essaouira desert trip

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• Essaouira desert tour – 5 days
• Desert camp & Riads

Tour overview

5 days from essaouira to sahara desert via agadir:, itinerary: 5 days sahara desert tour from essaouira via agadir..

Morocco tour from Essaouira. Eco desert Morocco have created this itinerary of 5 days trip from Essaouira to Agadir and Sahara desert to offer a new Morocco destination and the best Morocco beaches for tourism the sea such as Surfers.

DAY 1: ESSAOUIRA – AGADIR:

5 days Essaouira desert tour. Driving towards Agadir crossing Haha area to get to the Taghazout beach , where we may have a lunch break and a quick tour and a swimming break after that. exploring the town of Taghazout one of the best beaches in Morocco which is known as a Surfers’ town.  After that, we drive towards Agadir , where we will stay for a night in a hotel. Day trip from Essaouira to Sahara desert.

DAY 2: AGADIR – TAROUDANT – ZAGORA:

Today, we drive towards  Zagora through the Taliouine, and Taznaght  (both are known for the best quality of saffron in Morocco ). Penetrating the High Mountains, which you will definitely enjoy its landscapes.

Then we pass through Berber villages . You will also have a chance to explore the process of producing Argan oil by Berber women in their cooperative. After that, we continue towards Zagora where we enjoy the sunset over the grand sand dunes of Chegaga ( Height of 250m ) and check to our guesthouse for a night.

DAY 3: ZAGORA – PARIS DRAKKAR-MERZOUGA DESERT:

Today is a special day After breakfast in the guesthouse. The driver will drive you through the valley towards Merzouga. Leaving Chegaga sand dunes towards Erg Chebbi, arriving at Merzouga through Alnif. Merzouga is where the camel trek caravan will be awaiting you.

You will enjoy a camel ride heading into the mysterious sand-sea of the Erg-Chebbi, guided by an experienced camel master of course. Here you will spend your first night under the stars, or if you prefer, in a traditional Berber nomad tent.

DAY 4: MERZOUGA DESERT – TINGHIR – OUARZAZATE:

If you wake up early morning. You are going to see the sunrise in the heart of the desert, then you will peacefully camel-trek back to the village of Merzouga, appreciating the unique beauty of the spectacular Erg Chebbi dunes. Changing with the light as the day progresses. Arriving back in Merzouga , and after breakfast.

We will drive you back towards Ouarzazate, passing by the one thousand Kasbahs. Todgha Gorge, where you’ll walk under the 300 m high red cliff. Overnight in Ouarzazate – the Hollywood of Africa.

DAY 5: OUARZAZATE – MARRAKESH – ESSAOUIRA:

On the last day of your tour, We will drive towards Ait Ben Haddou, where we may have lunch and a break. before visiting the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou ; a UNESCO world historical site since 1987. A fascinating drive is waiting for you from Ait Ben Haddou towards Marrakesh crossing Tizi N’chika’s beautiful panoramic view.

Once we get to Marrakesh, we will have a quick city tour with a local guide. A quick visit to the main attractions & monuments in Marrakesh. and after that return to Essaouira around 7 o’clock in the evening. ​ 5 Days Essaouira desert tour.

• 5 days / 4 nights tour from Essaouira to Atlantic coast and desert.
• Transportation in comfortable 4×4 with air conditioning and/or heating.
• Services of a qualified English-speaking driver.
• One night in a Traditional Berber Tents.
• Camel Ride (Camel per each individual).
• Breakfast and dinner daily.
• sandboarding

Not Included

• Lunches and drinks.
• Entrances to the monuments.
• Tips and personal expenses.

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6 Days Desert Trip From Essaouira

Essaouira Desert Tour / Private Desert Trip

6 Days Desert Trip From Essaouira – Overview:

Even the best beach holiday in Essaouira can benefit from a change and a bit of adventure. So how about this thrilling Best 6 Days Desert Trip From Essaouira ? On this desert trip to the Sahara, you will discover the unbelievably varying amazing landscapes of Morocco.

You drive along more of the rugged, wild wonderful Atlantic coast through the popular surfing village of Taghazout. At the beach resort of Agadir, the road takes you inland past the citrus fruit and banana plantations, and slopes studded with innumerable argan trees. In Taroudant, take time to photograph the famous, massive, and fully intact ramparts.

The next interesting stop is in the great village of Talouine, where we recommend visiting the government-run saffron museum. This precious “gold” scents the whole place from inside tiny glass jars! In Tazenakht there are women’s carpet and rug-making cooperatives. They display the looms and the production process allowing you to learn more about this ancient tradition.

