How to Get Around in Morocco: Transport Tips for Travelers
Morocco isn’t the largest country, but getting around Morocco is part of the adventure. From sleek, air-conditioned high-speed trains to colorful (and sometimes chaotic) taxi rides, there’s a wide choice of ways to travel—and each reveals a different side of the country. Some options are quick and efficient, others are slow but scenic, and a few (yes, mountain buses, we’re looking at you) will keep your adrenaline pumping.
The best part? You can easily mix and match. Trains connect Morocco’s major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier. Comfortable buses reach smaller towns and remote regions. If you’re planning a trip into the Sahara Desert or the winding roads of the Atlas Mountains, renting a car or hiring a local guide is often the smartest choice.
Whether you’re exploring ancient medinas on foot, catching a grand taxi between villages, or hopping on a domestic flight to save time, Morocco’s transport network makes it simple to experience the country at your own pace. With a little planning, you’ll be navigating Morocco like a pro in no time.
The Best Ways to Travel Around Morocco
When it comes to getting around Morocco, the best transport option depends on your destination. From high-speed trains to desert tours, here are the most popular ways to explore the country:
Between Major Cities: High-Speed Trains
The Al Boraq high-speed train is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between major Moroccan cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, and Tangier. It connects Tangier to Casablanca in just two hours, making it perfect for travelers on a tight schedule.
For Long Distances: Domestic Flights
If you’re planning a trip across Morocco, domestic flights save valuable time. Routes like Marrakech to Fez or Casablanca to Agadir are served by airlines such as Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia, with frequent connections between major airports.
In and Around Cities: Taxis
For short city journeys, petit taxis are the most convenient choice. These small cabs are usually metered in larger cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fes, offering an affordable way to move quickly through busy streets.
For Remote Areas: Car Rental or Private Vehicle
In rural regions or the Atlas Mountains, public transport can be limited. Renting a car or hiring a private driver gives you flexibility and direct access to off-the-beaten-path destinations, without waiting for buses or shared taxis.
For Tourist Attractions: Guided Tours and Private Drivers
To reach iconic sights like the Sahara Desert, Ait Benhaddou, or remote Berber villages, guided tours and private drivers are often the best choice. They provide comfortable transport, insider knowledge, and direct access to Morocco’s most famous attractions.
Getting Around Morocco by Train
For travelers looking for a simple and reliable way to move between Morocco’s major cities, train travel is one of the best options. The Moroccan railway system is affordable, comfortable, and on certain routes, impressively modern.
The Al Boraq High-Speed Train
The star of Morocco’s rail network is the Al Boraq high-speed train, which connects Tangier and Casablanca in just over two hours. Sleek, air-conditioned, and punctual, it’s the fastest way to cover long distances. Tickets can be booked online or directly at the station, and upgrading to first class offers more legroom and fewer crowds.
Other Rail Connections
Beyond the high-speed line, trains link Casablanca with Rabat, Fes, Meknes, and Marrakech. These services aren’t high-speed, but they remain comfortable and convenient for intercity travel. Expect standard seating, occasional delays, and busy carriages during peak hours.
Where Trains Don’t Go
Keep in mind that southern Morocco isn’t connected by rail. If your itinerary includes the Sahara Desert, Chefchaouen, or the Atlas Mountains, you’ll need to continue your journey by bus, taxi, or rental car.
Travel Tips for Moroccan Trains
Book in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, as trains can get crowded.
Bring snacks and water, since station facilities are often limited.
Choose first class if you want guaranteed seating and a quieter ride.
Getting Around Morocco by Bus
For budget-friendly travel across the country, buses in Morocco are one of the most popular options. They’re slightly slower than shared grand taxis, but they are generally safer, more reliable, and more comfortable for longer journeys.
Long-Distance Bus Travel in Morocco
Well-known companies like CTM and Supratours operate modern long-distance buses that connect major cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Fez, Agadir, and Chefchaouen. Tickets are inexpensive, and night buses are available for those who want to save time, though keep in mind that night travel carries a slightly higher accident risk on busy routes.
Comfort and Safety
While newer buses are comfortable with air-conditioning, some older ones may have limited legroom, which can be tough for taller travelers. On rural routes, motion sickness is common among passengers due to winding mountain roads.
Travel Tips for Buses in Morocco
Choose your seat wisely:
On north–south routes, sit on the right in the morning and on the left in the afternoon to avoid the sun.
On east–west routes, sit opposite the sun’s direction for a cooler ride.
Expect blinds and windows closed: Moroccan passengers often pull down shades or shut windows, which can block views and make the bus feel cramped.
