While I always suggest spending some time exploring Marrakech on foot, there will be times you need to hop into a cab.
As we are in the digital era, a rideshare app is more appropriate. If you’ve ever wondered about uber in Marrakech, I’m here to tell you everything you need to know.
Is There Uber In Marrakech?
While Uber did operate in Morocco between 2015 and 2018, the service never entered Marrakech. As far as I know, the initial launch was focused on Casa Blanca because of its status as Morocco’s economic hub.
At the time, I remember rumors that Uber would be introduced to Marrakech’s streets, but the company backed out of Morocco entirely before that happened.
Note that Careem operates in Marrakech today. Although it is a Dubai-based app, it was acquired by Uber in 2019. So while Uber has technically left Morocco, their presence is continued via Careem Marrakech.
Why Did Uber Leave Marrakech?
There are several reasons for Uber leaving Morocco. The gist of it is that there was no legal framework for ridesharing apps and the challenges they faced with taxis already operating in Marrakech.
I’m no economic or political expert, but let me try to break down what happened. The Moroccan economy is a very traditional “rentier” economy.
One example of this is the traditional taxi—which was heavily regulated by the Moroccan government. Conventional taxi drivers did not accept Uber entering the Marrakech street, competing with them.
There were some incidents between conventional and Uber drivers, and the government didn’t have a legal path to controlling those attacks. So, Uber announced it was leaving Morocco entirely just a couple of years after entering the Moroccan market.
Taxi Apps In Marrakech – 3 Best Uber Alternatives
I know you aren’t reading this article for a history lesson, so let’s get to the point. There is absolutely no reason you can get around using an alternative rideshare app. These are the taxi apps I recommend.
Careem
As I’ve mentioned earlier, this is a Dubai-based company currently responsible for operating Uber in the Middle East. If you want the same standards that Uber offers, this is my recommendation.
The booking process on the Careem app is pretty similar to Uber’s. Also, I think there are more Careem drivers than other taxi apps so you’re less likely to wait ages.
Roby
This is a local taxi app that many Moroccan use daily. Unlike Uber, you would be connected with a licensed taxi driver.
So, with Roby, you’re not just getting in with a random person who downloaded the app to make some spare money in their free time. The advantage of using this app is that the drivers are more regulated since they are licensed by the government.
Heetch
This is a French ridesharing app that is also available in Belgium and several cities in France. I’ve noticed that the rides here are generally more affordable.
Also, the company’s focus in creating a casual-yet-quality experience for users is palpable. I suggest using this app if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for a taxi.
How To Get Around Marrakech Without Taxi Apps?
Even without a taxi app, Marrakech gives you loads of options for getting around. Here are a few transportation options you may want to consider:
Walking
Marrakech is a very walkable city, especially Medina. Exploring and getting lost in the city’s narrow alleyways is always something I recommend for first time visitors. Walking is also often faster; and you’ll get a taste of the real Marrakech this way.
Public Buses
For longer distances, you may want to consider hopping on the bus if you’re on a budget. We have an extensive bus network that covers major attractions, and you should be able to get around easily. Fares range from 4 to 12 MAD.
Conventional Taxis
Although they might be slightly more expensive than rideshare apps, they’re widely available. We have two types: Petits (small cars for up to three passengers) and Grands (large vehicles that go on fixed routes). I’ll get into more details about these later.
Bicycle Rentals
If you want to get out of the crowded Medina and still explore the outdoors, bike rentals are a great option to navigate. You can explore the scenery at your own pace, and it’s convenient and affordable.
Hiring a Local Guide
Especially if it’s your first time in Marrakech, a local guide (and driver) can be incredibly useful. They will give you insight into our city and culture, and help you navigate better.
How Much Are Taxis In Marrakech?
Before I break down the prices of conventional taxis in Marrakech, I must warn you that most are cash-only.
You won’t be able to pay for your ride with credit cards, so I suggest having enough cash on you at all times. Also, agreeing on the price beforehand is a must. Otherwise, you’re prone to getting scammed!
Taxis in Marrakech are quite affordable. The small cabs are called Petit Taxis, and they’re your typical cab that seats 3 passengers. The base fare is around 7 MAD during the day, and the price is 2 MAD per km (daytime) but 4.2 MAD per km at night.
Grand taxis are minivans that accommodate up to 6 passengers, and they have a fixed price (and route). The destinations are fixed, but the price is negotiable. Some grand taxis are shared among strangers, but you can certainly hire one for a group.
Keep in mind that the driver might ask you to pay for the empty seats if you do not want additional passengers to hop on with you.
Taxis From Marrakech Airport
As with any other major city, Taxis from the Marrakech Menara Airport are a convenient (and comfortable) way to reach the city. However, it helps to know the typical fare so you don’t get hoodwinked.
The fare for a taxi to the city typically ranges from 70 to 100 MAD. The price fluctuates depending on the time of the day. During the day, rides to popular destinations like Medina cost around 4.60 MAD, while nighttime fares may increase to about 6.90 MAD.
Never get into a taxi from the airport before agreeing on the price. You can also use the airport’s official taxi service to avoid getting overcharged. The taxis are available 24/7, so you shouldn’t face any problems finding one.
Taxi Scams In Marrakech
As a foreigner, it may not be enough to know the general taxi Marrakech price list. You’ll want to avoid getting scammed. Below are a few common tricks that taxi drivers might use. Keep them in mind before you get into a cab, and you’re less likely to get scammed.
Fake Taxi Meters
Many taxi drivers try to get out of charging by the meter, most commonly by ‘forgetting’ to turn them on. By law, they are required to turn on the meter before the ride starts.
Very few taxis will also have a broken or fake meter installed, but this is less common.
Taking Longer Routes
Since the meter must be turned on, some taxi drivers will scam unsuspecting tourists by taking a longer route. This will increase the fare because the detours will add to the km counted by the meter.
It’s a good idea to use a navigation app (Google Maps works perfectly in Morocco) to plan the most direct route to your destination. Download the map before you go out, so you have access to it even if you don’t have data on your phone.
Overcharging Tourists
Because airport taxis don’t charge by the meter, many drivers try to scam tourists by overcharging them. This is common in most major cities around the world.
I always suggest agreeing on the price before you get into the car. Some drivers might be standing outside of the airport and offer to help with your bags. Accepting that help allows them to control the bargain a little, so I suggest holding on to your luggage until you’ve agreed on a price.
Taxi Touts
In popular tourist areas such as Medina, you might find people standing around offering rides. Their prices are often inflated and they are usually unlicensed drivers. I want to warn against getting into these taxis as they are dangerous and unregulated.
Extortion
This is the last but most serious taxi scam. Because tourists are often unfamiliar with our local currency, some drivers will take advantage of them.
They will pressure you into paying quickly or offer to help you count the correct change. You might not find out until much later, but they might have taken an extra hundred (or two).
Some taxis will say you don’t have the right change, so they offer to exchange dollars or euros for you. Needless to say, they aren’t licensed to exchange currency and are likely to rip you off this way.
So take your time and count your money ahead of time. Familiarize yourself with our currency so you can give exact change, and don’t give drivers the chance to scam you.
Renting A Car In Marrakech
If you want to explore Marrakech at your own pace and have the freedom to move around with your own vehicle, renting is a viable option. Here’s everything you need to know.
International Driving Permit
To drive in Morocco you need to have an international driving permit, which is like a driver’s license you can use all around the world.
Some country’s driver’s licenses are considered international driving permits, so do the research on your license. Also, check that your insurance policy covers driving in Morocco.
Road Conditions
Let me be honest. The roads in Marrakech are not all perfect. There is great variation between them, with many roads having potholes and unexpected traffic.
You should also keep in mind that many of Marrakech’s roads are very narrow, especially in the historical areas. The city is pretty congested as well, so there are many traffic jams.
Chaotic Driving
Another important factor to consider is that there is a lot of chaotic driving in Morocco. Unless you’re from Mumbai or other cities with reckless driving, this can be stressful.
If you do intend on driving in Marrakech, stay alert at all times. Do not expect everyone to follow the traffic rules. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Hiring A Private Driver In Marrakech
One option you might want to consider is to hire a private driver. This means the same person will be your local guide and drive you around the city. It’s an affordable option and will allow you to make the most of your trip.
Why Hire A Private Driver?
A private driver is sort of like your unofficial tour guide. I think hiring a local will significantly add to your cultural experience.
I think this option is very convenient and flexible because the driver can cater to your needs. You can work with the guide on creating an itinerary that works best for you.
You would also be able to stop along the way whenever you want without worrying about added charges. Finally, a private driver means you don’t have to worry about finding and hiring a taxi every time you go out or about being scammed.
How To Hire A Private Driver?
The best way to hire a private driver is through a tour agency or travel agency. If you don’t know one, ask your hotel for recommendations. I suggest agreeing on the package price for your entire trip, including the places you want to visit during those days.
Typically, the price is calculated according to the number of days. Don’t forget to check out the car before you seal the deal with the driver. You don’t want to spend a week being driven around in a broken down old car.
Final Thoughts
Getting around Marrakech is very easy, with multiple options available for varying budgets. Whether you hire a private driver or prefer the flexibility of using rideshare apps, you’re sure to enjoy the trips around the city.