Looking for a relaxing break from the busy streets of Marrakech? Consider a day trip to Essaouira! This seaside town, less than three hours away has a mix of interesting culture and beautiful nature.
Imagine strolling around the medina, exploring the Skala Kasbah fortress, and enjoying delicious fresh seafood by the fishing port. The drive there is also scenic, with unique sights along the way.
Want to find out more about why Essaouira is a great place to visit and how to plan your trip with MarocTrik?
Essaouira Day Trip Highlights
A trip to Essaouira from Marrakech is a great mix of exploring culture and relaxing by the coast.
- See the goats climbing argan trees, which makes for a fun photo op.
- Visit a place where Berber women make and sell argan oil, which is a special local product.
- Check out lively markets and shops and get interesting facts from a tour guide.
- Try the fresh seafood at the port, where you can pick your lunch straight from the fishing boats.
- Relax on the big beach at Essaouira
Marrakech to Essaouira Day Trip Itinerary
To start your day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll get picked up early in the morning from your hotel in Marrakech or riad.
The drive to Essaouira takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way through Morocco’s Haouz plains.
Your first stop will be in the village of Chichaoua, where you can take a break, stretch your legs, and grab a quick cup of coffee.
While you continue your tour, you’ll see goats climbing Argan trees, which is a unique and fun sight for photos.
You’ll also visit a cooperative run by women that makes Argan oil, where you can learn about this traditional Moroccan craft.
Once you arrive in Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, you’ll explore the old town, which was a filming location for ‘Game of Thrones’.
Walk through the narrow streets of the medina, visit the Skala Kasbah fortress, and check out the busy port where fishermen bring in their daily catch.
You’ll have some free time to relax at the beach, known for its chill atmosphere and stunning views.
Day trip to Essaouira Price
When you go on a day trip to Essaouira, you’ll ride in a cool minibus with air conditioning.
But remember, the price doesn’t cover your lunch or drinks.
Here’s what you need to know:
What is included in this day trip to Essaouira
This trip to Essaouira from Marrakech includes:
- Easy pick-up and drop-off services provided for transportation convenience.
- Comfortable minibus with AC and an English or French-speaking driver for a smooth journey.
- Visit historical sites like the Skala Kasbah fortress and other significant locations.
- Option to hire a local guide for deeper insights into Essaouira’s history.
- Accommodation arrangements made for the day trip.
- Return ride back to Marrakech included.
By the time you return to Marrakech, you’ll have lots of special memories from your day trip to Essaouira.
What is not included
- Airline Tickets: The tour price does not cover the cost of airline tickets to and from Morocco.
- Lunch: Participants are responsible for their own lunch expenses during the day trip.
- Tips: Gratuities for guides, drivers, or any additional services are not included in the tour price.
- Insurance: Travel insurance for personal coverage is not part of the package and should be arranged separately.
- Dinner, unless otherwise indicated: Evening meals are typically not included unless specified in the tour details.
- Drinks: Beverages or refreshments beyond what is provided during the tour are not part of the package.
- Free Activities: Any optional activities or personal expenses incurred during free time are not covered.
- Anything not listed under “included”: Any services, items, or expenses not explicitly mentioned as included in the tour package are the responsibility of the participants.
Good to know about the Marrakech to Essaouira Day Trip
To make the most of your day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira, remember that the price starts from €19 per person.
You won’t have to worry about extra fees with this affordable rate.
Here are the important things to know:
- Booking: It’s a good idea to book early to make sure you get a spot because availability might be limited.
- Cancellation: You can cancel for free up to 4 days before your trip.
- Group Size: Only 17 people max can join, so you’ll have a more personal experience.
FAQs About Essaouira day trip from Marrakech
How far is it from Marrakech to Essaouira and how long does it take to drive there?
The distance from Marrakech to Essaouira is about 176 kilometers, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours to drive there.
You can enjoy beautiful views of the Moroccan countryside and the Atlantic coast along the way.
The trip shows off Morocco’s different landscapes, from green areas to amazing ocean views.
The road is in good condition, making the drive comfortable, but the travel time can change if there’s traffic or bad weather.
What makes Essaouira special or unique?
Essaouira is special because it combines a relaxed beach vibe, historic charm, and colorful culture.
The town’s unique buildings, like houses with blue shutters and narrow streets, show off its rich history.
Essaouira is famous for its fresh seafood, busy markets, and handmade crafts, making it a great place for food lovers and shoppers. The mix of Portuguese, French, and Moroccan influences creates an interesting and unique culture.
With a pretty harbor, active fishing port, and a bustling art scene, Essaouira is definitely a must-visit place in Morocco.
Do we stop to take pictures of goats climbing Argan trees on the way to Essaouira?
On the way to Essaouira, you can stop to take pictures of goats climbing Argan trees, making your trip from Marrakech even more special.
These goats climb up into the branches to eat the Argan fruits. It’s a common and fun sight in the area, giving you a great photo chance.
Seeing these goats in trees shows off Morocco’s unique animals and traditions.
Will we visit an Argan oil cooperative on our journey to Essaouira?
On your way to Essaouira from Marrakech, you’ll stop at an Argan oil cooperative. Here, you can see how Argan oil is made and learn about its benefits.
You’ll also see the traditional methods used for making the oil and learn about its many uses.
This visit is a popular part of the trip because it offers a cultural and educational experience. It’s also a great way to support local Berber women who make Argan oil.
So, get ready to explore the world of Argan oil and see how this valuable product is crafted on your day trip to Essaouira.
How much time will we spend in Essaouira?
You will have around 4 hours to explore Essaouira on your own during your day trip from Marrakech.
This time lets you enjoy the city’s busy markets, walk through the old streets, visit the active port, see the jewelers’ quarter, and relax on the beautiful beach.
The trip is well-planned with both a guided tour of the historic center and free time to enjoy the city. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, so you can explore Essaouira at your own pace.
Can we go swimming in Essaouira?
Swimming in Essaouira isn’t safe because of the strong currents and big waves. It’s better for activities like windsurfing and kite surfing because of the windy conditions.
Even though you can’t swim, the beaches are still beautiful and peaceful. You can walk along the shore, enjoy the ocean views, and explore the historic city.
Are the seafood restaurants in Essaouira safe to eat at?
Yes, these places are known for their fresh seafood and high cleanliness. They serve locally caught fish and make sure everything is clean and safe.
You can try yummy dishes like grilled sardines and seafood tagine. To have the best experience, choose popular and well-reviewed restaurants.
Many tourists eat at these places without any problems, so it’s a safe and fun way to enjoy your day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech.
What does the term "Mogador" mean?
The Medina of Essaouira was called “Mogador” in the past. This name comes from a word “Migdol” used by the Phoenicians, an ancient group of people which meant “small fortress.”
This name fits Essaouira well because the city has strong walls all around it. Over hundreds of years, different groups of people have influenced Essaouira.
The Phoenicians, Romans, and Portuguese all lived in the city at various times in history. Each group left its mark on the city’s buildings and culture. The name Mogador was used during these historical periods and up until about 100 years ago.
Then the city started being called Essaouira again.
Is there a train that goes from Marrakech to Essaouira?
No train goes from Marrakech to Essaouira because there aren’t any train tracks between these two cities.
The most common ways to travel between Marrakech and Essaouira are by bus, taxi, or organized day trip.
- Buses are a popular and cheap option with regular departures taking about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Organized full-day trips to Essaouira from Marrakech usually include transportation, guided tours, and free time to explore the city.
Even though a train isn’t available for this route, the bus ride or an organized day trip can still give you a comfortable and fun experience on your journey from Marrakech to the coastal city of Essaouira.