"Navigating the Train System Around Morocco" by Lulu von Sauer
I’m a little over two months into my semester in Morocco, and one of the unexpected highlights of my travels outside of Rabat has been exploring the country by train. The ONCF train system is not only efficient and affordable, but it’s also a wonderfully social way to see Morocco and connect with people along the way. Here are some of my tips and observations for navigating it with ease.
The easiest way to buy tickets is through the ONCF app, which you can download on your phone. However, in all honesty the app can often experience technical glitches and go offline for a few days. But never ‘freight’! Buying tickets directly at the station is just as easy and costs the same. If you already know your travel dates, it’s sometimes slightly cheaper to book in advance through the app, but it’s not essential since trains rarely sell out completely except during holidays.
One of the more impressive routes is the high-speed Al Boraq train between Rabat and Tangier, the first of its kind in Morocco. The journey takes about an hour and twenty minutes and is incredibly smooth and efficient. Tickets are a bit pricier compared to other routes, averaging around $19 USD each way, but the speed and comfort are well worth it.
Traveling between Rabat and Casablanca is also a breeze. Depending on your departure and arrival stations, the ride can take anywhere from 40 minutes to just over an hour. It’s a great option for a quick day trip to explore Morocco’s largest city and business hub. I recently traveled to Casablanca from Rabat and the round-trip tickets were only 80dhr, about $9 USD.
It is important to pay attention when getting onto the train because your ticket has a specific car and seat number. Sometimes it can be difficult to read the car number, but it can be found on small digital screens near the doors for some of the newer trains.
This past weekend, I took the train from Rabat to Marrakech, which cost about $18 USD each way and took just under four hours. I traveled in second class in both directions and had a wonderful experience. The atmosphere on the train is friendly and welcoming; people are always eager to chat and share snacks. One of my favorite parts of train travel here is this spirit of generosity, whenever someone nearby opens food, they always offer to share. I’ve shared dates with fellow passengers, and it’s always appreciated when you return the gesture.
I also took the train to Fès, which takes just under three hours. While a bit slower, the route offers beautiful views of the countryside, rolling hills, olive groves, and small villages that give you a glimpse into Morocco beyond the cities.
It is important to note that there is no WIFI on the trains so bring a book or something to pass the time. Also, the majority of the trains are air conditioned, and it can get a little cold compared to the weather so bring a sweater.
Overall, the ONCF system has made traveling around Morocco one of the most memorable parts of my semester abroad. It’s efficient, comfortable, and full of opportunities to connect with people and see the country from a unique perspective.
Lulu von Sauer is an American University and studied abroad in the Fall 2025 on Amideast’s Regional Studies in French program in Rabat, Morocco.
