There's so much to do in Marrakech for free like wandering the narrow, high-walled alleys of the old town Medina, and visiting Jemaa el-Fna, a carnivalesque square that comes alive in the evening with food stalls, snake charmers, storytellers, and musicians. Marrakech has affordable lodging — staying in a traditional home is less than $80 a night.

Marrakech, Morocco

Visiting the Egyptian Museum and seeing the Pyramids are surprisingly affordable at about $9 each. Khan El-Khalili, a colorful market that is especially alluring at night, or Al Azhar Park which includes 75 acres of greenery, walking paths, and water features are both worth visiting, and metro fares around Cairo max out at just $0.30.

Cairo, Egypt

Mombasa in Kenya is a vibrant port with museums, beaches, artwork, mosques, cathedrals, and Hindu temples, and a Portuguese colonialism stronghold from the 16th century called Fort Jesus, with entry costing less than $10. Wandering around the UNESCO World Heritage site Mombasa's Old Town is free, but the experience is priceless.

Mombasa, Kenya

Formerly part of the Roman Empire, Tunisia is filled with Roman ruins, and its capital, Tunis, is a fascinating place to visit with mosques, markets, and a vibrant street life. Budget travelers will appreciate the low cost of eating here, with tasty street food dishes costing about $3.25.

Tunis, Tunisia

The music scene is very much alive in Dakar, Senegal, and the entry fee to most of the upscale nightclubs with live entertainment is only $8. The city also has a bustling street food scene, and intrepid diners can try super-cheap fare like the empanada-style fataya, or the shrimp roll crevette beignet, for less than $3.

Dakar, Senegal