Morocco Transport Masterclass
Morocco by Train
Africa's Best Rail Network
ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer) operates one of Africa's most advanced rail networks. The trains are punctual, modern, and provide a window into Moroccan landscape impossible to see from a plane.
The Network
Main Routes and Durations
The ONCF network radiates from Casablanca, connecting the major cities of the north and centre. Casa-Voyageurs is the main hub station. Casa-Port is secondary, closer to the port area. The airport has its own station (Aeroport Mohammed V) connected directly to the network.
| Route | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Casablanca to Marrakech | ~3h | Multiple daily |
| Casablanca to Fes | ~3h 45m | Multiple daily |
| Casablanca to Tangier (Al Boraq)High-Speed | ~2h 10m | Multiple daily |
| Casablanca to Rabat | ~45m | Very frequent |
| Fes to Tangier | ~5h | A few daily |
| Casablanca to Oujda | ~9h | 1-2 daily |
Choose Your Seat
Train Classes
1st Class (Premiere)
Wider seats, air conditioning, generally quieter carriages, and more legroom. Recommended for any journey longer than two hours. The price difference between first and second class is modest -- often only 30-50 MAD -- and the comfort improvement is significant.
2nd Class (Deuxieme)
Perfectly comfortable for shorter trips such as Casablanca to Rabat. The seats are narrower and the carriages busier, but you are closer to everyday Moroccan life. Conversations happen naturally, vendors pass through selling coffee and snacks, and the atmosphere is warmer.
Al Boraq (Single / Business)
A single premium class with business class available on some services. The Al Boraq experience is comparable to European high-speed rail: modern seats, power outlets, Wi-Fi, and a smooth ride at speed. Business class offers wider seats and complimentary refreshments.
How to Book
Booking Tickets
ONCF website (oncf.ma)
Book in advance, print your e-ticket or use the mobile QR code. The website is available in French and Arabic. Navigation is straightforward once you have selected your departure and arrival stations.
ONCF mobile app
Book directly on your phone, receive a digital ticket. The app works well and is the most convenient option for booking while already in Morocco.
At the station (guichet)
Buy at the ticket windows using cash or card. Arrive 20-30 minutes before departure to allow time for queuing. For popular routes at peak times, the queues can be substantial.
Supratours offices
Supratours (the ONCF bus subsidiary) sells combined train-plus-bus tickets for cities not on the rail network. Buy at Supratours desks located inside or adjacent to ONCF stations.
Approximate Prices (Check oncf.ma for Current Fares)
Casablanca to Marrakech (1st class)
~120-160 MADCasablanca to Fes (1st class)
~100-140 MADCasablanca to Tangier (Al Boraq)
~150-200 MADCasablanca to Rabat
~40-50 MADAdvance Booking Advice
For peak periods (summer, Eid holidays) and the Al Boraq high-speed service, book at least 2-3 days ahead. Off-peak, same-day tickets are generally available without issue. The ONCF website and app accept international credit and debit cards.
Beyond the Rails
Supratours: Train + Bus Connections
For cities not directly on the ONCF network -- Agadir, Essaouira, Ouarzazate, the Merzouga area, Laayoune -- Supratours offers connecting buses from train stations. You buy one combined ticket covering both the train and bus legs. The bus departs from directly outside the train station, timed to meet train arrivals.
This is the most efficient way to reach places like Essaouira (no train service) from Casablanca or Rabat without hiring a private car. Book the combined ticket at any ONCF station or through oncf.ma.
Key Supratours Connections from Marrakech
Africa's First High-Speed Train
The Al Boraq
A Historic Achievement
Named after the mythological creature from Islamic tradition that carried the Prophet on his night journey, the Al Boraq is Morocco's and Africa's first high-speed rail service. Launched in 2018, it connects Casablanca to Tangier via Kenitra, covering 350 km in just 2 hours and 10 minutes.
The trains are Alstom Avelia Euroduplex -- the same model used in France and Spain. They reach a maximum speed of 320 km/h, making the Al Boraq comparable in performance to European high-speed services. The ride is smooth, quiet, and a dramatic improvement over the 5+ hour road journey between the same two cities.
The stations serving the Al Boraq are ultra-modern. Tanger-Ville station was rebuilt alongside the launch of the service, featuring a contemporary design that marks a visible statement of infrastructure ambition.
On Board
Tips for Train Travel in Morocco
Practical details that will make your journey smoother, from seating strategy to onboard dining.
Validate your ticket if required
Check the format of your ticket. Some paper tickets purchased at the station need to be validated (composted) at a machine on the platform before boarding. E-tickets and mobile tickets do not require validation.
The cafe car is decent
The train cafe car serves hot food, coffee, tea, and snacks. The quality is acceptable and the prices are reasonable. On longer journeys like Casablanca to Oujda, the cafe car becomes a social hub.
Luggage is manageable
Overhead racks accommodate standard bags. Some carriages have designated luggage areas near the doors. Large suitcases fit, but plan your space -- the racks fill up on busy services.
Window seats for the best views
The Casablanca to Marrakech line crosses coastal plain and then Atlas foothills -- sit on the left side heading south for the best mountain views. The Fes to Oujda route passes through dramatic mountain scenery in the Taza Gap.
Night trains exist
Some overnight services operate, most notably Casablanca to Oujda. A couchette (sleeper berth) service is available on this route. Book in advance for berths -- they sell out quickly, particularly around holidays.
Book ahead for peak periods
For the Al Boraq high-speed service and during peak travel periods (summer, Eid, Ramadan), book at least 2-3 days in advance. Off-peak, same-day tickets are generally available without issue.
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