Train Travel in Morocco – How to Reach Ketama

Ketama, in the heart of Morocco’s Rif Mountains, is a unique destination. But unlike major cities such as Tangier or Marrakech, Ketama does not have a train station. Travelers arriving by rail must take the train to a nearby city, then continue by bus or taxi.

This guide explains which train routes are most useful, which cities connect you closest to Ketama, and how long the onward journey takes.

Morocco’s Train System

Morocco’s trains, operated by ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer), are modern, affordable, and comfortable. The network connects Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakech, Meknes, Fes, and Oujda. The Al Boraq high-speed train runs from Casablanca to Tangier in just over 2 hours, making long distances quick and easy.

For travelers heading to Ketama, the train is an excellent first step: you cover long distances quickly, then switch to a taxi or bus for the last stretch into the mountains.

Train to Tangier – Then Continue to Ketama

Tangier is one of the best railway gateways for Ketama. With the Al Boraq high-speed line, you can reach Tangier in:

• 2 hours from Casablanca
• 2 hours from Rabat
• 4–5 hours from Marrakech

From Tangier, you continue by:

• Grand taxi: about 4–5 hours to Ketama, often via Chefchaouen.
• Bus: around 5–6 hours with stops along the way.

This route is popular for travelers who want speed and convenience.

Train to Fes – Then Bus or Taxi to Ketama

Fes is another major hub in the Moroccan train network. Trains arrive here daily from Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Marrakech.

From Fes, you can continue to Ketama by:

• Grand taxi: around 5–6 hours.
• Bus: about 6–7 hours, usually with a connection in Chefchaouen or Issaguen.

This route is especially attractive for budget-conscious travelers, as Fes is served by many low-cost European airlines.

Train to Tetouan (via Tangier) – Then Taxi to Ketama

Tetouan does not have a direct train station. Instead, travelers can take a train to Tangier, then a short taxi ride (about 1 hour) to Tetouan.

From Tetouan, grand taxis head into the Rif, reaching Ketama in about 3–4 hours. This makes Tetouan one of the shorter onward journeys if you combine train and taxi travel.

Train Toward Al Hoceima (via Fes) – Then Taxi to Ketama

There is no direct railway line to Al Hoceima, but you can take a train to Fes and continue north by bus or taxi. From Al Hoceima, Ketama is just 2.5–3 hours away by car or taxi.

For travelers able to combine rail and road, this is one of the closest access points.

Why Use Trains Before Heading to Ketama?

• Comfort: Modern trains offer air conditioning, wide seats, and quiet carriages.
• Speed: The Al Boraq high-speed train dramatically reduces travel times.
• Cost-effective: Train tickets are inexpensive compared to long private taxi journeys.
• Flexible: Trains cover long distances efficiently, leaving only the mountain roads for the final stage.

Travel Tips for Train + Taxi/Bus Travel

• Book in advance: Reserve train tickets online at oncf-voyages.ma or at stations.
• Travel by day: Safer for mountain roads and allows time to make onward connections.
• Carry cash: Taxis and rural buses do not accept cards.
• Break your journey: Overnight stays in Tangier, Tetouan, or Fes make the trip more relaxed.
• Use trusted drivers: Especially important for longer taxi rides into Ketama.