How much does day trip to Essaouira cost
How much does day trip to Essaouira cost?
If you think of going to Morocco, probably you’ve heard about Essaouira — a beautiful littoral city celebrated for its rested atmosphere, historic medina, and fresh seafood. Having lived in Morocco for years, splitting my time between Marrakech and Essaouira, I would argue that a day trip to Essaouira is one of the best things you can do to get away from the busy city life and experience the picturesque Atlantic coast atmosphere. How much does day trip to Essaouira cost?
But before you set out, naturally, the cruise asks you: How much does this daily tour usually cost? With the sheds filling in the role of budgeting for an individual escapade, a romantic outing, or some fun family time, this will make your dayful experience smooth with no bitterness in between.
In this article, based on my experiences, all the expenses are discussed—in transportation, guided tours, food, and entry tickets—and I will give tips on splurging or saving your bills. Let’s dive in and get you ready for a most wonderful day out in Essaouira! How much does day trip to Essaouira cost?
What to expect on a day trip to Essaouira: cost overview
Spread some 180 kilometers (about 112 miles) in the northwest from Marrakech, Essaouira is an ideal choice for a day trip. Transporting there could take 2.5 to 3 hours if you go by cab or bus. One would be well advised to undertake some investigation into his options getting there as this will ultimately bear heavily on his budget.
How to travel and price scheme
Private guided tours: Most visitors decide on a private guided day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira. Usually, the trip will cover the round transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, an expert guide, and occasionally lunch and entrance fees to activities. The pricing varies between $60 and $120 per person, further influenced by group size and inclusions. For instance, a highly recommended Essaouira guided day trip we enjoyed priced around $75 per participant, including door-to-door pickup, an English-speaking guide, and a few stops along the way.
Shared group tours: If you are traveling solo or on a tight budget, shared tours should be on your list of considerations. These can cost between $40 and $70 per person and include transport and the services of a guide. It is an economical choice that allows you to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a well-organized itinerary.
Self-drive or rental car: Self-driving rental cars are about $30-$50 per day for a basic model. Then add on fuel costs, which can be approximately $10-$15 round trip. It gives you freedom, though you need to be comfortable driving around Moroccan roads.
Public bus: The cheapest way to get there is via CTM or Supratours buses, with a fare somewhere around $7-$10 per trip. Quite a budget way but less flexible and no guides.
What about food and activities?
Since Essaouira is famous for fresh seafood, quaint cafés, and local markets, we must set budget estimates for meals, plus a few extras such as entrance fees for museums or camel riding.
- Meals: A simple lunch at a local café might cost about $5-$10, while a seafood platter at a mid-range restaurant may cost another $15-$25. We loved sitting at the port and trying grilled fish for around $12. If looking to save, here, you can grab street food or sandwiches for less than $5.
- Activities: The main attraction of Essaouira is wandering around the medina, the harbor, and the beach, all free of cost to enjoy. The paid activities include:
- Entry to Skala du Port fortress: About $2.
- Art galleries or local museums: Around $3-$5.
- Camel or horse riding on the beach: Around $15-$30 for a short trip.
- Shopping: Should you be seduced by the famous artisan craftwork of Essaouira-thuya wood articles, textiles, or argan oil-you will be spending anywhere between $10 to $50+ for the item.
Is a guided day trip to Essaouira worth it?
Considering I live in Marrakech and have been to Essaouira multiple times, I would say day-trip tours are worth it, especially when one is short on time or wishes to learn of the history and culture free from planning hassles.
Guided tours usually cover transportation, entry fees, and lunch, so it is a more hassle-free way of travelling. You get insider tips from a local guide and visit highlights like the medina, Jewish quarter, and fishing port with more context. Plus, having a driver means you can sit back and enjoy the scenery.
If you desire freedom and the joy of discovering things by yourself, and at the same time want to keep things cheap, that is totally doable. You board the CTM bus and explore the medina at your leisure, allowing you to build a shopping list of your own, while missing out on a guided explanation.
For example, during one of my self-guided trips, I wandered, stopped for coffee at cafés I liked, and bargained at the markets, and hence my experience was quite authentic. On the opposite, my guide-led tour group came across several hidden places that I might have missed on my own.
Money-saving tips for an Essaouira day trip
Book transportation: Being proactive by looking forward or looking for shared tours online often times helps you snag a cheaper price. CTM’s official website and platforms like GetYourGuide are worthy of consideration.
- Pack a lunch: Opt for eating while on the road, picking up some snacks or sandwiches in Marrakech on your way. Seafood is tasty but pricey in Essaouira.
- Avoid peak season: Peak season in spring and fall may see hikes in tour and restaurant prices. Going in the winter or summer season will save you some money and throngs.
- Combine tours: Certain operators provide combined packages comprising Essaouira and nearby attractions like Argan oil cooperatives or beaches, which could be a better bargain. Sample budgets for different traveler styles
Endnote: Making the most of your Essaouira day trip
With its relaxed vibe, seaside splendor, and vibrant culture, Essaouira makes an escape alternative to the busier inland cities. Whether you choose a guided day trip or decide to do it on your own, the town will win your heart in no time.
Based on my experience during which I lived nearby, I think guided tours offer convenience, comfort, and ambience, especially for newcomers. Yet, if you prefer spontaneous discovery and have a flexible timetable, independent traveling would be fine and much cheaper.
In case you are interested in booking a trusted and well-reviewed guided day trip, I recommend this popular Essaouira day trip from Marrakech style I personally vetted during my stay in Morocco.
