- Bus, Mini Van, 4/4
- Your Location
- Eco-Tour,
- English, Spanish, French,Italian
- Easy to Moderate
- 1-17
Overview
Destination: Essaouira (Morocco’s coastal gem)
Distance from Marrakech: ~180 km (2.5–3 hours by road)
Best For: Culture, history, seafood, photography, and relaxed vibes
Highlights:
Highlights
- ✔ UNESCO-listed medina with blue-and-white streets
- ✔ Fresh seafood feasts at the port
- ✔ Argan oil cooperatives (women-run, ethical shopping)
- ✔ Historic ramparts (Game of Thrones filming location)
- ✔ Windy beaches (great for surfers & sunset strolls)
Itinerary
7:00 AM – Depart Marrakech
Private transfer (2.5-3 hrs) or shared CTM bus (book in advance).
Scenic route: Pass argan oil cooperatives (photo stop with goats in trees).
9:30 AM – Arrive in Essaouira
First stop: Skala de la Ville (seaside fortress ramparts) for panoramic ocean views.
10:00 AM – Medina Exploration
Must-see spots:
Moulay El Hassan Square (vibrant hub with street performers).
Jewish Mellah (historic quarter with blue doors).
Carpenter’s Souk (thuya wood workshops).
Try: Freshly squeezed orange juice (€0.50) from market stalls.
11:30 AM – Argan Oil & Local Crafts
Visit a women’s co-op to see argan oil production (free tasting).
Shop for:
Argan cosmetics (best prices in Morocco).
Handmade thuya wood boxes.
12:30 PM – Seafood Lunch by the Port
Where: Grillades du Port (tiny stalls with today’s catch).
Order: Mixed grilled fish platter (€8-12) + sardine tajine.
1:30 PM – Essaouira Port & Beach Time
Port: Watch fishermen unload their catch (blue boats make great photos).
Beach options:
Walk along the windy shore (surfboards for rent).
Camel ride (€10-15 for 30 mins).
3:00 PM – Coffee & Chill
Best café: Taros (rooftop with ocean views) or Le Patio (hidden garden oasis).
4:00 PM – Final Medina Stroll
Hidden gem: Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum (Moroccan art, €2 entry).
Sweet treat: Try "msemen" (flaky pancake) with honey from a street vendor.
5:00 PM – Depart for Marrakech
Last stop: Quick photo at the Bab Marrakech gate before leaving.
8:00 PM – Return to Marrakech
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Transportation
- Round-trip private transfer from Marrakech (air-conditioned vehicle)
- OR CTM bus tickets (if budget option selected)
- ✔ Guided Experiences
- Medina walking tour (key landmarks like Skala de la Ville, Jewish Mellah)
- Visit to a women’s argan oil cooperative with demonstration
- ✔ Food & Drinks
- Seafood lunch at the port (mixed grilled fish platter + Moroccan salad)
- Argan oil tasting
- ✔ Photo Opportunities
- Scenic stops: Ramparts, blue boats at the port, goats in argan trees
- ✔ Basic Amenities
- Driver/guide assistance
- Pickup/drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation
The Cost Excludes
- Personal Expenses
- Souvenirs (thuya wood crafts, spices, argan products)
- Extra snacks/drinks beyond included lunch
- ✖ Optional Activities
- Camel rides on the beach (~50–100 MAD / €5–10)
- Surfboard/kitesurfing rentals
- ✖ Entrance Fees
- Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum (20 MAD / ~€2)
- ✖ Tips
- For guides, drivers, or restaurant staff
- ✖ Travel Insurance
- Medical or trip cancellation coverage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Private transfer: ~2.5–3 hours (direct, with stops for photos).
Yes! It’s a relaxed, tourist-friendly city.
Tip: Avoid isolated areas at night and haggle politely in souks.
Comfortable shoes: Medina streets are uneven.
Layers: Windy coast = bring a light jacket (even in summer).
Modest dress: Shoulders/knees covered if visiting religious sites.
Wading only (strong currents).
Surfers: Rent gear at the beach (€15–20/hour for beginners).
Yes: Cafés and the bus station have toilets (tip 2–5 MAD).
Yes (if available).
