How to Get from Marrakech Menara Airport to Casablanca

The train is the top choice for balancing speed, cost, comfort, and reliability. Morocco's ONCF rail network connects Marrakech and Casablanca with modern, air-conditioned trains. The key detail: there is no train station at Marrakech Airport. Your journey is a simple two-step process.

Step-by-Step Guide: Airport -> Casablanca by Train

1. Airport to Marrakech Railway Station: Exit arrivals and take an official petit taxi (cream-colored for city trips). The ride takes 15-20 minutes and costs 70-100 MAD (insist on using the meter or agree on a price beforehand). Alternatively, take public Bus 19 (~5-10 MAD, 30-40 mins) which stops right outside the airport. The destination is "Gare de Marrakech (مراكش)".
2. Train from Marrakech to Casablanca: At the station, buy a ticket for the next train to "Casablanca-Voyageurs" (Casa-Voyageurs). We recommend booking First Class ("Première Classe") for guaranteed seating, more space, and a quieter environment, especially on the high-speed Al Boraq service.

Train Types, Schedules & Fares

ONCF operates several services. Here’s a detailed comparison:

Train Type	Travel Time (Marrakech to Casa-Voyageurs)	Approx. Frequency	Second Class Fare	First Class Fare	Key Features
Al Boraq (High-Speed)	2h 15m	Several daily	~140 MAD	~190 MAD (Recommended)	Fastest, modern, comfortable, power sockets, often includes a drink/snack in 1st class.
Al Atlas (Standard Express)	2h 30m - 3h	Very frequent (every 1-2 hours)	~95 MAD	~145 MAD	Reliable, air-conditioned, the workhorse of the line. Perfectly comfortable.
Ordinary Train (Navette)	3h 30m+	Infrequent	~70 MAD	N/A	Slower, makes many stops. Not recommended for this route given minimal price savings.

Pro Tip: Check live schedules and book tickets online in advance via the official ONCF website (English option available) to secure your seat, particularly for the popular Al Boraq service or during holidays.

While a direct flight seems logical, it's rarely the best choice for city-center to city-center travel between Marrakech and Casablanca due to significant "hidden time" on both ends.

The Reality of "Door-to-Door" Time

• Flight Time: A mere 45 minutes.
• Hidden Time & Transfers:
  • Marrakech Airport (RAK) to City Center: 15-20 min taxi (to train/bus station is different).
  • Airport Check-in & Security: At least 90 minutes before departure.
  • Flight Disembarkation & Baggage Claim: 20-30 minutes.
  • Casablanca Mohammed V Airport (CMN) to City Center: A 45-60 minute train ride (ONCF Airport Express) or expensive 45+ minute taxi.

Total Realistic Travel Time: 4 to 5+ hours—often longer than the train.

When Does Flying Make Sense?

Consider a flight only if:

• You have a tight connection between an international flight arriving at RAK and another departing from CMN (book through the same airline if possible).
• Your final destination is near Casablanca's Mohammed V Airport, not the city itself.
• You hold a status or fare that allows quick check-in and lounge access, mitigating wait times.

Airlines & Booking: Royal Air Maroccodes this route frequently. Check prices on their website or flight comparison sites. Fares vary wildly but expect 600-1500+ MAD one-way.

For the utmost economy, long-distance buses are your best friend. They are safe, reliable, and connect city centers directly. Two reputable companies operate this route: CTM (the national flagship) and Supratours (owned by ONCF, often coordinates with train timings).

Step-by-Step: Airport to Casablanca by Bus

1. Airport to Marrakech Bus Station: From RAK, you need to get to the respective bus company's station.
   • To CTM Station: Take a taxi (20-25 mins, ~50-70 MAD) to "Gare Routière CTM Marrakech" on Boulevard Mohammed VI.
   • To Supratours Station: It's conveniently located right next to the Marrakech train station. A taxi from the airport here costs 70-100 MAD (15-20 mins).
2. Bus from Marrakech to Casablanca: Purchase your ticket at the station counter. Buses are modern, air-conditioned, and have onboard toilets. The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
3. Arrival in Casablanca: CTM buses arrive at the main "Gare Routière CTM Casa Voyageurs" (next to the train station). Supratours buses arrive at their station near "Casa-Port".

Costs, Schedules & Night Buses

Company	Approx. Travel Time	Approx. Fare	Key Features & Tips
CTM	~4 hours	95 - 120 MAD	Most frequent service. Offers night buses (departing ~11:00 PM-1:00 AM). Online booking is highly recommended, especially for night trips.
Supratours	~3.5 - 4 hours	80 - 100 MAD	Schedule often aligns with train arrivals/departures. Integrated ticketing with ONCF possible. Station is very convenient for train connections.

