Complete Morocco Transportation Guide

Getting around Morocco is part of the adventure. From modern high-speed trains to colorful grand taxis, this comprehensive guide covers all your transportation options with practical tips for smooth travels.

Overview of Transport Options

| Mode | Best For | Cost | Comfort | Speed | Flexibility | |------|----------|------|---------|-------|-------------| | Train | Major city connections | Low-Medium | High | Fast | Low | | Bus | All destinations | Low | Medium | Medium | Medium | | Grand Taxi | Shared regional trips | Low-Medium | Low-Medium | Fast | Medium | | Petit Taxi | Within cities | Low | Medium | Medium | High | | Rental Car | Flexibility, remote areas | High | High | Medium | Very High | | Domestic Flights | Long distances quickly | Medium-High | High | Very Fast | Low | | Private Driver | Comfort, convenience | High | Very High | Medium | Very High |

Trains (ONCF)

Morocco's train system is modern, efficient, and comfortable - the best way to travel between major cities.

Train Network Coverage

Main Routes:

• Casablanca ↔ Tangier (High-speed Al Boraq)
• Casablanca ↔ Marrakech
• Casablanca ↔ Fes
• Casablanca ↔ Rabat
• Fes ↔ Oujda (eastern Morocco)
• Marrakech ↔ Tangier (via Casablanca)

NOT Connected by Train:

• Chefchaouen
• Sahara Desert (Merzouga, Zagora)
• Essaouira
• Agadir
• Southern Morocco
• Atlas Mountain towns

Al Boraq High-Speed Train

Morocco's Pride: Africa's first high-speed train (2018)

Route: Tangier ↔ Casablanca (320 km)

Travel Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (vs. 4.5 hours on old train)

Speed: Up to 320 km/h

Stops:

• Tangier
• Kenitra
• Rabat (Agdal station)
• Casablanca (Voyageurs station)

Classes:

• First Class: Comfortable seats, quiet, spacious (€30-40)
• Second Class: Good seats, affordable (€20-25)
• Business/Comfort: Extra legroom, outlets (€40-50)

Features:

• Modern, clean
• Air-conditioned
• WiFi available
• Cafe car
• Toilets
• Quiet and smooth

Regular Trains

Classes:

• 1st Class: Air-conditioned compartments, comfortable seats
• 2nd Class: Adequate seats, can be crowded
• Couchette: Overnight sleeper option (some routes)

Sample Routes & Times:

| Route | Duration | Frequency | Approx. Cost (2nd Class) | |-------|----------|-----------|-------------------------| | Casablanca - Marrakech | 3 hours | 8-10 daily | 90 MAD ($9) | | Casablanca - Fes | 4 hours | 6-8 daily | 100 MAD ($10) | | Casablanca - Tangier | 5.5 hours | 4-6 daily | 110 MAD ($11) | | Rabat - Marrakech | 4 hours | Several daily | 100 MAD ($10) | | Fes - Meknes | 45 min | Many daily | 25 MAD ($2.50) |

Booking Train Tickets

Online:

• ONCF website: www.oncf.ma
• Mobile app available
• Credit card payment
• E-ticket to phone
• Book 7-60 days in advance

At Station:

• Ticket windows
• Automated machines (French/Arabic)
• Cash or card
• Buy same day or advance

Tips:

• Book high-speed train in advance (can sell out)
• Regular trains rarely sell out
• Weekend trains busier
• First class worth it for comfort on long trips
• Arrive 15-30 minutes early

Train Travel Tips

Pros:

• Comfortable and reliable
• Scenic routes (especially Casablanca-Marrakech)
• Affordable
• Safe
• On-time generally
• Can walk around, use bathroom
• Cafe car on many trains

Cons:

• Limited network (doesn't go everywhere)
• Some routes infrequent
• Can be delayed (though rare)
• Crowded during holidays

Insider Tips:

• Sit on left side Casablanca-Marrakech for best views
• Bring snacks/water (cafe car expensive)
• First class rarely full (upgrade at station if 2nd class packed)
• Guard your belongings
• Download tickets offline
• Check platform (quai) - can change last minute

Buses

Buses reach everywhere trains don't - essential for many destinations.

