Getting Around

Trains, roads, taxis and how to move around Morocco.

National Trains [ONCF]

Book ahead for long routes — ONCF operates most intercity trains. Book tickets online via oncf.ma or at stations for major routes like Marrakech–Casablanca–Tangier to secure seats and avoid peak-time crowds.
Al Boraq high-speed trains — The Casablanca–Tangier Al Boraq line is modern and efficient, taking 2 hours instead of 5. Prices are higher but comfort and reliability are worth it for this route.
Occasional delays and strikes occur, especially in summer. Check ONCF announcements before traveling and allow buffer time for connections.
First and second class seating — First class offers more space and quiet cars; second class is cramped but affordable. Choose based on your budget and journey length.

Casablanca tram and bus network — The Casablanca tram (Tramway de Casablanca) is clean and reliable. Use Kashta cards (rechargeable) available at kiosks for 10–15 DH per trip, or buy single tickets from conductors.
Fez and Marrakech buses — Local buses are cheap (2–5 DH) and cover main areas, but routes are not always clearly marked. Ask locals or your hotel for the correct bus number and stop.
Buses are often crowded during rush hours (7–9 am, 5–7 pm) and pickpocketing is common. Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings.
STIB Rabat and Sale buses — Both cities have interconnected bus systems. Use the Kashta card system or buy single tickets. Buses are frequent but can be very crowded at peak times.

Rabat metro opening phase — Rabat's metro has opened limited lines and is still expanding. Check current routes via the official Rabat transport authority before planning; coverage is growing but not yet comprehensive.
Metro card systems — Use rechargeable smart cards (Kashta in Rabat) sold at metro stations. A single journey costs 6–10 DH depending on distance; day passes offer value if making multiple trips.
Metro schedules may change during religious holidays and Ramadan. Verify operating hours ahead of travel.

Red petit taxis (city) — Petit taxis are the cheap, short-haul option within cities (usually 10–30 DH). Insist on using the meter or agree on the fare beforehand; many drivers will not use meters for tourists.
Overcharging tourists is common, especially at airports and tourist areas. Agree on fares in advance or use ride apps to avoid disputes.
Grand taxis for intercity — Large shared taxis (grand taxis) connect towns cheaply and operate on fixed routes. They leave when full, typically holding 6 passengers; fares are standardized but negotiate at quieter times.
Uber and Careem — Both operate in Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, and Marrakech. Fares are transparent and prices are higher than petit taxis but safer and no negotiation needed; useful at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Not all taxi drivers accept card payments; carry cash. Informal taxis without meters are common—use only official red petit taxis or ride apps.

International license and insurance — An International Driving Permit is advisable alongside your home license. Comprehensive insurance is essential; third-party is mandatory and fines for driving uninsured are steep.
Road conditions vary widely; mountain passes and rural roads can be poor or poorly lit. Drive defensively, avoid night driving, and watch for unlit vehicles and livestock.
Speed limits and police checks — Speed limits are 40 km/h in cities, 100 km/h on regional roads, and 120 km/h on highways. Police regularly conduct checks; fines are issued on the spot and can be high (500+ DH).
Petrol stations are common on major routes but sparse in remote areas; fill up before long journeys. Tolls apply on some highways and are paid in cash or card.
Rental agencies — Major companies (Hertz, Avis, Budget) operate at airports; local agencies are cheaper but check insurance details carefully. Book in advance during peak season (April–October).

Major airports — Casablanca (CMN), Marrakech (RAK), Fez (FEZ), and Tangier (TNG) are the main hubs. Casablanca is the largest; domestic flights connect major cities but trains are often cheaper and faster.
Getting from airports — Petite taxis and buses (Route Bleue or Amedis) serve airports cheaply (10–50 DH depending on distance). Ride apps are available at major airports and cost 60–150 DH to central areas.
Airport taxi drivers often overcharge heavily. Use Uber/Careem or pre-arrange transport; if taking a taxi, agree on the fare before getting in.
Domestic carriers — Royal Air Maroc (RAM) and Air Arabia Maroc offer domestic flights; online booking is cheaper than airport counters. Flights are useful for remote regions like Dakhla.

Spain–Morocco ferries — Ferries run Tangier/Tarifa (Spain), Ceuta, and Algeciras routes. Book via Balearia or FRS Iberia online; prices vary (40–100 EUR) and crossings take 1–2 hours depending on the route.
Coastal and inter-island services — Limited ferries serve southern ports (Dakhla, Laayoune) for adventure travelers. Services are infrequent; confirm schedules in advance with local port authorities.
Ferry schedules are seasonal and subject to weather delays, especially in winter. Arrive early (2 hours for international crossings) and keep documents (passport, visa) accessible.

Rechargeable transport cards — Most cities issue rechargeable smart cards (Kashta system) for buses, trams, and metros. Buy at kiosks or station counters; they offer slightly cheaper fares than single tickets.
Train and intercity ticketing — Buy ONCF train tickets at stations or via oncf.ma (requires credit card). Grand taxi fares are fixed and paid in cash when full; no advance booking needed.
Not all vendors accept cards; carry cash (DH) at all times. ATMs are common in cities but rare in rural areas, so withdraw sufficient funds in advance.
Tourist passes — Some cities offer multi-day transport passes (e.g., 1–3 day unlimited cards). Check with your hotel or the local transport authority; they may not always represent good value for short stays.

Major carriers and SIM cards — Maroc Telecom, Orange Maroc, and Inwi are the main providers. Buy prepaid SIM cards at airport kiosks or retail shops (50–100 DH); all include data and require ID but no long-term contract.
Data and call packages — Prepaid plans offer reasonable data (1–10 GB for 30–150 DH monthly). Top-up via cards at shops or via mobile apps; coverage is good in cities but weak in remote mountains and the Sahara.
Network speeds vary; 4G is reliable in cities but 3G only in rural areas. Data can be slow during peak evening hours; consider offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) for navigation.
WiFi availability — Free WiFi is common in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in tourist areas. Use a VPN if accessing sensitive accounts; public networks are not always secure.
eSIM option — Some providers offer eSIM activation via app. This avoids buying a physical card but requires a compatible phone and is less widespread than physical SIMs; confirm availability before arrival.