1-Day Trip Marrakech to Essaouira
An epic one day excursion from Marrakech to Essaouira & back
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Overview
Essaouira is a breezy coastal town that offers a welcome break from Marrakech’s intensity. With its UNESCO-listed medina, fresh seafood, and relaxed rhythm, it’s the perfect blend of seaside serenity and cultural depth.
| Duration | Departure Time & Location | Arrival Time & Location | Price Per Guest |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 hours | 8:30 AM from Marrakech | 18:00 in Marrakech | From 50 EUR |
Top Highlights of Day Trip From Marrakech to Essaouira
Here are the top highlights of a day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira:
- The Atlas Mountains: Pass through rolling hills, quiet villages, and open landscapes on the way to the coast.
- The Famous Goats in the Trees: Snap a photo of the famous tree-climbing goats, an unexpected and fun roadside sight.
- Essaouira: Relax in the coastal ambiance of Essaouira, a sensory treat with its relaxed vibe, colorful souks, and locally made thuya wood crafts.
- Ramparts and Fishing Harbor: Walk the old sea walls and visit the lively port where traditional boats line the docks.
- Fresh Seafood: Savor the taste of the ocean with freshly grilled seafood at one of the local market stalls.
- Relaxing by the Beach: Unwind by the wide Atlantic beach and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.
Tour Gallery
Itinerary of 1-Day Excursion Marrakech to Essaouira
Below is the itinerary breakdown for the excursion from Marrakech to Essaouira:
Journey from Marrakesh to Essaouira
Route, Distance & Key Stops
Route: Marrakech ➜ Essaouira
Distance: 191 km
Key stops:
- Scenic Drive
- Argan Tree Region
- Essaouira Panoramic Viewpoint
- Essaouira Medina & Ramparts
- Essaouira Harbor & Beach
Day Highlights & Experiences
Departure from Marrakech
We’ll leave Marrakech early in the morning and begin our drive toward the Atlantic coast. As we travel west, you’ll notice the scenery shift to open countryside, with scattered Berber villages and fields where camels, sheep, and goats graze freely.
Argan Tree Region – Goats in Trees & Women’s Cooperative
As we enter the Argan-growing region, keep an eye out for goats perched in the trees – an unusual but iconic sight here. We’ll make a quick stop so you can snap some photos.
Then we’ll visit a women’s Argan oil cooperative. You’ll see how the oil is extracted using traditional methods and have a chance to sample some of the products.
Panoramic Viewpoint of Essaouira
Just before reaching Essaouira, we’ll stop at a viewpoint offering a full panoramic look at the city. You’ll get your first glimpse of its blue-and-white medina, coastal ramparts, and the vast Atlantic stretching out beyond.
Guided Walk Through Essaouira’s Medina & Ramparts
Once we arrive in Essaouira, we’ll take a walk through the UNESCO-listed medina. The narrow streets are filled with artisan workshops, local crafts, and market stalls selling everything from wood carvings to textiles.
We’ll also guide you along the city’s old ramparts. These historic fortifications, complete with cannons, offer sweeping views of the ocean and give you a sense of Essaouira’s past as a strategic port city.
Visit to the Fishing Harbor
From there, we’ll head to the harbor, a lively spot where you’ll see fishermen unloading their catch and preparing for the next outing. It’s one of the most active coastal ports in Morocco.
Seaside Lunch
We’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant near the water. Fresh seafood is the highlight here. Grilled fish, calamari, and seafood platters are all popular choices.
Beach Time in Essaouira
After lunch, we’ll make our way to the beach. You’ll have free time to stroll along the shoreline, watch surfers, or just take in the fresh Atlantic air. The beach is wide, clean, and ideal for relaxing before the journey back.
Return to Marrakech
In the late afternoon, we’ll begin the drive back to Marrakech. You’ll see the countryside shift again as we head inland. We aim to reach the city by early evening, ending this day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira.
Tour Itinerary Map
Tour Includes & Excludes
Price Includes:
- Transportation: Door-to-door transportation from your accommodation in Marrakech in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Driver/Guide: An English-speaking driver/guide
- Fuel and Road Costs: All fuel charges and road tolls
Price Excludes:
- Meals & Beverages: Lunch and drinks
- Personal Expenses: Any shopping, entrance fees (if applicable), or optional activities
- Tips: Tips for drivers/guides
Essaouira Day Trip: 5 Experiences Not to Miss
Essaouira Day Trip: 5 Experiences Not to Miss
Going on a private Essaouira day trip from Marrakech opens up the doors of opportunities. Here are the top 5 experiences you shouldn’t miss during this 1-day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira.
