Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) to the Hivernage and Gueliz hotel districts is by taking the L19 Alsa Airport Express Bus to the “Gare Routière” (CTM Bus Station) in Gueliz (cost: 70 MAD, journey: ~20 mins), followed by a short taxi ride or walk to your final hotel. For ultimate convenience, especially with luggage or a group, a pre-booked private transfer (cost: ~200-300 MAD) directly to your hotel door is highly recommended.
Bus: The L19 Alsa Airport Express (Best Budget Option)
The L19 Airport Express Bus operated by Alsa is the most efficient and affordable public transport link from the airport to the city center, stopping directly in Gueliz.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Find the Bus Stop: Exit the terminal, turn right, and walk about 100m. Look for the clearly marked “L19 Airport Express” bus shelter.
- Buy a Ticket: Pay the driver directly in cash (preferably exact change). The fare is a fixed 70 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) per person (approx. €6.50 / $7).
- Take the Bus: The bus is modern, air-conditioned, and has dedicated luggage space. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes depending on traffic.
- Alight at “Gare Routière”: This is the main stop in Gueliz, located at the CTM long-distance bus station. This is your gateway to both Gueliz and Hivernage.
From “Gare Routière” to Your Hotel:
- To Gueliz Hotels: Many mid-range hotels (e.g., around Mohammed V Boulevard) are within a 10-15 minute walk. For others, take a petit taxi for a short, cheap ride (10-20 MAD).
- To Hivernage Hotels: Hivernage is about a 15-20 minute walk south, or a 5-minute petit taxi ride (15-25 MAD) from the bus station.
Taxis & Private Transfers (Door-to-Door Convenience)
For direct, hassle-free service to your hotel doorstep, taxis or pre-booked transfers are the primary choice.
Airport Grand Taxis (Official & Metered)
Official beige grand taxis operate from ranks outside the terminal. They are the only taxis authorized to pick up at the airport.
- How it Works: Go to the official taxi desk inside the arrivals hall. State your destination, and you will receive a fixed-price ticket. This system prevents overcharging. Do not negotiate with drivers directly outside.
- Cost to Hivernage/Gueliz: The official fixed fare is around 100-150 MAD (€9-14) during the day. The price is per taxi (not per person) and can fit up to 4 passengers with luggage.
- Journey Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers (Highly Recommended)
For the smoothest arrival, especially after a long flight or with a group, booking a private transfer in advance is ideal. A driver will meet you in arrivals with a name sign.
- Providers: Book via reputable platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, or through your hotel.
- Cost: Starts from around 200-300 MAD (€18-28) for a standard car. Slightly more for minivans.
- Why Choose This: No haggling, fixed price, meet-and-greet, assistance with luggage, direct to hotel. Often the same price or only slightly more than an official airport taxi for far better service.
Petit Taxis (Not from Airport)
Important: The small, red petit taxis that operate within the city are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport. You can only use them for the final leg from the L19 bus stop to your hotel.
Walking (For Light Packers to Gueliz Only)
It is technically possible to walk from the airport to the northern edges of Gueliz, but it is not generally recommended for most travelers.
- Distance & Time: The walk is about 3-4 km (1.8-2.5 miles), taking 40-60 minutes.
- The Route: You will walk along busy roads like Avenue de France with limited pedestrian sidewalks. It can be noisy, dusty, and unpleasant, especially with luggage or in heat.
- Verdict: Only consider this if you have a single small backpack, are on an extreme budget, and your hotel is in northern Gueliz very close to the airport (e.g., near the Royal Tennis Club). For everyone else, the L19 bus is a vastly superior choice for a similar price point (considering effort).
Transport Cost & Time Comparison Table
Use this table to quickly compare all options from Marrakech Airport to Hivernage/Gueliz hotels.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (MAD) | Approx. Cost (€/$) | Journey Time* | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L19 Airport Bus + Petit Taxi | 80-95 MAD | €7.5-9 | 30-45 mins | Budget travelers, solo travelers, light packers | Most economical; involves one easy change. |
| Official Airport Grand Taxi | 100-150 MAD | €9-14 | 15-20 mins | Couples, small groups, direct service seekers | Fixed price from official desk; avoid unofficial drivers. |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | 200-300 MAD | €18-28 | 15-20 mins | Families, groups, luxury travelers, first-time visitors, those with lots of luggage | Most recommended for stress-free, door-to-door service. |
| Walking (Gueliz only) | 0 MAD | €0 | 40-60 mins | Extreme budget, very light packers, fitness enthusiasts | Unpleasant walk along busy roads; not practical for most. |
*Journey time is from airport to final hotel district, including transfers/walking where applicable.
Essential Traveler Tips & Experience
Key Advice for a Smooth Arrival:
- Have Local Currency (MAD): While some taxis/transfers accept euros, you will get a better rate paying in Dirhams. The L19 bus driver only accepts cash (MAD). ATMs and currency exchange are available in the arrivals hall.
- Beware of Unofficial “Guides”: Politely but firmly ignore individuals inside the terminal offering “help” or “cheap taxis.” They will lead you to an unofficial, overpriced car. Proceed directly to the official taxi desk or the L19 bus stop.
- Download Offline Maps: Download the Gueliz and Hivernage area on Google Maps or Maps.me before you arrive. This makes navigating from the bus stop or verifying your taxi route much easier.
- Petit Taxi Tips: Always ensure the driver uses the meter (compteur) for journeys within the city. A short ride within Gueliz/Hivernage should rarely exceed 20-30 MAD.
- For Late-Night Arrivals: The L19 bus operates from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. If you land after 10 PM, your only realistic public transport options are an official airport taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. Pre-booking is highly advised for late arrivals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a direct train from Marrakech Airport to the city?
No. Unlike Casablanca, Marrakech Menara Airport does not have a direct train (ONCF) link. The L19 bus is the dedicated airport public transport.
What is the cheapest way to get from RAK to Hivernage?
The absolute cheapest way is the L19 Airport Bus (70 MAD) followed by a short walk to your hotel if it's close to the “Gare Routière” stop. Adding a petit taxi makes it the best budget option.
How do I get to my hotel if I arrive very late at night?
For arrivals after 10 PM (when the L19 bus stops):
- Best Option: A pre-booked private transfer. Your driver will be waiting, eliminating stress.
- Alternative: Use the official airport taxi desk inside arrivals. Avoid any freelance drivers.
Is Uber or Careem available at Marrakech Airport?
Officially, no. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are not permittedto pick up passengers directly from Marrakech Airport. They can drop off, but not pick up. Your app will show no cars available.
What's the best option for a family of 4 with lots of luggage?
A pre-booked private transfer with a minivan is by far the best choice. You'll get a confirmed vehicle size, help with luggage, and a direct journey without the hassle of fitting into a standard taxi or managing bags on a bus.
Can I walk from the airport to my hotel in Hivernage?
It is not recommended. The walk is long (over 5km/3 miles), along major roads with poor sidewalks, and can be confusing. The L19 bus + short taxi is safer, faster, and almost as cheap when considering the effort.
Do I need to tip the taxi or private transfer driver?
Tipping is not mandatory but is a common and appreciated gesture for good service. For a taxi, rounding up the fare (e.g., from 120 to 130 MAD) is fine. For a private transfer driver who assists with bags, 20-50 MAD is a polite tip.
Which is faster: bus or taxi?
In pure driving time, a taxi or transfer (15-20 mins) is slightly faster than the L19 bus (20-25 mins). However, if you factor in the short walk/taxi from the bus stop to your final hotel, the total journey time is comparable. The taxi’s main advantage is door-to-door convenience.