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Getting Around Rabat

Getting Around Rabat

Rabat Rabat-sale-kenitra, Morocco Travel Guide

Tramway Tramway de Rabat-Salé

Rabat's most prominent public transport is its tramway, complemented by a bus network. The tram is clean, efficient, and covers main arteries, joining main parts of Rabat with its twin city, Salé, across the Bou Regreg River.

The light rails are modern, air-conditioned, and comfortable. They are an excellent way to get to many tourist sites.

Routes & Ticketing

  • Routes: Two main lines, T1 and T2, connect areas including Hassan Tower and the Royal Palace.
  • Hubs: Place Bab El Had and Rabat Ville station connect to the national train network.
  • Ticketing: Purchase rechargeable "Carte Irtiyah" or single-use tickets at terminals. Approx. MAD 6 per journey.
  • Hours & Frequency: Generally 06:00 to 10 PM daily, every 8-10 minutes during peak hours.

Accessibility

Newer tram cars are accessible for travelers with mobility needs, with level boarding and designated spaces.

Efficient Navigation

Use Google Maps for real-time tram directions and routes. A rechargeable card is more convenient for frequent use.

Buses ALSA City

ALSA City local bus service covers locations not reached by tramway. Buses can be crowded, however provide a local experience. Tickets are cash-only from the driver (MAD 5-7).

Overall Accessibility & Tips

Accessibility Challenges
  • Some bus schedules and older city parts (Medina, Kasbah) are challenging due to uneven terrain, narrow alleys, and sets of steps.
  • Specific accessibility services are limited; inquire with separate attractions.
  • Ask for directions for bus routes; they can be complex.
Efficient Bus Travel
  • Have small cash denominations ready for bus tickets.
  • Confirm your bus stop and route before boarding.
  • Locals are often willing to assist with directions.

Public Transport Takeaways

Tram is Modern

Clean and good for main routes.

Buses Expand Coverage

Access areas beyond tram lines.

Cash for Buses

Have small bills ready for bus fares.

Google Maps for Trams

Good for real-time navigation.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are a frequent and convenient method of transportation Rabat.

Petit Taxis

  • Small, light blue cars operating within city limits (up to 3 passengers).
  • Insist on the meter ("compteur") or negotiate fare before journey. Fares increase by 50% after 8 PM.
  • Hail them on the street or find at designated stands. Short rides are MAD 10-30 on meter.
  • Always have small cash denominations ready.

Grand Taxis & Ride-Sharing

  • Larger, older cars (often Mercedes-Benz) for shared rides on fixed routes or longer inter-city journeys.
  • Private-hire a grand taxi for a higher, negotiated fare. Operate from specific ranks. Shared ride Rabat-Salé approx. MAD 7-10 per person.
  • Ride-Sharing Apps: Careem exists but is less prevalent in Rabat. Uber is not operational. Traditional taxis remain the main option.
  • Use licensed taxis. Be firm but polite with pricing.

Safety Considerations for Taxis

  • Always use licensed taxis.
  • For Petit Taxis, insist on the meter or agree on a fare upfront.
  • For Shared Taxis, confirm shared/private ride and agree fare beforehand.
  • Avoid drivers who refuse the meter for Petit Taxis.
  • Be aware of potential overcharging for tourists; a firm but polite demeanor helps.
  • Always agree on the fare for a Grand Taxi before you begin your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. For Petit Taxis, insist on the meter (compteur).

Taxi Payment & Availability

Cash Only

Taxis in Rabat accept only cash payments. Small bills are helpful.

Hailing Taxis

Petit taxis are hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. Shared taxis are at specific ranks.

Operating Hours

Taxis are generally available throughout the day and evening, but fares increase after 8 PM.

Rental Options

Other rental options exist for specific needs.

Car Rental

  • Requirements: Valid national driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP), credit card for deposit.
  • Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt have offices at RBA, CMN, and city center. Local Moroccan agencies also operate. Check DiscoverCars.com.
  • Cost: MAD 200-500 per diem for a standard car. Insurance options available.
  • Age: Minimum age typically 21 or 25, depending on company and vehicle category.

Driving Laws & Parking

  • Which Side to drive on: Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Speed Limits: 60 km/h (urban), 100 km/h (national), 120 km/h (highways).
  • Parking: Challenging near Medina. Paid lots available outside old city walls.
  • Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited.

Motorcycle, Scooter, & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common in Rabat and generally not recommended for tourists due to challenging traffic.

Not ideal for city traffic.

Bicycle Sharing

Official city-wide programs are limited. Some accommodations or specialized shops may offer rentals.

Limited availability.

Bike Lanes

Rabat has some dedicated bike lanes, especially along the riverfront Corniche, pleasant for cycling.

Enjoyable in specific areas.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • The Medina and Kasbah of the Udayas are best explored on foot; narrow, winding alleys are car-free.
  • The Corniche along the Bou Regreg River offers a pleasant, flat walking path.
  • The area around Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V is pedestrian-friendly.
Walking Tours & Cycling Safety
  • Many guides from the region offer walking tours for the historical background and hidden corners.
  • Rabat has cycling lanes along the Corniche and some main avenues.
  • Cycling in heavy city traffic can be challenging; not for inexperienced riders.

No-Go Areas & Precautions

  • Don't walk alone in dimly lit or deserted areas, especially in less-frequented parts of the Medina after dark.
  • Exercise caution in areas with heavy vehicle traffic, where pedestrian crossings may not be respected.
  • Be mindful of aggressive driving habits if cycling in traffic.
  • Prioritize personal safety over convenience in unfamiliar areas at night.
  • Always pay attention to what's around you, even in seemingly safe areas.
  • Plan your routes in advance, especially for evening walks.
  • Consider guided tours for exploration of complex areas.
  • Avoid distractions like headphones when walking in busy or unfamiliar areas.

Specialized Transportation

Rabat offers a few unique transport options for sightseeing or crossing the river.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • A hop-on hop-off tourist bus service operates in Rabat.
  • This provides a way to see major attractions at your own pace, with commentary.
  • Small boats offer quick and scenic crossings of the Bou Regreg River between Rabat and Salé.
  • The boat ride offers another angle on the cities and the river mouth.

Accessibility Services

  • Newer infrastructure like the tramway is usually reachable.
  • Older areas and many traditional buildings pose challenges due to stairs and uneven surfaces.
  • Specific accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited.
  • Contact individual attractions and accommodations to coordinate assistance in advance.

Local Transportation Options Comparison

Tramway

Modern, clean, effective for connecting major city points, and Rabat-Salé crossings.

  • Cost: MAD 6
  • Limited coverage beyond main areas.
  • Good accessibility.
Local Bus ALSA

Extensive network, very cheap. Best for reaching areas off tram lines and budget travel.

  • Cost: MAD 5-7
  • Can be crowded and less frequent.
  • Less accessible.
Petit Taxi

Convenient, door-to-door, metered. Good for short distances within the city and evening transport.

  • Cost: MAD 10-30
  • Can be hard to hail.
  • Meter disputes possible.

More Transport Options

Grand Taxi
  • Shared: Affordable for inter-city travel (MAD 7-10 local). Less comfortable, fixed routes.
  • Private: Door-to-door, direct, comfortable (MAD 150-700+). Most expensive.
  • Agree on fare before starting journey.
Walking & Car Rental
  • Walking: Free, immersive, best for Medinas and Kasbah. Can be tiring, confusing, hot.
  • Car Rental: Flexibility, access to rural areas (MAD 200-500/day). Challenging city driving/parking.
  • Not recommended for inexperienced city drivers.

Unique Transport Experiences

Rabat provides specific ways to explore the city and its surroundings, adding to the travel experience.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus

  • Offers a convenient way to see major attractions.
  • Includes informative commentary about the sights.
  • Tickets are typically valid for 24 or 48 hours.
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Bou Regreg River Boats

  • Small boat taxis for quick and scenic crossings.
  • Connects Rabat and Salé across the river.
  • Offers unique views of both city skylines and the river mouth.
  • A very inexpensive local transport option.

Walking Tours

Explore the Medina, Kasbah, and historical sites on foot with a local guide for insights.

Cycling the Corniche

Enjoy the dedicated bike lanes along the riverfront Corniche for a relaxed ride.

Modern Tram System

Rabat's tram is a modern and efficient method of travel between city areas.

Navigating with Ease

General Transit Tips
  • Always use reliable navigation apps for real-time information.
  • Keep small change for bus fares and minor purchases.
  • Basic French or Arabic phrases can be helpful when communicating with chauffeurs.
Safety on the Move
  • Secure your belongings, especially on crowded public transport.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, specifically at night or in unfamiliar areas.
  • Politely but firmly decline unwanted solicitations.

Your Rabat Journey

Explore Rabat with confidence, utilizing its diverse transport options.

Each mode of travel has an unique method of experiencing the city's charm and vibrancy.

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