Overview: dates, rhythm, geographical logic
The 2025 AFCON runs from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, a unique time as it coincides with the peak travel season at year’s end. The tournament's geography is clear: a central “Rabat-Casablanca” core, a northern hub “Tangier,” and three tourist poles “Marrakech-Agadir-Fez.” The simple idea for visitors: choose a base, then travel according to the matches.
Host cities and stadiums: what you need to remember
Rabat is the central city: it hosts several venues, including the Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex (68,700 seats) and three additional stadiums (Moulay Hassan 22,000, Olympic Stadium 21,000, Al Medina 18,000). Tangier features the Grand Stadium of Tangier (75,600). Casablanca relies on the Mohammed V Stadium (45,000). Marrakech, Agadir, and Fez complete the map with stadiums each announced to hold 45,000 (Marrakech Stadium, Adrar Stadium in Agadir, Fez Stadium). This layout indicates that you can experience much of the AFCON by train without domestic flights… if you plan ahead.
Tickets: the only clean route is through the official CAF ticketing
CAF has an official ticketing platform, and sales are organized in phases. The key takeaway: purchase through official channels, then verify the collection/activation procedures (mobile tickets, any related apps). Anything resembling a “miracle resale” outside the official framework exposes you to invalid tickets, inflated prices, or access restrictions on the day.
Transport between cities: the train is your best ally on the northern axis
For the Tangier-Rabat-Casablanca route, the high-speed train Al Boraq is the most efficient option, with regular services and significant time savings compared to road travel. For other cities, the ONCF network remains relevant, but the choice will depend on your match schedules and budget. A practical rule: avoid long trips on match day, especially in the evening. The ideal scenario is to arrive the day before, secure access to the stadium early, and then depart the next day.
Airports: choose the right entry point based on your program
If you're doing a “multi-city” AFCON, Casablanca (hub) is often the most flexible entry point. If you prefer a more touristy stay, Marrakech and Agadir provide more comfortable direct access. Tangier and Fez can be smart entry points if your itinerary is very specific. The 2025 context urges you to book early: Morocco has surpassed its tourism record with 18 million arrivals recorded by the end of the year, putting pressure on flights and accommodation.
Accommodation: the golden rule is logistical proximity, not the “prettiest neighborhood”
During the AFCON, luxury is time. In Rabat, Casablanca, or Tangier, prioritize lodging that allows quick access to a transport axis (train station, tram, main arteries), even if the neighborhood is less “Instagrammable.” On match day, the difference in time can be the deciding factor: traffic, security checks, queues, and sometimes filtered zones. Booking early isn’t just vague advice: for a late December event, it’s a condition for peace of mind.
Match day: three tips that avoid 80% of hassles
Arrive early around the stadium: checks are stricter for major events and access may be rearranged. Keep your ticket-related documents (account, QR, confirmation) and an offline backup plan handy (screenshot if allowed, or order number). Allow extra time after the match: some nights, exiting the stadium area takes time, especially if you need to catch a train afterward.
Payment, connectivity, security: the minimum kit for visitors
Prepare a mixed payment solution: card + some cash for simple situations (small taxis, snacks, highly trafficked areas). For connectivity, a local SIM or a solid international plan will make life easier: navigation, ticket confirmations, transport. On safety, the logic is the same as for any major event: keep your valuables discreet in crowds, and avoid last-minute “offers” around the stadiums.
Typical itineraries: how to “maximize” an AFCON stay
If you want to maximize matches, a Rabat-Casablanca base is the most logical: it reduces distances and maintains flexibility. If you want a mix of AFCON + tourism, Marrakech works well as a pivot, with getaways to Agadir. If you prefer a “northern” AFCON, Tangier + Rabat allows you to limit long crossings.
