Complete Guide to Train Travel in Morocco

Network Statistics - **Total Track:** 2,300 km of railway - **Operator:** ONCF (government-owned) - **Network Type:** Mix of conventional (160 km/h) and high-speed (320 km/h) - **Passengers:** 45+ million annually (2025) - **Electrification:** 100% of mainlines - **Gauge:** 1,435 mm (standard gauge)

Geographic Coverage The rail network covers northern and central Morocco, connecting: - Atlantic Coast: Tangier to Casablanca to Marrakech - Interior: Fes, Meknes, Rabat - East: Oujda on Algerian border - Phosphate lines: Khouribga, Youssoufia (limited passenger service)

Not Served by Rail: - Desert regions (Ouarzazate, Merzouga, Zagora) - Anti-Atlas and High Atlas mountains - Southern Morocco (Agadir, Essaouira, Taroudant) - Northern Rif Mountains (except Tangier)

Why Choose Train Travel?

Advantages: - Comfort: Spacious seats, air conditioning, clean facilities - Speed: High-speed TGV cuts travel times dramatically - Reliability: Generally on-time (TGV 95%+ punctuality) - Safety: Excellent safety record - Cost: Much cheaper than flights, competitive with buses - Views: Scenic routes through countryside - No Traffic: Unlike buses, not affected by road traffic - City Center to City Center: Stations centrally located - Work Friendly: WiFi on TGV, power outlets, stable ride

Disadvantages: - Limited network (no southern or mountain regions) - Less flexible than driving - Occasional delays on conventional lines - Limited luggage space during peak times - No door-to-door service like private car

Overview Launched in November 2018, Al Boraq is Africa's first high-speed rail service and a point of national pride. Built with French technology (similar to TGV), it connects Tangier to Casablanca with stops in Kenitra and Rabat.

Name Origin: Al Boraq refers to the mystical creature that carried Prophet Muhammad on the Night Journey.

Route and Speed - **Line:** Tangier-Kenitra-Rabat-Casablanca - **Distance:** 350 km - **Journey Time:** 2 hours 10 minutes (previously 4 hours 45 minutes) - **Maximum Speed:** 320 km/h (200 mph) - **Operational Speed:** 300-320 km/h on dedicated high-speed section

Route Breakdown: 1. Tangier to Kenitra: 183 km high-speed dedicated track (320 km/h) 2. Kenitra to Casablanca: Upgraded conventional track (160 km/h)

Stations Served - **Tangier Ville:** Main station in center of Tangier - **Kenitra:** Junction for eastern lines - **Rabat Agdal:** Modern station, south of city center - **Rabat Ville:** Historic central station - **Casablanca Voyageurs:** Main Casablanca station - **Casablanca Aéroport:** Airport station (some services)

Classes of Service

First Class (Première Classe) - **Seating:** 2+1 configuration (spacious) - **Amenities:** Leather seats, power outlets, fold-down tables, WiFi - **Food Service:** Complimentary coffee/tea, snacks on some services - **Luggage:** Generous overhead and end-of-car storage - **Quiet:** Generally quieter, less crowded - **Price Premium:** About 30-40% more than Second Class

Best For: Business travelers, those wanting guaranteed space and comfort

Second Class (Deuxième Classe) - **Seating:** 2+2 configuration - **Amenities:** Comfortable fabric seats, power outlets, WiFi - **Food Service:** Café car available, no complimentary service - **Luggage:** Overhead racks (can be full during peak times) - **Atmosphere:** More crowded but still comfortable - **Value:** Excellent value for money

Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, those on shorter journeys

Frequency and Schedule - **Daily Services:** 15-20 trains each direction - **Peak Times:** Hourly or better (6 AM - 8 PM) - **Off-Peak:** Every 2 hours (early morning, late evening) - **Journey Time:** 2h10 (Tangier-Casablanca direct) - **Overnight:** No overnight services (line covered in daylight only)