As you drive east, you reach the exacting Dra’a Valley’s date palm oases and adobe kasbahs, all highly typical of southern Morocco. They provide an excellent insight into the life of the Berber people of this area. Finally in the desert, you can experience camel riding where camels belong – in the Sahara desert. You will have the joy of witnessing the spectacle of the sunset from the summit of the Erg Chebbi dunes, near Merzouga.

Dining under the great Sahara starlit sky and joining in the evening of Berber drumming around a campfire are unforgettable experiences. That day will reach a romantic conclusion in a private luxury desert camp near the big dunes. But an even greater experience will be the full-day desert trekking to explore the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi with camels and local nomad guides.

Alternatively, you can choose to visit the famous Khamlia village to listen to Berber nomads performing the Sub-Saharan Gnawa music whilst you sip a glass of mint tea. Fes Expedition makes both such amazing events possible – just let us know your preference. In the Toudgha gorge you can walk along the riverbank or hike with a local guide. Walking through the oasis in Skoura is another opportunity to witness local Berber ways of life in their fields and houses.

This is enhanced by a visit to the beautifully repaired authentic Kasbah Amredhil. Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou is an absolute must on any tour of the south. This is followed by the drive from the beautiful Ounila Valley to Kasbah Telouet, historically involved in the history of Morocco and the constant change of rulers and allegiances to them.

The trip’s conclusion offers the marvels of wonderful views across the High Atlas mountains, especially on the Tizi-n-Tichka pass. And finally, you end in Marrakech, that city of oriental legend. If desired, the amazing 6-day desert Trip From Essaouira and Fes Expedition will adjust your itinerary accordingly.

6 Days Desert Trip From Essaouira – Highlights:

Travelling along the Atlantic Coast and through the village of Taghazout

> Stopping at panoramic viewpoints along the way > Driving along the Souss River Valley and through the fields of argan trees > Exploring Taroudant’s beautiful old medina and photographing its spectacular walls

> Visiting the government-run saffron museum in Taliouine > Visiting the local rug and carpet cooperatives in Taznakht > Exploring the Dra’a Valley’s date palm oases and photographing its many kasbahs > Experiencing a camel ride to the summit of the dunes

> Having dinner under the starlit sky and sharing an evening of music with the nomads around a campfire > Staying in your private luxury desert camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes > Going on a full-day desert trek to explore the Merzouga Desert and having lunch out in the dunes > Or listening to Sub-Saharan Gnawa music and sipping a glass of tea with a nomad family

> Walking along the riverbank or going for a hike around the Toudgha Gorges with a local guide > Wandering in Skoura Oasis and touring the beautifully restored Kasbah Amredhil there > Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, and Kasbah Telouet > Crossing the Atlas Mountains and the Tizi-n-Tichka pass > Tasting some of the most delicious dishes of Moroccan cuisine and staying in beautiful riads

What to know about your 6 Days Desert Trip From Essaouira:

This 6 Days Desert Trip From Essaouira can be customized to accommodate your personal points of interest You can ask us if others are interested in sharing the tour, or in the case of an early booking, let us know that you are interested in this yourselves.

We require a 30% deposit of the total price to confirm the booking while the balance is paid to the guide The balance is payable through PayPal, bank transfers in Europe, by credit card, or cash (USD, euro, GBP, or MAD)

The 6 Days Desert Trip From Essaouira Itinerary :

1st day: Essaouira – Taroudant

Kick off your 6-day desert Trip From Essaouira with the departure from your riad in an air-conditioned 4×4 car. We head south toward Agadir, passing the Atlantic Ocean to the right and the Anti-Atlas to the left.

At panoramic viewpoints, there will, of course, be plenty of stops to take pictures; just let the driver know when you wish to do so. After about two and a half hours, you arrive in Agadir, a large port and beach resort, where you turn inland. You will now witness very different landscapes as you continue towards Taroudant, travelling along the Souss River Valley with all its fruit plantations and innumerable argan trees on the slopes beside the road.

Upon your arrival in Taroudant, known as the “The Little Marrakech”, you will be able to tour its beautiful walled medina, where the ramparts are even more impressive in their entirety than those of Essaouira. At night, an authentic riad offers a delicious dinner and night’s rest.

2nd day: Taroudant – Agdz

the second day of our 6-day desert Trip From Essaouira: the journey east to the desert continues via Taliouine. This is the most famous saffron-growing area in Morocco. Here, you will have an opportunity to visit the local government-run museum featuring saffron cultivation. If you are a foodie, it is well worth purchasing some high-quality saffron here. Elsewhere it can be inferior and the distinctive flavour of the “golden” plant is so very special – including in green tea, something even many Moroccans are unaware of.

