29-Day Northern Africa & Oceania Classic Highlights: Morocco, Egypt & Australia in January
This 29-day epic journey redefines budget backpacking, spanning the majestic landscapes of Northern Africa and the untamed wilderness of Northern Oceania. We start in the labyrinthine streets of Rabat and Tunis, move through the timeless wonders of Cairo, and finally leap across the globe to the tropical summer of Australia’s Northern Territory. This is a trip designed for the resilient traveler who values local street food over fine dining and hostel camaraderie over luxury hotels.
By traveling in January, you leverage the low season in Northern Australia and the crisp, clear winter days of the Mediterranean. With an average daily living cost of just USD 23.26, we focus on free walking tours, government-subsidized transit, and the world's most iconic monuments. Pack your layers for the African breeze and your waterproofs for the Aussie monsoon—this is the ultimate test of a global nomad.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Rabat, Morocco - Arrival & Atlantic Views
Arrive at Rabat-Salé Airport
Clear customs and take the local airport bus (Line 6) for a fraction of the cost of a taxi into the city center.
Kasbah of the Udayas
Wander through this 12th-century fortress. Entry is free, and the blue-and-white streets offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Hassan Tower
Visit the iconic minaret of an incomplete mosque, a symbol of Rabat. The grounds are free to enter and perfect for photography.
Street Food at the Medina
Grab a bowl of Harira soup and some fresh Khobz bread for under $2 at a local stall near Bab El Had.
Day 2: Rabat, Morocco - Ancient Ruins & Modern Capital
Chellah Necropolis
Explore the ruins of a Roman and medieval Muslim necropolis. It is one of the most affordable historic sites in the country.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V
A masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture. Entry is free, provided you dress modestly.
Andalusian Gardens
Relax in these lush, free public gardens within the Kasbah, featuring orange trees and traditional irrigation channels.
Parliament Street Walk
Walk down Avenue Mohammed V to see the colonial architecture and the heartbeat of Morocco’s political center.
Day 3: Rabat to Casablanca, Morocco - Coastal Transit
ONCF Train to Casablanca
Take the regional train from Rabat Ville. It’s cheap, frequent, and takes only an hour.
Hassan II Mosque Exterior
Marvel at the world's tallest minaret. While the tour is paid, walking the massive sea-front plaza is free and breathtaking.
Corniche Walk
Stroll along the Atlantic coast. Watch the locals play football on the beach as the sun begins to set.
Marché Central Dinner
Eat fresh grilled sardines with the locals at the central market for a few dollars.
Day 4: Casablanca, Morocco - Art Deco & Local Life
Art Deco Architecture Tour
Conduct a self-guided walk around Place Mohammed V to see the French colonial influence on Moroccan design.
Parc de la Ligue Arabe
A recently renovated green lung in the city. Perfect for a budget picnic with local cheese and olives.
Quartier Habous
The 'New Medina' built by the French. It’s cleaner and quieter than the old medina, great for window shopping.
Night Coffee at Place des Nations Unies
Join the coffee culture. A single espresso lasts an hour and costs less than $1.50.
Day 5: Casablanca to Marrakech, Morocco - The Red City
CTM Bus to Marrakech
Opt for the CTM bus for a reliable and affordable 3.5-hour journey across the plains.
Koutoubia Mosque
The largest mosque in Marrakech. You can't go in as a non-Muslim, but the surrounding rose gardens are free.
Jemaa el-Fnaa
Enter the world-famous square. Watching the street performers and storytellers is free, but keep your hands in your pockets!
Stall 14 Fried Fish
Join the locals at the night market stalls for the legendary cheap fried fish platter.
Day 6: Marrakech, Morocco - Hidden Palaces
Bahia Palace
A 19th-century palace showcasing Islamic and Moroccan style. Entry fees are low for the level of detail you see.
Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
Walk through the historic spice markets. The atmosphere here is different from the main Souks and often cheaper for snacks.
The Tannery District
Watch the ancient process of leather dyeing. Beware of 'guides' offering free tours—they will ask for money at the end.
Cyber Parc
A free, high-tech park with public Wi-Fi and beautiful fountains near the city walls.
Day 7: Marrakech, Morocco - Souk Exploration
Souk Semmarine
Dive into the heart of the labyrinth. Focus on the metalworking and basket-weaving sections for the best visual experience.
