Essaouira Day trip from Marrakech

Located on the windy Atlantic coast, about two hours southwest of Marrakech, is the charming city of Essaouira. Known affectionately as “Swerah” by locals, and historically referred to by its old Portuguese name, “Mogador,” this blue seaside town encapsulates some of the finest aspects of Morocco. Essaouira offers excellent beaches, renowned for their beauty and ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the steady coastal breezes. The city’s culinary scene is equally impressive, with an abundance of fresh seafood and traditional Moroccan dishes that delight the palate.

Essaouira’s vibrant culture is another highlight, deeply infused with the spirit of Gnaoua music, a traditional Moroccan genre with African roots. The city hosts the annual Gnaoua World Music Festival, attracting artists and visitors from around the globe who come to experience its hypnotic rhythms and soulful melodies. This cultural tapestry is woven into the very fabric of Essaouira, reflected in its lively arts scene, bustling medina, and welcoming atmosphere.

Unlike the more frenetic pace of other Moroccan cities, Essaouira exudes a laid-back vibe, offering a relaxed ambiance that is perfect for unwinding and soaking in the coastal beauty. The city’s picturesque harbor, with its iconic blue fishing boats and historic fortifications, adds to the enchanting scenery. Walking through the narrow, winding streets of the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can explore an array of artisan shops, galleries, and cafes, each offering a unique slice of local life.

Essaouira seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with a modern, bohemian flair. The city’s architecture, a mix of Moroccan and European influences, tells stories of its diverse past, from its days as a Portuguese trading post to its current status as a cultural hub. This fusion is seen in the city’s structures, such as the impressive Skala de la Ville, a fortified sea wall that offers panoramic views of the Atlantic, and the charming riads that serve as cozy accommodations for travelers.

The tranquil yet vibrant essence of Essaouira makes it a unique destination, distinct from the more bustling Moroccan cities. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of its pristine beaches, the savory delights of its cuisine, the rich cultural experiences, or simply the desire to relax in its serene environment, Essaouira promises an unforgettable visit. It’s a place where the old and new harmoniously coexist, where the rhythms of Gnaoua music echo through the streets, and where the spirit of Morocco’s coastal beauty truly shines.

Itinerary

The laid back, peaceful coastal town of Essaouira found on the west of Morocco is the perfect place to relax, unwind and put those bartering and haggling skills to rest for a bit. The ancient citadel on the West Atlantic coast of Africa literally means ‘wall’ in the Berber language, travelers from all over the world stop by here to experience the very special weather and explore its diverse, captivating history and sample its fresh seafood.
Our day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira starts at your hotel and will take you on a spectacular drive through rich valleys filled with orange groves, ancient olive trees and working farms as you approach the coast.
Your route will take you over extensive rolling plains and through endemic argan forests. If you’re lucky, you may see goats in the trees grazing on the argan fruit, a sight seen when grass pasture is limited or unavailable. Along the way, there is an option to stop at an Argan Oil Cooperative to see how the precious and expensive oil is extracted from the nut.
Once you arrive in the port city of charming Essaouira, a nice contrast to frenetic Marrakech, and spend the rest of the day as you choose. Walk the Skala de la Kasbah (the 18th-century seafront ramparts) along the coast. Designed by European engineers, old brass cannons line the walls and offer views over the Atlantic. Explore the UNESCO-protected medina before making your way to the windswept beach.
After a day of sightseeing, return back to your accommodation in Marrakech.

Highlights

• Run away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.
• Experience the very special weather and explore diverse and unique history of the City.
• Visit the traditional fishing port and old Medina
• Amaze by the tree climbing goats
• Relax in a Restaurant beside the beach.
• Visit Argan women’s co-operative and learn about how they extract Argan oil.