Train Travel in Morocco: Routes, Al Boraq, Classes and How to Book
Morocco has a reliable, affordable national railway run by ONCF that links Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Fes, Tangier and Oujda. The Al Boraq high-speed train connects Tangier to Casablanca in about 2 hours 10 minutes. Trains do not reach the Sahara, the Atlas Mountains, Essaouira or Chefchaouen, which are served by buses, tours and private drivers.
Main train routes and approximate journey times
| Route | Approximate time |
|---|---|
| Marrakech – Casablanca | 2 h 40 min |
| Marrakech – Rabat | About 4 h |
| Marrakech – Fes | About 6.5–7 h (often with a change) |
| Casablanca – Fes | About 3.5 h |
| Fes – Meknes | About 35–45 min |
| Tangier – Casablanca (Al Boraq) | About 2 h 10 min |
| Tangier – Rabat (Al Boraq) | About 1 h 20 min |
Times vary by service; always check the current timetable.
Al Boraq: Africa's first high-speed train
Opened in 2018, Al Boraq runs at up to 320 km/h on a dedicated line between Tangier and Kenitra, then continues on upgraded track to Rabat and Casablanca. It is comfortable and punctual, with first and second class. Work to extend high-speed rail towards Marrakech has been announced; check the latest news before planning around it.
First or second class?
On Al Boraq, both classes are modern; first class offers wider seats. On conventional intercity trains, first class reserves you a seat in a compartment or open carriage, while second class can be crowded on Fridays, Sundays and around holidays. The price difference is modest, so first class is often worth it for long journeys.
How to buy tickets
- Online on the ONCF website or the ONCF Trafic app, with an e-ticket on your phone.
- At station ticket offices and machines.
- Book Al Boraq ahead at busy times; conventional trains can usually be bought on the day.
Where the train does not go
For the Sahara, the Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate, Essaouira and Chefchaouen, combine the train with tours or buses. For example, travellers arriving in Fes by train can take the 3-day desert tour from Fes to Marrakech instead of returning by rail, or visit the blue city on the Chefchaouen day trip from Fes.
Tips for train travel in Morocco
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early: platforms are announced on screens in Arabic and French.
- Keep your ticket until the exit: inspectors check on board and at some stations.
- Bring water and snacks; trolley service is limited on conventional trains.
- Use petit taxis from stations to the medinas; agree the fare or ask for the meter.
Planning a route? See our 10-day Morocco itinerary and Casablanca to Marrakech transport guide.
Book it with a local operator
- From Fes: 3-Day Sahara Desert Tour to Marrakech via Merzouga — from €165 per person, pay on the day.
- From Fes: Chefchaouen Blue City Day Trip in the Rif Mountains — from €55 per person, pay on the day.
- From Casablanca: 7-Day Private Imperial Cities Tour of Morocco — from €690 per person, pay on the day.
Related guides
- Things to Do in Tangier: Kasbah, Caves of Hercules and Cape Spartel
- Things to Do in Rabat: A One-Day Guide to Morocco's Capital
- Volubilis and Meknes Day Trip from Fes: Roman Ruins and an Imperial City
Frequently asked questions
Is train travel in Morocco safe and comfortable?
Yes. ONCF trains are generally safe, punctual and comfortable, and the Al Boraq high-speed train is modern. First class is recommended on busy days.
Can you take a train from Marrakech to Fes?
Yes, but it takes around 6.5–7 hours and may involve a change. Many travellers instead go via the Sahara on a 3-day desert tour between the two cities.
Does the high-speed train go to Marrakech?
Al Boraq currently runs between Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca. An extension towards Marrakech has been announced; check ONCF for the current status.
Can I buy Moroccan train tickets online?
Yes, on the official ONCF website or app, which issue e-tickets you can show on your phone.
Main photo: NicholasNCE, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
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