speaking citizens there.
Still, the population and culture are overwhelmingly Arabic, with the majority of the population speaking that language – closely followed by Berber, spoken by about 50% of the country.
This makes for an exotic brew of food, architecture, and culture for any American who hasn’t yet experienced the Middle East.
Even if you are of Middle Eastern descent yourself, Morocco still holds a delightful charm, from the beaches to the dunes. Let’s take a look at how you can get there on a budget … and still have the time of your life.
Average Trip to Morocco Cost in 2024
An average one-week trip to Morocco for two people will cost around $4,500:
- Average Accommodation Cost: $75 per night
- Average Flight Cost: $1,350 per person
- Food, Drink & Activities: $75 per person, per day
- Transportation: $200 total
- Total Cost: $4,500
Whatever reason you’re traveling to Morocco, you can do so with good assurance that the trip will be affordable. According to statistics, “The average cost of living in Morocco ($625) is 73% less expensive than in the United States.”
You can use this link to explore individual city prices, but overall, your dollar will go pretty far in Morocco. Which is awesome, given how many things there are to see there.
The Sahara desert is one of the best places in the world for viewing unsullied stars at night. The sunrises and sunsets from its mountains are unparalleled.
Camel rides make for epic photos and even more epic memories … and the list goes on. Below, we’ll consider how to have all of these experiences without taking out a new line of credit. (LOL … except not.)
Morocco Trip Cost: Average by Item
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The average cost of a trip to Morocco will vary depending on how old you are, how many people are in your party, what time of year you travel, and what you like to do while you’re there. If you’re motivated, Morocco can prove a very cheap destination.
Hotels, cars, and food are all cheap, and delightful free activities abound. On the other hand, it’s also an amazing place for resort stays, overnight desert adventures, and nice meals out – all of which will cost you more.
Our goal is to help give you an average idea of what things will cost. Then you can take those numbers and create a plan that fits you and your budget. Dig in!
Accommodation Costs
Great news: Morocco hotels are, like, so affordable. You can stay in Marrakech for about $60 a night and enjoy a pool, WiFi, and rooftop dining.
In Casablanca, you’ll find cute hotels for between $40 and $80 a night. On average, if you want to leave some cushion, budget $75 for two and enjoy your swank accommodations.
Flight Costs
Tickets to Morocco aren’t cheap, we’ll say that much. Flights from New York City to Morocco vary depending on the city into which you fly, as well as the time of year and airline, but typically they range around $1,100.
From LA, the average flight cost is closer to $1,400. If you’re leaving from a smaller airport in the US, plan to spend between $100 and $200 more on tickets to get to that hub.
This does, however, present an opportunity. If you want, you can book your international and domestic tickets separately, then wait until closer to your departure to book the domestic ticket.
You may save between $50 and $100 per person this way, although it takes nerves to put it off and wait for the deals! Another way to get a better price on tickets is to shop in incognito mode.
By keeping yourself anonymous as you troll travel sites, you avoid saving cookies. That way, the sites can’t remember you and serve you ads or jack up ticket prices. In general, plan to pay about $1,350 per ticket.
Food, Drink & Activity Costs
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While you’re going to spend considerable money getting to Morocco, you don’t have to spend all that much once you’re there.
Why? Because Morocco is absolutely drowning in glorious outdoor activities that cost little to nothing. Consider, for instance, hiking along the Todra Gorge (alternatively, Todgha Gorge), a series of limestone canyons cut through the Atlas Mountains.
It’s a breathtaking experience that will bring you closer to Mother Nature as you wander through the red walls that soar above you.
Many people also like cycling in Morocco. One of the most popular approaches is to head up into the Atlas Mountains, then make use of gravity to reduce your workload as you descend into Morocco’s heartland.
On the way, you’ll pass date palm farms, beautiful valleys, and more. Walking through the cities of Fes, Marrakech, Meknes, or Rabat is an experience you’ll never forget.
These imperial cities are awash in ancient history, and their architecture and markets will bring you back to days long ago. Explore beautiful lamps and vases, haggle with vendors, duck through tiny side streets and warren-like tunnels, and generally bathe in their beauty.
If you’re into touristy attractions, good news! Morrocco doesn’t skimp. From Marrakech, for instance, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the sweeping plains and enjoy a Berber breakfast for about $175.
Or you can opt for a quad bike tour and camel ride for about $90. Food is shockingly cheap for how good it is in this country. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost you less than $4, while a nice dinner out for two will run about $20.
Some things are about the same though: a McDonald’s meal, beer, or milk are all pretty standard. Make sure to try coffee in Morocco.
Whether you opt for Turkish coffee, sample a cappuccino, or try Morocco’s traditional brew spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, it’s all delicious.
