Transportation in Morocco: How to get arround

Navigating Between Cities: Long-Distance Travel

Connecting Morocco’s imperial cities, coastal towns, and mountain gateways is an experience in itself. The country offers a surprisingly efficient and diverse network of long-distance transport options, each with its own character, cost, and level of comfort. From modern high-speed trains to the shared adventure of a grand taxi, here’s how to journey across the kingdom.

Trains (ONCF): The Comfortable & Scenic Choice

Morocco’s national railway, the ONCF, is one of the best in Africa, offering a reliable, comfortable, and often picturesque way to travel between major urban centers. Trains are generally punctual and provide a relaxing alternative to road travel, allowing you to watch the diverse landscapes of rolling hills, olive groves, and coastal plains unfold from your window.

Key Routes & The Al Boraq High-Speed Train

The core network connects the main imperial cities, running from Marrakech in the south through Casablanca and Rabat, up to Fes and Meknes, with a northern spur to Tangier. This makes it the ideal choice for a classic Morocco itinerary. For the journey between Tangier and Casablanca, Morocco boasts Africa’s first high-speed train, Al Boraq. This sleek, modern train cuts travel time dramatically, completing the trip in just over two hours and offering a smooth, world-class travel experience.

Classes: First Class vs. Second Class

You’ll typically have two choices on Moroccan trains. First Class offers pre-assigned seating in a quiet, air-conditioned compartment of six, providing more legroom and personal space. Second Class is more communal, with open-plan carriages and unassigned seating. While perfectly comfortable for shorter journeys and more budget-friendly, it can get crowded during peak hours. On Al Boraq, both classes are a significant step up in comfort and feature power outlets and modern amenities.

How to Book Your Train Ticket

Booking is straightforward. You have a few options:

• Online: The official ONCF website is the most convenient way to book in advance, check schedules, and secure your seat, especially for popular routes or First Class.
• At the Station: Every station has ticket counters (guichets) and often self-service kiosks. Staff are generally helpful, but it’s wise to have your destination and desired time written down.
• Booking in Advance: For major holidays (like Eid) or popular routes (e.g., Marrakech to Fes), booking a day or two ahead is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

Buses: The Budget-Friendly Backbone

Where the train tracks end, the bus network begins. Buses are the workhorse of Moroccan transport, connecting virtually every city, town, and village. The quality can vary wildly, so it pays to know which company to choose.

Premier Bus Companies: CTM & Supratours

For most travelers, CTM and Supratours are the go-to choices. These premier companies operate modern, air-conditioned fleets that are reliable, safe, and comfortable. They offer the significant advantages of assigned seating (so there’s no scramble for a spot), fixed schedules, and professional service. CTM is the national carrier with an extensive network, while Supratours is run by the railway company and strategically fills gaps in the train network, often with combined train-plus-bus tickets available to destinations like Essaouira or the Sahara. They usually operate from their own clean, well-organized terminals, separate from the general chaos of the main bus station.

Local Buses: The Truly Local (and Chaotic) Experience

Beyond the premier lines, you’ll find a dizzying array of local bus companies. These are significantly cheaper and offer a raw, authentic slice of Moroccan life. However, be prepared for a different standard of travel: buses can be old, crowded, and may lack air conditioning. They often make frequent, unscheduled stops to pick up passengers and goods along the way, making journeys much longer.

Booking and Station Tips

Most cities have a central bus station, or gare routière. This is often a hectic hub of activity with different companies shouting their destinations. To avoid confusion, head directly to the dedicated ticket window for your chosen company (like CTM). It’s always a good idea to buy your ticket at least a few hours—or even a day—in advance, especially for popular long-distance routes.

Grand Taxis: The Shared Adventure

The grand taxi is a quintessential Moroccan experience. These are typically large, older Mercedes sedans that operate as shared, long-distance taxis on fixed routes between towns and cities.

How They Work and When to Use Them

Grand taxis fill a crucial niche, connecting destinations not served by trains or major bus lines, or offering a faster (if more cramped) alternative for shorter inter-city hops. They congregate at designated ranks, often near bus stations. The rule is simple: the taxi departs when all six passenger seats are filled (four in the back, two in the front passenger seat). This is the perfect option for reaching smaller Atlas Mountain villages or connecting two nearby towns without waiting for an infrequent bus.

Pricing: Understanding Per-Seat Fares vs. Hiring the Whole Taxi

You have two ways to pay. The most common is paying for a single seat (par place). The price is a fixed, standard rate per person for that specific route. Alternatively, if you want to leave immediately or desire more comfort and privacy, you can hire the entire taxi by paying for all six seats. This is a common practice for travelers and the price is often open to a bit of friendly negotiation.