Fares (Approximate) **Tangier to Casablanca:** - Second Class: 149 MAD (~$15 USD) - First Class: 199 MAD (~$20 USD)

Tangier to Rabat: - Second Class: 119 MAD (~$12 USD) - First Class: 159 MAD (~$16 USD)

Casablanca to Rabat: - Second Class: 43 MAD (~$4 USD) - First Class: 65 MAD (~$6.50 USD)

Discounts: - Children under 4: Free (no seat) - Children 4-12: 50% discount - Groups (10+): 10-20% discount (book in advance) - Round-trip: 10% discount if purchased together - Students: 50% with student card (Moroccan students only)

Booking Al Boraq Tickets

Online: - Website: www.oncf.ma - Mobile App: ONCF Al Boraq (iOS/Android) - Payment: Credit/debit cards, PayPal - E-ticket: PDF sent to email, show on phone or print - Booking Period: Up to 30 days in advance

At Station: - Ticket windows at all stations - Self-service kiosks (credit cards accepted) - Queue times vary (arrive early at peak times) - Same-day tickets usually available (except holidays)

Tips: - Book in advance for holidays (Eid, New Year, summer) - First Class rarely sells out (except peak season) - Second Class can sell out on Friday evenings, Sunday evenings - E-tickets work fine - no need to print

Onboard Experience

Departures: - Arrive 10-15 minutes early - Platform announced 10 minutes before departure - Train boards 5 minutes before departure - Doors close 1 minute before departure (strictly enforced)

During Journey: - Smooth, quiet ride - Announcements in Arabic, French, English - WiFi available (works well most of journey) - Power outlets at every seat (European plugs) - Clean restrooms at each car - Café car: Coffee, tea, snacks, sandwiches (prices moderate) - Large windows for views

Views: - Scenic countryside between Tangier and Kenitra - Agricultural plains - Rolling hills - Glimpses of Atlantic coast - Urban areas around Rabat and Casablanca

Luggage: - Overhead racks (moderate size) - Large bags: Space at end of each car - No checked baggage - No luggage restrictions (within reason)

Safety and Comfort - Excellent safety record since launch - Very smooth ride (French TGV technology) - Clean and well-maintained - Air conditioning year-round - Comfortable even for 2+ hours

Main Lines and Routes

1. Casablanca-Marrakech Line - **Distance:** 240 km - **Journey Time:** 3 hours (express), 3.5 hours (regular) - **Frequency:** 8-10 trains daily - **Speed:** 160 km/h maximum - **Key Stops:** Casablanca Voyageurs - Mohammed V Airport - Settat - Benguerir - Marrakech

Service Types: - TNR (Trains Navettes Rapides): Fast shuttle, fewer stops, newer trains - Express: Standard express service - Regular: All-stop service

Views: - Atlantic coast briefly near Casablanca - Plains of Chaouia - Atlas foothills approaching Marrakech

Fares: - Second Class: 90-110 MAD - First Class: 130-160 MAD - Couchette (overnight): Not available on this route

2. Casablanca-Fes Line - **Distance:** 320 km - **Journey Time:** 4-4.5 hours - **Frequency:** 6-8 trains daily - **Key Stops:** Casablanca - Rabat - Kenitra - Meknes - Fes

Route: Via Rabat and Kenitra, connecting to TGV network

Views: - Coastal plains - Agricultural regions - Middle Atlas foothills - Historic cities of Meknes and Fes

Fares: - Second Class: 110-135 MAD - First Class: 150-190 MAD

3. Casablanca-Oujda Line - **Distance:** 730 km - **Journey Time:** 9-10 hours - **Frequency:** 2-3 trains daily - **Key Stops:** Casablanca - Rabat - Meknes - Fes - Taourirt - Oujda

Service: - Long-distance service - Overnight trains available with couchettes - Some services split at Fes (change trains)

Best For: - Eastern Morocco - Overnight travel (book couchette) - Connecting to Algeria (when border open)

Fares: - Second Class: 180-220 MAD - First Class: 260-320 MAD - Couchette: 350-400 MAD

