Growing up, watching movies helped me imagine life beyond the four walls of my living room, taking me to places I could only imagine.
If you ever dreamed of floating 1,000 meters above the earth, hoisted by a balloon like Carl in Pixar Animation’s movie Up, or wandering through bustling, colorful markets like the fashion-forward quad in Sex and the City 2, Marrakech, Morocco, is the perfect destination for your real-life adventure.
Experiencing those big-screen adventures doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In Morocco, affordability meets wonder. Let me show you how I spent three days exploring Morocco for less than $250 USD. Check out my three-day itinerary.
Day 1: Sunset Agafay Desert: Camel Ride, Dinner & Fire Show
My mom, sister, and I arrived in Marrakech bright and early on a Sunday morning in late February. The air was cool and crisp. Our Airbnb host arranged transportation from the airport to our riad, a traditional Moroccan house, where we were graciously welcomed with Moroccan mint tea. Our host also arranged for a private chef to cook lunch for us as we settled into the three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath house. After eating a freshly prepared lunch, we browsed a few shops in the Medina on our way to the pickup location for our first adventure.
We joined a group of international travelers who were just as eager as we were to explore the Agafay Desert – a magical place where the Atlas Mountains served as the perfect backdrop to the rocky terrain. Upon arrival, we were greeted with more Moroccan mint tea (are you noticing a trend?) at a shop where locals made authentic argan oils, butters, and soaps. We continued on to take in the majestic views of the desert and learn about Morocco’s history. Excitement peaked when our group rode camels (dromedaries) as the daylight began to fade. Just before the sun dipped below the horizon, we gathered for a delicious Berber meal prepared by locals, danced under the stars, and enjoyed a spectacular fire and light show.
Cost: ~$32 pp
Transportation: Included
Food: Moroccan tea and dinner, included
Day 2: Luxury Hot Air Balloon Flight & Royal Berber Breakfast
We rose before dawn to experience the flight of a lifetime. Our driver picked us up around 5:15 AM and transported us, along with other early risers, to the launch site. A team greeted us with (you guessed it) hot Moroccan mint tea and pastries. Then, the show began. We watched the crew prepare the multi-colored balloons for liftoff as we listened carefully to safety instructions we would need throughout the flight.
The hot-air balloon ride was seamless. Before we knew it, we had ascended into the air and were floating 1,000 meters above sea level. The flight was a picturesque 45-minute ride over Marrakech. After a smooth landing, drivers took us back to the welcome site, where we received a flight certificate and enjoyed a delicious traditional Berber breakfast.
Cost: ~$114 pp
Transportation: Included
Food: Moroccan tea, pastries, and traditional berber breakfast
Sequins, Spices, and a Stroll at the Souks
After the hot air balloon experience, we were ready to shop in the Souks – the same marketplace where Carrie ran into her old flame, Aidan, in Sex and the City 2.
Where love and fashion collided for Carrie, the clash we were most excited about was between culture and style. Shopping was a great way to learn about Moroccan culture, embrace it, and consume it – literally.
What did I fall in love with while shopping? I bought dresses, argan oil, fabrics, handbags, and babouches (Moroccan leather slippers).
We could have shopped all day, but at some point you realize you can only hold so much. By then, it was time to take a break from shopping, change into our new Moroccan threads, and head to our next tour.
Jardin Majorelle, YSL Museum, Berber Museum
If you’re someone who loves botanical gardens and fashion, visiting the Jardin Majorelle and YSL Museum is a must. The landscape is breathtaking, and the fashion exhibits are truly inspiring.
Shops and restaurants line the pathway to the garden, so give yourself time to explore the area. You can grab a bite to eat and explore shops and perfumeries. While you can book this experience with a guide, we decided to purchase tickets directly through the website to allow maximum flexibility. Getting from the Medina to the garden by taxi was seamless.
Costs: ~$89 pp with guide | ~$37* pp when you book direct
Transportation: Included when you book with a guide
Food: Not included
Day 3: Casablanca Day Tour from Marrakech
On day three, we left the bustling roads of Marrakech for the quiet streets and pristine shores of Casablanca. The ten-hour excursion featured multiple stops, including the Hassan II Mosque – the third largest mosque in the world. The mosque was built in 1993 to honor the current king’s late father, King Hassan II. It sits right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, a beautiful and poetic position for a magnificent structure, designed with intention and charm.
From there, we explored historic cathedrals, enjoyed lunch, and ended the day at Plage d’Aïn Diab, where I rode a beautiful horse named Warda along the shore.
Cost: ~$53 pp
Transportation: Included
Food: Not included
Grand total: $236*
Rates are seasonal and subject to change.
Ready to embark on the trip of a lifetime? Morocco is a majestic wonder that inspires you to dream and create moments that feel like a movie. It brings out your main character energy, all while setting you up for love and connection: with that special someone, with friends, with family, or with yourself.