1. Scenic Drive Through the Moroccan Countryside
The road from Marrakech to Essaouira is full of changing landscapes, wide open plains, small Berber villages, and animals like camels and goats. It’s a peaceful drive that lets you see a different side of Morocco- quiet, natural, and full of charm. For many travelers, the drive itself becomes one of the best parts of the day.
2. Visit an Argan Oil Cooperative
Argan oil is one of Morocco’s most famous products. On the way to Essaouira, you can stop at a women-run cooperative where Argan oil is made by hand using traditional methods. You’ll get to watch how the nuts are pressed and turned into oil, taste different varieties, and maybe buy some to take home.
3. Explore Essaouira’s UNESCO-listed Medina
Essaouira’s medina is smaller and more relaxed than those in cities like Marrakech or Fes. It’s easy to explore on foot, with clean streets, colorful shops, and welcoming locals. You’ll find handmade crafts, woodwork, and local art throughout the markets. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the medina blends history, culture, and coastal charm.
4. Stroll Along the Harbor & Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Essaouira’s harbor is lively and full of action. Fishermen come and go in their blue wooden boats, selling fresh fish and seafood right on the dock. You can watch the daily catch arrive, take photos of seagulls flying above, and feel the cool ocean breeze. Nearby, you’ll find small food stalls and restaurants grilling fish and serving delicious seafood dishes.
5. Walk Along the Historic Ramparts & Relax at the Beach
The ramparts of Essaouira are high stone walls built to protect the city long ago. Today, they offer some of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean and the crashing waves below. Walking along these old walls feels like stepping back in time. Alongside, don’t forget to head down to the beach for a relaxing moment by the water.
Essential Travel Tips For Your Day Tour to Essaouira
Essential Travel Tips For Your Day Tour to Essaouira
- Leave Early: Aim to start early in the morning to make the most of your day and return by evening.
- Dress Smart: Wear layers as mornings and afternoons can be breezy. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Carry Cash: Bring small bills, as many shops and stalls prefer cash, especially in the medina.
- Stop for Argan Oil: Visit a local cooperative on the way to see how Argan oil is made and pick up authentic products.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, even on cloudy days.
- Seafood Tip: Essaouira’s seafood is fresh and delicious. Ask about prices and sides before ordering.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, ask before taking photos, and be polite when shopping or bargaining.
- Charge Your Phone: Make sure your phone is fully charged; a power bank is useful for maps and photos.
FAQs Answered
The journey from Marrakech to Essaouira typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
The best time to visit Essaouira is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is mild, the ocean breeze is refreshing, and the city isn’t too crowded. Summer is also popular, especially for those wanting to escape Marrakech’s heat, but the town can be busier during this season.
Key highlights of Essaouira include the UNESCO-listed medina with its narrow streets and colorful shops, the Skala de la Ville (historic ramparts), and the lively fishing harbor where you can watch fishermen at work. The beach is perfect for a relaxing stroll, and the town is also known for its local crafts, including thuya woodwork and handmade jewelry.
Essaouira is a walkable city with a laid-back vibe, so it’s easy to explore on your own. You can wander the medina, enjoy the beach, and take in the sights at your own pace. However, a local guide can enhance the experience by sharing the town’s history, showing you hidden corners, and introducing you to local artisans.
Yes, trying fresh seafood is one of the highlights of visiting Essaouira! The harbor is lined with stalls and casual eateries where the catch of the day is grilled on the spot. You can also dine in cozy seaside restaurants that serve everything from grilled sardines to lobster and calamari.
Getting your tour locked in is effortless. Just send us a message, pick the tour that grabs your attention, place a small deposit, and you’re all set. Make sure to read through our booking terms for further information.
Our Customers Reviews
Fantastic Essaouira Day Trip
Essaouira may be a fantastic place; a requirement for Moroccan adventure. Our tour guide/driver For this trip is Youssef.
I never posted any reviews on any apps or online, but at this point, I feel there's a requirement on behalf of me to write down a review for them. Youssef is a superb and professional guide with an honest heart.
He educated us on the history, culture, and other people of Morocco. this is often the primary tour we took in Morocco, and with him sharing his knowledge with us, we learned a lot about the country.
He also followed all the security and drive traffic controls. We felt really safe together with his driving.
We are very happy and satisfied with his behavior.
Excursion Full Of memories!
A beautiful place to go to far away from Marrakech. It's unique in its own way. It took us around 2 hrs. On the way, we stopped by a tremendous place where all the goats were on the trees like flowers. My 3yr old son and that I held a cute little goat. it had been so lovely.
Beautiful port with many boats and a view from the old fort.
The souk is extremely big with many restaurants, shops and a mosque.
They made a gorgeous grilled fish lunch with chips, salad, bread, and that I ordered some milky tea. Absolutely delicious!
Lovely day, Completely different to Marrakech.
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