Is Morocco Expensive to Visit? 

 The True Cost of Visiting Morocco

Morocco has long captivated travelers with its exotic blend of African, Arab, and European influences. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene blue streets of Chefchaouen, this North African gem offers experiences that seem straight out of "One Thousand and One Nights." But the practical question remains – is Morocco expensive to visit?

The good news for American travelers is that Morocco offers exceptional value compared to European or domestic US travel. While not the cheapest destination globally, your dollar stretches remarkably far here, allowing you to experience luxury accommodations, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down exactly what you can expect to spend in Morocco in 2025, from budget-friendly backpacking to mid-range comfort and luxury splurges – all converted to both US dollars and Moroccan dirhams (MAD).

Morocco Travel Costs at a Glance

  Here's a quick summary of what you might spend daily in Morocco (prices in USD):

• Budget traveler: $30-50 per day (300-500 MAD)

• Mid-range traveler: $50-100 per day (500-1,000 MAD)

• Luxury traveler: $150+ per day (1,500+ MAD)

These ranges include accommodation, food, local transportation, and some activities. Let's explore each category in detail to help you plan your perfect Moroccan adventure.

Accommodation Costs: From Riads to Luxury Resorts

Budget Accommodation (300-400 MAD / $30-40 per night)

Morocco is a backpacker's paradise with numerous affordable options:

• Hostels: Dorm beds in major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca cost around 100-200 MAD ($10-20) per night. Most offer free breakfast and WiFi.

• Budget hotels: Basic private rooms start at around 250-350 MAD ($25-35) for two people.

• Budget riads: Morocco's traditional houses with interior courtyards can be surprisingly affordable. Simple riad rooms start at 300-400 MAD ($30-40).

Mid-range Accommodation (400-1,000 MAD / $40-100 per night)

This is where Morocco truly shines, offering exceptional value:

• Mid-range riads: For 500-800 MAD ($50-80), you can stay in beautiful riads that would cost triple in Europe. Many include elaborate Moroccan breakfasts and stunning traditional architecture.

• Boutique hotels: Stylish rooms with modern amenities range from 600-1,000 MAD ($60-100).

• Desert camps: A night in the Sahara, including transportation and meals, typically costs 700-1,000 MAD ($70-100) per person.

Luxury Accommodation (1,000+ MAD / $100+ per night)

Morocco offers world-class luxury at prices still below Western standards:

• Luxury riads: From 1,000-3,000 MAD ($100-300), you can experience opulent riads with pool courtyards, spa services, and exquisite décor.

• Five-star hotels: International chains and high-end Moroccan properties start around 1,500 MAD ($150) and can reach 5,000+ MAD ($500+) per night.

• Luxury desert experiences: Private desert camps with gourmet dining and exclusive amenities cost 2,000+ MAD ($200+) per person.

Money-saving tip: Consider staying in smaller cities like Essaouira or Fez where accommodation is typically 30% cheaper than Marrakech.

Food and Drink: Delicious and Affordable

One of Morocco's greatest pleasures is its cuisine – a delightful fusion of Berber, Arabic, and Mediterranean influences. The good news? It's also remarkably affordable.

Street Food and Budget Eating (20-70 MAD / $2-7 per meal)

• Street food: Sandwiches filled with kefta (spiced meatballs) or merguez (sausage) cost about 20-30 MAD ($2-3).

• Msemen (Moroccan pancakes): These delicious square pancakes cost 5-10 MAD ($0.50-1) each.

• Harira soup: This hearty tomato-based soup with lentils and chickpeas costs around 10-15 MAD ($1-1.50).

• Fresh orange juice: Available everywhere for 10-15 MAD ($1-1.50).

Mid-range Restaurants (70-150 MAD / $7-15 per meal)

• Tagines: The signature Moroccan slow-cooked stews cost 60-100 MAD ($6-10) in local restaurants.

• Couscous: Traditional Friday couscous with vegetables and meat costs 70-120 MAD ($7-12).

• Set menus: Many restaurants offer three-course meals for 100-150 MAD ($10-15).