Bus Companies

CTM (Premium)

Quality: Best bus company in Morocco Network: Major cities and tourist destinations Fleet: Modern, comfortable coaches Features:

• Air conditioning
• Reclining seats
• Onboard bathroom
• Luggage storage
• Refreshments
• Assigned seating

Cost: Slightly more expensive (20-30% premium over others)

Booking:

• Online: www.ctm.ma
• At CTM stations
• Advance booking recommended

Popular Routes:

• Marrakech - Essaouira: 3 hours, 80 MAD ($8)
• Marrakech - Fes: 7 hours, 150 MAD ($15)
• Fes - Chefchaouen: 4 hours, 75 MAD ($7.50)

Supratours

Quality: Excellent, run by national rail (ONCF) Purpose: Connect train stations to cities without trains Fleet: Modern, clean buses Features: Similar to CTM Booking: Through ONCF website or Supratours stations

Key Routes:

• Marrakech - Essaouira (train feeder)
• Marrakech - Agadir
• Nador - Fes

Other Companies

Cheaper alternatives:

• Satas
• Ghazala
• Trans Ghazala
• Regional companies

Quality: Varies widely Cost: 30-50% cheaper than CTM Trade-offs:

• Older buses
• No AC sometimes
• More crowded
• Less reliable schedules
• No guaranteed seat

Bus Travel Tips

Booking:

• CTM: Book 1-2 days ahead (online or station)
• Other companies: Usually same-day OK
• High season: Book further ahead
• Bring passport (required for ticket)

At the Station:

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Luggage will be tagged and stored underneath
• Get luggage claim ticket
• Board when called

During Journey:

• Keep valuables with you
• Bathroom breaks at rest stops
• Bring snacks and water
• AC can be very cold (bring layer)
• Motion sickness medicine if prone

Safety:

• Generally very safe
• Night buses less comfortable but OK
• Keep bag close
• Don't leave phone/wallet in seat pocket

Taxis

Morocco has two distinct taxi systems - it's important to understand the difference.

Petit Taxis (Small Taxis)

What They Are:

• Small cars (usually Dacia Logan or Fiat)
• Licensed for within-city transport only
• Color-coded by city:
  • Red: Marrakech, Rabat
  • Blue: Fes, Meknes
  • Light blue: Rabat
  • Red: Casablanca
  • Blue: Chefchaouen
  • Various colors in different cities

How They Work:

• Metered (supposed to use meter)
• Maximum 3 passengers
• Short trips within city
• Cannot leave city limits
• Can pick up additional passengers en route

Cost: Very cheap

• Base fare: 7 MAD ($0.70)
• Per km: ~1.50 MAD ($0.15)
• Average trip: 15-30 MAD ($1.50-3)
• 50% surcharge after 8pm

How to Use:

1. Hail on street - Raise hand
2. Tell destination - Before getting in
3. Ensure meter running - Say "Compteur, s'il vous plaît"
4. Pay at destination - Round up slightly as tip

Common Issues:

Refusing to Use Meter:

• Insist on meter: "Bel compteur" or "Avec compteur, s'il vous plaît"
• If refuses, negotiate price first or find another taxi
• Never pay more than 2-3x meter price

Won't Go to Destination:

• Legal in Morocco (drivers can refuse)
• Just find another taxi

Picking Up Other Passengers:

• Common practice
• You still pay full fare for your journey
• Can refuse if uncomfortable

Tips for Petit Taxis:

• Use meter (most important rule!)
• Have small bills (they "never" have change)
• Know rough cost (ask hotel staff)
• Use app (Careem, Heetch in major cities)
• Most are honest - don't assume scam

Grand Taxis (Big Taxis/Shared Taxis)

What They Are:

• Larger cars (usually old Mercedes sedans)
• Licensed for intercity/regional transport
• Shared with 6 passengers
• Usually operate from designated taxi stands
• Color varies by region (often cream/beige)

How They Work:

• Fixed routes between cities
• Leave when full (6 passengers)
• Can pay for multiple seats to leave sooner
• Luggage on roof rack
• No schedule - continuous departures

Seating:

• 4 passengers in back (very cramped!)
• 2 in front passenger seat
• Driver
• Choose your spot when boarding

Cost:

• Cheaper than bus per person
• Pay per seat
• Can buy multiple seats for comfort
• Negotiate before boarding

Example Routes:

• Marrakech - Essaouira: 60-80 MAD/person ($6-8)
• Fes - Meknes: 20-25 MAD ($2-2.50)
• Tangier - Tetouan: 30 MAD ($3)
• Casablanca - Rabat: 30-40 MAD ($3-4)

How to Use:

1. Find grand taxi station (Gare des grands taxis)
2. Announce destination
3. Negotiate price (if not posted)
4. Wait for taxi to fill (or pay for empty seats)
5. Claim your luggage at arrival

Tips:

• Arrive early morning for quickest departures
• Avoid back middle seat (most cramped)
• Buy 2 seats if you want comfort
• Agree on price before getting in
• Keep luggage ticket if they give one

Ride-Hailing Apps

Available in Major Cities:

Careem:

• Most popular in Morocco
• Like Uber
• Available in Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Tangier
• Set prices (no negotiation)
• Pay in-app or cash
• English language option
• Reliable

Heetch:

• Alternative to Careem
• Slightly cheaper sometimes
• Similar features

Benefits:

• No meter disputes
• See price before booking
• Driver rated
• GPS-tracked route
• Cashless option
• Less hassle than street taxis

Note: Regular petit taxis are often cheaper, but apps offer more convenience and transparency.

