How to Get from Casablanca to Marrakech
Marrakech showcases historical sites and vibrant markets. Casablanca stands as the economic hub with coastal allure. To get from Marrakech to Casablanca, travelers cover about 240 kilometers. Well-maintained roads link these cities, making car and bus journeys straightforward. For those getting around within the cities, public transport and taxis are prevalent. Trains also provide a reliable option to traverse the distance between them. This journey reveals a blend of tradition and modernity. Varied landscapes unfold as one travels. Both Marrakech and Casablanca act as significant transportation hubs in Morocco. Knowing the transportation options aids in planning a smooth trip.
Best Way To Get From Casablanca to Marrakech
Train
The best way to travel between Casablanca and Marrakech is to opt for the high-speed train. This state-of-the-art transportation method whisks passengers between the cities in 2 hours and 40 minutes. Beyond its rapidity, the train experience is elevated by its modern amenities. Each carriage is designed with the traveler’s comfort in mind, boasting plush seating, spacious legroom, and designated areas for luggage storage. An added advantage is the train’s reputation for timely departures and arrivals. With a frequency of up to 10 departures daily, it offers flexibility, making it a favored option for both tourists and locals alike.
The train fare from Casablanca to Marrakech varies based on the class and booking time. For the second class, if you book well in advance, the price is 49 MAD ($5). However, last-minute tickets cost 149 MAD ($15). For first class, last-minute tickets are priced at 190 MAD ($19), while booking well ahead of the travel date costs 120 MAD ($12). The National Railway Office operates trains between Casablanca and Marrakech and across the entirety of Morocco. You can purchase tickets directly from their official website.
Trains get crowded in peak seasons. Tickets for popular times sell out fast. Consider booking two days ahead if visiting Marrakech or Casablanca.
In Casablanca, there are three primary train stations: Oasis Station (Open in Maps), Casa Voyageurs (Open in Maps), and Casa Port (Open in Maps). Both Casa Port and Casa Voyageur are centrally located. For trains to Marrakech, Casa Port is recommended. Being the departure station, it’s less crowded and offers more luggage space.
Marrakech train station (Open in Maps) is the sole arrival point. When announced, it’s time to disembark. It’s the terminus, so if you don’t, the controller might jestingly ask you to leave. The station is conveniently located with taxis and buses available for onward journeys.
Drive
Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the A7 highway stretching from Casablanca to Marrakech. This main route covers about 150 miles (240 KM) and the drive usually lasts 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and pace. Along the A7, there are multiple toll booths. As of 2023, toll fees range from 85 MAD ($8.5) to 95 MAD ($9.5), varying based on your starting point and Marrakech entry. To drive from Casablanca to Marrakech, you will require fuel costing approximately 250 MAD ($25).The highway boasts excellent upkeep, clear bilingual signage in Arabic and French, and frequent rest areas and fuel stations. The journey offers a picturesque transition: from Casablanca’s coastal views to vast plains, ending with the majestic backdrop of the Atlas Mountains as one approaches Marrakech.
You can use the Waze app as a GPS for navigation from Casablanca to Marrakech. We tried it, and it worked perfectly for the journey.
Alternative ways to go from Casablanca to Marrakech
Bus
Taking a bus is one of the most affordable ways to travel from Casablanca to Marrakech. The trip usually lasts 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen service. Buses run regularly, with options for both daytime and nighttime travel. Ticket prices fluctuate between 90 MAD ($9) and 150 MAD ($15), influenced by the bus class and company. Booking in advance is wise, especially during busy periods. Prominent bus operators on this route include CTM.
For a comfortable ride, many buses, particularly those from CTM, offer air conditioning and comfortable seats. Some even feature Wi-Fi and in-bus entertainment.
CTM has bus stations at three locations: Casablanca Ain Sebaa (Open in Maps), Casablanca FAR (Open in Maps), and Casablanca Maarif (Open in Maps). Casablanca Maarif and Casablanca FAR stations are preferable due to their strategic locations and accessibility.