Luggage Note: You typically get one large suitcase stored below and a small carry-on. Excess luggage may incur a small fee.

This is the most straightforward but also the most expensive option by a large margin. It eliminates all transfers and is ideal for specific situations where convenience outweighs cost.

Types of Taxis & Expected Costs

• Grand Taxi (Shared or Private): These are larger, older Mercedes or similar vehicles that wait outside the airport. They typically do inter-city trips.
  • Shared (Colectivo): You wait for up to 6 passengers. Price per seat: ~120-150 MAD. Departs when full. Unpredictable wait time.
  • Private Charter: You pay for all seats to leave immediately. Cost: 600-800 MAD. Requires aggressive negotiation at the airport.
• Pre-Booked Private Transfer: The most comfortable and hassle-free option. A driver meets you at arrivals with a name sign, helps with luggage, and drives you directly to your Casablanca address in a private vehicle.
  • Cost: 700 - 900 MAD (sedan) or more for vans.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.

When to Choose a Private Transfer/Taxi:

• Traveling in a group of 3-4 people (cost can become comparable to train tickets).
• Arriving very late at night or very early in the morning when public transport isn't running.
• You have a lot of luggage or mobility issues.
• Your priority is absolute door-to-door convenience and you have the budget for it.

Booking Advice: Book private transfers online in advance through reputable global platforms (like Viator) or local Moroccan tour companies for fixed, agreed-upon prices and reliable service.

This table summarizes all key data to help you decide the best way from Marrakech Airport to Casablanca.

Transport Method	Total Door-to-Door Time*	Total Approx. Cost (per person)	Comfort & Convenience	Best For
Train (Al Boraq 1st Class)	~3 hours	~260 - 300 MAD (Taxi + 1st Class Ticket)	High. Fast, reliable, spacious seats, scenic.	Most travelers seeking the best balance of speed, price, and comfort.
Train (Al Atlas 2nd Class)	~3 - 3.5 hours	~165 - 200 MAD (Taxi + 2nd Class Ticket)	Good. Reliable but can be crowded.	Budget-conscious travelers who still want a fast, reliable option.
Bus (CTM/Supratours)	~4.5 - 5.5 hours	~85 - 130 MAD (Local bus/taxi + Long-distance ticket)	Basic but adequate. Direct city-center service.	Ultra-budget travelers and those not pressed for time. Great for night trips.
Domestic Flight	~4.5 - 6+ hours	~600 - 1500+ MAD (+ Airport transfers)	Airport hassle but comfortable flight. Unpredictable total time.	Primarily for connecting international flights at CMN airport.
Private Transfer / Grand Taxi	~2.5 - 3 hours	~700 - 900 MAD (for the vehicle)	Maximum convenience, door-to-door.	Groups, families with lots of luggage, late-night arrivals, luxury seekers.

*Times include estimated transfer/waiting times from RAK airport to final Casablanca city center destination.

Beyond schedules and prices, here is crucial advice from seasoned travelers to make your journey smoother.

Top 5 Practical Tips

1. Beware of "Faux Guides" at the Airport: Ignore overly helpful individuals inside the terminal offering "cheap taxis" or "tickets." They are touts who will overcharge you. Proceed directly to the official taxi rank outside.
2. Have Small Change (Dirhams): Taxi drivers and bus ticket sellers often claim not to have change for large bills (200/100 MAD). Carry smaller denominations (50, 20, 10 MAD notes).
3. Train Station Navigation: Marrakech train station is large and well-signed. Look for the main departure board ("Départs"). First Class waiting rooms are quieter. Validate your ticket is for "Casablanca-Voyageurs" – the main station.
4. Consider Travel Time of Day:
   • Friday Afternoons & Holiday Evenings: Traffic leaving Marrakech can be heavy. Buses and taxis will be slower; trains are unaffected.
   • During Ramadan: Schedules for all transport may change slightly, especially around sunset (Iftar). Plan accordingly.
5. Luggage on Trains: There is ample overhead rack space and luggage areas at the ends of carriages. In First Class, there is typically more room. Keep valuables with you.

What to Do Upon Arrival in Casablanca

• At Casa-Voyageurs Station: The station is a major hub. You'll find an ONCF information desk, ATMs, cafes, and a taxi rank outside. It is also connected to the city's tram system – a cheap and efficient way to reach neighborhoods like the city center (Centre Ville) or the Corniche.
• Getting a Taxi in Casablanca: Use the official red "petit taxis." They must use the meter. A short ride within the center should cost 10-20 MAD. From the station to most central hotels, expect 15-30 MAD.