4. Fes-Meknes-Rabat-Casablanca-Marrakech (Main Spine) The backbone of Morocco's rail network, connecting major cities: - **Marrakech to Fes:** ~480 km, 7-8 hours - **Fes to Casablanca:** 320 km, 4-4.5 hours - **Rabat to Marrakech:** 280 km, 4 hours

Multiple Daily Services: Through services connect north to south without changing trains

5. Casablanca-Tangier via Rabat - **Two Options:** - **Al Boraq TGV:** 2h10 (Casablanca-Tangier) - **Conventional:** 5 hours (cheaper, slower)

Recommendation: Always take TGV (small price difference, huge time saving)

6. Rabat-Fes Direct - **Distance:** 200 km - **Journey Time:** 2h30-3h - **Frequency:** 6-8 daily - **Via:** Meknes

Popular Route: Capital to cultural capital

7. Casablanca-Safi Line - **Distance:** 180 km - **Journey Time:** 3 hours - **Frequency:** 3-4 daily - **Status:** Lesser-used line, scenic coastal route

Second Class (2nd Classe / Deuxième Classe)

Standard Second Class: - Seating: 2+2 configuration, facing forward - Comfort: Cushioned fabric seats, decent legroom - Amenities: Overhead luggage racks, windows (usually openable) - Crowding: Can be very crowded, especially peak times - Cleanliness: Generally clean but varies - Climate: Air conditioning on modern trains, fans on older trains

Best For: Budget travelers, shorter journeys (under 3 hours)

Tips: - Arrive early to secure good seat - Window and aisle seats fill fast - Can be standing room only on peak trains - Perfectly acceptable for most journeys

First Class (1st Classe / Première Classe)

Standard First Class: - Seating: 2+1 or 2+2 configuration, more space - Comfort: Better cushioning, more legroom - Amenities: Better luggage space, cleaner facilities - Crowding: Much less crowded, quieter - Reservation: Seats usually numbered (varies by train) - Climate: Better air conditioning

Price Premium: 30-50% more than Second Class

Best For: - Longer journeys (4+ hours) - Those wanting guaranteed seat - Business travelers - Overnight trains

Worth It When: - Long distances (Marrakech-Fes, Casa-Oujda) - Peak times (weekends, holidays) - Need to work during journey - Traveling with luggage

Couchettes (Overnight Sleepers)

Available On: - Casablanca-Oujda overnight trains - Some long-distance services - Limited availability (book early)

Types: - 6-Berth Couchettes: Mixed gender, lockable door, 6 beds (3 bunks each side) - 4-Berth Couchettes: More spacious, lockable door - No Private Cabins: All couchettes are shared

Amenities: - Thin mattress and pillow provided - Sheet and blanket (quality varies) - Lockable door - Small window - Overhead luggage nets - Shared toilets in corridor

Fares: - Additional 100-150 MAD over First Class fare - Book well in advance (limited spaces)

Tips: - Bring your own sheet/sleeping bag liner - Keep valuables close - Lock door from inside - Top bunks quieter but harder to access - Not luxurious but functional

Best For: - Overnight Casablanca-Oujda journey - Saving hotel night - Long distances overnight

Casablanca Voyageurs (Casa Voyageurs) **Morocco's Main Rail Hub**

Location: Central Casablanca, near city center Status: Busiest station in Morocco

Facilities: - Large modern station building - Ticket windows (6+ counters) - Self-service kiosks - Waiting rooms (1st and 2nd class separate) - Cafes and restaurants (5+) - Shops and newsstands - ATMs - Clean toilets - Left luggage service - Tourist information - Taxi rank outside - Tram connection (Line T1)

Connections: - All major cities - Airport train (Casa Aéroport station) - Local services

Tips: - Can be very busy - arrive early - Watch for pickpockets in crowds - Luggage storage available but expensive - Good food options nearby

Casablanca Port (Casa Port) **Downtown Waterfront Station**

Location: Near port and old medina Smaller than Casa Voyageurs but convenient for: - City center hotels - Medina - Port area

