Getting Around

Getting Around by Rail

The Moroccan rail system, run by Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF) (www.oncf.ma) provides regular services. Rail fares are very reasonable, although a supplement must be paid for air-conditioned trains. Sleeping cars and restaurant cars are available.

The network runs from Oujda in the northeast to Casablanca on the west coast, Tangier on the north coast and Fes and Marrakech in the interior. However, only a small part of the country is served, and even large centres such as Agadir and Essouira are not covered. The most useful route is from Fes to Rabat and Casablanca, with five daily and two overnight trains. There are also two daily trains and one overnight train (without sleepers) that run from Casablanca to Marrakech, and Monday to Friday, a train runs every 30 minutes from Kenitra to Rabat.

Getting Around by Road

The major Moroccan roads are all-weather highways, particularly those covering the north and northwest of the country. In the interior, south of the High Atlas Mountains, road travel becomes much more difficult, especially across the Atlas Mountains in winter.

Coach: The main centres are connected by a wide variety of coach services, many of which are privately run. The two main firms are: CTM (tel: (22) 753 677; www.ctm.co.ma), covering the whole country and Supratours (tel: (37) 686 297; www.supratourstravel.com), which complements the train network. Morocco has a poor road safety record; the roads from Agadir to Marrakech via Imi'n Tanoute and Chichaoua are particularly hazardous.

Bus: Connections between most major towns and villages are regular and frequent, although buses can be crowded and it may be wise to buy tickets in advance and arrive well before departure to secure a seat. The price of tickets is very low, especially with some of the smaller local bus companies. It is customary to tip the guard for loading luggage.

Taxi: Metered petit taxis are available in major towns. Larger, grand taxis are usually Mercedes cars, used for travel outside medinas and to areas outside towns. These can be shared, but fares should be agreed before departure as they don't have meters.

Car hire: International and local car hire companies have offices in major towns and cities. Car hire is generally expensive. The minimum age for driving a hired car is 21.

Regulations: Traffic drives on the right in Morocco. The wearing of seat belts is compulsory. The speed limit is 40kph (25mph) in cities and built up areas, rising to 80km (50mph) on more major roads, up to 120km (75mph) on motorways. No alcohol at all is allowed in the bloodstream when driving.

Emergency Breakdown Service: There is no national breakdown service. Hire cars will contain contact details in case of emergency.

Documentation: Foreign driving licences are accepted, as well as International Driving Permits. Third Party insurance is required. Insurance documentation and a licence must be carried with you at all times. A Green Card is also necessary. Insurance can be arranged locally.

Getting Around Towns and Cities

There are extensive bus services in Casablanca and other main towns. Pre-purchase tickets are sold. Urban area petits taxis are plentiful and have metered fares. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped, although it is common to round fares up at least to the next Dirham on short trips.

Journey Times

The following chart gives approximate journey times (in hours and minutes) from Casablanca to other major cities/towns in Morocco.