Rental Cars

Renting a car offers maximum flexibility but comes with challenges.

When to Rent

Good Idea For:

• Visiting remote areas (Atlas Mountains, small kasbahs)
• Traveling with family/group (split cost)
• Wanting flexible schedule
• Multiple destinations not on public transport
• Privacy and comfort
• Travelers comfortable with adventurous driving

Not Recommended For:

• First-time Morocco visitors
• Solo budget travelers
• Uncomfortable with chaotic traffic
• Cities only (parking nightmare, traffic)
• Those nervous about assertive driving

Rental Companies

International:

• Hertz
• Avis
• Europcar
• Sixt
• Budget

Local:

• Thrifty
• First Car
• Various local agencies

Where to Rent:

• Airports (most convenient, slightly expensive)
• City offices
• Online booking (cheapest, reserve ahead)

Costs

Daily Rates:

• Small car: $25-40/day
• Medium car: $35-60/day
• SUV/4x4: $60-100/day

Includes:

• Basic insurance (CDW)
• Unlimited mileage (usually)
• Taxes

Additional Costs:

• Full insurance: $15-25/day (recommended!)
• GPS: $10/day (use phone instead)
• Additional driver: $5-10/day
• Fuel: ~14 MAD/liter ($5.50/gallon)
• Tolls: Highways are tolled (reasonable)
• Parking: 5-20 MAD/hour in cities

Total Realistic Cost: $50-80/day including insurance and fuel

Requirements

• Age: 21+ (sometimes 23+)
• License: Valid driver's license from home country
• International Driving Permit: Officially required (rarely checked, but carry it)
• Credit Card: For deposit (1,000-3,000 MAD hold)
• Passport: For identification

Driving in Morocco

Road Conditions:

Highways (Autoroutes):

• Excellent condition
• Tolled
• Fast and safe
• Connect major cities

Major Roads:

• Generally good
• Some potholes
• Mountain roads can be winding

Rural Roads:

• Vary widely
• Potholes common
• Animals on road
• Poor lighting

Traffic Rules (In Theory):

• Drive on right side
• Speed limits:
  • City: 40-60 km/h
  • Rural: 80-100 km/h
  • Highway: 120 km/h
• Seat belts mandatory
• No phone while driving
• Drinking and driving illegal

Traffic Reality:

• Rules are... flexible
• Lane markings are suggestions
• Honking is communication
• Assertive driving required
• Expect the unexpected
• Animals, carts, motorcycles everywhere
• Pedestrians cross anywhere
• Roundabouts are chaotic

Survival Tips:

1. Drive defensively - Assume everyone might do anything
2. Use horn - It's normal communication
3. Be assertive - Hesitation causes confusion
4. Night driving - Avoid! Poor lighting, animals, crazy drivers
5. In medinas - Park outside, don't attempt driving in
6. Parking attendants - Everywhere, tip 5-10 MAD
7. Police checkpoints - Common, have license/papers ready
8. Mountain roads - Take your time, honk at blind curves

Fuel:

• Gas stations everywhere on main routes
• Diesel and unleaded available
• Attendants pump (tip 5 MAD)
• Pay cash or card
• ~14 MAD/liter

Parking:

• Official parking lots in cities
• Street parking with attendants (gardien)
• Always tip attendant: 5 MAD short term, 10-20 MAD overnight
• They "watch" your car
• Don't leave valuables visible

Insurance

Basic (Included):

• Third-party liability
• CDW (collision damage waiver) with high deductible

Recommended:

• Super CDW/Full Coverage: Reduces deductible to zero
• Cost: $15-25/day
• Worth it given driving conditions

Credit Card Coverage:

• Check if your card covers rental cars
• Usually doesn't cover Morocco or has exclusions
• Get rental company insurance anyway

Domestic Flights

When to Consider:

• Limited time
• Very long distance (e.g., Marrakech to northern Morocco)
• Want to avoid long drives

Main Routes:

• Casablanca ↔ Marrakech (30 min vs. 3-hour train)
• Casablanca ↔ Agadir (45 min vs. 6-hour drive)
• Marrakech ↔ Fes (1 hour vs. 7-hour drive/bus)
• Tangier ↔ Agadir

Airlines:

