Why Train Travel in Morocco Should Be on Your Radar
The first time I stepped onto a train in Morocco, I was in Casablanca's Casa-Voyageurs station, clutching a ticket for Marrakech. The station was a swirl of activity—men in djellabas sipping mint tea from tiny glasses, women in colorful kaftans balancing bags of oranges, and the distant call to prayer echoing through the hall. I had expected chaos, but what I found was a surprisingly efficient railway network that would carry me across deserts, over mountains, and through ancient medinas.
Morocco train travel is one of the country's best-kept secrets. While most visitors flock to the airports or hire cars, the train offers a comfortable, affordable, and scenic way to explore. The Morocco railway system, operated by ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer), connects major cities like Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, and Fes. And with the recent introduction of the high-speed Al Boraq line, getting from Tangier to Casablanca now takes just over two hours—a journey that once took the better part of a day.
The Main Routes: Where Trains Can Take You
Morocco's rail network is shaped like a wishbone, with the main line running from Tangier in the north down through Rabat and Casablanca, then branching east to Fes and Oujda, and south to Marrakech. Here are the routes you're most likely to use:
Tangier to Casablanca (Al Boraq High-Speed)
This is the crown jewel of Morocco train travel. The Al Boraq, Africa's first high-speed train, glides at 320 km/h (199 mph) between Tangier and Casablanca, stopping in Rabat and Kenitra. The journey takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes—a vast improvement over the old 4.5-hour trip. The seats are comfortable, there's Wi-Fi (when it works), and a snack cart rolls through with coffee and pastries. Book a window seat on the left side for glimpses of the Atlantic coast as you zip past.
Casablanca to Marrakech
This is the most popular route for tourists, and for good reason. The train leaves Casa-Voyageurs several times a day and rumbles south through the plains, passing olive groves and dusty villages before reaching Marrakech in about 2.5 to 3 hours. I took the 8 a.m. departure and watched the sun rise over the Atlas Mountains in the distance—a sight that made me forget the slightly worn seats and the man next to me who insisted on playing his music out loud.
Fes to Tangier (via Rabat and Casablanca)
This longer route (about 6 hours) takes you through the heart of the country. The train from Fes to Tangier passes through Meknes, Rabat, and Casablanca before heading north. It's a great way to see the transition from the imperial cities to the coast. If you have time, break up the journey with a stop in Rabat—the capital is often overlooked but has a lovely medina and the impressive Hassan Tower.
Marrakech to Tangier (Overnight Option)
There's also an overnight train between Marrakech and Tangier, which saves a night's accommodation. I haven't taken it myself, but fellow travelers report that a first-class sleeper is comfortable enough, though bring earplugs and a eye mask—the snoring can be epic.
How to Buy Tickets: Online vs. In-Person
Buying tickets for Morocco train travel is straightforward, but there are a few quirks. You can purchase tickets online through the ONCF website (oncf-voyages.ma), but the site can be finicky with foreign credit cards. I've had success with PayPal, but it's hit or miss. Alternatively, you can buy tickets at the station—either at the ticket windows or from automated machines (which have an English option).
For peace of mind, I recommend booking in advance for the Al Boraq and first-class seats, especially during holidays and weekends. Second-class tickets are cheaper and can be bought on the day, but they often sell out on popular routes. A tip: if you're traveling with luggage, first class has more space and is worth the extra dirhams.
Classes of Service: What to Expect
Moroccan trains have two classes: first and second. First class has assigned seats, air conditioning, and more legroom. Second class is open seating (unless you have a reservation) and can get crowded, but it's perfectly fine for shorter journeys. On the Al Boraq, first class feels like a budget airline's business class—plush seats, power outlets, and a quieter atmosphere.
I once took a second-class train from Fes to Meknes and ended up sharing a compartment with a family who offered me homemade msemen (a flaky flatbread) and insisted I try their mint tea. It was one of those unplanned moments that made the journey memorable.
Tips for a Smooth Morocco Railway Journey
- Arrive early: Stations can be chaotic, and you'll need time to find your platform. At Casa-Voyageurs, the departure boards are in Arabic and French—brush up on your numbers.
- Validate your ticket: If you buy a paper ticket, you must stamp it in the small machines before boarding. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
- Bring snacks and water: Longer journeys have a snack cart, but it's limited. I always pack a few oranges, a bag of nuts, and a bottle of water.
- Watch your belongings: As with any busy station, keep an eye on your luggage. I use a small padlock for my backpack zippers.
- Learn a few Arabic phrases: "Shukran" (thank you) and "Afwan" (you're welcome) go a long way. Also, "Mashi mushkil" (no problem) is handy when things get delayed.
Scenic Highlights Along the Way
Morocco train travel isn't just about getting from A to B—it's about the views. The stretch between Casablanca and Marrakech offers rolling hills and glimpses of rural life. The Al Boraq line from Tangier to Rabat hugs the coast, with the Atlantic shimmering on one side and cork oak forests on the other. And if you take the eastern line to Oujda, you'll pass through the Middle Atlas mountains, where snow-capped peaks surprise many visitors.
On one journey, I sat next to an elderly man who pointed out the window at a distant village and told me it was where his grandmother was born. He then proceeded to share his life story, which included a stint as a chef in Paris and a deep love for Andalusian music. That's the thing about train travel—it connects you to people as much as places.
Practicalities: Costs, Timetables, and Customs
Ticket prices are reasonable. A second-class ticket from Casablanca to Marrakech costs around 100 MAD (about $10), while first class is about 150 MAD. The Al Boraq from Tangier to Casablanca is pricier—around 300 MAD in second class and 500 MAD in first. Children under 4 travel free, and there are discounts for students and seniors.
Timetables are available on the ONCF website, but they're not always up to date. I recommend checking at the station or using the ONCF app (available in French and Arabic). Trains are generally punctual, but delays happen—especially on the older lines. Build in some buffer time if you have a flight to catch.
Ramadan can affect train schedules, with fewer departures and different timings. Also, during Eid al-Adha, trains are packed—book well in advance.
Final Thoughts: Why the Train Is the Way to Go
Morocco train travel offers a window into the country's soul. You'll see shepherds herding goats, women selling prickly pears by the trackside, and the ever-changing landscape—from coastal plains to arid mountains. It's comfortable, affordable, and far less stressful than navigating Moroccan roads. So next time you're planning a trip to Morocco, skip the rental car and hop on a train. And if you're lucky, you might just get offered a glass of mint tea by a stranger who becomes a friend.