Morocco boasts the most modern and comprehensive passenger railway network in Africa. Operated by the state rail company ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer), the rail system connects all the major Atlantic and northern imperial cities: Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Meknes, and Fes.
With the 2018 inauguration of Al Boraq—Africa’s first true high-speed bullet train traveling at speeds up to 320 km/h (200 mph)—traveling between northern hubs and the economic capital has become faster, cleaner, and more comfortable than driving or flying. Here is everything international travelers need to know to navigate the Moroccan train system smoothly.
The Two Train Types: Al Boraq vs Al Atlas
1. Al Boraq (High-Speed Train / LGV)
Al Boraq operates along the dedicated high-speed rail line connecting Tangier to Casablanca via Kenitra and Rabat:
- Tangier to Rabat: 1 hour 20 minutes (previously 3 hours 45 minutes).
- Tangier to Casablanca: 2 hours 10 minutes (previously 4 hours 45 minutes).
- Features: French TGV double-decker Alstom trainsets, ultra-smooth ride, electric power outlets at every seat, luggage storage racks, cafe bistro car, and strictly reserved seating in both classes.
2. Al Atlas (Conventional Intercity Trains)
Al Atlas trains operate across the rest of the electrified network, connecting Casablanca to Marrakech, and linking Casablanca and Rabat eastward to Meknes, Fes, and Oujda:
- Casablanca to Marrakech: 2 hours 40 minutes (departures hourly).
- Casablanca to Fes: 3 hours 45 minutes.
- Marrakech to Fes (Direct): 6 hours 30 minutes.
- Features: Modern air-conditioned single-level carriages with both private six-passenger compartments and open saloon-style seating.
1st Class vs 2nd Class: Is Upgrading Worth It?
Ticket prices on Moroccan trains are very affordable by international standards, making 1st Class upgrades an excellent value:
| Category | 1st Class (Première Classe) | 2nd Class (Deuxième Classe) |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Reservation | Guaranteed assigned seat (car and seat number printed on ticket) | Assigned on Al Boraq; unassigned on conventional Atlas trains |
| Configuration | 2 + 1 seating arrangement (wider seats, greater legroom) | 2 + 2 seating arrangement (narrower, less legroom) |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, business travelers, working air conditioning | Lively, family-heavy; can be crowded during peak rush hours |
| Price Difference | Typically only 30% to 50% more than 2nd class | Lowest baseline ticket price |
Our Recommendation: For long journeys (such as Casablanca to Marrakech or Tangier to Casablanca), always pay the modest surcharge for 1st Class. Having a guaranteed seat means you can board without stress and keep your luggage right beside your seat.
Popular Rail Routes, Schedules & Fares (2026)
- Tangier Ville → Casablanca Voyageurs (Al Boraq):
- Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
- 2nd Class: 115 to 190 MAD ($11.50 to $19 USD) depending on how early you book
- 1st Class: 187 to 299 MAD ($18.70 to $30 USD)
- Casablanca Voyageurs → Marrakech (Al Atlas):
- Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
- 2nd Class: 100 to 120 MAD ($10 to $12 USD)
- 1st Class: 150 to 180 MAD ($15 to $18 USD)
- Fes → Meknes (Al Atlas):
- Duration: 35 minutes
- 2nd Class: 25 MAD ($2.50 USD)
- 1st Class: 35 MAD ($3.50 USD)
- Casablanca Voyageurs → Fes (Al Atlas):
- Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
- 2nd Class: 115 to 140 MAD ($11.50 to $14 USD)
- 1st Class: 170 to 210 MAD ($17 to $21 USD)
How to Buy Train Tickets
You have three primary options for purchasing ONCF train tickets:
1. Online via the Official ONCF Website (oncf-voyages.ma)
Tickets can be booked up to 90 days in advance online. Early booking on Al Boraq yields significant discounts. Note for international credit cards: The ONCF payment gateway occasionally rejects non-Moroccan Visa or Mastercard credit cards due to 3D Secure verification issues. If your transaction fails, use your hotel/riad concierge to book or buy tickets directly at the station upon arrival.
2. Modern Self-Service Station Kiosks
All major railway stations (Tangier Ville, Rabat Ville, Casablanca Voyageurs, Marrakech, Fes) have multilingual touch-screen ticket vending machines accepting international credit cards with PINs, as well as cash notes.
3. Traditional Station Ticket Windows (Guichets)
Ticket counter agents generally speak French and Arabic, and often basic English. Simply write your destination, date, time, and class on a piece of paper or show it on your phone screen to avoid miscommunication.
Luggage Rules & Station Navigation
- Luggage Allowances: ONCF officially allows two pieces of main luggage plus one hand luggage item per passenger. In practice, bags are not weighed, but you must be able to carry and lift your bags onto the train independently.
- Storage Space: In Al Boraq and open-saloon carriages, large luggage racks are situated near the exterior entry doors, while overhead racks accommodate medium-sized suitcases, duffels, and backpacks. Keep valuable electronics and passports in a daypack on your lap.
- Security Scanners: All major train station entrances require passing your bags through an X-ray scanner before entering the concourse. Allow 15 minutes before departure for security lines.
- Station Transfers to Medinas: Moroccan railway stations are located in the modern French-built quarters (Ville Nouvelle), not inside the medieval medinas. Upon arrival at Marrakech, Fes, or Tangier, exit the terminal to find the official rank for local petit taxis. Insist that the driver turn on the meter (le compteur), or agree on a standard 20 to 30 MAD flat fare before getting in.
For more transportation advice, read our complete guide on driving in Morocco and our comprehensive Casablanca travel guide.