High-end Dining (150-300+ MAD / $15-30+ per meal)

• Upscale Moroccan restaurants: Expect to pay 200-300 MAD ($20-30) for elaborate meals in beautiful settings.

• International cuisine: European or fusion restaurants charge 250+ MAD ($25+) for main courses.

Drinks and Alcohol

• Mint tea: This Moroccan staple costs 10-20 MAD ($1-2) per pot.

• Coffee: Espresso or café au lait costs 10-15 MAD ($1-1.50).

• Bottled water: Essential purchase at 5-10 MAD ($0.50-1) for 1.5 liters.

• Alcohol: Morocco is predominantly Muslim, so alcohol is limited and expensive. Beer costs 40-60 MAD ($4-6), wine starts at 150 MAD ($15) per bottle in restaurants.

Money-saving tip: Eat where locals eat! Restaurants in tourist areas charge up to double the price of equally good establishments just a few streets away.

Transportation: Getting Around Affordably

Getting to Morocco

Flight costs from the US vary seasonally:

• Peak season (Jun-Aug, Dec): $800-1,200 round-trip from East Coast, $1,000-1,400 from West Coast

• Shoulder season (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): $600-900 round-trip

• Low season (Nov, Jan-Mar): $500-800 round-trip

Money-saving tip: Consider flights to Madrid or Lisbon, then budget airlines (Ryanair, EasyJet) to Morocco, potentially saving hundreds.

Local Transportation

• Trains: Morocco's reliable train network connects major cities at bargain prices:

• Casablanca to Marrakech: 80-150 MAD ($8-15) depending on class

• Tangier to Casablanca: 110-195 MAD ($11-19.50)

• Buses: Extensive and affordable network:

• CTM and Supratours (premium companies): 80-120 MAD ($8-12) for 3-4 hour journeys

• Local buses: 40-60 MAD ($4-6) for similar routes

• Grand taxis: Shared Mercedes taxis for intercity travel cost 30-70 MAD ($3-7) per seat depending on distance.

• Petit taxis: City taxis with meters:

• Base fare: 7-10 MAD ($0.70-1)

• Per kilometer: 2-3 MAD ($0.20-0.30)

• Average city ride: 20-40 MAD ($2-4)

• Car rental: From 250-400 MAD ($25-40) daily for a small car, plus fuel at approximately 12 MAD ($1.20) per liter.

Money-saving tip: Always negotiate taxi fares before entering if they're not using the meter, especially in tourist areas.

Sightseeing and Activities, Experience Without Expense


Morocco offers countless experiences at various price points:

Budget Activities (Free-100 MAD / $0-10)

• Exploring medinas: Free and one of Morocco's greatest pleasures

• Public beaches: Free in Essaouira, Agadir, and along the coast

• Hiking trails: Many beautiful trails cost nothing to access

• Museums: Most charge 10-70 MAD ($1-7) entrance fees

• Public hammams (bathhouses): 15-30 MAD ($1.50-3) for entrance, plus 50 MAD ($5) for scrubbing service

Mid-range Activities (100-300 MAD / $10-30)

• Guided city tours: 150-250 MAD ($15-25) per person

• Cooking classes: Group classes from 250-400 MAD ($25-40)

• Historic sites: Major attractions like Bahia Palace (70 MAD/$7), Majorelle Garden (150 MAD/$15)

• Hammam spa experiences: Basic spa treatments from 200-300 MAD ($20-30)

Luxury Experiences (300+ MAD / $30+)

• Hot air balloon rides: 2,000+ MAD ($200+) per person

• Private tours: From 500-1,000 MAD ($50-100) for half-day private guides

• Luxury spa treatments: High-end hammam experiences with multiple treatments from 600+ MAD ($60+)

• Golf: Courses charge 400-1,200 MAD ($40-120) per round

Money-saving tip: Many Riads and hotels can arrange activities at better prices than you'll find online or in tourist areas.

