Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech: Medina, Port & Atlantic Beach
Why Choose This Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
This Essaouira day trip from Marrakech takes you to a relaxed walled town on the Atlantic coast, about three hours west of the city. To begin with, you cross the plains and argan forests, with a stop at a women’s argan cooperative. Then you explore the medina, the sea ramparts and the fishing port, before free time by the ocean.
Throughout the day, you also travel privately with your own driver-guide in an air-conditioned vehicle. As a result, you choose where to stop and how long to stay. In fact, the Medina of Essaouira has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2001.
However, if one day feels too short, ask us to add a night by the sea. Also see all our day trips from Marrakech.
| Duration | Full day, about 8:00 to 19:00 |
|---|---|
| Start and end | Your hotel or riad in Marrakech |
| Driving time | About 3 hours each way |
| Main visits | Argan cooperative, medina, Skala ramparts, fishing port, beach |
| Lunch | Free choice, for example grilled fish at the port (not included) |
| Price | From 105 € per person |
Highlights of the Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
- To begin with, drive through argan forests, where goats sometimes climb the trees.
- Then visit a women’s cooperative that makes argan oil by hand.
- After that, walk through the white and blue medina and its craft shops.
- Also, see the cannons on the Skala ramparts above the ocean.
- Later, watch the blue fishing boats and the gulls at the port.
- Finally, relax on the beach or in a café before you return to Marrakech.
Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech: Itinerary
Morning: Marrakech – Argan Forests – Argan Cooperative
To begin with, your driver picks you up at your hotel or riad at about 8:00. Then you drive west across the plains, while small villages and olive groves pass by. Halfway, you also stop for a coffee break.
Later, the road enters the argan forest. In fact, from spring to autumn you may see goats eating the fruit in the trees. Soon you visit a women’s argan cooperative, where you learn how the oil is made by hand.
Late Morning: The Medina and the Skala Ramparts
After that, you reach Essaouira, the old Mogador, at about 11:00. Then you walk through the medina, with its white houses, blue doors and quiet lanes. Along the main street, you can also browse thuya wood, silver and leather shops.
Meanwhile, the Skala ramparts show old bronze cannons facing the ocean. In general, they date from the 18th century, when the sultan rebuilt the town as a port.
Midday: The Fishing Port and Lunch
Then you visit the fishing port, where the blue boats return with the catch of the day. In addition, the gulls and the fish market make great photos. For lunch, you can choose fresh fish at the port grills and have it cooked on the spot. Otherwise, many cafés in the medina serve tagines and salads.
Afternoon: The Beach and Return to Marrakech
Later, you have free time on the wide sandy beach or in a café by the sea. However, the wind is often strong, so the beach suits walking more than swimming. Meanwhile, kitesurfers and surfers ride the waves.
Finally, you leave at about 16:00 and drive back to Marrakech. As a result, you reach your riad at about 19:00.
Expert tip from our driver-guides
Bring a windproof jacket, even in summer, because the Atlantic wind can feel cold. In addition, keep cash for lunch at the port, since many grills do not take cards. Also, agree on the price of the fish before it is cooked. Finally, the goats in the trees are often placed there for tourists, so we only stop where they eat naturally.
Photo Gallery
What Is Included
- Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or riad in Marrakech
- Visit to a women’s argan cooperative
- Free time in the medina, at the port and on the beach
- Not included
- Lunch
- Drinks
- Tips
- Local guide in the medina (optional)
Good to Know Before Your Essaouira Day Trip
- Pickup: we also collect you from your hotel or riad in Marrakech at about 8:00.
- Driving: the road is good, but the drive takes about 3 hours each way.
- Weather: Essaouira is cooler and windier than Marrakech, so bring a warm layer.
- Swimming: the sea is cold and the wind is strong, so swimming is best in summer.
- Families: children love the port and the beach, so the trip suits all ages.
- More nature: for a shorter drive, see our Ourika Valley day trip.
- Booking terms: please read our terms and conditions before you confirm.
Price of the Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
Prices start at 105 € per person, because every trip is private. Therefore, the final price depends on your group size, so ask us for a free quote.
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Marrakech → Argan cooperative → Essaouira → Marrakech
FAQ About the Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech
How long is the drive from Marrakech to Essaouira?
In general, the drive takes about 3 hours each way, with a coffee stop and a stop at an argan cooperative.
Is lunch included in the Essaouira day trip from Marrakech?
No, lunch is not included, so you are free to choose. For example, you can pick fresh fish at the port grills.
Is the Essaouira medina a UNESCO site?
Yes, in fact the Medina of Essaouira has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001.
Can I swim in Essaouira?
Yes, but the water is cold and the wind is often strong. Therefore, swimming is best on calm summer days.
Will we see goats in the argan trees?
Sometimes, mainly from spring to autumn. However, some goats are placed in trees for tourists, so we prefer natural sightings.
What time do we leave and return?
In general, we leave Marrakech at about 8:00 and return at about 19:00.
Is the Essaouira day trip from Marrakech good for families?
Yes, in fact children enjoy the port, the ramparts and the beach, and the trip suits all ages.
What should I bring?
Above all, bring a windproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes and cash for lunch.
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TripAdvisor Reviews
★★★★★
Amazing tour guide
I would like to share our experience and give feedback on the trip taken by us. We really enjoyed the trip with Mr. Mohammad, he really took very good care of us during the entire trip. He was very cordial, warm, and respectful during the entire journey…
— Tehseen A
★★★★★
Fantastic trip
Fantastic trip, Mohammed is an excellent guide, great person as well. He looked after our group of 5 people. He tailored the trip to our interests. We had lots of interesting stops and stayed in great places. He also made sure we were always safe and comfortable….
— Peter H
★★★★★
Private tour around Morocco
Absolutely fantastic! Great vista and wonderful people! Ate authentic Moroccan meals with local families. Experienced next level hospitality with some fantastic locals. Hit the highlights from the tree climbing and jumping goats, to shopping in the Marrakech ..
— Spring rabiea
★★★★★
Morrocos stays in the heart
Morocco leaves an indelible mark on our souls and hearts! With its captivating scents, flavors, and natural wonders, it enchants us effortlessly! And who better than Mohammed to lead and guide us through these paradisiacal destinations! Choukran..
— Quest60915749423
Read more reviews on Tripadvisor.