Cheapest African countries to visit in 2025: 5 budget-friendly options

For those seeking affordable adventures, certain African countries stand out for their low cost of living, inexpensive transportation, and budget-friendly accommodations. You can travel for under $50 per day in many of these destinations, making for a cheap vacation for budget-conscious adventurers.

While Africa is affordable for many visitors, it is important to remember to travel responsibly. Many regions experience economic inequality, so buying local, supporting local guides, and engaging in cultural experiences directly with residents are all great ways to contribute to the continent’s economy while enjoying a budget-friendly adventure.

Below, we list five of the cheapest African countries to visit in 2025, where you can get the most for your dollar while positively contributing to the local economy. In our breakdown, you’ll find daily costs, flight prices, why they are affordable, and specific budget travel tips for each destination.

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Morocco

Morocco is a vibrant and diverse country that bridges North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe – a history-rich three-region gateway. Known for its bustling souks, stunning desert landscapes, spice-rice cuisine, and rich history, Morocco is also one of the most affordable African destinations for travelers. 

Whether you are haggling for a bargain in the maze-like medinas of Marrakech or relaxing in the free-to-explore, blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, Morocco offers a high-value travel experience at a low cost:

• Average daily budget: $35–$60
• Return flights: One of the cheaper African countries to fly to from the list, flights from the US can start from around $600–$900, depending on the season.
• Why it’s cheap:
  • Affordable local food: Moroccan street food, such as tagine, couscous, and harira soup, costs between $3 and $5 per meal.
  • Cheap public transport: Morocco has a well-connected and affordable transportation system, including trains, buses, and shared taxis that cost far less than renting a private car.
  • Low-cost attractions: Many of Morocco’s best attractions, such as medinas, souks, waterfalls, and historical mosques, have no entry fees.

Egypt

Egypt is a historical and cultural powerhouse filled with ancient pyramids, temples, and the legendary Nile River. Beyond its world-famous landmarks, Egypt is surprisingly affordable, with a daily budget of around $20, making it one of the best-value destinations in Africa. 

From making the most of the Pyramids of Giza’s low entry costs to taking a budget-friendly Nile cruise, Egypt offers incredible experiences that suit many budgets:

• Average daily budget: $30–$45
• Flight costs: Flights from the US start from around $700–$1,000, depending on the time of year and demand.
• Why it’s cheap:
  • Low-cost street food: Local meals like koshari, falafel, and ful medames cost between $2 and $5.
  • Affordable lodging: Hostels and guesthouses in Cairo and Giza start at $10 per night.
  • Low-cost attractions: Many attractions, like the Khan el-Khalili market and the Nile River promenade, have no entry fees.

Ghana

Known for its friendly locals, historic sites, and beautiful beaches, Ghana is an incredibly hospitable country that can be explored with low-cost food, transport, and accommodations – think hostels for around $20! 

Whether you are exploring Accra’s arts scene, visiting the Cape Coast Slave Forts, or trekking through the rainforests of Kakum National Park, Ghana offers an amazing cultural experience on a budget:

• Average daily budget: $25–$40
• Flight costs: Flights from the US can start from around $800–$1,200, depending on what time of year you fly.
• Why it’s cheap:
  • Affordable food: Meals like jollof rice and fried plantains cost $2–$5.
  • Cheap transport: Public transport options, such as trotros (shared minibuses), cost under $1 per ride.
  • Budget accommodations: Guesthouses and hotels start at $15–$25 per night.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia offers unique cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and an ancient history that dates back thousands of years. It is perfect for budget travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure that yields great currency conversions for US travelers.

The country is home to the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the Simien Mountains, and ancient Axumite ruins, and is one of the cheapest African countries to visit, with daily travel budgets as low as $20.

• Average daily budget: $20–$50
• Flight costs: During certain times of the year, flights​​ from the US can start from around $900–$1,300.
• Why it’s cheap:
  • Low-cost coffee culture: A cup of traditional Ethiopian coffee costs as little as $0.50.
  • Budget transport: Minibuses and shared taxis cost less than $1 per ride.
  • Cheap accommodations: Guesthouses start at $10 per night.

Tanzania

Tanzania is home to stunning beaches, world-class safaris, and Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the most affordable destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers, who can be flexible with their transportation and accommodation options – two major cost-saving points. 

Whether you want to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, explore Zanzibar’s turquoise beaches, or hike Kilimanjaro, Tanzania is an affordable African adventure:

• Average daily budget: $40–$60
• Flight costs: Flights from the US can start from around $1,000–$1,500, depending on the season.
• Why it’s cheap:
  • Affordable safaris: Tanzania is cheaper than other African countries for wildlife experiences, especially in Ngorongoro Crater.
  • Budget beach escapes: Zanzibar offers affordable beachside guesthouses.
  • Cheap street food: Dishes like Ugali and Nyama Choma cost $2–$6 per meal, with some items costing as little as $0.50!

How to save money while traveling in Africa

Selecting the cheapest African countries to visit isn’t the only way to cut costs on your next trip. Here are the three most practical ways to save money while exploring the continent:

1. Travel like a local

Avoid expensive taxis and rental cars – use public transportation instead. Most African countries have cheap and reliable minibuses, shared taxis, and motorbike taxis (boda-bodas in East Africa or tuk-tuks in some regions). For longer distances, opt for budget-friendly intercity buses rather than flights. Not only will this save money, but it will also give you a more authentic experience of local life.

Plus, by choosing local travel options like tuk-tuks or boda-bodas, you ensure your dollars are going directly to the people who transport you.

2. Bargain at markets and avoid tourist traps

In many African countries, prices at markets and bazaars are negotiable. Vendors often start with a higher price, expecting travelers to haggle. Politely negotiating can cut costs by 30-50%. Additionally, avoid souvenir shops in tourist-heavy areas – local markets usually have the same items at a fraction of the price.

It’s worth noting not to haggle too hard, though. Even if you slightly overpay for goods at a market, you’re making an ethical contribution to sustain the stall owner’s business.

3. Choose budget accommodations and campsites

Many African destinations offer budget guesthouses, backpacker hostels, and even community-run lodges at affordable rates. If you’re on safari or visiting nature reserves, camping is often the cheapest option, allowing you to experience Africa’s wildlife up close. Websites like Couchsurfing and Workaway also connect travelers with locals, offering free or low-cost accommodations.

With the money you save on room fees, you can leave a tip or contribution to the locals who lend you a helping hand along the way!

Peace of mind on a budget with the Holafly Africa eSIM

It would be deflating to follow these cost-saving tips and return home to find a gigantic data roaming bill waiting for you. 

One way to avoid excessive roaming fees while staying connected during your trip to your chosen African destination is to choose an eSIM with unlimited data.

The Holafly Africa for eSIM gives you peace of mind as you travel across the continent. It offers unlimited data, up to 5G speeds, and mobile hotspots in 28 countries. 

You can use Google Maps as you go, book affordable transport in advance, and Facetime your family in the evenings for as little as $5.35/day.

It’s an excellent option for budget travelers looking for seamless connectivity during their African getaway!

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