The “Triangle of Speed” Strategy
Navigating Morocco for AFCON 2025 is a tale of two systems.
- The North (Tangier, Rabat, Casablanca): Connected by Africa’s first high-speed train (Al Boraq). Fast, modern, and European-standard.
- The South & Interior (Marrakech, Agadir, Fes): Rely on classic rail and highway buses. Slower, scenic, and requires better planning.
If you don’t respect the geography, you will miss kickoff. Here is your master manual for moving between Host Cities.
1. The High-Speed Rail: Al Boraq
Best for: Moving between Casablanca, Rabat, Kenitra, and Tangier.
The Al Boraq is the pride of Moroccan infrastructure. It hits speeds of 320 km/h. It is punctual, air-conditioned, and arguably better than many European trains.
Route & Times:
| Route | Travel Time | Frequency | Approx Cost (2nd Class) |
| Casablanca ↔ Rabat | 55 Min | Every 30 mins | 40–80 MAD ($4–$8) |
| Rabat ↔ Tangier | 1h 20m | Every hour | 120–180 MAD ($12–$18) |
| Casablanca ↔ Tangier | 2h 10m | Every hour | 150–250 MAD ($15–$25) |
Buying Tickets:
- Official Site:
oncf-voyages.ma(Warning: Often rejects US/UK cards). - Pro Tip: Tickets open for sale 3 months in advance. Prices increase as the date gets closer. Book early.
2. The Classic Rail: Al Atlas
Best for: Reaching Marrakech and Fes.
These are standard trains. They are comfortable but slower.
- Casablanca to Marrakech: 2 hours 40 minutes.
- Casablanca to Fes: 3 hours 50 minutes.
The “First Class” Hack:
Always pay the extra $5–$8 for 1st Class on Al Atlas trains.
- Why: In 2nd Class, seats are not always assigned on these older lines. You might stand for 3 hours.
- 1st Class: Guaranteed assigned seat, more legroom, and air conditioning that actually works.
3. The Bus: Reaching Agadir
Best for: Agadir (No train access).
Agadir is the only host city not connected by train. You must fly or take a bus.
- Recommended Companies: CTM and Supratours. Do not take random street buses.
- Route: Casablanca to Agadir.
- Time: 6–7 hours (Highway).
- Cost: ~270–330 MAD ($27–$33).
- Comfort: CTM “Premium” buses have leather seats, Wi-Fi, and toilets.
4. The Last Mile: Taxis & Apps
Once you arrive at the station, you need to get to the stadium.
A. Ride-Hailing Apps (The Safe Bet)
- inDrive: The king of Morocco. You offer a price, drivers accept or counter. It’s cash-heavy but cheaper than taxis.
- Uber: Recently relaunched in Casablanca/Marrakech (Nov 2025), but fewer drivers than inDrive.
B. Petit Taxi (The Local Way)
Small hatchbacks for city trips. They cannot leave the city limits.
- Casablanca: Red
- Rabat: Blue
- Marrakech: Beige/Yellow
- Tangier: Light Blue
- The Rule: “Compteur” (Meter). Always ask for the meter. If they refuse, get out. A typical city ride is 20–30 MAD.
C. Grand Taxi (The Inter-City Shuttle)
Big white or gray sedans (often Mercedes).
- How it works: Shared transport. They wait until 6 seats are full.
- Cost: Very cheap ($2–$5 for long distances).
- Warning: Cramped and fast. Not recommended if you have luggage or value personal space.
5. Private Transfers vs. Car Rental
- Private Driver: For groups of 3-4, hiring a van is often cheaper than 4 train tickets + taxis.
- Car Rental: Avoid in cities. Casablanca traffic is chaotic. Parking near stadiums is impossible. Only rent a car if you plan to explore the Atlas Mountains or the desert between matches.
