Venture out from the vibrant streets of Marrakech and explore the charming coastal town of Essaouira. This full-day trip offers a chance to learn about the UNESCO-listed old medina, witness the bustling seafood markets, and savor the local cuisine. Along the way, you’ll stop at a Berber women’s cooperative to learn about the production of aromatic argan oil. With a scenic 3-hour drive, complimentary pickup, and ample free time to wander, this excursion promises an authentic Moroccan experience. But what awaits you in the historic ports and along the captivating beaches of Essaouira? Uncover the details and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
Key Points
- A full-day guided excursion from Marrakech to the coastal town of Essaouira, known for its historic medina and seafood markets.
- Includes round-trip transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, with free WiFi and a multilingual driver.
- Offers 4 hours of free time to explore Essaouira’s UNESCO-listed old town, beachfront, and local cuisine.
- Stops at a Berber women’s cooperative to learn about argan oil production.
- Flexible pickup and drop-off locations in Marrakech, with a total travel time of 6 hours.
Trip Overview
This Essaouira Full-Day Trip offers a comprehensive package that allows travelers to discover the charming coastal town of Essaouira from Marrakech, with convenient pickup from 11 different locations and a well-structured itinerary.
Priced at €184.11 per group of up to 7 participants, this 10-hour excursion provides exceptional value.
Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the convenience of a reserve now, pay later option.
Whether you’re seeking a culture, a relaxing beach day, or a combination of both, this trip promises an unforgettable experience in Essaouira.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Essaouira
Itinerary Details
The Essaouira Full-Day Trip’s itinerary starts with pickup from 11 convenient locations across Marrakech, ensuring easy access for participants.
After the 3-hour drive to Essaouira, with a brief 15-minute stop in Chichaoua, travelers will enjoy 4 hours of free time to explore the old medina, savor local cuisine, and relax on the beach.
Some of the highlights include:
-
Discovering the historic ports and seafood markets
-
Visiting a Berber women’s cooperative to learn about argan oil production
-
Exploring the medina and interacting with craftsmen, weavers, and jewelers
-
Savoring a fresh lunch at a local restaurant
-
Taking in the relaxing atmosphere of the beach
The return trip to Marrakech takes another 3 hours, with an optional break along the way.
Highlights and Activities
Visitors can explore a Berber women’s cooperative to learn about the traditional production of argan oil, a local specialty. They’ll also have the chance to wander through the old medina, interacting with skilled craftsmen, weavers, and jewelers who offer a glimpse into Essaouira’s vibrant cultural heritage.
After exploring the historic ports and seafood markets, travelers can relax on the beach and enjoy a refreshing drink.
The highlight of the day is a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where they can savor fresh Moroccan cuisine.
Throughout the trip, the knowledgeable driver provides recommendations on the best places to eat and shop, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience.
Transportation Amenities
Transportation for the Essaouira day trip is provided by air-conditioned vehicles, either a 7-seater van or a 17-seater minibus, ensuring a comfortable journey. The bilingual driver, who speaks Arabic, French, English, Italian, and Spanish, will make the trip more enjoyable. Participants can stay connected with the free onboard wifi.
The transportation amenities include:
-
Comfortable seating in air-conditioned vehicles
-
Multilingual driver to assist with any questions
-
Free wifi available during the journey
-
Pickup and drop-off service from 11 convenient locations in Marrakech
-
A total of 6 hours of travel time to and from Essaouira
Pickup Locations
Participants can be picked up from 11 convenient locations across Marrakech, including Zeitoun Café Kasbah, Marrakech train station, Palmerie, Café de France Medina, Bab Qashish, Hôtel Islane Marrakech, Collège Mohamed V, Bab Doukkala Mosque, Bab Aylan, School Mohammed 5, and Argana.
This ensures that no matter where you’re staying in the city, you’ll have a hassle-free pickup to start your Essaouira adventure.
The drive to Essaouira takes around 3 hours, with a 15-minute break in Chichaoua along the way.
