Morocco
Welcome to The Travel Tinker, where every path leads to a story and every destination is a new chapter in our book of unforgettable experiences. On this page we set our compass to the enchanting land of Morocco, a country that sits at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, blending the mystique of ancient civilisations with the pulse of modern life.
Morocco – a name that conjures images of labyrinthine souks, towering minarets, and vast desert landscapes. It’s a place where tradition weaves seamlessly into the fabric of everyday life, and where each city holds a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered. From the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the serene beauty of the Atlas Mountains, our journey promises to be a kaleidoscope of colours, flavours, and experiences.
Best Time To Visit
Morocco: Seasons at a Glance
Spring (March-May): Warm days, blooming landscapes, ideal for sightseeing & mountain treks.
Summer (June-August): Hot & dry, perfect for beaches & Sahara camping.
Autumn (Sept-Nov): Cooler & quieter, great for medinas, souks, and mountain hikes.
Winter (Dec-Feb): Ski season in the Atlas Mountains, mild city weather, good for off-season travel.
Which ever season you travel to Morocco it’s sure to be a fantastic time!
What To Expect
Capital: Rabat
Population: 37.08 million (2021)
Language: Morocco is a melting pot of languages. The most common language is Arabic, but many locals also speak French (most common), Spanish (in the north), Berber (indigenous populations) and English
Currency: The official currency in Morocco is called a dirham. 1 USD is equivalent to about 10 Moroccan dirhams and 8 dirhams is around £1 GBP. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: Many retailers and restaurants accept credit cards as payment, however, you will need cash for souk vendors and small shops. There are ATMs in major cities. A lot of places will now also accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google pay.
Plugs: Most plugs in Morocco are type C and type E. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Morocco is a safe country to travel to as long as you understand its laws and cultural customs, and adhere to the status quo. Its crime rates are relatively low but be aware of scam artists and pickpockets which can be common.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Morocco and reasons to visit Morocco. You can also find our recommended tours further down this page.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Morocco
Marrakech, known as the Red City, is famous for its historic medina and vibrant souks (markets). Wander through the maze-like streets, marvel at the array of spices, textiles, and artisan crafts. Don’t miss the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, bustling with storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers, especially vibrant at night.
2. Visit the Sahara Desert
A trip to the Sahara Desert is a must-do. Experience a camel trek through the rolling dunes, especially at sunset or sunrise for breathtaking views. Overnight stays in desert camps under the starlit sky offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, complete with traditional Berber hospitality and music.
Fes, one of the world’s largest walled cities, is a step back in time. Visit the medieval Medina of Fes el Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the old-world charm of its narrow streets, historic madrasas (Islamic schools), and the famous Chouara Tannery.
4. Enjoy the Coastal Town of Essaouira
Known for its relaxed atmosphere, Essaouira is a delightful contrast to Morocco’s bustling cities. Famous for its strong winds, it’s a haven for windsurfers and kitesurfers. The town also boasts a charming medina, beautiful beaches, and fresh seafood.
5. Hike in the Atlas Mountains
For nature lovers, the Atlas Mountains are a paradise. Offering stunning landscapes, it’s an ideal destination for trekking, mountain biking, and cultural tours to Berber villages. The region is also home to North Africa’s highest peak, Toubkal, which presents a challenging yet rewarding climb.