Grand Taxi
Grand taxis, reminiscent of vintage Mercedes cars (Mercedes 240d) or the newest one (Dacia), operate on set routes between towns, contrasting with city-centric petit taxis. These spacious taxis usually seat six: two in the front and four behind. However, some opt to pay more for extra comfort.
Traveling from Casablanca to Marrakech by grand taxi typically lasts 3 hours, though this can vary with stops and traffic. Fares depend on factors like negotiation and passenger count. Single seats cost between 100 MAD ($10) and 150 MAD ($15). Reserving the whole taxi costs more, between 600 MAD ($60) and 800 MAD ($80), but this all-inclusive fare covers tolls, fuel, and other expenses.
In Casablanca, primary pick-up locations include well-known stations, like Station Taxi Roudani (Open In Maps) and Station Taxi Aawina Lhara near the fuel station Shell (Open In Maps). In Marrakech, taxis generally stop at official stands or main transport areas, but drivers can drop you off closer to your Marrakech destination if requested. Choosing a grand taxi offers a blend of local engagement and picturesque Moroccan views, but it’s crucial to be familiar with this transportation style’s intricacies.
Flight
Several airlines, with Royal Air Maroc as the main carrier, connect Casablanca and Marrakech. Flights are typically brief, lasting 50 minutes to 1 hour, excluding pre-flight activities. Given the route’s popularity, there are multiple daily departures. Departures are primarily from Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca, landing at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). Fares can vary, with one-way tickets ranging from 800MAD ($80) to 1700MAD ($170). It’s advisable to book early and scout for deals. Onboard, airlines like Royal Air Maroc offer snacks and sometimes entertainment. However, when choosing to fly, it’s essential to factor in the entire travel process, including airport transfers and potential wait times.
The Cheapest Way To Travel Between Casablanca and Marrakech.
Local Public Bus Station
For the audacious traveler eager to immerse themselves in the authentic rhythms of Moroccan life, taking a local bus from the bustling stations in Casablanca to Marrakech is a journey unlike any other. As you navigate through the throngs of people at the Casablanca bus station (Open In Maps), situated in a bustling, popular street pulsating with raw energy, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the very heartbeat of the city. This method of travel isn’t just the cheapest; it’s also the most common for locals, making it a rich cultural tapestry of chatter, laughter, and shared experiences. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re courageous and yearn for an unfiltered connection with Moroccan people, this is your ticket. Generally, it will cost you between $5 to $10. And it is better to buy it from the ticket office in Casablanca direction Marrakech.
Don’t fret about finding your way; both bus stations are centrally located in their respective cities. This isn’t just a means of getting from point A to B; it’s your passport to engaging conversations and meaningful interactions with the people who call Morocco home.
Car sharing to get from Casablanca to Marrakech
For those with a sense of adventure and a knack for technology, car-sharing serves as a riveting alternative to conventional means of travel between Casablanca and Marrakech. There’s a plethora of applications and Facebook groups dedicated to this very purpose, although be warned: the conversation typically unfolds in Moroccan language, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. One such app where you can secure your ride effortlessly even has the cost displayed upfront—no unpleasant surprises here in Pippipyalah. With options to pay in cash or directly via your credit card, the process is as seamless as it is economical. Interestingly, the price often undercuts most public transport fares, making this not just a swift option, but also an incredibly cost-effective one. Embrace this modern twist on travel to weave your unique tapestry of Moroccan experiences, all while enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded locals.
Additional Tips for All Travelers
- Currency: Make sure to have some Moroccan Dirhams on hand for small expenses.
- Language: Knowing a few phrases in French or Arabic can be helpful but is generally not essential.
- Safety: Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Conclusion
Getting from Casablanca to Marrakech is a journey that offers a variety of options to suit different travel styles and budgets. Whether you opt for the train for its comfort and scenery, the bus for its cost-effectiveness, or a private car for its flexibility, each mode of transport offers its own unique experience of traversing the diverse landscapes of Morocco. Choose the one that aligns best with your needs, and you’re sure to have an enriching trip.