Upon arrival, you’ll have 4 hours of free time to explore the old medina, relax on the beach, and savor local cuisine.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Essaouira
Travel Time and Breaks
The journey to Essaouira from Marrakech takes approximately 3 hours each way, with a 15-minute break in Chichaoua to stretch one’s legs. This provides a welcome respite from the drive, allowing travelers to refresh themselves before continuing on to their destination.
The air-conditioned vehicle, whether a 7-seater van or a 17-seater minibus, ensures a comfortable journey.
The bilingual driver, fluent in Arabic, French, English, Italian, and Spanish, is on hand to provide recommendations for local restaurants and assist with any questions.
Onboard Wi-Fi allows passengers to stay connected and share their experiences on the go.
The total travel time of 6 hours is divided between the outward and return journeys, providing ample time for sightseeing and exploring in Essaouira.
Comfortable shoes and beachwear are recommended to make the most of the day.
Free Time in Essaouira
Once travelers arrive in Essaouira, they’ll have 4 hours of free time to explore the charming old medina, browse the local shops, and savor fresh seafood dishes.
The old medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its whitewashed buildings, winding alleys, and bustling craft markets. Visitors can watch skilled artisans create handmade leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and textiles.
Along the beachfront, the lively fishing port offers the opportunity to sample grilled sardines, oysters, and other local specialties.
With the Atlantic Ocean as a scenic backdrop, travelers can relax with a mint tea or freshly squeezed juice while taking in the laid-back coastal atmosphere of this charming Moroccan town.
Important Information
For this day trip, drivers can provide recommendations on the best local restaurants to enjoy fresh seafood and other Moroccan specialties. Comfortable shoes and beachwear are advised, as you will have ample time to explore Essaouira’s old medina and Atlantic coastline.
While smoking and pets aren’t permitted in the vehicles, onboard Wi-Fi allows travelers to stay connected throughout the journey.
To make the most of this Essaouira excursion, consider the following:
-
Bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
-
Carry some cash for shopping and dining at local establishments
-
Familiarize yourself with the itinerary to plan your time effectively
-
Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle
-
Be prepared for approximately 6 hours of total travel time
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the trip. However, the driver may recommend trying local cuisine and stopping at approved restaurants along the way. Participants should consult the tour details for any specific policies.
What Should I Bring for the Beach Visit in Essaouira?
For the beach visit in Essaouira, visitors should bring comfortable beachwear, sun protection like sunscreen and hats, and any personal items they’d like for relaxing on the sand. Towels and swimsuits are essential for enjoying the seaside.
Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Berber Cooperative Visit?
There are no strict dress code requirements for the visit to the Berber women’s cooperative. However, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended to show respect for the local culture and traditions.
Can the Driver Provide Customized Recommendations for Lunch in Essaouira?
Yes, the driver can provide customized lunch recommendations in Essaouira. They’re familiar with the local restaurants and can suggest options that suit the participants’ preferences and dietary needs based on the group’s feedback during the trip.
Is There an Option to Extend the Free Time in Essaouira?
The itinerary provides 4 hours of free time in Essaouira, but there’s no option to extend this duration. Participants must adhere to the set schedule, which includes a 3-hour return trip to Marrakech.
The Sum Up
This full-day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira offers a captivating glimpse into Morocco’s coastal charm.
Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed old medina, historic ports, and vibrant seafood markets, while also experiencing local culture at a Berber women’s cooperative and indulging in delicious cuisine.
With convenient transportation, ample free time, and a range of engaging activities, this excursion promises an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
You can check if your dates are available here:More 1-Day Tours in Essaouira
More Tour Reviews in Essaouira
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Essaouira we have recnetly reviewed
- 2 Best Dining Experiences In Essaouira
- 2 Best Dinner Tours In Essaouira
- 2 Best Shopping Tours In Essaouira
- 6 Best Full-Day Tours In Essaouira
- 3 Best Lunch Experiences In Essaouira
- 2 Best Food Tours In Essaouira
- Visit the Oasis & Tea at the Basket Maker.
- Private Transfer Essaouira-Agadir
- Full Day Tour to Essaouira From Marrakech
- 2h Surf Lessons in Essaouira With Pick up
- Essaouira: Private Transfer From or to Essaouira Airport
- Essaouira Kitesurf Lesson