Traveling to Morocco requires planning for daily expenses and understanding the local currency. The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), which is a closed currency, meaning it cannot be purchased outside the country and must be exchanged upon arrival. It is illegal to import or export Dirhams.
For budgeting, a mid-range traveler can expect to spend approximately $50-$100 USD per day, covering accommodation, meals, local transportation, and sightseeing. Budget travelers can manage on $25-$50 per day by staying in hostels and eating at local markets, while luxury travel can easily exceed $200 per day. Major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca are generally more expensive than rural areas.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shops in urban centers. However, cash remains essential for smaller vendors, markets (souks), taxis, and in rural locations. It is advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns for withdrawing Dirhams.
When exchanging money, it is best to use official banks, authorized exchange bureaus, or ATMs for the most competitive rates. Exchanging money on the street is not recommended due to the risk of fraud. Tipping is customary for good service in restaurants, with guides, and for drivers, typically around 10%.