Overall, if you budget about $100, you should have plenty of money to dine, while taking 4-5 adventure tours while you’re there. If you’re a budget traveler, backpacker, or student, you’ll be just fine on $50. On average, we’ll call it $75 per person, per day.
Transportation Costs
Unlike some countries in the Middle East, Morocco has good roads, an easy-to-use toll system, and easily accessible fuel. If you’re the adventurous type who likes to drive around, this is a good place to do it.
They drive on the right side of the road, seat belts are mandatory, and the police enforce the rules of the road.
Car rentals are quite affordable. You can get a decent car for $10 to $20 a day, leaving you plenty of funds left over for a cab ride from the airport, gas, and a bus ticket or two, all under $200.
Things to Consider
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Here are a few other things to consider when planning your trip to Morocco:
- Don’t drink the tap water. Although water is chlorinated in cities, it may contain bacteria to which the locals are accustomed and your body is not, making you sick. It’s best to purify it yourself or buy bottled water. You may brush your teeth with this water in the cities; in the countryside, use purified water only.
- Always haggle! Haggling is part of Moroccan culture, and proprietors in the souks (markets) price their goods accordingly. If you pay full price out of concern for insulting a shopkeeper, you’re a sucker. Instead, ask the price, then offer half of that. You’ll work your way toward the middle.
- Morocco’s coastline lies along the Atlantic Ocean on its Western side, then passes the Straight of Gibraltar and borders the Mediterranean Sea along its Northeast quadrant. If you’re a surfer, try the Atlantic side. If you like tranquil waters and oasis-like coves, opt for the Mediterranean.
- The official currency of Morocco is the Dirham. However, if you don’t have local cash handy, you can use dollars. Although you likely won’t get the best exchange rate (and may be denied change at all), this is handy in a pinch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ain Leuh, Morocco – aout 03, 2022 : the Moroccan national festival of ‘ahidous’ amazighienne berberien folklor, moroccan culture, amazigh and arab people, men and women, music and choreography/Achlaji Mohamed/Shutterstock
Here are some frequently asked questions about budgeting your trip to Morocco:
When is the best time to visit Morocco?
The best time to visit Morocco depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. During the spring and fall, the weather is perfect for traveling to Southern cities Marrakech and Essaouira, as well as the Sahara desert.
This is also the best time of year for heading to the Atlas Mountains.
Summer gets very hot inland, so if you’re hoping to visit the above, you might want to skip it. However, if you’re a beach bum looking for time along the Atlantic Coast, this is a great time of year for it. Also, since it’s outside the high season, you’ll pay less.
November through March is more wintry, and you may get rain. However, you’ll see fewer crowds and lower prices, which could make it worth the trip.
Is it easy to get around?
Yes, it’s quite easy to get around in Morocco. The roads are well-maintained, and it’s a safe and cheap place to rent a car and go off on your own adventures. You can also take buses, taxis, and bicycles.
No matter how you choose to get around, Morocco makes it easy – and with limited terrorist considerations, you can feel safe going where you want to go, for the most part.
What language do they speak in Morocco?
Moroccans speak Arabic overwhelmingly, followed by Berber (spoken by 50% of the population). You will also find French, Spanish, and English speakers. While about 15% of the population speaks English, don’t expect that you’ll be able to get by in your native tongue all the time. People cater to English speakers in the cities, but in the country, you may find yourself without communication if you don’t bring a translation app or (failing to find WiFi) a pocket phrasebook with you.
Should I consider group tours?
Morocco is a good country in which to take a tour, if you’re so inclined. Because of language barriers and potential terrorist activity, it’s good to travel with locals.
However, Morocco is considered a pretty safe country for Americans and foreigners in general. The US State Department recommends that you exercise increased caution, but they do not recommend you stay home.
There are other reasons to take a tour than safety, of course. Guides know the prettiest nature and urban spots, can steer you toward the best restaurants and markets, and will make sure you pack as much into a single week as possible. It’s really up to you.
What should I wear in Morocco?
Moroccans expect modest dress. Cover your knees and elbows, and if you’re a woman, bring a light scarf to wrap around your head when you go into religious buildings. Scarves aren’t a bad idea for anyone, though … that sun gets hot!
Over to You — Book Your Trip Today!
| 🛎️ Average Accommodation Cost | $75 per night |
| ✈️ Average Flight Cost | $1,350 per person |
| 🍽️ Food, Drink & Activities | $75 per person, per day |
| 🚕 Transportation | $200 total |
| 💲 Total Cost | $4,500 |
The average cost of a one-week trip to Morocco is around $4,500 for two people. This exotic, mystical vacation will stretch your horizons from the mountains to the desert, the cities to the souks, so don’t miss it for the world.
So what are you waiting for — book your trip today and experience for yourself all that Morocco has to offer. Happy travels!