Marrakech to Essaouira excursion tour with medina visit

Marrakech , Morocco

Marrakech to Essaouira excursion tour with medina visit

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

our driver will pick you up at 8 AM to begin an unforgettable day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira, surrounded by the stunning Moroccan countryside. Along the way, you’ll visit a traditional argan oil cooperative, where hardworking women skillfully extract precious argan oil from nuts—a true glimpse into local life and culture. Upon arrival in Essaouira, you’ll have the whole day to explore its enchanting medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, framed by impressive medieval walls and crowned by a castle on the southern edge. Wander through charming narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and blue shutters, showcasing a unique blend of French and Portuguese architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach, visit the bustling fishing harbor with blue boats, and savor a delicious seafood lunch at one of the seaside restaurants. After a day filled with history, culture, and coastal beauty, return to Marrakech around 6 PM.

Available options

marrakech to Essaouira tour

Essaouira tour from marrakech<br/>Duration: 1 day<br/>Van<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Return transfer to Marrakech by approximately 6 PM

Air-conditioned vehicle

Full day to explore Essaouira’s medina, beach, and fishing harbor

Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech

Visit to a traditional argan oil cooperative with demonstration

Detailed itinerary

The Medina of Essaouira is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Surrounded by sturdy 18th-century ramparts overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the medina’s narrow, winding streets are lined with whitewashed buildings featuring striking blue shutters. Inside, you’ll find bustling souks where artisans sell everything from handcrafted jewelry and textiles to fresh seafood and fragrant spices. The medina offers a perfect blend of Moroccan tradition and coastal charm, inviting visitors to explore historic landmarks, enjoy lively markets, and soak up the relaxed, authentic vibe that sets Essaouira apart from other cities.

Explore the lively souks of Essaouira, where vibrant colors, rich aromas, and the sounds of local craftsmen create an unforgettable sensory experience. Wander through winding alleys filled with stalls selling traditional Moroccan goods such as handcrafted argan oil products, intricate woodwork, leather goods, spices, and colorful textiles. Meet friendly artisans and shopkeepers eager to share their craft and stories, offering you authentic souvenirs and unique treasures. The souk tour not only immerses you in Essaouira’s rich culture but also reveals the city’s deep connection to its Berber heritage and coastal traditions—making it a must-visit for every traveler.

Discover the historic charm of Essaouira’s Scala and port on a captivating tour. The Scala, an impressive 18th-century sea bastion, offers panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling fishing harbor below. Wander along its thick ramparts, imagining the city’s rich history of defense and trade. Then, head down to the lively port where colorful fishing boats bob in the water and fishermen unload their fresh catch of the day. Here, you can experience the authentic local maritime life, watch artisans at work repairing nets, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Essaouira’s traditional seafaring culture. This tour perfectly blends history, stunning vistas, and everyday coastal life.

Visiting the Marjana Argan Oil Cooperative near Essaouira offers an authentic and enriching experience where you can witness traditional, women-led argan oil production firsthand. The cooperative carefully hand-extracts oil from argan nuts using time-honored methods, creating high-quality products used for cosmetics and cooking. While the visit includes an insightful tour and the chance to support local women artisans, prices here tend to be higher compared to oils sold in Essaouira’s markets. Overall, it’s a meaningful stop for those seeking genuine argan oil and a deeper understanding of its cultural importance.

What's not included

Lunch

Guide

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN FR

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Marrakech

Marrakech is a vibrant city known for its rich history, bustling souks, and stunning architecture. It offers a blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Jemaa El-Fnaa

Jemaa El-Fnaa is the heart of Marrakech, a bustling square filled with food stalls, entertainers, and souvenir vendors. It's a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free (food and souvenirs cost extra)

Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Marrakech. Its minaret is a symbol of the city and can be seen from many parts of the medina.

Historical 1 hour Free (non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque)

Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, featuring intricate tile work, lush gardens, and beautiful courtyards. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past.

Historical 1-2 hours 70 MAD

Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden is a beautiful botanical garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. It features a variety of plants, a striking blue villa, and a museum dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent.

Nature 2-3 hours 70 MAD

Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs are a collection of mausoleums dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. They were discovered in 1917 and offer a fascinating look into the history of Marrakech.

Historical 1 hour 70 MAD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, named after the earthenware pot it's cooked in.

Main course Vegetarian options available

Couscous

A dish made with steamed semolina grains, often served with vegetables and meat.

Main course Vegetarian options available

Pastilla

A savory-sweet pie made with layers of filo pastry, filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and powdered sugar.

Main course Contains nuts

Mint Tea

A traditional Moroccan tea made with green tea and fresh mint leaves, sweetened with sugar.

Drink Contains caffeine

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Atlas Mountains Surfing in Essaouira Quad biking in the desert Spa treatments Yoga retreats Relaxing in a hammam Exploring the medina Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

The best time to visit Marrakech is during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city. The temperatures are mild, and the crowds are manageable.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: French, Berber languages
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Menara International Airport • 4 km from city center

By train

Marrakech Railway Station

By bus

Marrakech Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Marrakech. They are affordable and cover most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Careem, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Medina Gueliz Hivernage

Day trips

Atlas Mountains

60 km from Marrakech • Full day

The Atlas Mountains offer stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional Berber villages. It's a great escape from the city for nature lovers.

Ourika Valley

30 km from Marrakech • Half day to full day

The Ourika Valley is known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional Berber houses, and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for day trips from Marrakech.

Essaouira

180 km from Marrakech • Full day to overnight

Essaouira is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic medina, and vibrant arts scene. It's a popular destination for surfing, windsurfing, and relaxation.

Festivals

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival • Every July Marrakech International Film Festival • Every November/December Ramadan • Dates vary (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience.
Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals.
Visit the medina early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Bargain politely when shopping in the souks, as prices are often negotiable.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose stalls with high turnover.