Buses in Morocco: Connecting Every Corner of the Kingdom

While trains offer speed and comfort on major routes, the humble bus stands as the true workhorse of Moroccan public transport, weaving a comprehensive network that reaches virtually every town, village, and remote corner of the kingdom. For travelers seeking affordability, extensive reach, and an authentic glimpse into local life, buses are an indispensable part of the Moroccan journey.

• CTM (Compagnie de Transports au Maroc): As the oldest and most established bus company, CTM boasts a reputation for punctuality, modern fleets, and a wide array of routes. Their buses are generally comfortable, often air-conditioned, and provide a reliable link between all major cities and many smaller ones. CTM often operates from its own dedicated offices (agencies) rather than the main public bus stations, offering a more streamlined experience.
• Supratours: Operated by the national railway company ONCF, Supratours complements the train network by providing connections to destinations not directly served by rail (e.g., coastal towns like Essaouira and Dakhla). Supratours buses are known for their comfort and often depart from or are directly connected to major train stations, making transfers convenient.

Both CTM and Supratours offer a superior experience compared to smaller, independent companies, with fixed departure times, reserved seating, and proper luggage handling.

The Local Experience: Regional and “Shared” Buses

Beyond the main operators, a vibrant ecosystem of smaller, regional bus companies and shared minibuses (often referred to as grands taxis but operating more like shared vans on fixed routes) fills in the gaps.

• Regional Buses: These can be older, less comfortable, and often adhere to more flexible schedules, sometimes waiting until the bus is full before departing. They are significantly cheaper and offer a raw, authentic local experience, frequently stopping in smaller villages.
• Shared Minibuses/Vans: These are common for shorter inter-town routes where official bus services might be infrequent. They also operate on a “full-before-departure” basis and are an economical way to travel between neighboring communities.

Navigating the Hubs: Bus Station Locations in Famous Cities

Understanding where to find your bus is key to seamless travel. Major cities often have a central ‘Gare Routière’ for all companies, but premium services like CTM and Supratours frequently operate from their own dedicated agencies, offering different levels of convenience.

• Marrakech: The main Gare Routière de Marrakech is located outside the Medina, typically requiring a taxi ride to reach. However, CTM and Supratours have their own modern agencies, often conveniently situated near the train station (Gare de Marrakech) or in the Gueliz new town, providing more comfortable waiting areas and easier access for many travelers.
• Fes: Fes’s central bus station is also known as the Gare Routière de Fes, and it is generally found in the new city (Ville Nouvelle). Similar to Marrakech, CTM and Supratours maintain separate agencies, which are often more centrally located or near key transport hubs in the modern part of the city, offering greater accessibility.
• Casablanca: Casablanca, being a large metropolis, has multiple bus hubs. The primary Gare Routière Ouled Ziane serves a wide array of bus companies, while CTM and Supratours typically have large, well-equipped agencies. These are frequently located near major train stations like Casa Voyageurs or Casa Port, making onward travel from the rail network seamless.
• Rabat: Rabat’s Gare Routière is generally a central point for all services. However, CTM and Supratours often maintain more modern and accessible agencies closer to the city center or key administrative areas, providing a more convenient and often more comfortable experience for premium travelers.
• Agadir: The Gare Routière d’Agadir is the main bus terminal, typically located a bit outside the central tourist areas, requiring a short taxi ride. Both CTM and Supratours also have agencies within or near the city center, offering convenient pick-up points for their services.
• Tangier: Tangier’s main bus station is the Gare Routière de Tanger, which is a bustling hub for both CTM and numerous other regional companies. CTM also has a separate agency that might be closer to the city center or the port area.
• Tetouan: The Gare Routière de Tetouan serves as the central bus station for the city and surrounding areas. CTM also operates its own agency in Tetouan for its routes.
• Laayoune: As a major city in the Sahara region, Laayoune’s bus station, the Gare Routière de Laayoune, is a crucial link for southern routes. CTM and other long-distance companies operate from here, connecting the city to the rest of the country.

Booking Your Bus Journey: Practical Tips

• Online Booking: For CTM and Supratours, online booking is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or for popular routes. You can usually select your seat and receive an e-ticket via email. Websites like 12Go.ma also facilitate booking for these major operators.
• At the Station/Agency: Tickets can always be purchased directly at the bus station (Gare Routière) or the dedicated CTM/Supratours agencies. It’s advisable to buy your ticket a day or two in advance for longer journeys or if you have a specific departure time in mind.
• Luggage: For CTM and Supratours, there is usually a small fee (a few dirhams) per piece of luggage placed in the undercarriage compartment. Ensure your luggage is tagged. Keep valuables with you.
• Arrival Time: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure, particularly if you need to check in luggage or navigate a busy station.

Whether you’re embarking on a long-haul journey across the Sahara’s edges or a short hop between nearby towns, Morocco’s buses offer a democratic, accessible, and often adventurous way to truly connect with the country’s diverse landscapes and the warmth of its people. It’s a journey that goes beyond mere transport; it’s an immersive cultural experience.