🚄 Getting Around Morocco: From Traditional Transport to the High-Speed Al Boraq Train


🚄 Getting Around Morocco: From Traditional Transport to the High-Speed Al Boraq Train

Morocco’s Al Boraq high-speed train ready for departure
Al Boraq at Casa Voyageurs station, ready to zoom north
Photo by Abderrahmane Habibi


Whether you're navigating the winding medinas of Fes or zipping between cities at 320 km/h, transportation in Morocco is as diverse and dynamic as the country itself. From donkey carts and grand taxis to the futuristic Al Boraq high-speed train, Morocco offers a fascinating blend of the old and the new.

In this guide, we’ll explore the main ways travelers move around the country, with a special focus on Al Boraq—the pride of Moroccan rail travel.


🐪 Traditional Modes of Transportation

1. Walking

In cities like Fes and Marrakech, the old medinas are pedestrian-only zones. Walking is the best way to explore souks, riads, and hidden alleyways.

2. Donkey Carts and Mules

Still commonly used in rural areas and within historic cities for deliveries, these traditional modes connect Morocco’s past to its present.


🚕 Everyday Urban and Intercity Travel

3. Petit Taxis

  • Use: Short rides within cities

  • Tip: Always ask for the meter or agree on a fare before starting.

  • Color: Varies by city (red in Marrakech, blue in Fes, beige in Casablanca)

4. Grand Taxis

  • Use: Intercity or longer routes; shared with others unless you pay extra

  • Vehicle: Usually large white sedans or newer vans

  • Tip: Great for reaching places where buses or trains don’t go


🚌 Buses and Coaches

5. City Buses

Operated locally, cheap but sometimes crowded.

6. Intercity Coaches

Companies like CTM and Supratours offer:

  • Comfortable long-distance travel

  • Air conditioning and baggage handling

  • Fixed prices and online booking options


🚄 Spotlight on Al Boraq – Morocco’s High-Speed Train

✨ What is Al Boraq?

Al Boraq is Africa’s first high-speed train, launched in 2018. It connects Tangier to Casablanca in just over 2 hours, cutting travel time in half and transforming the travel experience for locals and tourists alike.

💡 Named after the creature "Al Buraq" we Muslims beleive had transported the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to heavens, this train represents progress and pride for modern Morocco.

📍 Route and Stops

  • Main Line: Tangier – Kenitra – Rabat – Casablanca

  • Future expansion plans aim to reach Marrakesh and Agadir.

⏱️ Travel Time

  • Tangier to Casablanca: approx. 2h10

  • Casablanca to Rabat: 1h10


🎫 How to Book and Ride Al Boraq

💻 Booking

  • Online: www.oncf.ma or ONCF mobile app

  • At the station: Ticket machines or counters

💺 Classes

  • 2nd class: Comfortable and affordable

  • 1st class: Assigned seating, more space, better quiet

💰 Pricing

  • Fares vary depending on the class and time of day

  • Expect around 150–250 MAD ($15–25 USD) for Tangier to Casablanca


🌍 Why Travelers Love Al Boraq
  • 🚀 Speed: Drastically reduces travel time

  • 🧘‍♂️ Comfort: Quiet, clean, and climate-controlled

  • 🛜 Modern Amenities: Wi-Fi, USB ports, assigned seats

  • 🌱 Eco-Friendly: Helps reduce traffic and carbon footprint


💬 Have You Tried Al Boraq?

Share your experience or plans! Did Al Boraq impress you? Are you more of a road trip person or a train lover? Let’s hear it in the comments.


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