The Complete Guide to CTM Morocco: Best Bus Travel in 2025 /2026

Planning to travel across Morocco without renting a car? CTM Morocco might just be the answer you’ve been looking for. After using this bus service multiple times during my trips through the country, I can honestly say it’s one of the most reliable ways to get around.

Whether you’re heading from Marrakech to Fes, exploring the Atlantic coast towards Essaouira, or making your way to the blue streets of Chefchaouen, CTM bus connects all major destinations with comfort and efficiency.

But here’s the thing. Not all bus companies in Morocco are created equal. And trust me, I learned this the hard way during my first trip when I booked with a random company at the station. Never again!

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about traveling with CTM Morocco: how to book tickets, what to expect in terms of comfort, CTM prices, and my honest tips after years of using this service.

CTM bus station in Morocco — your gateway to comfortable intercity travel

Why CTM Morocco is the Best Choice for Tourists

So why do so many travelers choose CTM Morocco over other bus companies? The answer is pretty simple: reliability and comfort.

CTM (Compagnie de Transports au Maroc) has been operating since 1919, making it one of the oldest and most established transport companies in the country. They’ve built a reputation that other companies simply can’t match.

Here’s what makes them stand out:

  • Punctuality — CTM buses actually leave on time. This might sound basic, but in Morocco, it’s a game-changer
  • Air conditioning — Essential when traveling through the desert heat
  • Assigned seating — No fighting for spots or overcrowded buses
  • Professional drivers — Trained and experienced on mountain roads
  • Clean vehicles — Modern fleet regularly maintained

I’ve seen tourists struggling with delays and uncomfortable rides on other services. With CTM intercity transport, you simply don’t have those headaches.

Level of Comfort on CTM Buses

Let me be real with you. CTM bus comfort is excellent by Moroccan standards, though it might differ from what you’re used to back home.

Standard Class Features

The standard CTM buses come equipped with:

  • Reclining seats with decent legroom
  • Air conditioning (sometimes too cold, bring a light jacket!)
  • Overhead storage compartments
  • Large luggage hold underneath
  • Onboard entertainment on longer routes

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Premium Services

On popular routes like Casablanca to Marrakech, CTM Morocco offers premium buses with extra features:

  • Wider seats with more recline
  • USB charging ports
  • WiFi (though don’t expect perfect connection)
  • Complimentary water bottle
  • Cleaner restroom facilities

Inside a CTM bus — comfortable seating for long journeys across Morocco

Rest Stops

On journeys longer than 3 hours, the bus makes a 15-20 minute stop at designated rest areas. These stops have:

  • Clean bathrooms
  • Small cafés for coffee and snacks
  • Sometimes a small shop for essentials

💡 TIP — Always use the bathroom at rest stops. The onboard facilities exist but aren’t the most comfortable for extended use.

CTM Prices: What to Expect in 2025

CTM prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality of service you receive. Here’s a breakdown of typical fares:

Route Duration Price (MAD) Price (EUR)
Marrakech → Casablanca 3h 100-120 €9-11
Casablanca → Fes 4h30 130-150 €12-14
Marrakech → Essaouira 2h30 80-100 €7-9
Fes → Chefchaouen 4h 75-95 €7-9
Marrakech → Ouarzazate 4h 90-110 €8-10
Tangier → Casablanca 5h30 150-180 €14-17

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Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the season and how far in advance you book your CTM tickets.

How to Book CTM Tickets Online

Booking your CTM tickets online is straightforward and I highly recommend doing it in advance, especially during peak season.

Step-by-Step Booking Process

  1. Visit the official website — Go to ctm.ma
  2. Select your route — Choose departure and arrival cities
  3. Pick your date — Check CTM schedule for available departures
  4. Choose your seats — Window or aisle, front or back
  5. Enter passenger details — Name as it appears on ID
  6. Pay online — Credit card, debit card accepted
  7. Receive confirmation — E-ticket sent to your email

💡 TIP — Book at least 2-3 days in advance for popular routes. During holidays like Eid, book a week ahead or you might find buses fully booked.

Booking CTM tickets online is simple and saves time at the station

Booking at the Station

If you prefer booking in person, every CTM station Morocco has a ticket counter. Here’s what to know:

  • Arrive at least 1 hour before departure
  • Bring cash (dirhams) or a credit card
  • Have your passport or ID ready
  • Ask for a specific seat if you have a preference

How to Find CTM Schedules

Finding the right CTM schedule is essential for planning your Morocco itinerary. Here are your options:

Online Schedule Check

The easiest way to check CTM schedules is through their official website. Simply:

  1. Go to ctm.ma
  2. Click on “Horaires” (Schedules)
  3. Select your departure city
  4. Select your destination
  5. View all available departure times

Mobile App

CTM Morocco also has a mobile app available for iOS and Android. The app lets you:

  • Check real-time schedules
  • Book tickets directly
  • Save your booking history
  • Receive notifications about delays

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At the Station

Every CTM station Morocco displays departure boards with updated schedules. Staff at the information counter can also help if you have questions.

Major Cities Served by CTM Morocco

CTM intercity transport connects virtually every major tourist destination in Morocco. Here are the main hubs:

Northern Morocco

  • Tangier — Gateway from Spain, major ferry port
  • Chefchaouen — The famous blue city
  • Tetouan — UNESCO medina

Central Morocco

  • Fes — Ancient medina and cultural capital
  • Meknes — Imperial city
  • Casablanca — Main transport hub
  • Rabat — Capital city

Southern Morocco

  • Marrakech — Tourist favorite
  • Essaouira — Coastal charm
  • Ouarzazate — Gateway to the desert
  • Agadir — Beach resort city

Desert Region

  • Errachidia — Access to Merzouga
  • Tinghir — Near Todra Gorge

If you’re planning a Morocco road trip route, these CTM connections can help you understand the main corridors even if you’re driving.