• Royal Air Maroc (national carrier)
• Air Arabia (budget)

Costs:

• $50-150 depending on route and booking time
• Often cheaper than rental car for 2+ people
• Factor in airport transfers

Tips:

• Book directly with airline
• Compare with train/bus + time saved
• Factor in airport transfer times (can negate time savings)
• Baggage fees on budget airlines

Private Drivers

When Worth It:

• Groups of 3-4+ people (cost splits)
• Want comfort and flexibility
• Multi-day road trips
• Remote destinations
• Limited time
• Want local knowledge

Cost:

• Full day: $100-200 depending on distance
• Multi-day: $100-150/day + driver accommodation
• Sahara desert trips: $150-250/day

Advantages:

• Door-to-door service
• Flexible itinerary
• Local guide included (often)
• No driving stress
• Stops where you want
• English-speaking usually

How to Arrange:

• Through your riad/hotel
• Online tour companies
• Local tour operators
• Trip advisor reviews essential

Transportation for Specific Routes

Marrakech to Fes

Options:

1. Train: 7-8 hours, 100-150 MAD ($10-15) - Comfortable, scenic
2. Bus (CTM): 7-8 hours, 150 MAD ($15) - Similar to train
3. Flight: 1 hour, $80-150 - Fast but factor in airport time
4. Private driver: 1 day, $150-200 - Flexible, can stop at attractions
5. Self-drive: 6-7 hours - Flexibility, see sights en route

Recommendation: Train or private driver with stops

Marrakech to Sahara (Merzouga)

Options:

1. Multi-day tour: Most popular, $150-400 - Everything included
2. Bus: 10+ hours, multiple buses, ~$25 - Long and tiring
3. Self-drive: 2 days recommended - Lots to see en route
4. Private driver: $200-300 for 3-day trip - Comfortable

Recommendation: Organized tour or private driver

Marrakech to Essaouira

Options:

1. CTM Bus: 2.5-3 hours, 80 MAD ($8) - Best value
2. Supratours: Similar to CTM
3. Grand taxi: 2.5 hours, 60-80 MAD/person - Faster, less comfortable
4. Private transfer: 2.5 hours, $80-120 - Most comfortable
5. Self-drive: 2.5-3 hours - Good coastal road

Recommendation: CTM bus (easy, cheap, comfortable)

Casablanca to Chefchaouen

Options:

1. Train to Tangier + CTM bus: 6-7 hours total, ~$20 - Most comfortable
2. CTM direct bus: 6 hours, $12-15 - Long journey
3. Self-drive: 4-5 hours - Scenic mountain route

Recommendation: Train + bus combo or self-drive

Getting Around Cities

Marrakech

Medina: Walk (car-free) Ville Nouvelle: Petit taxis or walk To Gueliz from Medina: 15-20 minute walk or taxi Apps: Careem available

Fes

Medina: Walk only (largest car-free area in world) Ville Nouvelle: Petit taxis Between medina and new town: Taxi (20 MAD)

Casablanca

Tramway: Excellent, modern, cheap (6 MAD) Petit taxis: Everywhere Apps: Careem, Heetch

Tangier

Compact: Walkable Petit taxis: For longer distances To/from ferry: Taxi or walk

Essaouira

Everything walkable - Very compact No need for transport within town

Budget Comparison (Marrakech to Fes Example)

| Option | Cost (Solo) | Cost (2 People) | Time | Comfort | |--------|-------------|-----------------|------|---------| | Train 2nd | $10 | $20 | 7-8 hours | Medium | | Train 1st | $15 | $30 | 7-8 hours | High | | CTM Bus | $15 | $30 | 7-8 hours | Medium | | Budget Bus | $8 | $16 | 8-9 hours | Low-Medium | | Flight | $100 | $200 | 1 hr flight + transfers | High | | Rental Car | $60 | $60 | 6-7 hours | High | | Private Driver | $180 | $180 | 6-7 hours + stops | Very High |

Final Transportation Tips

1. Book intercity transport in advance - Especially peak season
2. Bring passport - Required for bus tickets, checkpoints
3. Download offline maps - Google Maps works well
4. Learn key phrases - Helps with taxis and buses
5. Expect delays - Transport rarely on exact time
6. Guard belongings - Especially on buses
7. Use Careem in cities - Easier than street taxis
8. Grand taxis are safe - Don't be afraid to use them
9. Petit taxis must use meter - Insist on it
10. Consider travel time in itinerary - Morocco is bigger than it looks!

Morocco's transport system, while sometimes chaotic, is generally safe, affordable, and covers the entire country. Mix different modes depending on your route and preferences. The journey is part of the Moroccan experience!