Services: - Limited compared to Voyageurs - Mainly local and regional services - Some intercity trains

Use If: Staying near port/medina

Rabat Ville **Capital's Main Station**

Location: Central Rabat, near medina Historic station building (French colonial architecture)

Facilities: - Ticket windows - Waiting rooms - Cafes - ATMs - Taxi rank - Tram connection

Connections: - All major cities - TGV services - Kenitra junction (20 min)

Rabat Agdal **Modern TGV Station**

Location: Southern Rabat (Agdal district) Status: Purpose-built for TGV

Modern Facilities: - Sleek contemporary design - Fast ticket service - Clean and efficient - Limited food options

Use If: - Taking TGV - Staying in southern Rabat - Prefer modern facilities

Note: 15-minute taxi from city center

Marrakech **Southern Terminus**

Location: Western Marrakech, near Gueliz Status: Growing station, being expanded

Facilities: - Modern ticket hall - Waiting rooms - Cafes (2-3) - ATMs - Taxi rank (beware overcharging) - Shops

Distance: - 10 minutes to Gueliz (new town) - 20 minutes to Medina/Jemaa el-Fna

Tips: - Take petit taxi to medina (30-40 MAD) - Ticket touts outside - ignore - Station being expanded (may encounter construction)

Fes Ville **Cultural Capital Station**

Location: Ville Nouvelle (new town), 2 km from medina Historic station with recent renovations

Facilities: - Ticket windows - Waiting room - Small cafes - ATMs - Taxi rank

Distance: - Walking distance to Ville Nouvelle hotels - 10-15 minute taxi to medina gates - 20 MAD petit taxi to Bab Boujloud

Tips: - Taxi drivers may overcharge tourists - Insist on meter or fixed price (20-30 MAD to medina)

Tangier Ville **Northern Gateway**

Location: Central Tangier, near port TGV terminus

Facilities: - Modern and clean - Ticket counters - Cafes - ATMs - Taxi rank - Tourist information

Connections: - TGV to south - City center (walking distance) - Port (15 minutes)

Good Location: Easy access to hotels and medina

Meknes **Imperial City Station**

Location: Ville Nouvelle Historic station serving imperial city

Facilities: - Basic but functional - Ticket windows - Small cafe - ATMs - Taxi rank

Distance: - 2 km to medina - 10-minute taxi

Junction Point: All north-south trains stop here

Online Booking (Recommended)

ONCF Website: www.oncf.ma - Languages: Arabic, French, English - Booking Period: Up to 30 days in advance - Payment: Credit/debit cards, PayPal - E-Tickets: PDF sent to email - Mobile App: ONCF Al Boraq (iOS/Android)

How to Book: 1. Select origin and destination 2. Choose date and time 3. Select class (1st or 2nd) 4. Choose specific train and seats (if available) 5. Enter passenger details 6. Pay with card 7. Receive e-ticket by email

Advantages: - Avoid queues at station - Book in advance (especially holidays) - E-ticket on phone works fine - See all available trains and times - Secure guaranteed seat (on reservation trains)

Tips: - Book early for TGV on weekends - Check both Rabat Ville and Rabat Agdal for options - E-tickets accepted - no need to print - Keep confirmation number

At the Station

Ticket Windows: - All stations have staffed ticket counters - Queues can be long at peak times - Staff usually speak French, some English - Cash and cards accepted - Can buy for same-day or advance travel

Self-Service Kiosks: - Available at major stations - French and English interface - Credit/debit cards only - Can be confusing first time - Often have shorter queues

Purchasing Process: 1. Queue at appropriate window/kiosk 2. State destination, class, date 3. Choose specific train if multiple options 4. Pay 5. Receive printed ticket 6. Check details before leaving counter

Tips: - Have destination written in Arabic/French - Know desired class and approximate time - Carry small bills (change sometimes limited) - Check ticket before leaving counter - Keep ticket until after journey (inspections)

