Sale Rabat-sale-kenitra, Morocco Travel Guide
This is the closest airport to Rabat, located about 8 km (5 miles) northeast of downtown. It principally provides for European flights and is a convenient option for travelers from nearby countries. Its smaller size means quicker navigation upon arrival.
Located about 100 km (62 miles) south of Rabat, CMN is Morocco's busiest airport and its main international hub. Many long-haul international flights arrive here, including those from North America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. This airport gives a wider range of flight options.
Flight frequency and prices often increase during peak tourist seasons (Spring and Autumn). Major holidays also see higher demand and prices.
RBA, a smaller airport, provides basic facilities: cafes, duty-free shops, car rental desks, and ATMs. It offers a straightforward and less crowded experience.
CMN is larger and more modern with a broader selection of services: numerous shops, restaurants, lounges, and multiple international car rental agencies.
Predominantly from European cities, connecting to Rabat-Salé Airport.
More common for travelers from North America or farther away, arriving at Casablanca.
From CMN, easy train or taxi connections to Rabat for travelers.
ONCF is the national rail operator. Rabat has two main train stations: Rabat Ville (central) and Rabat Agdal (modern, high-speed connections). Morocco's high-speed train, Al Boraq, connects Rabat to Tangier (via Kenitra) in about 1.5 hours.
CTM and Supratours are the most reputable long-distance bus companies. They offer comfortable, air-conditioned buses with reserved seating, good for inter-city travel, especially to destinations not directly served by train.
Vehicles drive on the right. You must have a valid national driver'a driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Minimum rental age is typically 21 or 25. A GPS or offline maps are helpful for navigation. Traffic in Moroccan cities can be chaotic. DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
Morocco shares land borders with Algeria (currently closed) and Mauritania. Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla are accessible by land. Travel through these borders involves specific entry/exit procedures and different visa rules. For most Rabat travelers, these land borders are not a main concern.
No direct an overseas ferry services to Rabat. Ferries mainly connect Spain and France to other Moroccan ports like Tangier Med, Tanger Ville, Nador, and Al Hoceima. From Tangier, Rabat is easy to reach via train or bus.
Small boat taxis operate across the Bou Regreg River, connecting Rabat and Salé. This offers a scenic and inexpensive means of getting between the two cities, with good views of each skylines and the river mouth.
Ferries connect to Tangier, Nador, Al Hoceima; no direct service to Rabat.
Small boats cross Bou Regreg River between Rabat and Salé.
Major cruise ships typically dock in Casablanca or Tangier.
Generally, all departure taxes and fees are part of your airline ticket price. You do not usually need to pay any separate cash payment upon departure from Moroccan airports. Confirm this with your airline or travel agent.
Be aware of the facilities available at your departure point to organize your time effectively before boarding.
Check your flight status online before heading to the airport.
Confirm your airline's baggage allowance to avoid unexpected fees.
Have your passport and boarding pass ready for protection and customs.
Well-planned departures ensure a relaxed end to your trip.
