Landing in Marrakech is usually the start of a long-awaited trip. But as soon as you step off the plane, a practical question comes up: how do you get from the airport to the medina, your riad or your hotel without wasting time or energy? This guide to Marrakech airport transfers covers your options for leaving Marrakech Menara Airport, what to expect on arrival and what to check before you book.
From Marrakech Menara Airport to the medina
Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is about 6 km from the medina, roughly a 15 to 20 minute drive depending on traffic. The distance is short, but arriving can feel overwhelming after a long flight: unofficial taxis touting for business, prices to negotiate and a riad address that is not always easy to explain.
The medina also has its own rules: many of its narrow lanes are closed to cars. Depending on where your riad is, your driver drops you at the door or at the nearest accessible point, and you cover the last stretch on foot.
Taxi or private transfer: your options from the airport
Taxi
Taxis wait outside the terminal, but the fare is often negotiated on the spot: agree on the price before you get in and make sure you are dealing with an official taxi.
Shared shuttle
A shared shuttle groups several travelers in the same vehicle. It is usually the cheapest option, but it stops to drop off other passengers, which makes the journey longer. At AirportGo, shared shuttles run from Tangier airport; in Marrakech, private and VIP transfers are available.
Private transfer with a driver
The vehicle and its driver are reserved for you or your group and take you straight to your destination, with no stops along the way. It costs a little more than a shared shuttle, but it is the simplest option after a long flight, when traveling with family or with plenty of luggage.
VIP transfer
For extra comfort, the VIP option uses high-end vehicles (SUVs, limousines, VIP vans) and drivers who specialize in this kind of service. Each VIP car carries up to 3 passengers; for larger groups, several vehicles are arranged.
What to expect on arrival
Meet and greet in the arrivals hall: your driver waits for you with a sign bearing your name.
A fixed price, confirmed before you pay: no meter and no haggling on arrival.
A comfortable, air-conditioned car, welcome as soon as temperatures rise.
A direct journey to your accommodation, to the door or the nearest accessible point.
When a private transfer makes the difference
A taxi picked up on arrival can suit an experienced traveler with light luggage who already knows the city. A pre-booked transfer really pays off in several situations:
it is your first visit to Marrakech and you do not know the medina yet;
you are traveling with children: a child seat can be added to your booking;
you have several suitcases: the number of bags is set when you book;
you are traveling as a group and want to arrive together, in one vehicle or in several VIP cars;
you simply want to know the exact price before you travel.
Preparing your transfer: what to check
Book before you fly, online, in just a few minutes.
Enter the date, time and your flight number. The flight number is optional but useful: it lets your driver follow any delay.
Keep the exact address of your riad or hotel to hand; for a riad in the medina, ask your host for the nearest access point.
Specify the number of passengers and bags, and add a child seat if needed.
Think about the return: the trip back to the airport can be booked at the same time, as a round trip.
Pay online by bank card, securely. Your booking is confirmed once the payment goes through.
Before you confirm, read the terms and conditions of sale, in particular the cancellation conditions. And if your plans change (flight time, extra passengers), let AirportGo know as soon as possible.
To compare the options and see your price, you can book your Marrakech airport transfer online.
After you arrive
Landing in Casablanca rather than Marrakech? Our article Casablanca to Marrakech: your transfer options explained compares private car, train and domestic flight. And if this is your first trip to Morocco, our 5 essential travel tips for first-time visitors will help you prepare the rest of your stay.
