Day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech
The ocean, the port and the white medina, for a day
After a few days in the Marrakech medina, Essaouira feels like a breath of fresh air. A white and blue town on the Atlantic coast, wind, seagulls and a much slower pace.
Your driver takes you there, then leaves you free for the day. You discover it at your own pace.
What you'll see
The medina
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is easy to explore on foot. White alleys, blue shutters, thuya-wood workshops and small galleries.
The port
Blue boats, nets, fishermen coming back with the tide. Right next door, stalls grill the catch of the day in front of you.
The ramparts and the beach
The Skala and its cannons facing the ocean, then a long beach where you can walk, watch the kitesurfers, or do nothing at all.
How the day works
- In the morning : departure from the riad, at the time agreed with you when you book. Your driver waits for you two streets from the door.
- The road : about 190 km, allow 2½ to 3 hours' drive. Plains, then argan trees as you approach the coast.
- In Essaouira : free day: medina, port, ramparts, beach, lunch wherever you like.
- Late afternoon : return to Marrakech, at the time agreed with the driver.
Prices and what's included
1200 DH for 1 to 3 people. 1500 DH for 4 to 6 people. The price is for the group, not per person.
Included : the private driver and the air-conditioned vehicle, there and back.
Not included : lunch, visits, shopping and tips.
Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Our tips
Bring a jacket
Essaouira is the windy city. Even when it's hot in Marrakech, it's often cool by the sea.
Have lunch at the port
Choose your fish at the stall and it's grilled in front of you. Simple and very fresh.
Go up the port's Skala
The view over the town, the boats and the ocean is the best of the day.
Allow a whole day
With five to six hours of driving there and back, it's a long day. It's worth it, but avoid scheduling it the day before you leave.
Frequently asked questions
Is the drive tiring?
It's long but easy, on a flat road in good condition. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and you can stop along the way.
Can we bring children?
Yes. Children love the beach, the port and the ramparts. Just bring something to keep them busy during the drive.
What is the best season?
All year round. In summer, Essaouira is a real refuge from the Marrakech heat. In June, the town hosts the lively Gnaoua festival.
How do I book?
Write to us with the date you'd like and the number of people. We organise everything with our partners and agree on the departure time with you. Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Can I take part if I'm not staying at the riad?
No. Our excursions are reserved for Riad Malika guests.
And after the ocean, the mountains?
If you love the Atlas, stay there for a few nights. Our Domaine Malika is in Ouirgane, in the High Atlas, an hour from Marrakech. Guided hikes, Berber villages, a pool heated all year round. Many of our guests combine a few nights at the riad and a few nights at the Domaine.
Book your day in Essaouira
Give us your date and the number of people. We'll take care of the rest.
Photo: Adrian Dobre, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons