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The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 (AFCON or CAF) is coming to Morocco, and it’s going to be one of the most exciting events on the continent.
From the energy of the stadiums to the rhythm of Moroccan streets, this tournament is not just about football; it’s a celebration of Africa’s culture, unity, and passion.
In fact, as someone living in Tangier, I’ve seen firsthand how Morocco has been preparing for this moment.
Over the past few months, the city has been buzzing with activity, particularly with renovations, construction projects, new roads, and an impressive upgrade of the Ibn Battuta Stadium.
In other words, Morocco is getting ready to host Africa’s biggest sporting event in style.
If you’re planning to travel for CAF 2025, this guide will help you prepare, from getting tickets to booking hotels, navigating cities, and making the most of your time in Morocco.
When & Where Will CAF 2025 Take Place?
The CAF 2025 will take place from the 21st of December 2025 until the 18th of January 2026.
It will be hosted across six Moroccan cities, each offering a different flavour of the country:
Casablanca is Morocco’s biggest city, full of energy and nightlife.
Rabat is the capital, elegant and calm, with beautiful architecture.
Marrakech is the red city of souks, gardens, and desert adventures.
Agadir is a coastal gem for beach lovers and surfers.
Fez is the heart of Moroccan heritage and traditional crafts.
Tangier is where Africa meets Europe, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is a relaxing city.
Each host city will have a stadium dedicated to CAF matches. Note that Rabat will have 4 stadiums taking part up to the round of 16 only, like Fes, except for the new Rabat stadium, Prince Moulay Abdellah. This new stadium will host games for each stage, including the opening game and the final. The Moroccan team is also expected to play only in this stadium. You can find the matches’ schedule here.
Tip: Therefore, plan your base city depending on the matches you want to see, but keep time for exploring too!
How to Get CAF 2025 Tickets?
Now, this has been a hot topic here and on social media. Although the tickets were supposed to be first released in September, with exclusivity given to Visa cardholders for the first 2 days, this didn’t happen. People initially spent hours trying to get them online with no success, only to be told that the release was postponed.
The new release date has been set for the 13th of October, with a few hours’ notice only. This comes with rules:
Fan ID via Yalla App. is mandatory: You must register for a Fan ID through the Yalla App (Morocco’s official CAF app) to purchase tickets and to enter stadiums/fan zones. The fan ID also connects to the E-Visa/AEVM service for non-Moroccan Fans who need visas.
Tickets are digital and sold only via official channels: You buy tickets through tickets.cafonline.com and via Yalla App. There are no physical ticket counters at stadiums or via third-party sellers (unauthorised ones). Buying elsewhere risks fraud or invalid tickets.
Phased sales + Visa presale windows: Ticket sales happen in phases. Some phases are exclusive presale windows for Visa cardholders. After that, there are general public sales where all payment methods are accepted. There will be at least two Visa presale phases before the final phase for the remaining tickets in November.
Limits per match per person: Each valid Fan ID allows you to purchase one ticket per match and add up to 3 minors. So you can’t buy multiple seats in the same match under the same Fan ID. If you want to go with someone, this person must communicate their Fan ID to you.
Payment methods during the phases: During the Visa-only presale windows, only Visa cards are accepted. After presale, during general public sales, other payment methods are accepted.
Stadium capacity & ticket release quotas: Each sales phase releases only a portion of the total tickets that come in later phases; for example, 30% of stadium capacity in the first general sale after presale. Additional tickets come in later phases.
Disclaimer: Please note that this information is correct at the time of writing. There have been so many last-minute changes and technical errors; consequently, I can’t guarantee it will stay as it is. It is best to keep yourself updated. More unexpected changes may occur.
How to Get Your CAF 2025 Fan ID with the Yalla App?
If you thought it was tricky to get a correct timeline of the ticket sales release, wait until you try to get your Fan ID. When they announced the release of the tickets and the app, over 2 million fans tried to get their Fan ID. However, I think things must have calmed down by now.
Step 1. Download the Yalla App: Available on the App Store and Google Play (“Yalla – CAF Fan ID”).
Step 2. Create Your Account: Sign up using your email address and phone number. You’ll receive a verification code to confirm your account. It took hours before I received my code; I’m hoping it’s finally faster now.
Step 3. Submit Your Details: Click on Fan ID to add your details. You will be asked a few questions about ID and visa. Then, you might be waiting in a queue. Once you pass the queue, you will be asked to scan your passport details with your phone camera. Then, confirm the information. You will then have to scan your passport again, this time close it, and press it on the back of your phone for a second scan. Again, check the informations are correct.
Step 4. (For International Fans) Connect to E-Visa: If you’re coming from abroad and need a Moroccan visa, the Yalla App automatically links to the E-Visa portal, making it easier to apply once your Fan ID is approved.
Step 5. Wait for Approval: Once verified, you’ll receive a digital Fan ID card within the app.
This Fan ID will be scanned alongside your match ticket at stadium gates.
Step 6. Buy Your Tickets: After you have your Fan ID, you can purchase tickets directly from the Yalla App or through tickets.cafonline.com.
If you encountered problems, there is a multilingual customer service number available; it’s 212530302030, press 1 for Arabic, 2 for French and 3 for English. Alternatively, there is an email address where you can send your queries to: info@yallamorocco.ma
How to get to Morocco for CAF 2025
Now that you have your Fan ID and your tickets, let’s book the flight or the ferry to Morocco.
By Air
Morocco is well-connected internationally, and you’ll find regular flights to most CAF host cities. Royal Air Maroc has also increased its number of flights by 50% during the tournament.
Here are the main airports to consider, depending on where your matches will be:
Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN): The busiest airport in the country and a major hub for Royal Air Maroc. It’s your best option if you’re connecting to other Moroccan cities. For the groups A and E matches in the group stage.
Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK): Serves the south and is perfect for fans attending games in Marrakech. For the groups B and F matches in the group stage.
Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA): Great for anyone visiting the capital region. For the groups A, C, D, and F matches in the group stage.
Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport (TNG): Serves northern Morocco, ideal for matches in Tangier. (and yes, it’s my local airport; it’s small and easy to find your way around). For the group D matches in the group stage.
Fez–Saïss Airport (FEZ): A growing international airport serving central. It connects directly with major European cities like Paris, Brussels, Madrid, and Milan through low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Air Arabia. Fez is also well-connected by train to Rabat. For the group C matches in the group stage.
Agadir Al-Massira Airport (AGA): Serves southern Morocco and beach destinations. For the groups B and F matches in the group stage.
Travel Tip: If you can’t find a direct flight to your match city, it’s often easiest to fly into Casablanca or Marrakech first — then continue domestically by train, bus, grand taxi, car rental or even domestic flights.
By Ferry (From Europe)
If you’re travelling from southern Spain, ferries are a fun and scenic way to reach Morocco, especially for fans who want to bring their car. The first time we took the ferry from Tarifa to Tangier, we spotted a pilot whale.
There are several short routes across the Strait of Gibraltar:
Tarifa → Tangier Ville (1 hour, foot passengers only)
Algeciras → Tangier Med (1.5 hours, cars and passengers)
Almería → Nador or Motril → Al Hoceima (longer routes for northern Morocco)
Algeciras → Ceuta (1 hour, competitive prices but often chaotic)
Travel note: Tangier Med port is about 45 minutes from the Tangier city centre, with buses and taxis connecting directly. If you go via Ceuta by car, you must first go to the Embolsamiento de Loma Colmenar car park to get a barcode. You will have to wait in line to go to the border. The road leading to the border is simply too short to accommodate long queues. y.
You can compare ferry and bus options and book online through Omio or 12Go.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Most visitors from Europe, the UK, the USA, Canada, and many African countries can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. But make sure you check that you’re still eligible, as Morocco has extended the number of countries that need a visa during the tournament.
For others, Morocco offers an easy E-Visa system, which is now linked to the Yalla App for CAF travellers.
If you need a visa, you’ll apply directly through the app when creating your Fan ID, simple and digital.
Arrival Tips
Airport Transfers: Pre-book a ride with Welcome Pickups to avoid long queues and fixed taxi prices.
Currency Exchange: You can exchange euros or dollars at airport counters or ATMs (the Moroccan dirham is a closed currency).
Connectivity: Get a travel eSIM from Airalo so you have data from the moment you land.
Language: Arabic and French are spoken everywhere, but most airport staff also understand English. There is an app called Moro AI that translates 20 languages into Moroccan Darija and vice versa.
How to Get Around Morocco During CAF 2025
By Train, Fast, Scenic, and Comfortable
For most football fans, train travel will be the best way to move between CAF host cities.
Morocco’s national railway company, ONCF, runs a clean, safe, and efficient network. The highlight is the Al Boraq high-speed train, which connects:
Tangier → Kenitra → Rabat → Casablanca in under 2 hours!
If your matches are in Fez or Marrakech, you can take connecting trains on the Al Atlas lines, which cover almost every major city.
You can check schedules and book tickets online via Omio or 12Go — both accept foreign cards and display train times in English. The ONCF has an app and website to check and book tickets too; just be aware that it doesn’t always work.
Travel Tip: Book your ticket in advance for popular match days. First-class seats are air-conditioned, more spacious, and worth the small upgrade.
By Bus, Budget-Friendly and Reliable
If you’re on a tighter budget or travelling to cities not covered by train, buses are a great option.
Companies like CTM and Supratours offer comfortable long-distance coaches between most cities and tourist destinations.
Example routes:
Marrakech → Agadir (3.5 hours)
Casablanca → Fez (4 to 5.5 hours)
Tangier → Rabat (under 2 hours)
Book early if travelling around match dates. You can book your tickets on the CTM and Supratours websites.
By Car, Freedom to Explore
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to combine CAF matches with sightseeing.
You will be impressed with Moroccan motorways. They are modern, safe, and well signposted in Arabic and French. They also have excellent facilities at service stations.
You can drive from:
Tangier to Casablanca in 4 hours
Casablanca to Marrakech in 2.5 hours
Fez to Rabat in 2 hours
Driving Tips:
You’ll need a valid driver’s license.
Tolls are paid in cash or by card (MAD only).
Parking is easy to find in most cities; attendants in yellow vests help you park safely (tip them a couple of Dirhams).
Use DiscoverCars to compare local and international car rental agencies. They offer flexible free cancellation and insurance options. I like that they have competitive prices and no hidden fees.
What are Petit and Grand Taxis in Morocco?
If it’s your first time visiting Morocco, you’ll quickly notice two kinds of taxis everywhere: petit taxis (small city taxis) and grand taxis (shared long-distance ones). Both are safe, affordable, and very Moroccan; you’ll probably use them more than once during CAF 2025!
Petit Taxis, For Getting Around the City
Petit taxis are small cars (usually blue in Tangier, yellow in Marrakech, red in Casablanca, and other colours depending on the city). They are used for short rides within the city, for example, to go from your hotel to the stadium, souk, train station, or restaurant.
How to use them:
Hail a taxi on the street or go to a taxi stand (“station de taxi”). Do not hope for a queue system, there is no first-come first first-served here; it’s whoever jumps on it first, unless it’s an elderly person!
Tell the driver your destination
Ask to use the meter (“compteur”) — in most cities, it’s required by law. The taxi’s meter has 3 meters for up to 3 people on different journeys.
Pay in cash (in Moroccan dirhams). No need to tip, but rounding up is polite.
Petit Taxis can take a maximum of 3 people. And there is no exclusivity; if there is space for one person, the taxi will take them if they are going in the same direction. It also works the other way round; if you see a taxi with someone in it but not full, you can still get in, given that you’re going the same way.
The average cost for a short city ride is 10-20 MAD, and longer cross-town trips are 30-40 MAD
Grand Taxis, For Longer Distances
Grand taxis are bigger vehicles (usually old beige Mercedes or newer Dacia Lodges) that travel between cities, towns, or villages.
They act like shared long-distance cabs, a bit like intercity minibuses.
Go to a grand taxi stand (usually near bus or train stations).
Negotiate the price before you get in. There might be extra fees if your luggage is very heavy. And there usually is an extra fee for airport pick up/drop off.
Wait until the car fills up. It typically carries 6 passengers (2 in front, 4 in the back).
Pay your seat fare in cash before or after departure.
You can also book the whole car if you prefer privacy or are travelling as a group — perfect for families or football fans heading to a match together!
Example fares (approx):
Tangier → Rabat: about 570 MAD (for 6 people)
Marrakech → Agadir: about 470 MAD (for 6 people)
Fez → Rabat: about 570 MAD (for 6 people)
Tip: If you prefer comfort and direct transfers, book a private car with Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer, especially for airport or match-day travel.
Where to Stay During CAF 2025 in Morocco?
With Morocco hosting the CAF 2025, hotels, riads, and guesthouses across the country are preparing to welcome thousands of fans from all over the continent.
Whether you prefer a luxury resort, a charming riad, or a flat lodging near the stadiums, or even a campsite, Morocco offers a huge range of accommodation options. But book early, as rooms are selling out fast.
Tangier, The Northern Gateway
As a Tangier local, I can tell you the city has transformed these past few months. Roads, stadiums, and waterfront areas are all being renovated ahead of CAF2025. Tangier offers a perfect mix of sea views, modern hotels, and authentic Moroccan charm.
Best areas to stay:
Corniche: modern hotels overlooking the sea, close to the city centre.
Medina & Kasbah: boutique riads in the old town for a more traditional stay.
Iberia & City Centre: convenient for transport links.
Marjane Area: close to the stadium and the airport, about a 15-minute drive to the beaches, the medina and the train station.
Insider Tip: The Al Boraq high-speed train connects Tangier directly to Rabat and Casablanca, so you can easily base yourself here and travel between matches.
Casablanca, The Big City Base
Casablanca is Morocco’s economic capital and home to one of the country’s largest stadiums. It will also be the main hub to reach internationally, with direct flights from all over the world.
Best areas to stay:
Maarif & Gauthier: modern, central neighbourhoods with cafes and shopping.
Ain Diab: near the beach, great for post-match relaxation.
City Centre: convenient for the train station and stadium access.
Casablanca is the most central city to get around in Morocco. It is linked to Tangier, Rabat, Fes and Marrakesh by train.
Rabat, The Capital Experience
Rabat combines modern city comfort with calm seaside vibes. It’s the cleanest as well as the safest city in Morocco, with a growing number of hotels, apartments, and riads.
Best areas to stay:
Agdal & Hassan: central and convenient for the stadium.
Medina & Kasbah of the Udayas: charming, traditional stays with views of the ocean.
Hay Riad: It’s one of the nicest neighbourhoods in Rabat, and also the closest to the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Insider Tip: Rabat is just 1 hour from Casablanca by train, perfect for day trips or multi-city stays.
Fes, The Cultural Capital
Fez is hosting group C matches, and it’s one of Morocco’s most traditional destinations. The Medina is a UNESCO treasure, so staying here means getting lost (in the best way) among history, crafts, and local food.
Best areas to stay:
Fez Medina: traditional riads and guesthouses.
Ville Nouvelle: modern hotels near cafes and transport.
The Fez–Saïss Airport (FEZ) is expanding and offers affordable flights from Europe, so it’s ideal for international fans.
Marrakech, Where Football Meets Culture
Even if your matches aren’t in Marrakech, it’s worth visiting for a few days. The city’s luxury hotels, rooftop riads, and lively atmosphere make it one of Morocco’s top destinations.
Best areas to stay:
Medina: traditional riads steps from the souks.
Gueliz & Hivernage: modern hotels and restaurants.
Palmeraie: resort-style villas away from the city buzz.
Tip: Marrakech has frequent trains and buses to Casablanca, Fes, and Agadir, so it’s ideal for exploring between matches.
Agadir, Beachside Relaxation
For fans who want to mix football with a beach holiday, Agadir is perfect. It’s modern, clean, and full of beachfront resorts.
Best areas to stay:
Agadir Bay & Marina: modern hotels and cafes.
City Centre: affordable stays and local eateries.
Tip: Agadir is 3 hours from Marrakech by car or bus. Use DiscoverCars if you plan to rent.
General Tips for Booking Accommodation
Book early! Rooms near stadiums will sell out fast once fixtures are released.
Mix it up, try a few nights in a riad for an authentic Moroccan experience.
Compare prices on Booking, Agoda, and Trip before reserving.
Check reviews on TripAdvisor before booking.
If you’re travelling between cities, consider booking stays near train stations for easy match-day access.
What to Eat & Experience Beyond the CAF 2025 Matches?
Morocco’s food scene is reason enough to visit! Between the matches, you can try:
Tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables.
Couscous Fridays, a must in every Moroccan home.
Mint tea, the country’s sweetest ritual.
Street food, msemen pancakes, brochettes, or harira soup.
Don’t miss a few cultural highlights too:
The Jemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech
The blue streets of Chefchaouen
Kasbah Museum in Tangier
Royal Palace in Fez
Corniche of Agadir for sunsets
Animals & Wildlife Tips in Morocco
Morocco isn’t a safari destination, but you’ll still come across plenty of animals, from city cats to donkeys and coastal camels. Most are harmless, but it’s good to know how to interact respectfully and stay safe.
Street Cats & Dogs
You’ll notice friendly cats almost everywhere, in cafés, medinas, and public squares. Many are strays but used to people.
It’s okay to give water or food, but avoid petting too closely (some might carry fleas).
If scratched or bitten, go to a pharmacy or clinic immediately; rabies vaccines are available.
Camels, Donkeys & Horses
In tourist areas, you’ll often see camels, donkeys, or horses used for rides or photos.
Choose operators who treat animals well and look healthy.
Avoid rides if the animals look tired, injured, or underfed.
You can still take photos from afar; it’s perfectly fine to decline politely. But if you get caught taking a picture from close, some (not everyone) may ask you to pay for it.
Snakes & Monkeys (in Tourist Spots)
In cities like Marrakech, snake charmers or monkey handlers may offer photo opportunities.
It’s generally safe. But the animals are nonetheless wild animals. So use common sense when deciding.
Tip: It’s best to admire from a distance and avoid paying for animal photos.
Practical Tips for Travellers during CAF 2025
Weather: Days are usually sunny, while evenings can get cool and sometimes rainy, especially up north, so pack layers, a light jacket, and comfy shoes for exploring between matches. The south is still warm during the day, so bring sunscreen and a hat.
Safety & Etiquette: Morocco is safe, especially during events. Use official taxis, agree on fares before rides, and dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas. So long sleeves and trousers are comfortable and respectful.
Language: Arabic and French are widely spoken, but English is understood in tourist areas.
SIM cards: Stay connected with an eSIM from Airalo — no need to queue at the airport.
Money: Morocco uses the dirham (MAD). ATMs are everywhere, and cards work in hotels and malls, but keep some cash for taxis and local cafés.
Match Day: Bring your Fan ID, ticket, and passport, arrive early, and avoid large bags or food at stadiums.
Travel insurance: Always get coverage before your trip. I recommend SafetyWing for flexible short-term travel insurance.
Friday prayers mean some shops close midday, so plan ahead.
Final Thoughts on CAF 2025
CAF 2025 isn’t just a football tournament; it’s also a moment of pride for Moroccans and a celebration of Africa’s spirit. In other words, football is probably the one thing that unites North Africa with the rest of Africa.
Moreover, living here in Tangier, I’ve felt the excitement building week after week.
The roads are smoother, the city looks brighter, and the people are ready to welcome the world.
Whether you’re cheering from the stands or exploring between games, you’ll find unforgettable moments everywhere you go.
So start planning as soon as you can and book your tickets, and get ready for a feast of football and adventure in Morocco.