Etiquette and Tips

Using a grand taxi comes with its own set of unwritten rules and expectations:

• Be prepared to wait. The departure time is entirely dependent on when the taxi fills up.
• Don’t expect air conditioning. Windows down is the standard method of climate control.
• Travel light if you can. Luggage space in the trunk is finite and shared among all passengers.
• The front passenger seat is often considered the most comfortable (and worth waiting for, if you have the patience).

Getting Around Town: Urban Transportation

Once you’ve arrived in a Moroccan city, a new set of transportation options opens up. From the ubiquitous city taxis to modern trams, navigating the urban landscape is an experience in itself. Each city has its own rhythm, and choosing the right transport can make all the difference in your exploration.

Petit Taxis: The City Staple

The “petit taxi,” or small taxi, is the lifeblood of urban transport in Morocco. These are small, three-passenger cars that operate strictly within city limits. You can’t hire one to take you to the next town over; that’s the job of the “grand taxi.”

• How to Spot Them: Each city has its own designated color for petit taxis, making them easy to identify. Look for the fleet of bright red cars in Marrakech and Casablanca, sky blue in Rabat, and a lighter blue in Tangier.
• The Meter is Your Friend: Officially, all petit taxis are required to use the meter, or “compteur” in French. Before getting in, or immediately after, politely confirm with the driver: “avec compteur?” If the driver refuses or claims it’s broken, it’s often best to simply get out and find another taxi. Agreeing to a fixed price beforehand almost always results in paying a higher tourist fare.
• Hailing and Common Fares: You can hail a petit taxi on the street just as you would in many other countries. If the taxi is available, the driver will pull over. They are also allowed to pick up other passengers heading in the same general direction, so don’t be surprised if you end up sharing your ride. A typical short trip across a medina or to a nearby neighborhood should only cost between 15 and 30 MAD.
• Night Surcharges: Be aware that after around 8:00 PM, a 50% surcharge is legally added to the metered fare. This is standard practice, so expect the final price to be higher for evening travel.

Ride-Sharing Apps: Modern Convenience Meets Tradition

While the traditional taxi system still dominates, ride-sharing apps have gained a foothold, offering a familiar alternative for many travelers. They blend modern technology with the local transport scene, though they operate in a slightly different way than you might be used to.

• Available Apps: The most common apps are Careem (an Uber subsidiary) and InDrive. InDrive is particularly popular as it allows you to offer a fare and have drivers accept or counter-offer, introducing a negotiation element.
• Where They Work: Availability is concentrated in the largest cities, primarily Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech. You’ll have less luck finding a ride in smaller towns or rural areas.
• Pros & Cons: The main advantages are the upfront, fixed pricing (no meter haggling) and the convenience of cashless payment through the app. However, availability can be spotty compared to the sheer number of petit taxis on the road, and you might experience longer wait times, especially during peak hours.

Trams: Sleek & Modern City Links

For a glimpse into modern Morocco, look no further than the clean and efficient tramway systems. They offer a fantastic way to glide through the busiest parts of town while avoiding gridlock traffic on the streets below.

• Cities with Trams: Currently, you can enjoy this modern convenience in Casablanca and the twin cities of Rabat-Salé. The networks are well-designed to connect key business districts, residential areas, and points of interest.
• How to Use Them: Using the tram is straightforward. You can purchase a rechargeable card or a single-use ticket from the automated machines at any tram stop (they have English language options). Once you have your ticket, you must validate it at the small posts on the platform before boarding the tram.
• Why It’s a Great Option: Trams are reliable, affordable, and exceptionally clean. They run on a predictable schedule and allow you to bypass the often-congested city streets, making them one of the most efficient ways to cover longer distances within the city.

Local City Buses: For the Adventurous Traveler

For those on a strict budget or seeking a truly unfiltered local experience, the city bus network is an option. It’s a system used daily by residents and offers a look into the everyday life of the city.

• Pros: The primary advantage is the cost. A bus ticket is extremely cheap, often just a few dirhams, making it the most economical way to get around.
• Cons: The downsides can be significant for a first-time visitor. Buses are frequently crowded, especially during rush hour. Routes can be difficult to decipher, as maps and schedules at bus stops are often minimal or only in Arabic.
• Who Should Use Them: This mode of transport is best suited for budget-conscious, independent travelers who have ample time, a good sense of direction, and a dose of patience. If you’re on a tight schedule or easily overwhelmed, it’s better to stick with petit taxis or trams.

The Freedom of the Open Road: Renting a Car

For the independent traveler, the idea of renting a car in Morocco is incredibly tempting. It conjures images of winding through the Atlas Mountains at your own pace, discovering a forgotten kasbah down a dusty road, or pulling over for a mint tea in a village not listed in any guidebook. This freedom is absolutely achievable, but it comes with a unique set of challenges. Driving in Morocco is an adventure in itself, and it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before you take the keys.

