Marrakech Menara Airport, IATA code RAK, is Morocco's second airport and the main gateway to the red city. Located 6 km south-west of the city centre, it welcomes several million travellers every year from Europe, Africa and, since October 2024, the United States. This practical guide gives you all the information you need to reach Marrakech stress-free, from landing to your room at Riad Palau.
The essentials in 30 seconds
- Distance: 6 km, or 15 to 25 minutes by car to the riad.
- Easiest option: the riad's private transfer, a driver with a name sign at the arrivals exit.
- Official taxi: Kech.Cab, regulated fare of 80 to 150 MAD to the medina.
- On a budget: bus L19 to Jemaa el-Fna for 30 MAD, about 45 minutes.
- Money: withdraw 200 to 300 MAD from the ATM, avoid the airport exchange desk.
Contents
- Getting to the city centre from the airport
- Arriving at the airport: the steps
- Services at the airport
- Currency and money
- New route New York – Marrakech
- Leaving Marrakech
- Frequently asked questions
1. How to get to the city centre from RAK airport
The arrivals exit leads directly to the pick-up area. You have four options depending on your budget and preferences. The riad is in the Sidi Ben Slimane district, a stone's throw from Bab Doukkala, ideally placed for exploring the medina on foot.
Private transfer from Riad Palau
This is the simplest option: a driver waits for you at the arrivals exit with a name sign. No haggling, no waiting, no surprise on the price. You book the transfer together with your room, and we take care of the rest.
- Duration: 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic, under 15 minutes early in the morning or in the evening
Kech.Cab taxi (regulated fare)
The official airport taxi is the Kech.Cab. Only take taxis from the official rank at the terminal exit and avoid touts in the hall.
- Fare: fixed and regulated, 80 to 150 MAD to the medina
- Payment: in dirhams
Bus line L19
Line L19 connects the airport to Jemaa el-Fna square. Handy if you travel light and have no time constraints. The bus also stops in Gueliz for those staying outside the medina.
- Fare: 30 MAD
- Duration: about 45 minutes
Car hire
The main agencies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) are in the arrivals hall. Book online before you leave for a better rate.
Our tip: in the medina, it is rare to be able to drive right up to a riad. The private transfer saves you from finding your way with your luggage.
Arrive with peace of mind. Book your room and transfer together, and your driver will be waiting at the arrivals exit. Check availability and book direct, best rate guaranteed.
2. Arriving at Marrakech airport: the steps
RAK airport is compact and well organised. Getting from the plane to the arrivals exit usually takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on the time and crowds.
- Passport control: show your passport and state where you are staying and your profession. European nationals do not need a visa to enter Morocco (stays of up to 90 days).
- Baggage reclaim: belts are clearly marked by flight number. Allow 15 to 20 minutes after landing.
- Fast Track: a priority lane service is available. Useful in high season (July-August, Christmas, Easter) when queues get longer.
3. Services at Marrakech Menara airport
RAK airport has all the essential services:
- Duty Free shops: argan oil, spices, beldi soap, Moroccan tea, perfect for gifts.
- Restaurants and cafés in the departures hall.
- Exchange desks and ATMs (dirhams).
- Pharmacy and first aid.
- Free WiFi throughout the terminal.
- Left luggage in the arrivals hall.
- SIM cards: Maroc Telecom, Orange Maroc and Inwi, with data packages.
4. Currency and money: what you need to know
Bank cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops in Marrakech. A few dirhams in cash are still essential for taxis, markets and small shops.
Avoid changing money at the airport exchange desk: the rate is always less favourable than in town.
Our tip: the best place to change money in Marrakech is the exchange office at Hotel Ali, on Jemaa el-Fna square, with a competitive rate and open all day. Withdrawing 200 to 300 MAD from the airport ATM on arrival is plenty to cover the taxi and your first expenses.
5. New direct route New York – Marrakech
Since October 2024, United Airlines has operated a direct route between Newark (EWR) and Marrakech (RAK), a first for an American airline to North Africa. A connection that opens Marrakech to North American travellers without a European stopover.
- Frequency: three flights a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays
- Aircraft: Boeing 767-300
6. Leaving Marrakech: practical tips
- High season (July, August, school holidays): arrive at the airport 2h30 before departure.
- Low season: 2 hours before departure.
Security checks can be long at busy times.
Our tip: we can arrange your return transfer to the airport. Let the team know the day before you leave, and your driver will be waiting in front of the riad at the time you choose.
The Riad Palau patio, about twenty minutes from the airport.
Frequently asked questions about Marrakech RAK airport
Can you pay in euros at Marrakech airport?
Yes, some shops accept euros, but the rate is poor. Better to withdraw or change dirhams on arrival.
Is there left luggage at RAK airport?
Yes, in the arrivals hall. Useful if you want to explore Marrakech before going to your accommodation.
Can you buy a Moroccan SIM card at the airport?
Yes. All three Moroccan operators (Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi) are there. Allow 30 to 50 MAD for a card with a data package. Handy for maps, Google Maps and local contacts.
How far is Marrakech airport from Riad Palau?
6 km, or 15 to 25 minutes by car depending on traffic. Our private transfer picks you up directly at the arrivals exit.
Is Menara airport well served from Europe?
Yes. Ryanair, EasyJet, Air Arabia, Royal Air Maroc and several scheduled airlines operate direct flights from Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, Madrid, London and many other European cities.
Menara airport or RAK airport: are they the same?
Yes. "Menara" is the airport's commercial name and RAK is its international IATA code. Both refer to the same airport.
In short
Riad Palau is about twenty minutes from the airport. Our French-, English- and Dutch-speaking team looks after you from the moment you arrive: transfer, advice, local tips.
Your stay begins as you step off the plane. Book direct at the best guaranteed rate
