Essaouira Day Trip From Marrakech

Exploring the historic seaside town of Essaouira from Marrakech makes for an enticing day trip for many travelers. Just a short distance from the bustling city, this coastal escape offers a chance to take in the vibrant Medina, discover 16th-century Portuguese fortifications, and savor delectable seafood. With a convenient pickup from your Marrakech hotel and an experienced guide to navigate the journey, the Essaouira Day Trip provides an opportunity to experience the unique charm and culture that has long captivated visitors to this enchanting corner of Morocco. What intrigues you most about this day trip adventure?

Key Points

• The day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech costs starting from Kč480 per person and includes hotel/riad pickup, transportation, and a 3.5-hour exploration of the fortified city.
• The itinerary covers a coffee break, shopping, visiting the 16th-century Portuguese fortress, witnessing Argan oil production, and enjoying a seafood lunch.
• The trip is not fully guided, but an English/French-speaking driver is provided, and an optional local tour guide is available.
• Essaouira can be windy and cold, so visitors should dress accordingly and bring recommended items like comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a sun hat.
• The day trip may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

The day trip to Essaouira, a fortified city on the Atlantic coast located 180 km west of Marrakech, costs from Kč480 per person and takes one day to complete.

Visitors can cancel their booking for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is available in English and French.

Pickup is from the customer’s hotel or riad in Marrakech, with a 15-minute window to arrive.

The itinerary includes stops for a coffee break, shopping, and 3.5 hours of exploration, lunch, and shopping in Essaouira, followed by a return stop in Chichaoua.

Destination and Cost

Essaouira, a fortified city on the Atlantic coast, lies approximately 180 km west of Marrakech.

This day trip from Marrakech offers visitors the chance to explore the charming coastal town for a cost starting from Kč480 per person.

The one-day tour includes pickup and drop-off service, transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, and an English/French-speaking driver.

Lunch and soft drinks are also provided, making it a convenient and affordable way to discover Essaouira‘s historic medina, Argan oil factories, and seaside attractions.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip provides flexibility and value for travelers seeking to experience the beauty of Morocco’s western coast.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with a pickup from the traveler’s Marrakech hotel or riad, with the driver arriving 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The itinerary includes several highlights along the way:

Stops	Duration
Chichaoua (coffee break)	20 minutes
Sidi Mokhtar (shopping)	30 minutes
Essaouira (exploration, lunch, shopping)	3.5 hours
Return via Chichaoua (break)	15 minutes

Once in Essaouira, travelers can explore the old Medina, visit an Argan oil factory, tour the Portuguese fortress, enjoy a seafood lunch, and browse the art and craft shops. The return trip includes a final stop in Chichaoua before arriving back in Marrakech.

Exploring Essaouira

Upon arriving in the charming coastal city of Essaouira, visitors can start exploring its vibrant old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The labyrinth of blue-washed alleyways offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and traditional way of life.

Visitors can:

1. Tour the imposing 16th-century Portuguese fortress, Skala de la Ville, which offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Witness the intricate process of Argan oil production at a local cooperative and sample the fragrant oil.
3. Browse the bustling souk, finding unique handicrafts, spices, and Moroccan souvenirs.
4. Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the lively beachfront restaurants, watching the windsurfers glide across the waves.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Argan Oil Factory

Amidst the bustling streets of Essaouira, visitors are invited to witness the artisanal process of Argan oil production at a local cooperative.

This small-scale factory offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional methods used to extract the precious Argan oil, prized for its culinary and cosmetic applications.

Guests can observe the skilled workers manually cracking open the Argan nuts, roasting the kernels, and pressing the oil. The guide shares insights into the history and cultural significance of this unique Moroccan product.

Visitors have the opportunity to purchase authentic Argan oil and related products directly from the cooperative, supporting the local economy and traditional craftsmanship.

Seafood Lunch

Where better to savor the freshest seafood than in the coastal city of Essaouira?

During the day trip, visitors can enjoy a delectable seafood lunch at a local restaurant. The menu typically features:

1. Grilled fish, such as sea bream or sardines, served with lemon and herbs.
2. Calamari, either fried or sautéed, complemented by a zesty garlic and parsley sauce.
3. Steamed mussels or clams, dressed in a fragrant white wine and shallot broth.
4. A selection of Moroccan salads, including the classic tomato, onion, and parsley salad.

Paired with local Moroccan wines, this seafood-centric meal promises to be a highlight of the Essaouira excursion.

Transportation and Services

The trip to Essaouira includes comprehensive transportation and services to ensure a seamless experience. The package includes pickup and drop-off service, as well as transport by a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. An English/French-speaking driver is provided, and an optional local tour guide is available for those who want a more guided experience. Lunch and soft drinks are also included. However, the trip is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

Includes	Does Not Include
Pickup & drop-off service	Mobility assistance
Air-conditioned transport	Guided tour
English/French-speaking driver	Pregnant passengers
Lunch and soft drinks	–

Important Information

Despite Marrakech’s heat, travelers should keep in mind that Essaouira can be quite windy and cold.

This day trip isn’t a fully guided tour, but the driver will assist in English or French as needed.

To make the most of the experience, it’s recommended to bring:

1. Comfortable shoes
2. Sunscreen
3. A sun hat and sunglasses
4. A camera to capture the picturesque scenery.

Plus, tips are expected for photos with goats in Argan trees, a popular attraction along the journey.

Pregnant women and those with mobility issues should note that this tour may not be suitable for their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Medina?

There is no formal dress code for visiting the medina in Essaouira. However, it’s recommended to dress modestly, covering shoulders and legs, to respect the local culture and customs. Comfortable, casual clothing is suggested.

Can We Stop at a Local Market During the Trip?

There is no mention of a stop at a local market in the provided itinerary. The trip focuses on exploring the Essaouira Medina, visiting an Argan oil factory, and enjoying seafood lunch. The schedule seems to be focused on the highlights of Essaouira itself.

Is Alcoholic Beverage Included in the Seafood Lunch?

The tour package does not include alcoholic beverages during the seafood lunch. Lunch is provided, but you’ll need to purchase any alcoholic drinks separately if desired. The focus is on exploring Essaouira’s cultural and natural attractions.

Can We Purchase Argan Oil Products On-Site?

The itinerary includes a stop at an Argan oil factory, where visitors can learn about the production process and purchase Argan oil products on-site. The tour provides an opportunity to explore and purchase these locally made goods.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Beach Activities?

The itinerary doesn’t mention any age restrictions for beach activities. However, it notes the trip may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women, so discretion is advised when it comes to the physically demanding beach activities.

The Sum Up

The Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech provides a captivating coastal escape, offering the chance to discover Essaouira’s vibrant Medina, historic sites, and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch. With convenient transportation, an English/French-speaking driver, and the opportunity to visit an Argan oil factory, this day trip is an excellent way to experience the charms of the Atlantic coast from Marrakech.

You can check if your dates are available here: