Discovering...
Discovering...
Everything you need to know about ONCF trains, the Al Boraq high-speed service, routes, schedules, ticket classes, and practical tips for riding the rails across Morocco.
Morocco's railway network is one of the best in Africa and offers travelers a comfortable, affordable, and scenic way to connect the country's major cities. Operated by ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer), the rail system links Tangier in the north to Marrakech in the south, with key stops in Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and beyond.
The crown jewel of Moroccan rail is the Al Boraq high-speed train — Africa's first and only high-speed rail service. Launched in 2018, Al Boraq whisks passengers from Tangier to Casablanca at speeds up to 320 km/h in just over two hours, a journey that previously took nearly five hours.
Whether you are planning a quick day trip from Casablanca to Rabat, a scenic ride through the interior to Fes, or the full north-south journey from Tangier to Marrakech, this guide covers everything you need: routes, fares, booking strategies, station tips, and the practical details that make train travel in Morocco smooth and enjoyable.
Key facts about the ONCF railway network and what to expect when traveling by train in Morocco.
2,110+ km
Rail Network
Connecting all major Moroccan cities
Up to 320 km/h
Al Boraq Speed
Fastest train in Africa
From 30 MAD
Cheapest Ticket
Short-distance second-class fares
oncf.ma
Book Online
E-tickets accepted on all trains
Understanding the operator behind Morocco's rail network.
ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer) has operated Morocco's railways since 1963. The network spans over 2,110 kilometers of track and carries more than 40 million passengers annually. It is the backbone of intercity transport in Morocco and a reliable alternative to long-distance buses and domestic flights.
The network consists of two main axes: a north-south line connecting Tangier to Marrakech via Casablanca and Rabat, and an east-west line running from Casablanca through Fes to Oujda near the Algerian border. The Casablanca-Rabat shuttle, running every 30 minutes, is one of the busiest commuter routes in Africa.
ONCF has invested heavily in modernization. Beyond the Al Boraq high-speed service, conventional trains have been upgraded with air conditioning, comfortable seating, and digital ticketing. Stations across the network have undergone renovation with improved facilities, accessibility features, and real-time departure boards.
The fastest train on the African continent, connecting Tangier to Casablanca in just over 2 hours.
Tangier - Casablanca
Tangier - Rabat
Tangier - Kenitra
Kenitra - Casablanca
Seasonal pricing may apply. Book early for the best fares.
Pro Tip: Al Boraq Extension
ONCF plans to extend the high-speed network south to Marrakech and east to Fes in the coming years. Once completed, the Casablanca to Marrakech journey will drop from 2 hours 40 minutes to under 90 minutes. Check oncf.ma for the latest updates on expansion timelines.
Key rail connections across Morocco with approximate journey times, frequencies, and fares.
High-speed at 320 km/h, the fastest train in Africa
Most popular tourist route, frequent departures
Ultra-frequent shuttle service, runs every 30 minutes
Scenic route through inland Morocco
Quick connection between two imperial cities
Direct route linking the capital to the cultural heart
Full north-south traverse, transfer at Casa Voyageurs
Longest route, overnight option available
Timetables and prices may vary seasonally. Always verify current schedules at oncf.ma before travel.
Choose the right class for your journey, budget, and comfort preferences.
Best for: Budget travelers and short trips under 2 hours
Best for: Longer journeys, comfort seekers, and business travelers
Best for: High-speed travel at the best price
Best for: Maximum comfort on the high-speed line
How to buy tickets, when to book, and ways to save on your Morocco train journeys.
The official ONCF website accepts international credit cards and generates e-tickets you can show on your phone. The site is available in French and Arabic.
Available on iOS and Android, the app allows booking, schedule checking, and digital ticket storage. Register with your email to manage all bookings.
High-speed trains can sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. Book at least 2-3 days ahead for guaranteed seating. Early booking also secures the best fares.
Every major station has ticket windows open from early morning. Bring cash (MAD) or a card. Self-service kiosks at larger stations accept cards and speed up the process.
For regular ONCF services, you can usually buy tickets just before departure. Second class rarely sells out except during Eid and summer holidays.
Frequent travelers can save with the ONCF loyalty program offering discounts of up to 30% on regular routes. Ask at any ticket counter for enrollment.
What to expect at Morocco's busiest train stations and practical tips for each.
Main hub for all routes. Connected to tram line. Restaurants, ATMs, and luggage storage available. Transfer point between north-south and east-west lines.
Near the old medina and Hassan II Mosque. Used for the Casablanca-Rabat shuttle. Smaller than Casa Voyageurs but well-connected by tram.
Central location near the medina. Connections to Fes, Marrakech, and Tangier. Tram stop right outside. Clean facilities with cafes and ATMs.
Al Boraq high-speed stop in Rabat. Modern station in the Agdal neighborhood. Taxi rank outside. Slightly further from the medina than Rabat Ville.
