Navigating Marrakesh can be a real challenge in such a lively and chaotic city. While the Medina is best explored on foot, many of Marrakesh’s top attractions—like the Majorelle Garden or Palácio da Bahia—are spread out, and you’ll likely need some form of transport to get around efficiently.
Here’s everything you need to know to move around Marrakesh like a pro: from taxis and ride-hailing apps to public buses and tips for avoiding common scams.
1. Taxis in Marrakesh
Types of Taxis:
- Petit Taxis
Small, typically older cars like Dacia Logans or Peugeots, accommodating up to 3 passengers. They’re limited to trips within the city boundaries. - Grand Taxis
Larger vehicles used for intercity travel or airport runs. These can take up to 6 passengers and are usually old Mercedes sedans.
Fares & Tips:
- Petit taxis are required by law to use a meter—but in reality, many drivers refuse, especially when dealing with tourists.
- Starting fare: around 2–3 MAD during the day and 3–5 MAD at night.
- A short city ride should rarely cost more than 50 MAD. For example, a ride from Jardin Majorelle to the Medina should be around 60 MAD, though some drivers may ask for more.
Taxi Tips:
- Always ask “Avec le compteur?” (“With the meter?”) before getting in.
- If the driver refuses, negotiate the fare clearly in advance.
- Avoid taxis waiting directly outside tourist spots—they often inflate prices. For example, one driver quoted 100 MAD outside the Majorelle Garden; two blocks away, the same ride was 60 MAD.
2. Ride-Hailing Apps
Popular Taxi Apps in Marrakesh:
- Heetch – The most tourist-friendly option; similar to Uber. Legal, reliable, and offers upfront pricing.
- Careem – Available in Morocco but not widely used in Marrakesh.
- Roby – A local app with limited coverage, but growing.
- inDrive – Not officially regulated, but very popular due to its “bid-your-price” model. You offer a price and drivers can accept or counter.
- Downside: Ride-hailing apps can involve longer waiting times, especially during peak hours or in busy areas.
3. Public Transport in Marrakesh
There’s no metro or tram in Marrakesh—buses are the only public transport option.
The ALSA Bus Network:
Managed by the Spanish company ALSA, the buses are generally clean, safe, and cover most of the city. However, they can be crowded during rush hours.
Useful Bus Lines for Tourists:
- Line 11 – Connects the Medina to Bahia Palace.
- Line 12 – Serves the Majorelle Garden and the Gueliz district.
- Line 19 – An express airport shuttle connecting Marrakesh Menara Airport with key city stops. Cost: around 30 MAD per person.
How to Ride:
- Tickets are bought directly from the driver (cash only).
- Standard fare: 4 MAD per ride.
- Be cautious at bus stops—not all are clearly marked, and Google Maps doesn’t always show the exact location accurately.
Marrakesh: Where to Stay, What to Eat & Must-See Sights
Discover the best of Marrakesh with this practical travel guide. From must-see sights to local food, transport tips, and where to stay.
Read More
4. Do You Need a Rental Car in Marrakesh?
Short answer: no.
Driving in Marrakesh is chaotic, parking is scarce, and traffic rules are loosely followed. For most visitors, using taxis or buses is far less stressful.
Renting a car only makes sense if you’re planning to explore other Moroccan cities like Essaouira, Casablanca, or the Atlas Mountains.
Final Thoughts
Marrakesh can be overwhelming at first, but with a little planning and local insight, getting around becomes much easier. Whether you choose to walk, take a taxi, or hop on a bus, this guide should help you navigate the city confidently.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to share it with fellow travelers or give it a like below.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to hit the Like button below or share it with your friends.
Happy travels! 🥰