Advance Booking vs. Same-Day

Book in Advance For: - TGV trains on weekends and holidays - Long-distance trains during peak season - Couchettes (always book ahead) - Friday afternoons/evenings (weekend travel) - Sunday evenings (return journeys) - Religious holidays (Eid, Ramadan) - July-August (peak tourist season)

Same-Day Usually Fine For: - Weekday travel on conventional trains - Off-peak times (mid-morning, mid-afternoon) - Second Class (more capacity) - Short routes (Casa-Rabat, Rabat-Meknes)

Peak Periods to Avoid: - Thursday-Friday afternoons (weekend starts) - Sunday evenings (returns) - First and last days of holidays - During Eid (entire country travels)

Before You Board

Arriving at Station: - TGV/Long Distance: Arrive 15-20 minutes early - Local/Regional: 10 minutes usually sufficient - First Time: Add 10 minutes to buy ticket/find platform

Finding Your Platform: - Platforms announced 10-15 minutes before departure - Check departure boards (electronic) - Platform numbers posted - Ask staff if unsure ("Quelle voie pour Marrakech?")

Platform Numbers: - Usually 1-6 at smaller stations - Up to 12+ at Casa Voyageurs - Platforms clearly marked

Boarding

Process: - Platforms accessible without ticket check (usually) - Board any car (unless reserved seating) - Find available seat - Place luggage overhead or at car ends - Ticket inspector checks during journey

Reserved vs. Unreserved: - TGV: All reserved (seat number on ticket) - Conventional: Mostly unreserved (find any seat) - First Class: Sometimes reserved - If seat is reserved, small slip above seat shows destination

Luggage: - Overhead racks for bags - Large bags at car ends (limited space) - No checked baggage system - Keep valuables with you - No size restrictions (within reason)

During the Journey

Ticket Inspection: - Inspector walks through train - Have ticket ready - If e-ticket, show on phone (staff understand) - Inspector marks or scans ticket - Keep ticket until end of journey

Amenities: - Toilets: At car ends, cleanliness varies - Water: Not provided (bring bottle) - Food: Café car on long-distance and TGV - WiFi: TGV has free WiFi (works well) - Power: TGV has outlets, conventional trains sometimes - Climate: Air conditioning on modern trains

Café Car: - Coffee: 10-15 MAD - Tea: 10 MAD - Sandwiches: 25-35 MAD - Snacks: 10-20 MAD - Cash only (small bills)

Etiquette: - Keep conversations quiet - Phone calls: Keep brief and quiet - Music: Use headphones - Shoes: Keep on (not like some Asian trains) - Smoking: Forbidden on all trains (including toilets) - Food: Eating allowed, avoid strong smells - Seats: Don't occupy extra seats with bags if train busy

Safety: - Trains very safe - Watch valuables in crowded trains - Keep bags in sight - Emergency brake on each car (don't touch unless emergency)

Arriving

Disembarking: - Announcement before arrival - Gather luggage - Doors open automatically or with button - Have ticket ready (may be checked at exit)

Exiting Station: - Follow "Sortie" (exit) signs - Most stations have open exits (no ticket barrier) - Taxi ranks clearly marked outside - Orient yourself before leaving station

Standard Fares

Pricing Structure: - Based on distance and class - TGV premium over conventional trains - Transparent pricing (no dynamic pricing like airlines) - Same price online and at station

Sample Fares (Second Class): - Casa-Rabat: 43 MAD (~$4) - Casa-Marrakech: 90 MAD (~$9) - Casa-Fes: 110 MAD (~$11) - Casa-Tangier (TGV): 149 MAD (~$15) - Casa-Oujda: 180 MAD (~$18) - Marrakech-Fes: 190 MAD (~$19)

First Class Premium: - Add 30-50% to Second Class fares - Varies by route

Discounts Available

Children: - Under 4: Free (no seat) - 4-12 years: 50% discount - Must show ID if asked

