Mastering the Bus System in Marrakesh: A Guide for Travelers and Locals
If you’re planning an extended stay in Marrakesh or looking to experience local life, getting familiar with the city’s bus system can save you both time and money. In this guide, we’ll cover the main types of buses in Marrakesh, each designed to meet the needs of city explorers, day-trippers, and long-distance travelers alike.
City Buses in Marrakesh: ALSA City Transport Buses
ALSA is the official bus operator in Marrakesh, providing an affordable way to travel across the city. For just 4 MAD (about $0.40), ALSA buses offer a budget-friendly alternative to taxis, which typically charge between 30 to 50 MAD for similar distances.
How to Pay:
Payment is in cash, ideally with exact change or small bills, as drivers may have limited change available. Board the bus at the front, pay the driver, and exit through the rear doors. For added convenience, tickets can also be purchased online at ALSA Marrakesh.
Bus Stops and Key Routes:
- Main Stops: In Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the nearest stop is by the horse-drawn carriages at Terminus Arset El Bilk. This is also a stop for Bus No. 19 from the airport.
- Popular Routes:
- Bus No. 1: Connects the Medina with the Gueliz district, stopping near the Ensemble Artisanal crafts center and Carre Eden shopping center—ideal for sightseeing in Gueliz.
- Majorelle Garden: To reach this famous site, take Bus No. 12 or 15 from the Koutoubia stop near Jemaa el-Fnaa. Get off at Ben Tbib and walk about 5 minutes to the garden.
Keep in mind that bus stop names aren’t announced on board, so it’s best to ask the driver or a local for guidance on where to get off. City bus routes and schedules are available on the ALSA website for easy trip planning.
Airport to City Center Shuttle
If you’re arriving at Marrakesh Menara Airport, ALSA operates a convenient shuttle service to the city center. For 30 MAD, you can get a round-trip ticket on the No. 19 bus, which will drop you near the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square. To catch this bus, exit the terminal, cross the street, and head to the marked bus stop near the top of the stairs.
Alternatively, you can take the local No. 6 or 66 buses from the same location for 4 MAD, though these stop at the city’s main bus station (Bab Doukala) rather than Jemaa el-Fnaa. For first-time visitors, the airport shuttle is often the simplest option, while the local buses offer a more budget-friendly alternative if you’re comfortable navigating the area.
Day Trip Buses for Destinations Near Marrakesh:
ALSA buses can also take you up to around 30 kilometers outside Marrakesh, making them ideal for short day trips to scenic spots and small towns nearby. Buses marked with an “L” (such as L45 or L25) depart from the “Sidi Mimoun” bus stop, a 10-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa. For instance, L45 heads to Lake Lalla Takerkoust, while L25 goes to Ourika Valley.
These buses offer a great way to explore beyond the city without needing a private driver or costly taxi fares. Tickets for these routes typically cost around 7 MAD.
Tourist Bus Tours
For a sightseeing-focused experience, ALSA also offers tourist bus tours. These open-top buses follow routes through the main attractions in Marrakesh, letting you hop on and off as you please. With panoramic views, accessible seating, and wheelchair-friendly ramps, the tourist bus is an enjoyable way to familiarize yourself with Marrakesh’s iconic landmarks.
Running every 20 minutes in peak season, the Historical Tour and Palmeraie Tour cover sites like Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s famed gardens, and surrounding attractions.
The tours operate from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM in winter, with extended hours in summer. Each tour lasts about an hour, giving you ample time to explore at your own pace.
Long-Distance Buses from Marrakesh
CTM and Supratours Buses
For journeys beyond Marrakesh, CTM and Supratours are top choices, offering comfortable, reliable service to major cities like Agadir, Casablanca, and Tangier. Both companies have modern buses with air conditioning and fixed fares, making them popular with travelers looking for budget-friendly yet comfortable options.
Tickets can be purchased at their main offices or online in advance. The bus station for CTM is just outside Hivernage, a central area close to Marrakesh Medina, but you may need a taxi to get there if you’re carrying luggage or traveling on a hot day.
Both CTM and Supratours typically provide a 20-minute rest stop during long routes, allowing you to stretch your legs and grab a bite at a roadside café.
Tips for Bus Travel in Marrakesh
- Research Routes and Schedules: For city buses, check routes and schedules on ALSA’s website or at main terminals. For tourist and long-distance buses, plan in advance for smooth connections.
- Carry Small Bills: Having smaller denominations is helpful, as bus drivers may not always have change for larger bills.
- Respect the Schedule: Marrakesh buses run on fixed schedules, so plan ahead to avoid missing connections, especially if you’re catching a day-trip or long-distance bus.
By mastering Marrakesh’s bus system, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for local life while saving on transportation costs. Whether you’re exploring the city, visiting nearby sites, or venturing across Morocco, understanding the bus options available will make your travels smoother and more enjoyable.
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