One of the most common questions we get from clients in our travel agency in Herndon, Virginia is on transportation—as in, “how do we travel from one place to another?” or “is it safe to ride this or that?”
These are both amusing and expected for us at Morocco Travel and Tour. But whether it’s due to the image of Morocco as that country with camel rides and impressive sand dunes being too strong or due to some other reason, we figured the best way we can inform and reassure our clients is by enumerating the modes of transportation available in most major cities. Here’s a quick guide:
- Car Rentals
Driving on your own through car rentals can be the best way to explore the country in your own terms. But you may have to reconsider if this is your first time in the country. Morocco has a reputation for aggressive drivers and high accident rates. If you’re bent on the adventure, then we advise you to have a companion, a stable data connection, a car rental insurance, and your game face on.
- Buses
Public transportation comes in the form of public buses in most big cities. Thus, you’re likely to catch a public bus on big cities like Casablanca (a tourist area and our very own point for our travel and tour in Virginia packages) and Marrakesh (one of the most visited cities in Morocco) more than other smaller places. However, these buses tend to be overcrowded and have route changes without prior notice. In any case, these are the cheapest way and the most convenient to go around.
- Taxicabs
There are two types of taxicabs in Morocco: petit taxes and grand taxis.
Petit taxes are the most common in the whole country. It is color-coded according to the city it is licensed in. Operating in the inner cities, these can fit three people comfortably and are the ideal choice for point-to-point transport within city limits.
Grand Taxis are shared taxis that operate beyond city limits. Ideal for regional transport, these can carry up to six passengers. However, because it has a larger seating capacity, you will have to wait until it’s full. You can also opt to pay for the whole vehicle if you’re in a hurry.
- Trains
Trains are the most reliable mode of transportation in any trip to Morocco. They are usually on time, with minimal interruptions. The national rail network is operated by ONCF and covers the major cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fez, Marrakesh, and Casablanca, among others.
- Airlines
Royal Air Maroc is the national carrier and the main domestic airline in Morocco. Getting around by air in the country is easy but can be relatively expensive. But they sometimes have good sales. Typically, a one-hour flight from Marrakesh to Casablanca can be at 520 MAD or USD 55, while a flight from Marrakesh to Essaouira can start at 850 MAD or USD 90.
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