
Marrakech Essaouira Day Trip You Don’t Want To Skip
Have you ever wished you could run away from the busy streets of a big city for a day? Want a change of pace from the souks and medinas of Marrakech?
A day trip to Essaouira could be just what you need!
Essouira is a relaxed coastal town about 2.5 hours to the west of Marrakech. Because of its winding medieval streets, ramparts over the Atlantic Ocean, art galleries and seafood restaurants, it’s a nice counterpoint to bustling Marrakech.
In this article, we will help you plan the ideal Essaouira day tour during your trip to Marrakech, including everything that you need to know.
Let’s dive in!
How to Get From Marrakech to Essaouira
Essaouira is approximately 150 km west of Marrakech. There are a few ways to go for a day tour there:
Private Transfer
Best way for Convenience And Comfort – Private Transfer A private driver meets you at your Marrakech hotel in an air-conditioned van or SUV. You’ll have the vehicle to yourself for a straight transfer to Essaouira.
The drive is about 2.5 hours in either direction. You will have a lot of time for sightseeing activities in Essaouira. And you don’t have to stress about how to get back to Marrakech.
Shared Group Tour
Another option is booking a shared group day tour to Essaouira from Marrakech. You’ll be transported on a bus along the coast with a small group (usually around 10 people).
Shared tours are usually more affordable than private transfers. And you’ll have the advantage of a guide to tell you about sights along the way. Just keep in mind that you will be working with a time frame and not have as much flexibility.
Bus
Another option is to take public buses between Marrakech and Essaouira. Alsa buses leave approximately every hour from outside Marrakech’s bus station. The rides between each terminal are relatively inexpensive (only about $7 USD per trip).
The downsides are that buses can be overbooked and stop often along the way. It’s a much longer journey than that of a personal transfer. But for those traveling on a budget, buses are an option.
Getting Around Essaouira
After arriving in Essaouira, the town is small and very walkable. It’s nice to simply explore the winding streets, ramparts and harbor area on foot.
If you’d like to go farther, say to the beach, petit taxis are abundant. Don’t get in the vehicle until you negotiate a price — for a short ride, around $1-2 USD is standard.
For the most flexibility in Essaouira, you may wish to hire a private driver for the day. They can take you anywhere you’d like to visit.
Top Things to Do in Essaouira in a Day
So, now that you’ve learned about getting to Essaouira, let’s explore how to spend your time once you’re there.
Below are some of the best things to do and see in Essaouira on a day trip:
Stroll the Ramparts and Skala de la Kasbah
Your discovery begins at the stone ramparts that encircle Essaouira’s medina. You can enter the ramparts at Place Prince Moulay el Hassan.
Stroll the breezy ramparts for views of the ocean waves crashing against rocks below. You’ll also score great views of the Skala de la Kasbah, the fortress bastion overlooking the city.
After enjoying the views, head down into the Skala de la Kasbah. You can walk around the cannons and browse local artists selling their goods at the plaza.
Shop and Explore the Medina
Next head into Essaouira’s walled medina area. Lose yourself wandering the narrow, winding streets crowded with whitewashed homes featuring blue accents.
Don’t forget to pop into the diverse number of shops and artisan outlets. Essaouira has long been known for its thuya wood carvings, inlaid wooden boxes, colorful textiles and jewelry. The right kind of bargaining is not only anticipated, but often encouraged — so get your negotiation game on!
And, don’t forget to explore the jewelry souk, where you can find handcrafted silver at fair prices.
Eat Fresh Seafood
After snacking on street food, make your way to the harbor for lunch. Since Essaouira is a fishing city, seafood is a safe choice.
Drop into one of the casual restaurants along the waterfront. Local specialties include a mixed grill platter with fresh fish, calamari, and shrimp. Make sure to watch the bustling harbor as you eat!
Visit the Beach
If you have time, take a taxi or walk 20-30 minutes south of town to Essaouira’s sweeping, sandy beach. There are camels that give short rides along the sand. Or simply sit back and watch the kite-surfers make the most of the wind and waves.
Top off your beach day by witnessing one of Essaouira’s fabled sunsets over the ocean.
Experience Gnawa Music
At dusk, return to town to seek out a restaurant or music venue where you can hear live Gnawa. Gnawa includes drums, dancing and song — it is a mystical tradition that was brought centuries ago by sub-Saharan African slaves.
End this Essaouira day tour with mint tea and the entrancing beats of Gnawa music!
We Can Help You Plan The Trip!
Does Essaouira day trip interest you? Please ask if you have any other questions in planning your trip! I’m glad to propose you an offer that suits you best, along with a few local’s recommendations.