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Everything you need to know about ONCF Morocco trains, the Al Boraq high-speed service, routes, morocco train tickets, schedules, scenic journeys, and practical tips for riding the rails.
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 to Oujda near the Algerian border.
The crown jewel 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 by conventional train.
From a quick day trip on the Casablanca-Rabat shuttle to the full Marrakech to Fez train journey via Casablanca, this guide covers the morocco train schedule, all major routes and fares, booking strategies, station amenities, scenic corridors, overnight options, luggage rules, and how to combine rail with bus and grand taxi to reach every corner of the country.
Key facts about the ONCF Morocco railway network and what to expect when traveling by train.
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 showing the current morocco train schedule.
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.
Future Expansion
ONCF plans to extend the high-speed network south to Marrakech and east to Fes. Once completed, the Casablanca to Marrakech journey will drop from 2 hours 40 minutes to under 90 minutes, and a direct Marrakech to Fez train via high-speed rail will become a reality. Check oncf.ma for the latest updates on expansion timelines.
Key rail connections with approximate journey times, frequency, and fares for the morocco train schedule.
High-speed at 320 km/h — the fastest train in Africa
Most popular tourist route with frequent departures
Ultra-frequent shuttle service, runs every 30 minutes
Scenic route through inland Morocco with pastoral views
No direct service — transfer at Casablanca Voyageurs
Quick hop between two imperial cities
Direct route linking the capital to the cultural heart
Longest ONCF route — overnight departure available
Dramatic scenery through the Taza Gorge and Rif foothills
Timetables and prices may vary seasonally. Always verify the current morocco train schedule at oncf.ma.
Choose the right class for your journey, budget, and comfort needs.
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
Multiple ways to purchase your morocco train tickets, from online booking to station counters.
The official site accepts international credit cards and generates e-tickets. Available in French and Arabic. Best for advance Al Boraq bookings.
Available on iOS and Android. Book tickets, check the Morocco train schedule, store digital tickets, and receive delay notifications.
Open from early morning at all stations. Pay with MAD cash or card. Staff speak French and sometimes basic English.
Found at larger stations like Casa Voyageurs, Rabat Ville, and Marrakech. Accept cards and dispense printed tickets quickly.
Regular ONCF services rarely sell out except during Eid and summer holidays. You can buy tickets minutes before departure for most conventional routes.
Frequent travelers can enroll for free at any ticket counter. The ONCF loyalty program offers discounts of up to 30% on regular routes after qualifying trips.
Food, amenities, and practical tips for Morocco's busiest train stations.
Morocco's rail lines pass through surprisingly diverse landscapes. These routes offer the best window-seat views on the network.
The most dramatic rail scenery in Morocco. The train threads through the narrow Taza Corridor between the Rif and Middle Atlas mountains, passing steep gorges, terraced hillsides, and remote Berber villages. Sit on the left side heading east for the best views.
After leaving Rabat, the landscape opens into rolling wheat fields, olive groves, and the fertile Saiss plain. Near Meknes, you pass ancient Roman ruins at Volubilis in the distance and hills dotted with cedar and cork oak forests.
The short conventional train ride south from Tangier hugs the Atlantic coastline, offering sweeping ocean views, sandy beaches, and whitewashed fishing villages. This stretch is brief but strikingly beautiful, especially at sunset.
The high-speed line between Tangier and Kenitra passes through eucalyptus forests and offers brief but memorable views of the Atlantic Ocean. At 320 km/h the scenery moves fast, but the coastal panoramas north of Kenitra are a highlight.
The Marrakech to Fez train is one of the most searched routes by tourists. Here is everything you need to know about this popular connection between Morocco's two most iconic cities.
There is no direct Marrakech to Fez train. The journey requires a transfer at Casablanca Voyageurs. The total travel time is approximately 7 hours: about 2 hours 40 minutes from Marrakech to Casablanca, a 30-45 minute transfer, and then 3 hours 30 minutes from Casablanca to Fes.
Combined fare in second class starts from 200 MAD (about 20 USD) for both legs. First class costs from 300 MAD. Buy both tickets at Marrakech station or online at oncf.ma. Some travelers also consider the Supratours or CTM bus (about 8 hours direct) as an alternative, but the train is faster and more comfortable if you do not mind the transfer.
Best strategy: Take an early morning departure from Marrakech (around 7:00 AM) to arrive in Casablanca by 9:40 AM. Catch the 10:15 AM or 10:45 AM train to Fes and arrive by early afternoon. This gives you the rest of the day to explore the Fes medina.
The Casablanca-Fes leg passes through Rabat and Meknes, both of which make excellent day-trip stops if you want to break the journey. Consider spending a night in Meknes, the often-overlooked imperial city, before continuing to Fes the next morning (only 45 minutes away). Seasonal pricing may apply on both route segments.
What to know about late-evening and overnight train journeys in Morocco.