End of the southern line. Walking distance to Jemaa el-Fna (15 minutes). Taxi rank and bus connections outside. ATMs and cafes inside the station.
Serves the Fes medina. Petit taxis (red) queue outside for rides to the old city. Well-maintained station with ATMs and a small cafe.
Al Boraq terminus in northern Morocco. Modern station with excellent facilities. Connected to the port area. Gateway to Spain via ferry to Tarifa.
Compact station for visiting the imperial city. Quick connections to Fes (45 min). Taxi rank outside for the short ride to the medina.
What you can bring on board and how to manage your bags during train journeys.
Moroccan trains are generally very safe. Follow these tips for a worry-free journey.
Holiday Travel Warning
Trains are extremely crowded during Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and summer holidays (July-August). Book well in advance for these periods and consider first class for a more comfortable journey. Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure during peak travel times.
Insider advice for making the most of train travel across Morocco.
Get to the station 15-20 minutes before departure for conventional trains and 20-30 minutes for Al Boraq. Seats are not reserved on conventional trains, so arriving early secures a window seat.
While Al Boraq has a cafe car, conventional trains have limited food options. Pack water and snacks, especially for journeys over 2 hours. Station kiosks sell sandwiches from 15 MAD.
Al Boraq first class offers Wi-Fi but speeds vary. A Moroccan SIM card (from 30 MAD with data) is more reliable. Maroc Telecom has the best coverage along rail corridors.
Many routes require a transfer at Casa Voyageurs. Allow at least 30-45 minutes between trains. The station has cafes, ATMs, and clear signage in French and Arabic.
Al Boraq first class has outlets at every seat. Conventional first class has them at select seats. Bring a portable charger as second class has limited power access.
The Casablanca-Fes route offers beautiful countryside views. Sit on the left side heading north from Fes for the best scenery through the Saiss Plain and Gharb region.
Answers to the most common questions about train travel in Morocco.
You can book ONCF train tickets online at oncf.ma or through the ONCF mobile app. Tickets are also available at station counters and self-service kiosks. For Al Boraq high-speed trains, advance booking is recommended as seats can sell out. Online bookings accept international credit cards and generate e-tickets you can show on your phone.
The Al Boraq high-speed train reaches speeds up to 320 km/h, making it the fastest train in Africa. It connects Tangier to Casablanca in approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, compared to nearly 5 hours on the conventional service. The line stops at Kenitra and Rabat along the way.
First class offers wider seats in a 2+1 configuration, air conditioning, power outlets, and quieter carriages with fewer passengers. Second class has a 2+2 seat layout and is more crowded but perfectly comfortable for most journeys. First class costs roughly 50% more than second class. Both classes are clean and well-maintained.
Morocco train fares are very affordable. A second-class ticket from Marrakech to Casablanca costs from 100 MAD (approximately 10 USD). Casablanca to Rabat starts from 50 MAD. Al Boraq high-speed tickets from Tangier to Casablanca start from 149 MAD in economy and from 229 MAD in first class. Prices may vary seasonally.
Yes, train travel in Morocco is generally very safe. ONCF trains are modern, well-maintained, and patrolled by security staff. Keep your belongings close, especially on busy routes. First class is quieter and more secure. Avoid displaying expensive items and keep luggage in sight. Night trains are safe but stay alert at station platforms after dark.
Yes, passengers can bring luggage on Moroccan trains at no extra charge. Overhead racks accommodate standard suitcases and backpacks. There is no strict weight limit for carry-on luggage, but you should be able to lift your bags onto the racks yourself. Al Boraq trains have dedicated luggage storage areas at the end of each carriage.
Al Boraq high-speed trains are generally very punctual. Conventional ONCF services are reasonably reliable but delays of 15 to 30 minutes can occur, especially on longer routes. Allow buffer time for connections. During holidays like Eid and summer vacation, trains may be more crowded and slightly delayed.
Al Boraq high-speed trains offer complimentary Wi-Fi in first class, though speeds can be inconsistent. Conventional ONCF trains do not have Wi-Fi. A Moroccan SIM card with a data plan (from 30 MAD) is the most reliable way to stay connected during your train journey. Cell coverage is good along most routes.
Continue planning your Morocco journey with these detailed guides.
Detailed route maps, timetables, and city-to-city connections across the ONCF network.
Read GuideComplete overview of all transport options including trains, buses, taxis, and flights.
Read GuideBuses, trams, grand taxis, and local transit options for navigating Moroccan cities.
Read GuideBudgeting for your Morocco trip including transport, accommodation, food, and activities.
Read GuideRental cars, road conditions, fuel prices, and tips for self-driving across Morocco.
Read GuideMorocco's train network makes it easy to explore the country's most iconic cities in comfort and style. From the high-speed Al Boraq to scenic conventional routes, the railway connects you to ancient medinas, coastal cities, and everything in between.