Getting from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) to your riad in the medina (the old city) can be a bit tricky due to the narrow, maze-like streets of the medina. However, there are several convenient ways to make the trip. Here are your main options:
1. Pre-Arranged Airport Transfer (Highly Recommended)
- What it is: Many riads offer a pre-arranged airport transfer service, which is the most hassle-free option. The riad will arrange for a driver to meet you at the airport and take you as close as possible to the riad. Since many riads are located in car-free zones within the medina, the driver may drop you off at a nearby point, and a staff member (or porter) will walk you to the riad.
- Advantages:
- Stress-free and convenient, especially if it’s your first time in Marrakech.
- The driver knows the exact location of your riad, which can be difficult to find in the medina.
- Cost: Typically ranges from 150-200 MAD (around $15-20 USD), but this varies depending on the riad.
2. Taxi from the Airport
- What it is: You can take a taxi directly from the airport. Taxis are readily available at the airport exit, but you’ll need to negotiate the price beforehand, as most taxis don’t use meters.
- Advantages:
- Immediate and flexible option.
- Cost: Expect to pay around 100-150 MAD ($10-15 USD) during the day, and a bit more at night (up to 200 MAD). It’s important to agree on the price before getting into the taxi.
- Drop-off Point: Since the medina’s streets are too narrow for cars, the taxi will drop you off at one of the entrances (Bab). From there, you may need to walk to your riad or hire a handcart (caddie) to transport your luggage (usually 20-50 MAD).
3. Airport Shuttle Bus
- What it is: The No. 19 airport shuttle bus runs between Marrakech Menara Airport and Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square in the medina. It departs every 30 minutes and operates from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
- Advantages:
- Budget-friendly.
- Cost: Around 30 MAD for a one-way trip or 50 MAD for a round-trip.
- Drawbacks:
- The bus only drops you off at Jemaa el-Fnaa, so you’ll have to find your own way to the riad from there, which may involve a walk through the medina or taking a petit taxi for a short ride.
4. Ride-Hailing Apps (Careem or Uber):
- What it is: Careem (a popular ride-hailing service in Morocco) or Uber can be used to book a car from the airport to the medina.
- Advantages:
- Cashless and convenient booking via the app.
- Cost: Prices are generally similar to regular taxis, ranging from 100-150 MAD for a ride to the medina.
- Drawbacks: Like regular taxis, the car will only be able to take you to the edge of the medina.
5. Walking (Not Recommended with Luggage)
- What it is: If you’re traveling light and familiar with Marrakech’s layout, you can walk from the airport to the medina. It’s about 4-5 km (2.5-3 miles), which would take about 45-60 minutes.
- Drawbacks:
- Not ideal with luggage or in the heat. It’s better to take transportation unless you know the city well.
Tips for Getting to Your Riad in the Medina:
- Medina Layout: The medina is a maze of narrow, winding streets, and finding a specific riad can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time in Marrakech. Even with a GPS, some areas are hard to navigate, so it’s always a good idea to ask your riad for specific directions or arrange a transfer.
- Porters (Caddies): If you are dropped off at a medina gate, there are usually porters with carts who can help carry your luggage to your riad for a small fee (usually 20-50 MAD depending on the distance).
- Contact Your Riad: It’s smart to let your riad know your arrival time, especially if you’re taking a taxi or shuttle bus. Many riads can send someone to meet you at a known drop-off point and guide you to the riad.
Best Option:
- For convenience and a smooth arrival, pre-arranging an airport transfer through your riad is highly recommended, especially if it’s your first time visiting Marrakech or if your riad is deep in the medina.