Morocco does not operate dedicated sleeper trains with berths or couchettes like European night trains. However, there are late-evening departures on longer routes that function as de facto overnight services, arriving the following morning.
The Casablanca to Oujda route (9-10 hours) is the most common overnight option. Late departures from Casa Voyageurs arrive in Oujda early the next morning. These are standard seated coaches, not sleeper carriages, so first class with its wider 2+1 seats is strongly recommended for any attempt to sleep on board.
For the popular Marrakech to Fez train journey, there is no true overnight option since the last connections via Casablanca depart in the early evening and arrive in Fes by late night. Plan to travel during the day for this route.
When to take the train and when a bus is the better choice.
| Factor | Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Faster on served routes (Al Boraq: 320 km/h) | Slower but covers more destinations |
| Comfort | Spacious seats, walkable aisles, restrooms on board | Comfortable but more cramped, limited legroom |
| Price | Slightly higher (from 30 MAD short trips) | Usually cheaper (CTM from 25 MAD short trips) |
| Network | Limited to major cities on rail lines | Reaches Chefchaouen, Essaouira, Ouarzazate, Sahara |
| Reliability | Generally punctual (Al Boraq very reliable) | Subject to road traffic and delays |
| Scenery | Good views, especially Fes-Oujda corridor | Mountain passes and coastal roads can be spectacular |
Best Strategy
Use trains for the main corridor cities (Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca, Meknes, Fes, Marrakech) and switch to CTM or Supratours buses for destinations like Chefchaouen, Essaouira, Ouarzazate, Merzouga, and the Sahara desert towns that the rail network does not reach.
The ONCF rail network covers the main cities, but many popular destinations require a bus or grand taxi connection. Here are the best multi-modal routes for reaching off-network towns.
Train to Fes or Tangier, then CTM/Supratours bus (4h from Fes, 3h from Tangier). Supratours buses depart from outside the train stations.
Train to Marrakech, then Supratours bus (2.5h) or grand taxi (2h). Supratours terminal is near Marrakech train station.
Train to Marrakech, then CTM bus over the Tizi n'Tichka pass (4h) or hire a grand taxi. The mountain road is spectacular.
Train to Fes or Marrakech, then overnight bus to Errachidia/Rissani, followed by a local taxi or tour transfer to Merzouga.
Supratours Tip
Supratours is ONCF's own bus subsidiary. Their buses are timed to connect with train arrivals and depart from terminals next to or near major train stations. This makes Supratours the smoothest option for train-to-bus transfers. Book Supratours tickets at the train station or at supratours.ma. Prices may vary seasonally.
What you can bring on board and how to manage your bags during train journeys.
Staying connected and comfortable during your Morocco train journey.
Al Boraq first class offers complimentary Wi-Fi, though speeds can be inconsistent. Conventional ONCF trains do not have Wi-Fi. A Moroccan SIM card with data (from 30 MAD from Maroc Telecom, Inwi, or Orange) is the most reliable way to stay connected. Cell coverage is good along most rail corridors.
Al Boraq first class has power outlets at every seat. Conventional first class has them at select seats only. Second class on conventional trains has very limited or no outlets. Bring a portable charger (power bank) for longer journeys, especially if traveling second class.
All Al Boraq trains and most conventional first-class carriages are air-conditioned. Second class has AC on most services but it can be less effective on older stock. In summer, first class is worth the upgrade for reliable climate control.
Al Boraq high-speed trains feature a cafe car selling hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, snacks, and light meals at reasonable prices. Conventional trains do not have onboard catering, so bring your own food and water for longer trips.
How to save money on morocco train tickets, loyalty programs, and discount options.
Second class is perfectly comfortable for journeys under 3 hours and costs roughly 40% less than first class. Great for the Casablanca-Rabat shuttle.
Al Boraq fares increase closer to departure. Booking 3-7 days ahead can save you 20-30% compared to same-day tickets.
ONCF loyalty card offers up to 30% discount for frequent rail travelers. Free to enroll at any station counter.
Take the train for major city hops and switch to CTM or Supratours buses for off-network destinations like Chefchaouen or Essaouira.
Prices can spike during Eid and summer. Travel mid-week and outside peak periods for the lowest fares.
Station and onboard food is reasonably priced but bringing your own snacks and water saves 30-50 MAD per trip on longer journeys.
Rail Pass & Carte Fidilite
ONCF does not currently offer an unlimited rail pass similar to European Eurail passes. The Carte Fidilite loyalty card is the closest equivalent, offering percentage discounts of up to 30% rather than unlimited travel. Enrollment is free at any ONCF station ticket counter and requires a passport-sized photo.
There are also youth discounts (under 26) and senior discounts (over 60) on conventional trains. Students with a valid Moroccan student card receive additional reductions. For most tourists visiting for 1-2 weeks, buying individual tickets per trip is the most practical and cost-effective approach. Prices may change seasonally.
Moroccan trains are generally very safe. These tips will help you have a smooth, worry-free journey.