Shopping 

Shopping is a quintessential Moroccan experience, especially in the souks (markets):

• Souvenirs: Small items like magnets or keychains cost 10-30 MAD ($1-3)

• Ceramics: Small painted plates from 50-100 MAD ($5-10), larger pieces 200+ MAD ($20+)

• Leather goods: Wallets from 100-200 MAD ($10-20), bags from 300-700 MAD ($30-70)

• Argan oil: 100ml of quality oil costs 80-150 MAD ($8-15)

• Carpets: Expect to pay 1,000-5,000+ MAD ($100-500+) depending on size and quality

Haggling tip: Start at around 40% of the initial asking price and expect to settle around 60-70%. Bargaining is part of the culture but remember to stay respectful.

Sample Daily Budgets in Morocco

Budget Traveler: 300-500 MAD ($30-50) Daily

• Accommodation: Hostel dorm or budget riad (100-200 MAD/$10-20)

• Food: Street food breakfast (20 MAD/$2), local lunch (40 MAD/$4), simple dinner (60 MAD/$6)

• Transportation: Public buses and occasional petit taxi (50 MAD/$5)

• Activities: Self-guided exploration, occasional small entry fee (30-100 MAD/$3-10)

Mid-range Traveler: 500-1,000 MAD ($50-100) Daily

• Accommodation: Nice riad or boutique hotel (500 MAD/$50)

• Food: Café breakfast (40 MAD/$4), restaurant lunch (80 MAD/$8), good dinner (120 MAD/$12)

• Transportation: Combination of taxis and intercity buses/trains (100 MAD/$10)

• Activities: Guided tours, museum entries, hammam visit (150-250 MAD/$15-25)

Luxury Traveler: 1,500+ MAD ($150+) Daily

• Accommodation: Luxury riad or 5-star hotel (1,500+ MAD/$150+)

• Food: Hotel breakfast, upscale lunch (150 MAD/$15), fine dining (300+ MAD/$30+)

• Transportation: Private drivers or car rental (300+ MAD/$30+)

• Activities: Private tours, luxury experiences, shopping (500+ MAD/$50+)

Is Morocco Cheap? The Verdict

For most American travelers, Morocco represents exceptional value. Here's the breakdown:

• Budget travelers will find Morocco very affordable, with costs similar to Southeast Asia but with shorter, less expensive flights from the US.

• Mid-range travelers get the best value – experiencing luxury accommodations and excellent food at a fraction of US or European prices.

• Luxury travelers can enjoy 5-star experiences at 3-star prices compared to Western destinations.

Money-Saving Tips for Morocco Travel

1. Visit during shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for ideal weather and lower prices

2. Stay slightly outside city centers for better accommodation rates

3. Eat where locals eat – follow the crowds of Moroccans, not tourists

4. Learn basic haggling phrases in Arabic or French to get better prices

5. Use bank ATMs instead of currency exchange services for better rates

6. Book riads directly by email after finding them on booking sites to avoid commission fees

7. Consider a multi-day desert tour rather than renting a car for the same route

8. Buy a local SIM card for affordable data (approximately 100 MAD/$10 for 10GB)

Conclusion: Morocco Offers Exceptional Value in 2025

Morocco remains one of the world's best-value destinations, offering American travelers an exotic, culturally rich experience without the price tag of Europe or expensive Asian destinations. Whether you're traveling on a shoestring budget or seeking luxury experiences, Morocco delivers remarkable value across all price points.

The combination of affordable accommodations, inexpensive yet delicious food, and low-cost transportation makes Morocco an excellent choice for cost-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences. Even with occasional splurges on desert excursions or luxury riads, your overall budget will likely be lower than for comparable experiences elsewhere.

Ready to experience this affordable North African gem? Start planning your Moroccan adventure today, and discover firsthand how far your dollar can stretch in this captivating destination.

Have you visited Morocco? Share your experience with budgeting for this destination in the comments below!

  Check out our guide to the Best Time to Visit Morocco

  Is Morocco Safe for American Tourists? Real Travel Advice

  U.S. State Department Travel Information for Morocco