Ben Youssef Madrasa
An Islamic college featuring incredible tilework. It is one of the most historically significant sites in the city.
Bab Agnaou
The most beautiful of the nineteen gates of Marrakech. A free architectural site from the 12th century.
Hostel Rooftop Tea
Enjoy mint tea on your hostel rooftop to hear the call to prayer echoing across the city.
Day 8: Marrakech to Tunis, Tunisia - Crossing North Africa
Flight to Tunis
Take a budget flight (often via Casablanca) to the capital of Tunisia. This is the fastest way to bridge the two regions.
Check-in at Tunis Medina
Drop your bags at a traditional Dar (hostel) within the UNESCO-listed Medina.
Zitouna Mosque
The oldest mosque in Tunis. View the courtyard and the stunning exterior architecture.
Lablabi Dinner
Try Tunisia's famous chickpea stew. It's the ultimate filling, cheap backpacker meal.
Day 9: Tunis, Tunisia - The Ruins of Carthage
TGM Train to Carthage
Take the ancient TGM commuter train for a few cents to the Carthage Salammbo station.
Antonin Baths
The largest Roman baths outside of Rome. Most of the structure is open-air and offers great sea views.
Byrsa Hill
Visit the site of the ancient Punic citadel and the Saint Louis Cathedral for a panoramic view of Tunis.
Carthage Museum Grounds
Wander the outdoor sculpture gardens containing artifacts from three millennia of history.
Day 10: Tunis, Tunisia - Sidi Bou Said Blue & White
Walk through Sidi Bou Said
This cliffside village is famous for its blue doors and white walls. Walking the streets is entirely free.
Café des Délices Viewpoint
You don't have to buy a coffee to enjoy the view from the nearby public stairs overlooking the Gulf of Tunis.
Ennejma Ezzahra Palace
Visit the exterior of this Neo-Moorish palace. The gardens are often accessible for a small fee.
Bambalouni Snack
Eat a fresh Tunisian donut covered in sugar while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
Day 11: Tunis, Tunisia - Bardo & Modern Tunis
Bardo National Museum
Home to one of the world's largest collections of Roman mosaics. It is housed in an old Beylic palace.
Avenue Habib Bourguiba
Walk the 'Champs-Élysées' of Tunis. It is lined with colonial buildings and the Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul.
Belvédère Park
Tunis' largest park. Walk up to the Koubba for a hidden view of the city that tourists rarely see.
Dinner at a 'Gargote'
Look for these small local eateries serving 'Brik' (crispy pastry with egg) for less than $1.
Day 12: Tunis to Cairo, Egypt - To the Nile
Flight to Cairo
Board your morning flight to Cairo International. Welcome to the largest city in Africa.
Check-in at Downtown Cairo
Choose a high-ceilinged hostel in the Talaat Harb area for that vintage Egyptian feel.
Qasr el-Nil Bridge
Join the locals for a sunset stroll across the bridge to see the Nile feluccas in action.
Koshary Abou Tarek
Eat Egypt's national dish (lentils, rice, pasta) at its most famous venue for about $2.
Day 13: Cairo, Egypt - The Great Pyramids
Giza Plateau
Take the Cairo Metro to Giza and then a short microbus ride to the Pyramids entrance. Avoid the camel touts.
The Great Sphinx
Walk down from the pyramids to visit the Sphinx. This is included in your main gate ticket.
Pyramid View Lunch
Eat at a local shawarma shop in Giza village overlooking the pyramids for local prices.
Sound and Light Show (From a distance)
Many hostel rooftops in Giza offer a free view of the laser show without the expensive ticket.
Day 14: Cairo, Egypt - Egyptian Museum & Tahrir
The Egyptian Museum (Tahrir)
Explore the pink palace containing Tutankhamun’s treasures. It is a labyrinth of history.
Tahrir Square
Walk through the heart of modern Egyptian history, now beautifully lit and renovated.
Garden City Walk
Wander the winding, tree-lined streets of this colonial-era neighborhood, home to many embassies.
Falafel Dinner
Grab a 'Ta'ameya' sandwich from a street cart for less than 50 cents.
Day 15: Cairo, Egypt - Islamic Cairo
Saladin Citadel
Visit the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. The Citadel offers the best view of the Cairo skyline.
