Full Day Trip To Essaouira city - Departure From Marrakech

Marrakech , Morocco

Full Day Trip To Essaouira city - Departure From Marrakech

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(106 reviews)

9h - 10h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Essaouira is a port city and resort on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Its medina (old town) is protected by 18th-century seafront ramparts called the Skala de la Kasbah, which were designed by European engineers.

Visit the women cooperative on the way down to Essaouira producing and selling the popular Argan oil, an industry that hopes to empower women and local producers in the country.

Enjoy the seaside landscape and fresh fish markets or enter into the old town for a look at fascinating and bustling souks selling a wide range of goods.

Explore the medina and fishing port, the ancient city walls and ramparts and the Mellah - the Jewish quarter.

Available options

Day Trip to Essaouira

High quality<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Essaouira<br/>Minibus<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Transport by air-conditioned vehicle minivan

Free time to visit Essaouira city

Entry/Admission - Medina of Essaouira

Driver/Guide.

Hotel pickup and drop-off From your Hotel or Riad

Detailed itinerary

Remember to bring a towel, sun protection and swimming attire if you wish to go swimming later in the day. Please be in the lobby at 8:00am. The driver should be there ready for you. You are to be taken via a 3-hour drive to the coastal town of Essaouira. En route, however, you are to make two stops. The first stop is at a café. There you can purchase refreshments as well as use the bathroom. The second stop is at a small factory where you can see the production of a local plant oil called argan. It is great for the skin and hair. Going from the café to the small factory, hopefully at some point you will see goats standing on the top of trees. They are often, but not always, there.

Upon arrival, you'll get to see the ancient medina full of craftsmen at leisure, walk along the beach, and each fresh fish at the port. Below are the names of the attractions we recommend you to explore:

1. Porte de la Marine (a.k.a. Marine Docks)
2. Sqala de la Ville Bastion (a.k.a. Sqala de la Kasbah)
3. Rue Dar Laalouj: a road dotted with shops
4. Souk Jdid Market
5. Rue Mohammed Zerktouni: the main street featuring a lively market
6. The City Ramparts
7. Essaouira Beach: On the far side of the beach, look out for the ruins of defense walls.
8. Sqala du Port Bastion

Stop 3 Pass by

We recommend you purchase lunch around 1.00pm, in a restaurant of your choice. (please note that lunch is not included on today's tour). If you wish to go swimming, we recommend you do so at 2:30pm. Afterward, you should be back to the main parking area at 3:30pm. Your minibus heading back to Marrakesh is scheduled to leave at 4:00pm. You should be dropped off at the main square in Marrakesh or at your hotel around 7:00pm.

What's not included

Lunch

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.2

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

101 reviews

5★

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3★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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.