Students: - 50% discount on conventional trains - Must show valid Moroccan student card - International students: Usually not eligible (varies)

Groups: - 10+ passengers: 10% discount - 20+ passengers: 20% discount - Must book in advance together - Not available on all services

Round-Trip: - 10% discount if purchased together - Must be used within valid period - Not available on all routes

Seniors: - No special discount (unlike many countries) - Standard fares apply

Payment Methods

Accepted: - Cash (MAD only) - Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) - PayPal (online only)

Not Accepted: - Foreign currency - American Express (rarely) - Traveler's checks

Tips: - Cards widely accepted (online and station) - Small bills helpful for café car - ATMs available at major stations

Train + Bus

Strategic Combinations:

For Southern Morocco: - Train to Marrakech, then bus to: - Essaouira (3 hours) - Agadir (3.5 hours via Tizi n'Test) - Ouarzazate (4 hours via Tizi n'Tichka) - Desert regions

For Mountains: - Train to Fes, then bus to: - Chefchaouen (4 hours) - Ifrane (1 hour) - Middle Atlas towns

For Coast: - Train to Tangier, then bus along Mediterranean coast

Advantages: - Faster train for long distances - Bus for final regional destination - Combined cost still reasonable

Train + Car Rental

Pick Up at Station: - Car rental desks at major stations: - Casa Voyageurs - Marrakech - Fes - Rabat - Tangier

Strategy: - Train between major cities (avoid driving stress) - Rent car for regional exploration - Example: Train to Marrakech, rent car for Atlas/desert

Advantages: - Avoid traffic in major cities - Enjoy scenic train journey - Have car for less-touristed areas

Train + Grand Taxi

Common Combinations: - Train to Fes, then grand taxi to Chefchaouen - Train to Meknes, then grand taxi to Volubilis - Train to Rabat, then grand taxi to smaller towns

How: - Grand taxi stations near train stations - Negotiate price or share with others - Useful for destinations not on bus routes

High Season (April-June, September-October)

Characteristics: - More tourists on trains - Trains can be crowded - Book TGV in advance - Pleasant temperatures

Tips: - Book 1-2 weeks ahead for TGV - Same-day usually fine for conventional trains - Comfortable travel conditions

Peak Season (July-August)

Characteristics: - European summer holidays - Moroccan domestic travel peaks - Diaspora returns - Very crowded trains - Book well in advance

Tips: - Book TGV 2-3 weeks ahead - Consider First Class for guaranteed seat - Avoid weekends if possible - Early morning trains less crowded

Low Season (November-March)

Characteristics: - Fewer tourists - Less crowded trains - Cold in mornings/evenings - Same-day tickets readily available

Tips: - Easy to travel spontaneously - Second Class perfectly fine - Dress in layers (morning cold, afternoon warm)

Ramadan

Impact: - Trains operate normally - Fewer passengers during day - Crowded evenings (iftar rush) - Café car may have limited service during fasting hours

Tips: - Respect fasting passengers (eat discreetly if needed) - Evening trains very crowded (everyone traveling for iftar) - Book in advance for evening/weekend travel

Eid Holidays

Major Impact: - Entire country travels - Trains completely full - Book 2-4 weeks in advance - Prices same but availability critical

Eid Periods: - Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan): 3-4 days - Eid al-Adha (sacrifice holiday): 4-5 days

Tips: - Avoid traveling on Eid if possible - If must travel, book very early - First Class more likely to have availability - Consider bus as backup

Most Scenic Train Journeys

1. Tangier to Marrakech (via TGV to Casa, then south) **Highlights:** - Rolling hills of northern Morocco - Glimpses of Atlantic coast - Agricultural plains - Atlas foothills approaching Marrakech - **Duration:** 5-6 hours total - **Comfort:** TGV for north, conventional south

2. Casablanca to Marrakech **Highlights:** - Atlantic coast views leaving Casablanca - Chaouia agricultural plains - Atlas Mountains in distance - Approach to Marrakech through palm groves - **Duration:** 3 hours - **Best:** Morning light for mountain views

