Flying into Marrakech

I flew into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) from Barcelona for about $120USD in mid-December and flew back to London for about the same amount. On the way in I flew Vueling which was fairly decent for a discount airline, although they still have the very tight carry-on baggage size restriction. On the way out I flew Royal Air Moroc. This was not so pleasant. This is going to sound like I’m totally spoiled, but the seats were tattered, the soap in the lavatory was a dirty sliver of bar soap, and there was no in-flight entertainment whatsoever. It’s not that I need any of those things particularly, but the whole airline was so sub-standard that it made me wonder who maintains the plane? These are things you would rather not think about.

The flight into Marrakech also takes some bizarre corkscrew pattern. I’m not sure why exactly, but it certainly makes for an interesting ride.

As far as the airport itself goes, be prepared for something otherworldly. There is no official taxi stand, and you have to walk well into the parking lot to find one. I’m not complaining, only writing this so you are aware of what to expect when you arrive. Morocco is borderline third world, so don’t expect anything fancy when you get there.

Also, you are only allowed to take 1000 Dirhams with you when you leave the country. Be sure to either exchange the money or spend it before you leave. On another note, the airport security guard gave me the full “package cupping” upon arriving at airport security.

Oddly once you are through the gates to leave there is a McDonald’s amongst other fast food and a duty free shop. Compared to the arrivals wing this feels truly first class!