Are Moroccan buses comfortable for long journeys?

When people picture a long-distance bus in North Africa they often imagine something grim, and I love correcting that — because on CTM and Supratours, the two coach lines I steer every traveller toward, the experience is genuinely comfortable. These are modern, well-kept coaches with proper reserved reclining seats, working air conditioning, curtains against the sun, and enough legroom for a grown adult to settle in for hours. On routes where there's no train — think Marrakech down to Essaouira or out to the desert gateways — a good coach is often the most comfortable public option going.

The reserved-seat element is what makes them civilised on a long haul. You book a specific numbered seat in advance, so there's no scramble and no standing; you walk on, find your spot, stow your big bag in the tagged hold underneath, and you're set. On the longer journeys the driver builds in a rest stop at a roadside café — a chance to stretch, use the toilet, grab a mint tea and a sandwich — which breaks up the run and is one reason I find a five- or six-hour coach far less punishing than the distance suggests.

The crucial honesty is the line you choose. CTM and Supratours are the premium, reliable operators and worth every dirham of their modest fares. The cheaper, informal local buses that also ply these routes are a different world — older vehicles, no reservations, unpredictable air conditioning, frequent stops, and bags going on the roof. They're fine for a short local hop and an adventure if you want one, but for a long journey I genuinely advise against them; the comfort gap over the distance is enormous and the time saved by the express coaches is real.

A few comfort tips from the road. Book a seat toward the front for a smoother ride and less engine noise, and on a daytime desert leg pick the shadier side if you can. Bring water, a layer (the AC can run cold), and downloaded entertainment, as Wi-Fi is hit-or-miss. And weigh the coach against the alternatives honestly: where a train exists I'll usually take it, and for groups or the truly long, scenic transfers I often suggest a private driver so you can stop where you like. But for a solo or budget traveller on a no-train route, a CTM or Supratours coach is a comfortable, safe, sensible way to cover real distance.