Morocco Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – MAD 80–150 / €7–14 / £6–12 / $8–15
- Hostel Private Rooms – MAD 200–400 / €18–36 / £16–32 / $20–40
- Budget Hotels – MAD 250–600 / €23–55 / £20–50 / $25–60
- Airbnb Private Rooms – MAD 150–400 / €14–36 / £12–32 / $15–40
- Airbnb Apartments – MAD 500+ / €46+ / £40+ / $50+
- Campsites – MAD 50–150 / €5–14 / £4–12 / $5–15
Transportation
- Local Bus or Tram Ticket – MAD 5–10 / €0.50–1 / £0.40–0.90 / $0.50–1
- City Taxi Ride (Short Distance) – MAD 10–30 / €1–3 / £0.90–2.50 / $1–3.50
- Intercity Bus (Marrakech to Fes) – MAD 100–250 / €9–23 / £8–20 / $10–25
- Train Ticket (Casablanca to Marrakech, one-way) – MAD 150–300 / €14–28 / £12–24 / $15–30
- Car Rental (per day) – MAD 300–700 / €28–65 / £24–55 / $30–70
Food
- Budget Meal (Street Food or Local Restaurant) – MAD 20–50 / €2–5 / £2–4 / $2–5
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – MAD 80–200 / €7–18 / £6–16 / $8–20
- Coffee – MAD 10–25 / €1–2.50 / £0.90–2 / $1–2.50
- Beer (0.5L local draft) – MAD 30–60 / €3–6 / £2.50–5 / $3–6.50
Activities
- Museum Entry (Bahia Palace, Jardin Majorelle, etc.) – MAD 20–80 / €2–7 / £2–6 / $2.50–8
- Guided Tours (Medina Tour, Atlas Mountains, etc.) – MAD 250–800 / €23–73 / £20–65 / $25–80
- Desert Safari or Camel Ride (Merzouga, Zagora, etc.) – MAD 300–1,000 / €28–92 / £24–80 / $30–100
- Hammam & Spa Experience – MAD 150–500 / €14–46 / £12–40 / $15–5
Morocco Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – MAD 250 / €23 / £20 / $25 Per Day
A backpacking budget in Morocco allows you to stay in hostel dorms, eat at local food stalls, and use cheap public transport like buses and shared taxis (petit taxis). Free and low-cost activities include wandering through medinas, exploring souks, and hiking in the Atlas Mountains.
- If you plan to drink alcohol, add MAD 30–80 (€3–7 / £2.50–6 / $3–8) per day.
- Save more by eating at street stalls, bargaining for everything, and walking instead of taking taxis.
Midrange – MAD 600 / €55 / £48 / $60 Per Day
A mid-range budget allows for a private room in a budget hotel or riad, meals at mid-range restaurants, and guided tours to attractions like the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech or the ruins of Volubilis.
- This budget also includes entry fees to historical sites, day trips to places like Essaouira or the Ourika Valley, and occasional taxi rides.
- A comfortable and immersive way to experience Morocco’s vibrant culture and history.
Upscale – MAD 1,500+ / €140+ / £120+ / $150+ Per Day
A luxury budget ensures a stay in high-end riads or resorts in cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Agadir. You can dine at top restaurants, take private guided tours to the Sahara Desert, and enjoy exclusive spa treatments at luxury hammams.
- This budget also covers private transportation, camel trekking in the desert, and flights between distant cities.
- Experience Morocco’s rich traditions, landscapes, and hospitality with maximum comfort.
Morocco Money-Saving Tips
Morocco is a budget-friendly destination, but costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. From bargaining in souks to choosing the right transport, here’s how to stretch your budget while making the most of your trip:
1 – Bring a Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water in Morocco isn’t always safe to drink, so bring a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to save money and reduce plastic waste.
2 – Take Free Walking Tours – Many cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca offer free walking tours of the medinas. They’re a great way to learn about Moroccan culture—just remember to tip your guide.
3 – Eat at Local Street Stalls – Skip touristy restaurants and eat at local food stalls in medinas. Dishes like tagine, harira soup, and msemen are delicious and cost only MAD 10–30 (€1–3 / £0.90–2.50 / $1–3.50).
4 – Stay with Locals via Couchsurfing – Couchsurfing is popular in Morocco, offering free accommodation and insider tips from locals on hidden gems and affordable places to eat.
5 – Sleep in Hostels or Riads – Hostels from Hostelworld in Morocco are cheap and social, while budget riads (traditional guesthouses) offer an authentic Moroccan stay for less than a hotel. Use Booking.com for Riads.
6 – Walk Everywhere – Morocco’s medinas and old towns are compact, making them perfect for exploring on footand saving on transport costs.
7 – Use Shared Taxis and Buses – Instead of taking private taxis, use petit taxis for short distances and shared grand taxis or CTM buses for intercity travel, which are cheaper and more reliable.