After crossing the Tizi-n-Tighatine and Tizi-n-Ikhsane passes, you arrive in Taznakht, another special place on this southern desert tour. Local cooperatives selling rugs and carpets, made in faraway villages by Berber women, are on display and the looms and processes of production can be explained to anyone interested in local handicrafts.

There is no obligation to buy, but the workshops are worth visiting to admire the skills involved! Tonight’s riad is in Agdez which we reach by heading south a little and then east, past the gold, silver, copper and cobalt mines of Bouazzer. This road eventually passes through a wide, empty valley of little traffic and you are filled with the feeling of being in a remote land, cherishing it to yourselves. You will have dinner and spend the night in a beautiful riad at the edge of the valley.

3rd day: Agdz – Merzouga

After breakfast, you have time to visit Kasbah Tamnougalte with a local guide to learn about adobe housing in southern Morocco. This is the oldest kasbah in the Dra’a Valley and is still inhabited by a few families. You now find yourselves in the Dra’a Valley, the longest valley in Morocco, although much of the Dra’a River is now dry.

Here again, the landscape and lifestyles are different in this country of amazing contrasts. Following your visit to the Kasbah, you drive off-track through the extensive oases of the valley. This is an opportunity to learn more about the locality and to photograph the many fortified kasbahs, ideally positioned among the oases of date palms.

You next travel east through many Berber villages, such as N’Qob and Tazzarine, featured in the movie of Babel, and then Alnif, which will be the venue for lunch. Yet again the landscapes have altered and the chain of mountains to your right are quite different from those previously seen as they march with you eastwards.

At the campsite in Erg Chebbi, you will be welcomed by a glass of traditional tea and Moroccan biscuits. Now the most exciting part of the whole trip is about to begin – namely your camel ride to the top of the dunes to await the sunset as the sun goes down in the direction you have come from.

At night, dinner is served under the starlit sky of the Sahara, followed by Berber music and drumming around a campfire. Your private luxury desert camp tent offers a wonderfully peaceful night’s rest as, in your head, you sort out all the experiences and vistas of the day’s journey.

4th day: Merzouga

After breakfast, the full majesty of the Sahara is laid open to exploration with a day’s desert trekking in the dunes of Erg Chebbi with a lunch picnic out in the open. You are accompanied by camels and can walk behind them or ride, just as you wish. They carry everything needed to cook lunch, which will be prepared out in the dunes by your camel man.

For many active people, this is a golden opportunity to stretch your legs longer. You will walk about three hours in the morning until lunch. This is freshly prepared, giving you plenty of time to relax. Many claim this is the best meal of the whole trip as the fresh air increases their appetite. The afternoon sees another three hours before returning to the luxury desert camp for dinner. Alternatively, you can choose to go on a half-a-day 4×4 tour around the dunes of Erg Chebbi to visit Khamlia village.

Here in the village, you can listen to local Berbers performing sub-Saharan Gnawa music and share a glass of mint tea with them. Back at the camp, you can enjoy moments of peace and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the magnificent Sahara Desert. At night, dinner is served and followed by an evening of music around a campfire, before, once again, you settle for the calm and beauty of the night in your own private tent in a desert camp near the big dunes.

5th day: Merzouga – Ouarzazate

By getting up early and ascending the dunes, you will be rewarded with a spectacular sunrise with colours on the sand very different from those at any other time of day. The itinerary continues to the Dades Valley, where you will have lunch as well as time for a walk through the gorges at the top of the valley.

It has innumerable villages whilst the river right down below is bordered by fields and gardens particularly fig trees and olives. From here, you continue through the Valley of the Roses as far as Kel’aa M’gouna, where you can visit the local cooperatives producing cosmetic products. These are made from the local rose blossoms and are famous throughout Morocco.

Once again, food enthusiasts will be delighted by the quality of the rose water for ice creams and baked delights. Shortly afterwards you can have a greater insight into local life in the interior of the beautifully restored Kasbah Amredhil. From here, a 45-minute drive leads to Ouarzazate, where you spend the night in a guest house.

6th day: Ouarzazate – Marrakech Essaouira

After breakfast, the itinerary of a 6-day desert Trip From Essaouira takes you to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou. This a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been used as a set for many Hollywood blockbusters. It is the most famous Kasbah in Morocco and some of the buildings date back to the 17th century. Visiting the kasbah with a local guide allows you to discover its history and significance locally.

From here, you travel along the beautiful Ounila Valley, full of bends in the roads and surprises at the hues of the rock and soil as well as smaller Kasbahs. You continue to Kasbah Telouet set right in the midst of the mountains and once the seat of the last Pasha of Marrakech, El Glaoui. After lunch, pay a worthwhile visit to the Kasbah.