Store your bag on the overhead rack directly above you or between your feet. On crowded second-class services during peak hours, keep your daypack on your lap with zippers facing your body.
First class is quieter, less crowded, and offers more personal space. Solo travelers and those carrying camera equipment or laptops will appreciate the extra security and comfort.
Train stations are generally safe, but stay aware of your surroundings on platforms, especially after dark at smaller stations. ONCF security personnel patrol all major stations and trains.
Arrive 20-30 minutes before departure for Al Boraq services. Conventional trains require 15-20 minutes. During holidays (Eid, summer), arrive 30+ minutes early as stations get very busy.
The Casablanca-Fes route offers beautiful countryside views. Sit on the left side heading north from Fes for the best scenery. The Tangier-Rabat Al Boraq route has Atlantic coast glimpses.
Save the ONCF helpline on your phone: +212 890 20 30 40. Staff at major stations speak French and sometimes basic English. The ONCF app also has a help section.
Trains are extremely busy during Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and summer (July-August). Book well ahead for these periods. Consider first class or Al Boraq for guaranteed seating.
Many routes require a transfer at Casa Voyageurs. Allow at least 30-45 minutes between trains. The station has clear signage in French and Arabic, cafes, ATMs, and a luggage office.
Answers to the most common questions about morocco train travel, morocco train tickets, and the ONCF network.
You can buy ONCF train tickets online at oncf.ma, through the ONCF mobile app (iOS and Android), at station ticket counters, or at self-service kiosks in larger stations. Online bookings accept international credit cards and generate e-tickets you can show on your phone. For Al Boraq high-speed trains, advance booking is recommended as fares increase closer to departure.
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 10 minutes, compared to nearly 5 hours on the conventional service. The line stops at Kenitra and Rabat along the way.
The Marrakech to Fez train takes approximately 7 hours with a transfer at Casablanca Voyageurs. The Marrakech-Casablanca leg takes about 2 hours 40 minutes, and the Casablanca-Fez leg takes about 3 hours 30 minutes. There is no direct train between Marrakech and Fez. Second-class tickets cost from 200 MAD for the full journey.
ONCF trains run from approximately 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM on most routes. The Casablanca-Rabat shuttle runs every 30 minutes. Al Boraq high-speed trains have 12+ daily departures. Major routes like Casablanca-Fez and Casablanca-Marrakech have 8-10 daily services. Check oncf.ma for the latest Morocco train schedule.
Morocco does not operate dedicated sleeper trains with berths. However, the Casablanca to Oujda route (9-10 hours) has late evening departures that arrive the following morning. These are standard seated trains, not sleeper carriages. For long overnight journeys, first class is recommended for wider seats and more comfort.
Trains are generally faster, more comfortable, and more spacious than buses for routes they cover. However, buses (CTM and Supratours) reach destinations trains cannot, such as Chefchaouen, Essaouira, Ouarzazate, and the Sahara. Trains are better for Casablanca-Rabat, Fez-Meknes, and Tangier-Casablanca. Use buses for off-network destinations.
Morocco train fares are very affordable. Second-class examples: Casablanca-Rabat from 50 MAD, Marrakech-Casablanca from 100 MAD, Casablanca-Fez from 130 MAD. Al Boraq high-speed from Tangier to Casablanca starts from 149 MAD economy, from 229 MAD first class. Prices may vary seasonally.
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, but you must be able to lift your bags onto the racks. Al Boraq trains have dedicated luggage storage areas at the end of each carriage.
The Fez to Oujda route through the Taza Gorge is considered the most scenic, passing through dramatic mountain terrain and the Rif foothills. The Casablanca to Fez corridor offers pastoral views of rolling farmland and the Saiss plain. The Tangier to Asilah segment on the conventional line hugs the Atlantic coast. Al Boraq offers brief ocean panoramas north of Kenitra.
ONCF does not offer an unlimited rail pass like Europe's Eurail. The Carte Fidilite loyalty card is the closest alternative, offering up to 30% discount on regular fares for frequent travelers. Enrollment is free at any ONCF ticket counter. For most tourists spending 1-2 weeks in Morocco, buying individual tickets is more practical and cost-effective.
Continue planning your Morocco journey with these detailed guides.
Complete overview of all transport options including trains, buses, taxis, and flights.
Read GuideCity buses, trams, grand taxis, and local transit for navigating Moroccan cities.
Read GuideFull budgeting breakdown including transport, accommodation, food, and activities.
Read GuideEssential advice for first-time visitors covering culture, safety, money, and more.
Read GuideExplore Morocco's largest city — the main rail hub connecting north and south.
Read GuideRental cars, road conditions, fuel prices, and tips for self-driving across the country.
Read GuideMorocco's train network makes it easy to explore the country's most iconic cities in comfort and style. From the Al Boraq high-speed train to scenic conventional routes and the Marrakech to Fez train journey, the railway connects you to ancient medinas, coastal cities, and everything in between.