Fes to Nador tickets

About the ride from Fes to Nador

After the hustle and bustle of Fes, look for a tranquil connection with nature in Nador. This coastal city, the provincial capital of Rif, is located in the northeastern corner of Morocco and offers a unique blend of rich culture and fascinating natural beauty. 

The 189-mile (305 km) journey between Fes and Nador takes between 3-5 hours, depending on the mode of transportation. 

Multiple methods of transportation are available. The cheapest but longest method is by train, while the fastest but more expensive option is by bus or minivan. 

Keep reading for all the details…

Four fascinating things to do in Nador

Here are some great things to see while in Nador: 

1. Visit Mar Chica or the Nador Lagoon. It's one of the largest lagoons on the Mediterranean and the largest saltwater lagoon in Morocco. It is a great place for an evening walk along the shore, catching the sea breeze and eating at roadside bars and restaurants. |
   
   While there, check out Bird Island to observe some rare species of migratory birds.
   
   

2. Monkey around on Monte Gurugú. This nature and wildlife area is about 750 feet above sea level and offers an amazing panoramic view of the Mediterranean on a clear day. It has interesting hiking trails, lush vegetation that hides Barbary macaques, and waterfalls. At the summit, an 11th-century castle called Tazouda Tower is found.
   
   

3. Check out killer views. Another popular place for incredible views is the Cap de Trois Fourches (Cape of Three Forks). This sprawling mountainous promontory, about 16 miles (25 km) from Nador, extends about 12 miles (20 km) into the Mediterranean Sea. Its high cliffs are sprinkled with wildflowers that overlook the turquoise water.
   
   

Take your time and be cautious on the narrow, winding road. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the view, but be sure to collect all your trash when leaving.

4. Go shopping at the souk. While shopping in Nador is a little more relaxed than in Marrakesh, you can still experience the sensory overdrive of the Moroccan market at the Souk Oulad Mimoun. Saunter through and be enticed by aromatic spices, unique souvenirs, and fresh local produce. 

How to get from Fes to Nador

There are three ways to travel from Fes to Nador: by minivan, bus and train. 

By minivan

Traveling by air-conditioned minivan is the fastest way to reach Nador from Fes but is also the most expensive. 

The trip takes three hours, and the cost starts at $66 per person. However, this method of transportation requires a 3-passenger booking. Great if you are traveling with a small crew of friends. Otherwise, ask around your hostel and see who's up for the trip.

Although it may cost more, this is a door-to-door service. You'll be picked up from any hotel in Fes and then dropped off at your hotel of choice in Nador.

The luggage allowance is 44 lbs (20 kg) per person.

By bus

Traveling by bus takes four to five hours, with stops along the way. 

Basic tickets on an air-conditioned bus start at $11 per person. If you want more amenities, like TVs, reclining seats, and WiFi, it'll cost a few more dollars. But nothing is going to break the bank. 

The luggage allowance varies by operator. Most allow a 15-lb (7-kg) bag; additional bags cost around $0.50 (5 MAD). The fee is paid to the driver.  

Check the departure and arrival locations carefully. Oftentimes, the company has specific departure and arrival locations that may or may not be at the bus station.   

There are multiple departure times throughout the day and night. Choose an overnight bus, and you'll save on one night of accommodation. 

By train

The second-class train passage to Nador from Fes is the cheapest option ($12), but passage on the train takes the most time. The trip takes over six hours, with stops along the way.  

In second class, the amenities include AC and restrooms. The cabins have six seats with a shared table. 

First-class seats are more comfortable and have more legroom. Tickets cost about $16 per person, and amenities include A/C, WiFi and charging ports.  

Regardless of which class you choose, you're allowed one piece of luggage and one handbag with a total weight of 51 lbs (23 kg). 

Trains depart at least twice daily from the Fes Train Station and arrive at the Nador Ville Train Station. 

What to expect on the trip from Fes to Nador

The journey from Fes to Nador takes between 3-6 hours. The length of the ride depends on the transportation method you choose.  

Traveling by minivan or bus, you will take the A2 route, which is a toll road. This four-lane divided highway is generally well-maintained. Along the way, you'll see low hills, scrubby vegetation, and Tazekka National Park.

The train makes a slower trek across the rocky landscape. 

When is the best time to visit Nador?

The ideal period to visit Nador is in spring, from March to May. During these months, temperatures typically range from 59 to 72°F (15 to 22°C). 

Late October and November also offer comfortable weather as an alternative. It is not too rainy, which means it is a perfect time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Moroccan coast, but it may not be the best time to swim.

The summer months can be very hot, but they are the best for swimming and sunbathing. 

The wettest month is typically January.  

How many days should you spend in Nador? 

Consider staying four to five days to experience all that Nador has to offer. This allows time to explore the city and delight in its natural beauty.  

Where to visit after Nador 

From Nador, why not head to Almeria, Spain? It has a fascinating, diverse history, one of the only deserts in Europe, and some of Spain's most spectacular beaches.