Petit Taxis And Grand Taxis in Morocco: A Complete Traveler’s Guide
When traveling around Morocco, you’ll quickly notice two types of taxis: Petit Taxis (small taxis for short trips inside cities) and Grand Taxis (larger taxis for intercity or longer journeys). Understanding how they work is essential for a smooth and stress-free trip.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Moroccan taxis fares, rules, tips, and how to avoid scams so you can travel with confidence.
What Are Petit Taxis🚕?
Petit Taxis are small cars (often Fiat Uno, Dacia Logan, or similar) used for short trips within city limits.
Key Features
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Operate only inside the city.
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Usually fit 3 passengers max.
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Each city has a different color for its Petit Taxis (e.g., red in Casablanca, beige in Marrakech, blue in Rabat, light blue in Chefchaouen).
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Equipped with meters (though not always used).
Average Fares💰
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Start price (daytime): 5-7 MAD ($0.50-0.70).
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Short city trips: 10-25 MAD ($1-2.50).
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Night surcharge (after 8 PM): 50% increase.
“Exploring Moroccan cities? Always ask the driver to turn on the meter to ensure fair pricing.”
What Are Grand Taxis🚖?
Grand Taxis are larger shared taxis (usually old Mercedes Benz or Dacia Lodgy) used for longer distances or intercity routes.
Key Features
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Typically carry 6 passengers + driver (crowded seating).
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Operate between cities, towns, and villages.
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Often wait at specific Grand Taxi stations (near bus/train stations or medinas).
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Can also be privatized for comfort.
Average Fares💰
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Casablanca - Rabat: 40-60 MAD ($4-6 per seat).
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Marrakech - Essaouira: 80-120 MAD ($8-12 per seat).
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Fes - Meknes: 30-50 MAD ($3-5 per seat).
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Privatizing a Grand Taxi: Negotiable, usually 5-6x the per seat price.
“Heading to Essaouira or the Atlas Mountains? A Grand Taxi is the fastest and most authentic way to travel.”
Taxi Colors by City🎨
| City | Petit Taxi Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Casablanca | Red | Busy city, insist on the meter. |
| Marrakech | Beige | Often avoid meters, agree on price before. |
| Rabat | Blue | Usually use meters reliably. |
| Tangier | Light Blue | Easy to find at the port and train station. |
| Chefchaouen | Light Blue | Small town, short and cheap rides. |
| Agadir | Orange | Very cheap, but no meters. |
How to Use Taxis in Morocco
Petit Taxis
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Wave down an empty taxi on the street.
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Tell the driver your destination.
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Ask them to turn on the meter (compteur).
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Pay in cash, small bills preferred.
Grand Taxis
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Go to the official Grand Taxi station.
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Wait until the taxi fills up with passengers (unless you want to privatize it).
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Pay per seat.
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Negotiate for long or private trips before leaving.
⚑Pro Tip: Always carry coins (dirhams) because drivers rarely have change.
Taxi Etiquette & Safety
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Negotiation: If there’s no meter, negotiate before starting the ride.
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Seating: In Grand Taxis, expect tight seating (2 in front, 4 in back).
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Women Travelers: Many women prefer sitting in the front seat for more comfort.
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Ride-Sharing Apps: In Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech, apps like Careem or Heetch are sometimes available.
“Traveling between Moroccan cities? 🚖 Compare Grand Taxi fares with buses and trains before deciding.” 👉 [CAMPAR HERE]
Taxis vs Other Transportation
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Petit Taxi vs Walking: Great for when destinations are too far to walk but too close for buses.
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Grand Taxi vs Bus: Grand Taxis are faster but less comfortable.
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Taxi vs Car Rental: Renting a car gives flexibility, but taxis are cheaper for short stays.
Popular Grand Taxi Routes for Tourists
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Marrakech → Imlil (Atlas Mountains): 150-200 MAD ($15-20 per seat).
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Fes → Meknes: 30-50 MAD ($3-5).
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Tangier → Chefchaouen: 100-150 MAD ($10-15).
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Marrakech → Ourika Valley: 60-80 MAD ($6-8).
⇆ Final Tips for Tourists
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Always ask for the meter in Petit Taxis.
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Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price is unfair.
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For long trips, compare prices with buses like CTM or Supratours.
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Use taxis for short city trips and buses/trains for longer journeys.
↟Conclusion↡
Petit Taxis and Grand Taxis are an essential part of Moroccan travel.
They’re cheap, authentic, and allow you to reach places where buses and trains can’t. With a little negotiation and awareness, they can become one of the most convenient ways to explore Morocco’s cities, mountains, and villages.
“Ready to explore Morocco like a local? Use Petit Taxis for city rides and Grand Taxis for unforgettable trips to the mountains and countryside.” ⇉ [DISCOVER HERE]
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