Khan el-Khalili
The 14th-century bazaar. While touristy, walking through the historic 'Wiks' is a free sensory overload.
Al-Azhar Park
Built on a former landfill, this park offers lush greenery and views of the Citadel. Small entry fee.
Al-Muizz Street
Walk the most concentrated street of medieval Islamic architecture in the world as the lights turn on.
Day 16: Cairo to Alexandria, Egypt - Mediterranean Charm
Wagon-Lits Train to Alexandria
Take the frequent and cheap express train from Ramses Station to Alexandria.
Citadel of Qaitbay
Located on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse. Walking around the base and the harbor is free.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Visit the exterior of this stunning modern library. You can enter the reading rooms for a small fee.
Corniche Walk
Walk the 15km promenade. Stop for a 'Gelato' and enjoy the Mediterranean breeze.
Day 17: Alexandria, Egypt - Catacombs & Columns
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
Explore this multi-level Roman burial site. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.
Pompey's Pillar
A massive triumphal column and the surrounding ruins of the Serapeum. Accessible by local tram.
Alexandria National Museum
Learn about the city's Greek, Roman, and Islamic past in a beautifully restored villa.
Grilled Liver Sandwiches
Try 'Kebda' at a local street stall near the train station for a true Alexandrian experience.
Day 18: Alexandria to Luxor, Egypt - Into the South
Train back to Cairo & South
Return to Cairo to catch the overnight train or a budget flight to Luxor.
Luxor Temple
Visit this temple located right in the city center. It is most beautiful at dusk when the lights go on.
Local Ferry to West Bank
Take the public ferry across the Nile. It costs pennies and offers great views.
Rooftop Dinner
Many West Bank hostels offer home-cooked Egyptian meals for a low fixed price.
Day 19: Luxor, Egypt - Valley of the Kings
Cycle to the Valley of the Kings
Rent a bicycle on the West Bank. It’s the cheapest way to reach the archaeological sites.
Temple of Hatshepsut
The mortuary temple of Egypt's most famous female pharaoh, built into the limestone cliffs.
Colossi of Memnon
Two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. They are completely free to visit by the roadside.
Medinet Habu
A less-visited but incredibly preserved mortuary temple of Ramesses III. Great for budget explorers.
Day 20: Luxor, Egypt - Karnak Greatness
Karnak Temple Complex
Walk through the Great Hypostyle Hall. This is the largest religious building ever constructed.
Avenue of Sphinxes
Walk the newly opened 3km path connecting Karnak to Luxor Temple. A massive open-air museum.
Luxor Museum
A smaller, well-curated museum on the Corniche. Perfect for escaping the afternoon heat.
Nile Felucca Ride
Pool your money with other hostel travelers to rent a sailboat for an hour at sunset.
Day 21: Luxor to Cairo, Egypt - Last Day in Africa
Bus to Cairo
Take a long-distance GoBus back to Cairo. It’s cheaper than the train and very comfortable.
Coptic Cairo
Visit the Hanging Church and the cavern where the Holy Family is said to have stayed. Entry is free.
Fustat Market
A more relaxed market than Khan el-Khalili, focused on pottery and traditional crafts.
Final Egyptian Tea
Sip tea at Fishawy’s, a cafe that has been open for over 200 years.
Day 22: Cairo to Darwin, Australia - The Great Leap
International Transit
Depart for Darwin. This will be a long travel day, typically connecting through Singapore or Doha.
Arrival in Darwin
Take the airport shuttle to your hostel in the Mitchell Street backpacker district.
Day 23: Darwin, Australia - Tropical Northern Capital
Darwin Waterfront
Swim in the protected wave lagoon or the man-made beach. It's a safe way to cool off from the humidity.
Museum and Art Gallery of the NT
Completely free entry. See the Cyclone Tracy exhibit and "Sweetheart" the massive crocodile.
George Brown Botanic Gardens
Explore the tropical flora of Northern Australia. The self-guided walks are free and shaded.
Mindil Beach Sunset
Even if the market isn't on (it's seasonal), the sunset at Mindil is a free daily ritual for locals.
Day 24: Darwin, Australia - WWII History
WWII Oil Storage Tunnels
Explore the tunnels built after the Darwin bombings. A unique and affordable history lesson.