Should You Rent a Car in Morocco?

Deciding whether to rent a car depends entirely on your itinerary and your comfort level with assertive driving. For some, it’s the key to unlocking the country’s hidden gems; for others, it’s an unnecessary stress. Here’s a balanced look to help you decide.

The Pros: The Allure of Autonomy

• Ultimate Flexibility: You are the master of your schedule. Linger over a scenic viewpoint, take an impromptu detour to a local market, or change your entire day’s plan on a whim. You’re not tied to a train or bus timetable.
• Access to Remote Areas: Public transport is excellent between major cities, but it won’t take you to the heart of the Dadès Valley, a secluded Atlantic beach, or deep into the Rif Mountains. A car gives you access to the parts of Morocco that lie off the beaten path.
• Personal Comfort and Pace: Traveling with family, carrying extra luggage like surfboards, or simply preferring your own private space makes a rental car a far more comfortable option. You can stop whenever you need and travel at a pace that suits you.

The Cons: The Realities of the Road

• Aggressive City Driving: Navigating major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, or Fes can be an intense experience. The flow of traffic includes a constant stream of scooters, pedestrians, horse-drawn carts, and cars that treat lane markings as mere suggestions. It requires a high level of confidence and assertive driving.
• Medinas are Strictly No-Go Zones: Let’s be clear: you cannot and should not ever attempt to drive into an ancient medina. These labyrinthine old cities were built centuries before cars existed. Park your car outside the walls and explore on foot.
• Police Checkpoints: While not a major problem, frequent police checkpoints can be intimidating for first-time visitors. They are a standard part of driving in Morocco (more on this below).

Essential Rental & Driving Tips

If you’ve decided to embrace the adventure, a little preparation will ensure a smoother journey. From paperwork to unwritten road rules, here’s what you need to know.

Required Documents

Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork on hand before you arrive at the rental counter. You will need:

• Your valid driver’s license from your home country, held for at least one year.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP). While some rental agencies might not ask for it, it is officially required by law in Morocco and is essential if you are stopped by the police.
• Your passport for identification.
• A credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted for this.

Choosing an Agency

You’ll find both large international brands and smaller local companies. International agencies (like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar) generally offer newer vehicles, more straightforward insurance policies, and multi-language support, often at a higher price. Local companies can provide better value, but it’s crucial to read recent reviews, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage (and take photos), and carefully review the insurance contract and excess amount.

Navigating Moroccan Roads

Driving outside the chaotic cities is generally a pleasant experience, with well-maintained toll highways connecting major hubs. On smaller roads, however, you should be prepared for anything.

• Roundabouts: The official rule is to give priority to traffic already in the roundabout (coming from your left), but in practice, it’s a game of assertiveness. Proceed with caution and assume no one will yield.
• Road Signs: Most signs are in both Arabic and French, making them easy for many international visitors to understand. Speed limits are clearly posted and should be respected.
• Unwritten Rules: A quick flash of the headlights from an oncoming car often means there is a police checkpoint or a hazard ahead. A horn is used less in anger and more as a way of saying, “I am here.” Always be vigilant for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the road, especially in rural areas.

Police Checkpoints

You will encounter numerous police or Gendarmerie Royale checkpoints, usually on the entry and exit routes of towns and cities. There is no need to feel anxious about them; they are a routine and normal part of driving in Morocco.

If you see a checkpoint, slow down significantly. An officer will either wave you through or signal for you to pull over. If stopped, simply be polite, smile, and have your documents ready (car rental agreement, your license, IDP, and passport). The officers are typically professional and, as long as your papers are in order and you haven’t been speeding, the check will be quick and you’ll be on your way in a minute or two. It’s a formality, not a cause for concern.

Unique & Regional Transport Options

Beyond the standard network of trains and buses, Morocco offers unique modes of transport that are often essential for reaching its most spectacular landscapes and are experiences in themselves. From rugged desert tracks to the narrowest medina alleys, these options provide a deeper connection to the country’s diverse terrain and traditions.

4x4s & Private Drivers: For the Mountains and Desert

When your itinerary includes the dramatic peaks of the Atlas Mountains or the sweeping dunes of the Sahara Desert, a standard rental car simply won’t suffice. The unpaved roads, or pistes, require a robust vehicle and a knowledgeable driver.