3. Fes to Marrakech **Highlights:** - Middle Atlas foothills - Varied landscapes from north to south - Imperial cities of Fes and Meknes - Change of architecture and landscape - **Duration:** 7-8 hours - **Best:** Full-day journey, bring snacks

4. Rabat to Fes **Highlights:** - Transition from coast to interior - Agricultural regions - Meknes imperial city - Approaching Fes through hills - **Duration:** 2.5-3 hours - **Best:** Afternoon for light on approach to Fes

Best Seats for Views

General: - Window seats (obviously) - Right side: Tangier-Casablanca (coast views) - Left side: Marrakech-Casablanca (Atlas views) - Either side fine for most routes

TGV: - Speed means fleeting views - Still scenic but fast - Best for landscapes rather than details

Conventional: - Slower = better views - Can take photos through window (avoid reflections)

Delays and Cancellations

TGV Delays: - Rare (95%+ on-time record) - Usually only 5-10 minutes - Announced in station and onboard

Conventional Train Delays: - More common (80-85% on-time) - Can be 30-60 minutes on busy routes - Usually due to congestion, not mechanical

If Your Train is Delayed: - Check departure boards for updates - Ask station staff ("C'est en retard?") - Delays announced in Arabic and French - No compensation offered - Consider next available train

If Train is Cancelled: - Rare occurrence - Ticket valid for next available train - Ask at ticket window for options - Refund available if requested

Lost Tickets

During Journey: - Explain to inspector ("J'ai perdu mon billet") - May need to purchase new ticket - Keep e-ticket confirmation on phone

Before Journey: - If paper ticket lost, may need to repurchase - If e-ticket, simply show email confirmation - Always save e-tickets on phone

Wrong Train or Station

Boarded Wrong Train: - Inform inspector immediately - May need to purchase correct ticket - Usually not a major issue

Arrived at Wrong Station: - Multiple stations in some cities (Rabat, Casablanca) - Take local train or taxi to correct station - Usually only 10-20 minutes between stations

Luggage Issues

Luggage Theft: - Rare but can happen - Keep valuables in carry-on - Report to train staff immediately - File police report at station

Luggage Won't Fit: - If overhead full, use car-end spaces - Ask other passengers politely - Train staff can help - Avoid traveling with very large items during peak times

Traveling with Children

Family Friendly: - Children under 4 free (no seat) - Half-price for children 4-12 - Space for strollers at car ends - Toilets available (but basic)

Tips: - Bring snacks and entertainment - Choose seats near toilet - Avoid peak times for more space - First Class more comfortable with kids

Traveling with Disabilities

Accessibility: - TGV stations: Modern, elevator access - Conventional stations: Varies, many stairs - TGV trains: Wheelchair spaces available - Conventional trains: Limited accessibility

Assistance: - Request assistance when booking - Station staff can help (ask at ticket window) - Not all stations fully accessible

Contact ONCF: - Phone: +212 890 20 30 40 - Advance notice recommended for assistance

Women Traveling Alone

Safety: - Trains very safe for solo women - First Class: May feel more comfortable (less crowded) - Moroccan trains respectful environment - Staff helpful if any issues

Tips: - Sit near families if feeling uncomfortable - First Class generally quieter - Ignore any inappropriate attention (rare) - Train staff will help if approached

Ramadan Travel

Fasting Hours: - Avoid eating/drinking in open during fasting hours (dawn to sunset) - Not required for travelers but shows respect - Café car may be closed during day

Iftar Time: - Trains crowded at sunset (breaking fast) - Delays possible as entire country eats - Beautiful atmosphere of communal breaking of fast

Train vs. Bus

Train Advantages: - Faster: Especially TGV - More Comfortable: More space, smoother ride - Reliable: Not affected by traffic - Work-Friendly: WiFi, power, stable ride - Views: Better windows, higher vantage

Bus Advantages: - Network: Goes everywhere (train doesn't) - Price: Slightly cheaper - Frequency: More departures on some routes - Direct: Some routes avoid transfers

