First Time in Morocco? A Complete Guide to Getting Around

A first trip to Morocco is exciting — and transport is often the part that worries travellers most. How do taxis work? Is the train good? Can you walk in the medina? Is a private driver worth it? This guide explains every option clearly, so you can choose with confidence and focus on enjoying the country.

Arriving: airports

Most visitors arrive at Marrakech Menara (RAK), Casablanca Mohammed V (CMN) or Agadir Al Massira (AGA). From the airport, you can take an official taxi, the airport bus (in Marrakech) or a pre-booked private transfer. For first-time visitors, a private transfer removes the most stressful moment of the trip: negotiating prices while tired, then finding a riad hidden in the medina. Read our complete Marrakech airport guide and see our Marrakech airport transfer.

Walking in the medinas

The old towns of Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira and Chefchaouen are mostly pedestrian. Walking is the best way to explore them — but expect narrow, busy alleys shared with mopeds, donkeys and handcarts. Tips:

• Download offline maps and mark your riad.
• Main streets lead to gates and squares; when lost, head for a busy street.
• Politely decline unsolicited "guides".
• Use a licensed guide for your first visit to Fes or the souks of Marrakech.

Petit taxis

Small taxis (beige in Marrakech, red in Casablanca, orange in Agadir, blue in Rabat) operate within cities. They carry up to three passengers. They should use the meter; if not, agree on the price before getting in. A night surcharge applies in the evening. Petit taxis are cheap and practical for short trips without much luggage.

Grand taxis

Larger shared taxis (often older Mercedes or modern minivans) run between towns and to the suburbs. They leave when full, with passengers squeezed in, and luggage on the roof. They're used by locals and adventurous travellers, but not ideal for families, groups or people with lots of luggage.

Trains

Morocco's railway network, operated by ONCF, is comfortable and punctual. It links Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Fes, Tangier and other cities. The Al Boraq high-speed train connects Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca, and its extension towards Marrakech is under construction. Trains are excellent between big cities — but they don't serve Essaouira, Agadir, the Atlas or the desert, and stations are often far from medina riads.

Long-distance buses

Companies like CTM and Supratours run comfortable coaches between most cities, including Essaouira, Agadir, Ouarzazate and Merzouga. They're affordable and reliable. The downsides: departures from bus stations, fixed schedules, limited stops and long journey times.

Renting a car

Possible and popular with confident drivers, but challenging in cities, mountains and at night. Parking near medinas is difficult. Read our honest comparison: private driver or rental car in Morocco.

Private drivers and vans

A private driver gives you door-to-door transport with an experienced local who knows the roads, the timings and the best stops. You can book:

• Airport transfers with meet & greet.
• Day trips from Marrakech to the Atlas, the desert, waterfalls or the coast — see the best day trips from Marrakech.
• A driver at your disposal for a half or full day — see our private driver in Marrakech.
• Multi-day tours in a van with the same driver — see van hire with driver.

Prices are per vehicle, so for families and groups, the cost per person is often close to trains or tours, with much more comfort.

Which option for which traveller?

• Solo backpacker on a budget: trains, buses, petit taxis — with a private transfer from the airport if you arrive at night.
• Couple: trains between big cities, private driver for day trips and the desert.
• Family with children: private transfers and a van with driver for excursions — child seats included.
• Group of friends: a van or minibus with driver — often the cheapest per person.
• Seniors or reduced mobility: private transport door-to-door — see our accessible travel guide.

Money and practicalities

• Cash is king for taxis, souks and small cafés; withdraw dirhams at ATMs.
• SIM card with data: buy one at the airport for maps and WhatsApp.
• Tips are customary for good service — see our tipping guide.
• Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
• Learn a few words: "salam" (hello), "shukran" (thank you), "la, shukran" (no, thank you).

A simple first-trip plan

• Days 1–3: Marrakech, with a private airport transfer and a city day with a driver.
• Day 4: a day trip to the Atlas or the Agafay desert.
• Days 5–6: Essaouira by private transfer.
• Day 7: back to Marrakech and the airport.

Morocco is easier to travel than most first-timers expect — especially with a reliable driver for the key moments. Tell us about your first trip, and we'll help you plan the transport.