Planning a trip to Morocco allows you to combine exoticism with a moderate budget. Moreover, the advantage of departing from France with only a few hours of flight is a strong argument.
This guide on Morocco offers you all the tips for a successful trip. It provides important warnings, a budget estimate, potential itineraries, and the best route in Morocco.
Visiting Morocco: which season to choose?
The seasons reflect those of France, with only a one-hour time difference in summer, and one hour less during Ramadan. Due to the different routes one might take, the climate can vary considerably. This makes it difficult to determine the ideal time to visit Morocco. One certainty, however, is the rarity of rainfall.
In reality, it is possible to visit Morocco at any time of the year. It should be noted that December and January are a bit cooler, limiting the pleasures of the pool and the beach. On the other hand, July/August is very hot, with temperatures easily reaching 50 degrees in southern Morocco.
Ultimately, each season has its advantages. In spring, Morocco reveals its most magnificent vegetation, with flowering argan trees in May, making it the best time to discover varied landscapes. In summer, nature turns yellow and the desert unfolds all its splendor. Winter brings a freshness conducive to hiking. Autumn offers sunny days, but with milder temperatures.
How to go about booking your flight to Morocco?
Optimizing your trip to Morocco also involves booking your flight well in advance. For those planning to travel during the high season, flight prices tend to be higher. To find the best deal, it is recommended to use a flight comparison tool.
You should also remember to check the validity of your passport (French nationals do not need a visa). Depending on the chosen itinerary, it is possible to opt for Agadir, Marrakech, or Ouarzazate as the arrival airport. Once there, you can contact this car rental company which has agencies all over Morocco.
How much should you budget to travel to Morocco?
For a better getaway, it is wise to organize your stay in this country with an average budget. The cost of the flight between France and Morocco ranges from 100 to 300 euros depending on the airline. It is recommended to buy your tickets in advance to get the best rates.
How much to budget for a night in Morocco?
The traveler’s location plays an important role in the price of a standard double room in Morocco. In urban areas, you can find Bed and Breakfasts as well as guesthouses at affordable prices. Regarding the desert, it has become a trendy destination, which has led to a price increase in recent years.
Prices have increased considerably, going from 20 euros per night for a luxury hotel to exorbitant prices for some. Therefore, you should budget at least 50 euros for a night in the desert and 20 euros in urban areas.
Moreover, the Riads of Marrakech are often sumptuous, but the costs are also high. By searching carefully and booking well in advance, one might find more affordable options. Enjoying the rooftops and the pool in the heart of the bustling city center can be an exceptional experience.
What budget should be allocated for food during a road trip in Morocco?
Eating in Morocco is affordable, and every tourist can afford to eat at a restaurant every day without greatly affecting their food budget. Moreover, the cuisine is delicious. A meal can cost between 20 and 150 dirhams, approximately 2 to 14 euros.
Even in a high-end restaurant, one would not spend more than 40 euros. This is quite different from France. Additionally, during a road trip, it is common to stop in the middle of nowhere. For these occasions, it is advisable to buy cheap snacks from the grocer.
What budget is needed for the stay of two travelers?
The currency used in Morocco is the Dirham, and it should be noted that about 1 euro equals 10 dirhams. From lively markets to camel caravans moving through the desert, a budget of around 900 euros should be planned.
This can cover a week in Morocco for two people. Each traveler must therefore monitor their expenses while having the possibility to afford some extras. Thus, they can enjoy an expedition in the Moroccan desert or a night in a splendid riad in Marrakech. For the budget in Morocco for two people, one should plan approximately:
- 50 euros per night for accommodation;
- 30 euros per day for meals;
- 25 euros per day for car rental.
There will thus remain 165 euros to fully enjoy exploring the gardens of Marrakech. This can also be useful for a camel ride or savoring a delicious meal in a hotel with a pool.
What arrangements should be made regarding expenses in Morocco?
It is recommended to have cash on hand before venturing too far south in the country, as ATMs are less frequent in this region. It is better to avoid using your card for small expenses to prevent accumulating bank fees with each transaction. One can also opt for a bank card without foreign fees, which is another good reason to prepare your trip to Morocco well in advance.
For trips made outside busy tourist periods (outside school holidays or during Ramadan), one can benefit from substantial discounts on usual rates. It is advisable to negotiate prices during the low season. Furthermore, to better understand the level of expenses, it is important to note that the average monthly salary in Morocco is about 200 euros. In contrast, in France, it is 2640 euros.
In conclusion
Preparing a trip to Morocco offers an exotic experience while maintaining a moderate budget. The diversity of seasons and landscapes allows choosing the period that best suits one’s preferences. Booking your flight in advance and managing expenses wisely are essential tips to make the most of your stay.
