What is the Al Boraq?
The Al Boraq — named after the mythological creature that, in Islamic tradition, carried the Prophet Mohammed on his night journey — is Africa's first and only high speed rail line. Inaugurated on 15 November 2018 by King Mohammed VI and French President Emmanuel Macron, it connects Tangier in the north to Casablanca in the south at a top commercial speed of 320 km/h, covering 340 kilometres in just 2 hours and 10 minutes.
The line was built in partnership with SNCF (the French national railway) and runs Alstom Euroduplex trainsets — the same double-deck high speed trains used on French TGV routes. It is, by any measure, a world-class passenger experience: smooth, quiet, punctual, and spectacular. For much of the journey, the track runs parallel to the Atlantic coastline, offering sweeping ocean views through the panoramic windows.
Before the Al Boraq, the Tangier–Casablanca journey by conventional train took around 4.5 hours. Today it takes 2h10. The transformation has been remarkable — and for travellers based in either city, it has made a full day trip between the two not just possible but genuinely comfortable.
How to Buy Tickets
Tickets for the Al Boraq can be purchased in three ways:
The official ONCF website sells Al Boraq tickets up to 30 days in advance. You can pay by credit card and receive an e-ticket to print or show on your phone. This is the most convenient method, especially for peak travel dates.
Tickets are available at Tangier Ville and Casablanca Casa-Voyageurs stations. For off-peak weekday travel, same-day tickets are usually available. For weekends and holidays, arrive early.
If you book a guided day trip with TangierTours, Idrissi handles the ticket booking for you as part of the tour package — one less thing to organise.
💡 Price Guide (approximate, 2025)
- • 2nd class (2ème): 100–130 MAD (~€9–12) each way
- • 1st class (1ère): 160–200 MAD (~€15–18) each way
Schedule & Journey Time
The Al Boraq runs approximately 6–8 times daily in each direction, from early morning until late evening. Exact schedules vary seasonally — always check the current timetable at oncf.ma before travelling.
| Direction | First train | Last train | Journey time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tangier → Casablanca | ~06:00 | ~21:00 | 2h 10min |
| Casablanca → Tangier | ~06:00 | ~21:30 | 2h 10min |
Times are approximate. Always verify current schedule at oncf.ma.
What It's Like On Board
The Al Boraq is genuinely impressive — a world-class rail experience that would not feel out of place in France, Japan, or Spain. Here is what to expect:
Both classes offer spacious, reclining seats with ample legroom. First class includes wider seats and more privacy.
Reliable on-board wifi throughout the journey — useful for planning your Casablanca day while you travel.
Every seat has a power socket — charge your phone or laptop throughout the journey.
Fully climate-controlled throughout — a welcome feature on hot Moroccan summer days.
For much of the journey the tracks run along the coast — the ocean glitters beside you as you travel.
The Al Boraq has an excellent punctuality record. Departures and arrivals are reliable.
What to Do in Casablanca
Casablanca is not the Morocco most visitors expect — and that is exactly why it surprises and delights. It is modern, cosmopolitan, and architecturally extraordinary. Here are the essential stops for a day visit:
One of the world's largest mosques, built dramatically on a promontory above the Atlantic. Its 210-metre minaret is the tallest in the world. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome on guided interior tours — a breathtaking experience.
Built in the 1930s as a planned neighbourhood blending Moroccan medina layout with French urban design. Arcaded streets, patisseries, bookshops, and the history of Casablanca's once-thriving Jewish community.
The only Jewish museum in the Arab world — an extraordinary collection spanning 2,000 years of Moroccan Jewish life. Essential for Jewish heritage travellers.
Over 300 protected Art Deco buildings from the 1920s–40s. One of the world's great Art Deco cities, rivalling Miami Beach. A leisurely walk reveals ornate facades, arcaded pavements, and decorative ironwork.
The Atlantic seafront promenade — cafés, beach clubs, ocean views, and the modern face of a young, dynamic city.
Turn It Into a Guided Day Trip
Travelling independently on the Al Boraq is straightforward — but combining the train journey with a private guided day trip transforms it from a transit experience into a genuinely memorable one. Here is why:
- ✓No need to figure out taxis, directions, or entrance queues in an unfamiliar city
- ✓A local expert brings context — Hassan II Mosque is beautiful; understanding its history makes it extraordinary
- ✓Hidden spots and local restaurants that no guidebook mentions
- ✓Train tickets arranged and managed as part of the package
- ✓Fully private — just your group, your guide, your pace
TangierTours — Tangier–Casablanca Day Trip
Private guide Idrissi manages everything: train tickets, transfers, Hassan II Mosque tour, Museum of Moroccan Judaism, local lunch, and Art Deco walk. Available in both directions.
View Full Day Trip DetailsPractical Tips
Use oncf.ma — faster, cheaper, and guaranteed your seat, especially at weekends.
The 06:00–07:00 departure gives you maximum time in Casablanca. Return by 18:00–20:00 comfortably.
3km from the Medina. Allow 15–20 minutes by petit taxi. Don't confuse it with the old Tangier Morora station.
Casablanca is Morocco — Dirhams are the currency. Change money at the station bureau de change on arrival, or use an ATM.
Casablanca in July–August can reach 35°C. Start early, stay hydrated, and schedule the Corniche walk for evening.
Hassan II Mosque is most photogenic at sunrise or golden hour. The Art Deco district is best in the morning before crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Al Boraq take from Tangier to Casablanca?▾
How much does a Tangier to Casablanca train ticket cost?▾
Can I do Casablanca as a day trip from Tangier by train?▾
Do I need to book Al Boraq tickets in advance?▾
Is there wifi on the Al Boraq?▾
What station does the Al Boraq use in Tangier?▾
Ready to Make the Journey?
Book a private guided day trip — Tangier to Casablanca or Casablanca to Tangier. Idrissi handles the tickets, the tours, the lunch, and the logistics. You just enjoy the ride.