Parliament House Tour
Take a free guided tour of Northern Territory’s Parliament House (check schedule in advance).
Bicentennial Park
A long strip of parkland overlooking the Beagle Gulf. Perfect for a budget grocery-store lunch.
Mitchell Street Nightlife
Darwin’s backpacker hub. Look for 'Backpacker Specials' at the bars for cheap meals and drinks.
Day 25: Darwin to Litchfield, Australia - Day Trip
Litchfield National Park
Carpool with other hostel guests to split the cost of a car rental to Litchfield.
Florence Falls
Swim in the double waterfalls. In January, the water is warm and the rainforest is incredibly lush.
Magnetic Termite Mounds
See the massive structures built by termites, perfectly aligned north-south to stay cool.
Wangi Falls
A massive plunge pool. Note: Check park alerts as some swimming holes close during heavy rain.
Day 26: Darwin, Australia - Coastal Trails
East Point Reserve
A great place to spot wild wallabies in the early morning or late afternoon. Free to enter.
Fannie Bay Gaol
A historic prison that operated for 100 years. Now a museum with free entry.
Nightcliff Foreshore Walk
Join the joggers and cyclists along the coast. It’s the best way to see the 'real' Darwin.
Coles/Woolworths Dinner
Cook a communal meal at the hostel. Food prices in Australia are high, so DIY is essential.
Day 27: Darwin to Berry Springs, Australia - Nature Soak
Berry Springs Nature Park
A beautiful series of thermal pools. It's closer to Darwin than the national parks and very budget-friendly.
Territory Wildlife Park
While this has an entry fee, it's one of the best places to see the Top End's fauna in one spot.
Humpty Doo
Stop for a photo with the world's largest boxing crocodile statue in this quirky rural town.
Hostel Trivia Night
Most Darwin hostels run free social events with cheap prizes to keep guests entertained.
Day 28: Darwin, Australia - Hidden Urban Gems
Street Art Walk
Explore the laneways of Darwin CBD to see the world-class murals from the Darwin Street Art Festival.
Charles Darwin National Park
Home to mangroves and WWII bunkers. Offers a great view back towards the city skyline.
St Mary’s Star of the Sea Cathedral
A unique octagonal cathedral built from local stone and timber, reflecting the local culture.
Last Aussie Barbecue
Use the free public BBQs at the waterfront for one last budget feast with your travel mates.
Day 29: Darwin, Australia - Final Farewell
Last Minute Souvenirs
Visit the local charity shops (Op-Shops) for cheap, unique Australian souvenirs and clothes.
Deckchair Cinema Grounds
While movies cost money, the grounds and views are lovely for a final tropical afternoon.
Transfer to Airport
Head back to the airport via the budget shuttle bus for your onward journey or flight home.
Departure
Reflect on a month of crossing cultures and continents on a shoestring budget.
Best Time to Visit Africa & Oceania
The best time to visit North Africa (Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt) is between October and April, when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring ruins. January is the peak of winter; expect daytime temperatures of 15-20°C and chilly nights. In Northern Oceania, particularly Northern Australia, January is the 'Wet Season' (Monsoon). While it is humid and rainy, it is the most beautiful time for waterfalls, and flights and accommodation are at their cheapest. Be prepared for occasional tropical storms and stunning lightning displays.
Visas & Border Crossings
Most Western travelers can obtain an e-visa or visa-on-arrival for Egypt and Morocco. Tunisia is often visa-free for up to 90 days. For Australia, you must apply for an eVisitor (subclass 651) or an ETA online before you depart. Note that crossing from Africa to Australia requires a long-haul flight, often with a layover in Asia (Singapore or Dubai). Ensure you have proof of onward travel, as Australian immigration is strict on budget travelers.
Getting Around Africa & Oceania
In North Africa, the most cost-effective travel is by train (ONCF in Morocco, ENR in Egypt) or long-distance bus (CTM or GoBus). These are reliable, cheap, and connect all major hubs. Crossing between African countries is best done via budget regional airlines like Royal Air Maroc or Tunisair. In Northern Australia, Darwin is best explored by local bus or by splitting car rentals with other backpackers to reach national parks like Litchfield. Budget airlines like Jetstar are the primary way to move between Oceania's distant hubs.