When to Choose Train: - Major city to major city - Long distances (comfort matters) - Need to work during journey - Value time over money

When to Choose Bus: - Destination not on rail network - Very tight budget - More flexible scheduling - Going to southern Morocco

Train vs. Driving

Train Advantages: - No Stress: No navigation, parking, traffic - Work During Journey: Productive travel time - Safety: Excellent safety record - Cost: Cheaper than rental (for 1-2 people) - Scenery: Enjoy views without watching road - No Fatigue: Arrive refreshed

Driving Advantages: - Flexibility: Stop anywhere, change plans - Door-to-Door: No taxi at ends - Remote Areas: Access to non-rail destinations - Groups: Cheaper for 3+ people - Luggage: Unlimited space

When to Choose Train: - Between major cities - Solo or couple traveling - Don't want driving stress - Visiting cities (parking difficult)

When to Choose Driving: - Exploring Atlas Mountains - Desert regions - Multiple small towns - Group of 3+ people - Very flexible itinerary

Train vs. Flying

Train Advantages: - City Center to City Center: Stations centrally located - No Airport Time: No 2-hour pre-flight requirement - No Baggage Fees: Bring what fits - Scenery: See the country - Comfort: More space, can move around - Environment: Lower carbon footprint - Productive: Easy to work during journey

Flying Advantages: - Speed: For very long distances - Long Distances: Casablanca-Dakhla etc.

When to Choose Train: - North-south travel (Tangier-Marrakech) - Any route under 500 km - Value comfort and convenience - Want to see landscapes

When to Choose Flying: - Very long distances (Casa-Dakhla) - Very limited time - Southern/remote destinations

Planned Expansions

Marrakech-Agadir High-Speed Line: - Status: Planning stage - Distance: 250 km - Target: Connect major tourist hubs - Timeline: 2028-2030 estimated

Fes-Marrakech Direct Line: - Current: Must go via Casablanca - Planned: Direct line through Middle Atlas - Impact: Cut 2-3 hours from journey - Timeline: Long-term (2030+)

Rabat-Meknes-Fes TGV: - Status: Under study - Would: Extend TGV network east - Impact: 90-minute Rabat-Fes journey - Timeline: 2030s

Network Electrification: - All main lines now electrified - Improved speed and reliability - Modern rolling stock

Essential Phrases

At Ticket Window: - "Aller simple pour Marrakech" = One-way to Marrakech - "Aller-retour pour Fes" = Round-trip to Fes - "Première classe" = First class - "Deuxième classe" = Second class - "Quelle heure part le train?" = What time does the train leave? - "Combien coûte le billet?" = How much is the ticket?

Finding Platform: - "Quelle voie pour Rabat?" = Which platform for Rabat? - "Où est la voie numéro trois?" = Where is platform 3?

Onboard: - "Cette place est libre?" = Is this seat free? - "Où sont les toilettes?" = Where are the toilets? - "Café?" = Café car?

Key Phone Numbers - **ONCF Information:** +212 890 20 30 40 - **Online Support:** contact@oncf.ma - **Website:** www.oncf.ma

Booking Reminder - **Online:** www.oncf.ma or mobile app - **Advance:** Up to 30 days - **Peak Times:** Book 1-2 weeks ahead - **E-Tickets:** Work fine on phone

Morocco's train network offers one of the best ways to experience the country. From the ultra-modern Al Boraq TGV to scenic conventional routes, trains combine comfort, reliability, and affordability. While the network doesn't reach everywhere, it perfectly connects Morocco's major cities and offers a window into the country's diverse landscapes. Whether speeding through the countryside at 300 km/h or gently rolling through agricultural plains, train travel in Morocco is an experience in itself.

Bottom Line: For travel between Tangier, Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Meknes, and Marrakech, trains are almost always the best choice. Modern, comfortable, safe, and affordable—Morocco's rails are a model for Africa and a pleasure for visitors.