Book tickets in advance during holidays and peak season, especially for popular routes.
Bus Stations and Buying Tickets
Most towns have a main bus station (gare routière), usually located on the edge of town. CTM often departs from its own dedicated offices, which can be separate from the central station. In some cities, CTM and private operators share terminals, but keep in mind CTM buses may stop at the main station only when departing—not when arriving.
At the station, each company has its own ticket counter. Departure boards are often outdated and usually in Arabic, so it’s better to ask directly at the window. Conductors may call out destinations to help guide passengers. For popular routes—especially with CTM—it’s smart to book tickets in advance, either online or at the station. With smaller private lines, advance booking is rarely possible.
Getting Around Morocco with Domestic Flights
If you’re short on time or planning to cover long distances in Morocco, domestic flights are the fastest option.
Royal Air Maroc and Other Airlines
Royal Air Maroc, the national carrier, operates most domestic routes. Nearly all flights connect through Casablanca, which serves as the hub for travel between major cities. Smaller airlines occasionally offer additional routes, but Royal Air Maroc remains the most reliable choice.
When It Makes Sense to Fly
Flying is ideal for reaching destinations in the far south of Morocco, where road journeys can be extremely long. For example:
Casablanca → Laayoune: about 1 hour 45 minutes by plane vs. 19 hours by bus.
Casablanca → Dakhla: around 2 hours 20 minutes by plane vs. 28 hours by bus.
For cross-country travel—like from Marrakech to Dakhla—flying can save you an entire day compared to buses or shared taxis.
Travel Tips for Domestic Flights in Morocco
Book early to find cheaper fares, especially during peak travel seasons.
Use comparison sites like Kayak or directly check Royal Air Maroc’s website for the best deals.
Pack light: domestic routes often have stricter baggage policies.
Expect delays: while flights are generally reliable, it’s wise not to plan tight connections.
Getting Around Morocco by Rental Car
For travelers who want flexibility and independence, renting a car in Morocco is one of the best ways to explore, especially in regions where public transport is limited.
Car Rental Costs in Morocco
Rental prices average around £250 / $320 per week or £40 / $55 per day, usually with a three-day minimum. This often includes unlimited mileage and insurance. Booking in advance, especially through international platforms, can save money compared to last-minute rentals on the ground.
Where to Rent a Car
Most visitors pick up their rental in Casablanca, Marrakesh, or Agadir, where major international companies like Hertz, Budget, Europcar, and Avis operate. Local car rental agencies may offer more negotiable rates, but it’s important to inspect the vehicle’s condition carefully before signing. Many hotels can also help arrange rentals for guests.
Alternatives to Driving Yourself
Grand Taxi Hire: Instead of driving, you can hire a grand taxi with a driver for a daily rate, which is often only slightly more expensive than renting a car yourself.
Private Driver: If you’d rather not handle Morocco’s sometimes chaotic traffic, hiring a driver costs around £32 / $42 per day, giving you comfort and local expertise without the stress of driving.
Tips for Renting a Car in Morocco
Book online in advance for the best rates and availability.
Always check the car for scratches or damage before leaving the rental office.
Driving is easiest in rural areas and highways; city traffic in places like Casablanca can be overwhelming.
Carry your passport, international driving permit, and insurance documents at all times.
Driving Around Morocco
Driving in Morocco is one of the most flexible ways to explore the country, and road conditions are generally good. However, driving habits can be unpredictable, so caution is essential.
What to Expect on the Road
While Morocco’s highways and main roads are modern and well-maintained, many local drivers don’t strictly follow traffic rules. It’s common to see drivers skipping turn signals, overtaking aggressively, or drifting between lanes. Be especially cautious on blind curves and hills, where overtaking can be dangerous.
Between towns, roads are usually long and straight with light traffic, which makes covering distance quick and easy. But in big cities like Casablanca or Marrakesh, traffic can feel chaotic and stressful for inexperienced drivers.
Rules of the Road in Morocco
Speed limits:
40 km/h (25 mph) in towns
100 km/h (62 mph) on main roads
120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways
Police and fines: Speeding is strictly monitored. Police often set up roadside checks, and fines can be issued on the spot.
Local tip: If oncoming cars flash their headlights, it’s often a warning that there’s a police checkpoint or radar control ahead.
Driving Tips for Morocco
Stick to the speed limits, even if locals don’t.
Always carry your driver’s license, insurance, and car rental papers.
Avoid driving at night in rural areas — livestock or pedestrians may be on the road.
On mountain roads, honk before blind curves to alert oncoming traffic.
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