Quality of CTM Service: My Honest Review

After numerous trips using CTM Morocco, here’s my honest assessment:

What CTM Does Well

  • Punctuality — 9/10. Buses leave on time 95% of the time
  • Cleanliness — 8/10. Buses are cleaned between trips
  • Staff — 8/10. Professional and helpful at stations
  • Safety — 9/10. Well-maintained vehicles, trained drivers
  • Value — 9/10. Great quality for the price

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Areas for Improvement

  • AC temperature — Sometimes too cold, bring layers
  • WiFi reliability — Hit or miss on most routes
  • Website UX — Could be more user-friendly
  • English support — Limited at smaller stations

Overall Rating: 8.5/10

For the price and reliability, CTM bus is hands down the best option for intercity travel in Morocco if you’re not renting a car.

Baggage Tips for CTM Travel

Knowing what to pack and how to handle your luggage makes the CTM experience much smoother.

Luggage Allowance

  • Main luggage: One large suitcase (up to 30kg) stored underneath
  • Carry-on: One small bag for the overhead compartment
  • Extra bags: May incur additional fees (usually 20-30 MAD)

Essential Tips

  • Label your bags — Put your name and phone number on luggage
  • Keep valuables with you — Don’t store electronics in the hold
  • Arrive early — To ensure your bags are loaded first (retrieved last)
  • Get a receipt — The driver gives you a tag for your stored luggage

CTM buses have spacious luggage compartments for your travel gear

💡 TIP — Pack a small day bag with snacks, water, phone charger, and a light jacket for the bus. The AC can get quite cold on long journeys!

CTM vs Other Bus Companies in Morocco

How does CTM Morocco compare to alternatives? Let me break it down:

CTM vs Supratours

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Feature CTM Supratours
Network Wider coverage Train connections focus
Comfort Excellent Very good
Prices Moderate Similar
Punctuality Excellent Good
Online booking Yes Yes

Supratours is owned by ONCF (Moroccan railways) and is excellent for connecting to train stations. For pure bus travel, CTM often has more options.

CTM vs Local Bus Companies

Local companies are cheaper but come with significant drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable schedules — Buses leave “when full”
  • Overcrowding — No assigned seating
  • Older vehicles — Less comfortable, less safe
  • No AC — Brutal in summer heat
  • No online booking — Station only

The small price difference (usually 20-40 MAD) is absolutely worth paying for CTM’s reliability and comfort.

CTM vs Renting a Car

This depends on your travel style:

Choose CTM if:

  • You’re traveling solo or as a couple
  • You prefer not to drive in Morocco
  • You’re visiting only major cities
  • You want a budget-friendly option

Choose a rental car if:

  • You want complete flexibility
  • You’re visiting remote areas
  • You’re traveling with family or groups
  • You want to explore off the beaten path

For more details on driving options, check out our complete guide to driving in Morocco.

CTM Stations in Morocco: What to Know

Every major city has at least one CTM station Morocco. Here’s what to expect:

Main Station Features

  • Ticket counters with posted schedules
  • Waiting areas (some air-conditioned)
  • Small cafés or vending machines
  • Restroom facilities
  • Luggage storage at major hubs

Station Locations

Most CTM stations are centrally located or near the medina. In Marrakech, the main station is near the train station. In Fes, it’s close to the new city (Ville Nouvelle).

💡 TIP — Save the station address in Google Maps before your trip. Taxi drivers know “la gare CTM” but having the exact address helps.

CTM stations are well-organized and easy to navigate

Practical Tips for CTM Travel

After years of using CTM Morocco, here are my best tips:

Before Your Trip

  • Book online — Saves time and guarantees your seat
  • Print your ticket — Or have it ready on your phone
  • Check schedules — Confirm departure time the day before
  • Pack snacks — Station food is limited

On Travel Day

  • Arrive 30 minutes early — For luggage loading and seat finding
  • Use the bathroom — Before boarding
  • Bring entertainment — Books, downloaded shows, music
  • Dress in layers — AC temperatures vary

During the Journey

  • Stay hydrated — Bring a water bottle
  • Use rest stops — Stretch and use facilities
  • Keep valuables close — Never leave bags unattended
  • Enjoy the scenery — Morocco’s landscapes are stunning!

Planning Your Morocco Itinerary with CTM

CTM Morocco fits perfectly into most travel itineraries. Here’s a sample route:

Classic 10-Day Morocco Route by Bus

  • Day 1-2: Arrive Casablanca, explore city
  • Day 3-4: CTM to Marrakech (3h), explore medina
  • Day 5: CTM to Essaouira (2.5h), coastal vibes
  • Day 6: CTM back to Marrakech
  • Day 7-8: CTM to Fes (8h with transfer), ancient medina
  • Day 9: CTM to Chefchaouen (4h), blue city magic
  • Day 10: CTM to Tangier or return

For more detailed route planning, check our Morocco road trip logistics guide.

Final Thoughts on CTM Morocco

If you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable, and affordable way to travel across Morocco, CTM Morocco delivers on all fronts. Yes, renting a car gives you more flexibility, but CTM bus service is perfect for travelers who want to sit back, relax, and watch Morocco’s stunning landscapes roll by.

The key is booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, and arriving at stations with plenty of time to spare. With proper planning, CTM intercity transport can take you from the Atlantic beaches to the Sahara edge without breaking a sweat.

Have questions about traveling Morocco by CTM? Drop them in the comments below!

For more Morocco travel planning, don’t miss our complete Morocco travel guides.