• When It’s Necessary: A 4×4 is indispensable for exploring off-the-beaten-path routes, reaching remote kasbahs, and navigating the desert landscapes around Merzouga or Zagora. It’s a matter of both access and safety.
• Hiring a Driver vs. a Tour: Hiring a private driver with a 4×4 offers unparalleled flexibility. You can set your own schedule, stop for photos whenever you wish, and tailor the route to your interests. A group tour, by contrast, is more affordable and structured but offers less personal freedom. The choice depends on your budget and desire for an independent experience.
• What’s Included: A multi-day private hire typically includes the vehicle, fuel, and the driver’s fee, food, and accommodation. Your own meals and lodging are usually separate. Discuss all inclusions clearly before finalizing an agreement to ensure there are no surprises.

Calèche: The Tourist’s Horse-Drawn Carriage

In cities like Marrakech, Meknes, and Taroudant, the gentle clip-clop of hooves is a familiar sound. The calèche, or horse-drawn carriage, offers a romantic and leisurely way to see the city sights.

• Purpose: Think of a calèche ride not as practical transport from point A to B, but as a scenic tour. It’s an ideal way to circle the city ramparts, explore the Palmeraie in Marrakech, or simply enjoy a different perspective of the city at a relaxed pace.
• Essential Tip: To ensure a pleasant experience, you must agree upon the price, the exact route, and the duration of the ride before you get in. This simple step prevents any misunderstandings or disputes about the fare at the end of your journey.

Mules & Donkeys: The Original Medina Movers

Long before cars and trucks, mules and donkeys were the backbone of Moroccan logistics, a role they still play in certain parts of the country. They are a living link to a more traditional way of life.

• Functional Transport: In the labyrinthine, car-free medinas of cities like Fes, mules and donkeys remain essential. They are the delivery vans of the old city, expertly navigating impossibly narrow alleys to transport everything from construction materials to fresh produce. Observing them at work is a fascinating glimpse into the medina’s inner workings.
• As a Tourist Experience: For travelers, the most common interaction with these animals is during treks in the Atlas Mountains. Mules are often hired to carry luggage and supplies, allowing hikers to tackle the mountain trails with only a light daypack. It makes multi-day treks accessible and provides vital income for local communities.

Essential Tips for Hassle-Free Travel

Booking in Advance vs. On the Spot

A little planning can go a long way in Morocco, but so can a dose of spontaneity. Knowing when to book ahead and when to go with the flow is key to a smooth journey. Generally, the more fixed the schedule and the more popular the route, the wiser it is to book in advance.

• Book Ahead When: Traveling during peak seasons (summer and major holidays like Eid), for popular first-class train routes (especially the Al Boraq high-speed train), and for long-distance CTM or Supratours buses on weekends or major inter-city routes. Booking a day or two in advance is often sufficient.
• Be Spontaneous When: Using grand taxis (which leave when full), catching local city buses, or taking short, less popular train journeys in second class. For these, you can simply show up at the station and buy a ticket for the next departure.

The Art of Negotiation

Bargaining is a part of the commercial fabric in Morocco’s souks, and this sometimes extends to transportation. However, it’s crucial to know when it is appropriate and when it is not. Attempting to negotiate a fixed price will only cause confusion and frustration.

• Negotiation is Expected: When hiring a grand taxi for a private journey (i.e., paying for all six seats), arranging a price for a calèche (horse-drawn carriage) tour, or if a petit taxi driver claims their meter is “broken” (en panne). In the last case, agree on a price before you start moving, or simply find another taxi.
• Prices are Fixed: For all train tickets (ONCF), major bus lines (CTM, Supratours), modern trams, and any petit taxi that is properly using its meter (compteur). The price you see is the price you pay.

Safety & Common Scams

Morocco is a welcoming country, and most transport experiences are perfectly safe and straightforward. However, like anywhere, it pays to be aware of your surroundings and a few common issues, particularly in larger tourist cities.

• The “Broken” Meter: The most common taxi scam. Some petit taxi drivers might claim the meter doesn’t work to charge an inflated flat rate. Politely insist on the meter or, if they refuse, feel free to find another taxi. There is usually another one just a moment away.
• The Scenic Route: Less common, but some drivers might take an unnecessarily long route to increase the fare on the meter. Having a map app open on your phone can help you keep track and discreetly show the driver you know the way.
• Unofficial “Guides”: At bus and train stations, you may be approached by men offering to help you buy tickets or find your platform. Politely decline and head directly to the official ticket windows (guichets) or information desks. They often work for a commission or will expect a large tip for a simple task.
• General Safety Tips: Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded stations or on local buses. For solo female travelers, sitting in the back seat of a taxi is standard practice. Dressing a bit more conservatively can also help in avoiding unwanted attention while navigating public transport.

Key Phrases for Getting Around

You can get by with English in major tourist areas, but knowing a few phrases in French (widely spoken) and Moroccan Arabic (Darija) will be greatly appreciated and can make your interactions much smoother. Here are a few essentials: