Hello Darija! Lesson #1 – Taking a Taxi

Taking a taxi in Morocco can be a bit of an adventure, especially if you're not familiar with Moroccan Darija. While some taxi drivers may understand French or English, knowing a few key Darija phrases will make your experience smoother—and might even help you avoid being overcharged!

In this guide, you’ll learn essential vocabulary, phrases, and tips to navigate Moroccan taxis like a pro.

1. Types of Taxis in Morocco

Before we dive into the language, it’s important to know that Morocco has two main types of taxis:

• Petit Taxi (Small Taxi) – These are usually small cars (Fiat, Dacia, or Kia) that only operate within city limits. They are color-coded by city (e.g., red in Casablanca, blue in Rabat, beige in Marrakech). Always insist on using the meter (l'conteur).
• Grand Taxi (Large Taxi) – These are larger shared taxis (often white Mercedes or Dacia) that travel between cities or different parts of a city. They don’t use meters, so you must negotiate the price before getting in.

2. Key Taxi Phrases in Darija

Asking for a Taxi

• Salam! Wash kayn shi taxi? – Hello! Is there a taxi available?
• Ana bghit taxi l… – I want a taxi to…
• Ch7al taman l…? – How much is it to…?
• Bsh’7al had tassi? – How much is this taxi?

Common Destinations

• Mosque – Jame3 / masjid
• Beach – b7er / shati2
• Shop – 7anut / boutique (French)
• Downtown / Old City – Mdina
• Train Station – La gare (French) / ma7atta
• Airport – Matar

Giving Directions

• Dur lliser – Turn left
• Dur llimen – Turn right
• Sir nishan – Go straight
• Baraka ghir hna – Stop here (literally, "Enough just here")
• Blasa hna – Stop here (literally, "A place here")

Checking Distance & Price

• Sh7al b3ida…? – How far is…?
• Wash b3ida? – Is it far?
• Wash 9riba? – Is it close?
• Bezzaf! – Too much!
• 9sir / 9riba – Near
• B3id(a) – Far

3. Essential Tips for Taking a Taxi in Morocco

Petit Taxi Tips

✔ Always ask the driver to use the meter (l’conteur). If they refuse, find another taxi.
✔ If there is no meter, agree on a price before you start the ride.
✔ Petit taxis only take three passengers at most.
✔ They are usually shared, so don’t be surprised if the driver picks up another passenger going in the same direction.

Grand Taxi Tips

✔ Grand taxis operate without meters, so always negotiate the fare before getting in.
✔ These taxis often have set routes and only leave when full (6 passengers total).
✔ If you want a private ride, you can pay for all the seats.

4. Avoiding Common Taxi Scams

❌ Some drivers may say the meter is "broken"—insist on using it or find another taxi.
❌ If you don’t negotiate the price in a grand taxi, expect to be overcharged.
❌ In touristy areas, drivers may quote much higher prices—ask a local for the fair rate beforehand.
❌ If the driver takes a longer route, say Sir nishan (Go straight) to keep them on track.

Final Thoughts

Knowing a few Darija phrases can make a big difference when taking a taxi in Morocco. Not only will it help you get around more efficiently, but it might also impress the driver and lead to some interesting conversations!

Next time you’re in Morocco, try using these phrases and let us know how it goes in the comments. Have you had any funny or interesting taxi experiences in Morocco? Share them below!