8 – Bargain for Everything – Haggling is expected in Morocco, especially in souks, taxis, and markets. Never accept the first price! Start at half or even a third of the quoted price and negotiate from there.
9 – Enjoy Free Attractions – Many of Morocco’s best experiences are free, from wandering through colorful medinas to hiking in the Atlas Mountains and enjoying the beaches of Essaouira.
10 – Travel Off-Season – Visit Morocco in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) for cheaper hotels, fewer tourists, and better prices on tours and transport.
How to Get Around in Morocco
Morocco has a well-developed and affordable transport network, making it easy to travel between cities, navigate medinas, and explore the Sahara Desert. Here’s how to get around efficiently and on a budget.
Walking
Moroccan cities, especially Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen, have pedestrian-friendly medinas. Walking is often the best way to explore souks, historic sites, and hidden alleys, but be mindful of traffic and motorbikes in busy areas.
Public Transportation
Morocco offers affordable and convenient public transport options, including buses, trams, and shared taxis.
- Trams (Casablanca & Rabat) – The tram system is clean, modern, and budget-friendly, with tickets costing MAD 6 (€0.55 / £0.50 / $0.60) per ride.
- Local Buses – Operated by several companies, local buses in major cities cost around MAD 4–7 (€0.40–0.65 / £0.35–0.60 / $0.40–0.70) but can be crowded and slow.
- Shared Grand Taxis – These are a faster and more convenient alternative to buses, operating on set routes for MAD 5–20 (€0.50–2 / £0.40–1.80 / $0.50–2.50).
Airport Transfers
- From Marrakech Menara Airport to the Medina – A taxi should cost MAD 80–150 (€7–14 / £6–12 / $8–15), but always negotiate before the ride.
- From Casablanca Mohammed V Airport to the City – The train is the cheapest and best option, costing MAD 40 (€3.70 / £3.30 / $4). Taxis charge MAD 250–350 (€23–32 / £20–28 / $25–35).
- Recommended Airport Transfer: Welcome Pickups
Taxis & Ride-Sharing
- Petit Taxis (City Taxis) – Short rides within cities start at MAD 7 (€0.65 / £0.60 / $0.70), with additional charges per kilometer. Insist on using the meter to avoid overpaying.
- Bolt & InDriver (Ride-Sharing Apps) – These are available in cities like Casablanca and Marrakech and are often cheaper and more reliable than taxis.
Buses & Intercity Travel
Long-distance buses are the most budget-friendly way to travel between cities, operated by CTM and Supratours.
- Marrakech to Fes – MAD 150–300 (€14–28 / £12–24 / $15–30) (7–8 hours).
- Casablanca to Chefchaouen – MAD 120–250 (€11–23 / £10–20 / $12–25) (5–6 hours).
- Marrakech to Merzouga (Sahara Desert) – MAD 250–400 (€23–37 / £20–33 / $25–40) (12 hours).
Trains
Morocco’s train system, operated by ONCF, is one of the best in Africa. The high-speed train (Al Boraq) between Casablanca and Tangier is a popular option.
- Casablanca to Marrakech – MAD 150–300 (€14–28 / £12–24 / $15–30) (3 hours).
- Casablanca to Tangier (Al Boraq High-Speed Train) – MAD 150–350 (€14–32 / £12–28 / $15–35) (2 hours).
Car Rental
- Renting a car is a great way to explore rural areas like the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara, and coastal roads. Prices start at MAD 250–700 (€23–65 / £20–55 / $25–70) per day.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, and driving in cities can be hectic and challenging.
- Recommended Car Rental: DiscoverCars Morocco
Cycling
- Morocco is not very bike-friendly in urban areas, but cycling is popular in smaller towns and desert regions.
- Bike rentals in areas like Essaouira, Dades Valley, and the Atlas Mountains cost around MAD 50–150 (€5–14 / £4–12 / $5–15) per day.
Morocco has affordable transport options for every traveler. Whether you choose buses, trains, shared taxis, or car rentals, knowing how to navigate efficiently will enhance your travel experience.
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