Each addition to the building now stands in ruins exposed to the wind and the rain, having been abandoned and plundered after Thami EI Glaoui, left the country following the departure of the French in 1956. But wait to be pleasantly surprised by the traditional interior decoration as you reach the farthest end of the Kasbah.

At the end of the afternoon, the final jaw-dropping experiences on this desert trip await you with marvellous panoramas from the High Atlas Mountains before taking the motorway from Marrakech back to Essaouira. Your 6-day desert Trip From Essaouira comes to the end of our service.

What is included in this desert tour from Essaouira:

Transport in a private air-conditioned 4×4; Toyota Prado Tx or deluxe van and fuel Pick-up from your hotel in Essaouira and drop-off at your riad in Marrakech Experienced local English/French/Spanish/Italian-speaking Berber and nomad driver/guide Accommodation in air-conditioned rooms/suites with private bathroom

1 night in a luxury desert camp in Erg Chebbi dunes with a private toilet and shower, lamps, traditional Moroccan handmade furnishings and plenty of space All meals; breakfast, lunch, dinner – with vegetarian and vegan options available A camel ride of about an hour – an hour & a half with a guide, and free sandboarding, if desired A full-day camel trekking in the Merzouga desert

An option to go to and return from the camp by 4×4 Luggage service to the camp and all accommodation Berber drumming and music Free time to explore sites such as Ait Ben Haddou, and the Ounila Valley, for walks, photos, and tea/coffee breaks

The opportunity to ask the driver to stop when and where you wish Entrance fees and local guide Tea, coffee, and mineral water in the desert

What is not included:

X Drinks X Tips X Extras

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Merzouga Tours | Morocco Desert Excursions 2024/2025

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• Sahara Sunrise and Camel Trek
• Sahara Sunset and Camel Trek
• 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Sahara Desert
• 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Zagora Desert
• 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Fes
• 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Erg Chigaga
• 3-Day Tour From Marrakech to Erg Chigaga
• 3-Day Tour From Marrakech to Fes
• 3-Day Tour From Marrakech to Merzouga
• 4-Day Tour From Marrakech to Fes
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• 6-Day Tour From Marrakech to Merzouga
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• 3-Day Tour From Fes to Marrakech
• 3-Day Tour From Fes to Merzouga
• 4-Day Tour From Fes to Marrakech
• 5-Day Tour From Fes to Marrakech
• 2-Days Tour From Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga
• 2-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Merzouga
• 2-Days Tour From Ouarzazate to Zagora
• 3-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga
• 3-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Merzouga
• 4-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Merzouga
• 7-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Merzouga
• 8-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Merzouga
• 2-Day Tour From Errachidia to Merzouga
• 3-Day Tour From Errachidia to Merzouga
• 3-Day Tour From Errachidia to Marrakech
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• 4-Day Tour From Casablanca to Merzouga
• 6-Day Tour From Casablanca to Merzouga
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• 5-Day Tour From Tangier to Merzouga
• 6-Day Imperial Cities Tour From Tangier
• 8-Day Tour From Tangier to Merzouga
• 10-Day Tour From Tangier to Merzouga
• 13-Day Tour From Tangier to Merzouga
• 3-Day Tour From Rabat to Merzouga
• 4-Day Tour From Rabat to Merzouga
• 5-Day Tour From Rabat to Merzouga
• 6-Day Tour From Rabat to Marrakech
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• 3-Day From Agadir to Merzouga Sahara
• 4-Day Tour From Agadir to Merzouga Desert
• Morocco Customized Tours
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• Trekking in Morocco
• Yoga in Sahara Desert Morocco
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• - Sahara Camel Trek 2-Nights
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• - - 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Sahara Desert
• - - 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Zagora Desert
• - - 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Fes
• - - 2-Day Tour From Marrakech to Erg Chigaga
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• - - 3-Day Tour From Marrakech to Fes
• - - 3-Day Tour From Marrakech to Merzouga
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• - - 3-Day Tour From Fes to Merzouga
• - - 4-Day Tour From Fes to Marrakech
• - - 5-Day Tour From Fes to Marrakech
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• - - 2-Days Tour From Ouarzazate to Zagora
• - - 3-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Erg Chegaga
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• - - 4-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Merzouga
• - - 7-Day Tour From Ouarzazate to Merzouga
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3-Day Tour From Essaouira to Fes | Sahara Desert

3 Days Tour From Essaouira to Fes and Merzouga Sahara Desert 

Fantastic 3-Day Tour Essaouira to Sahara Desert ends in Fes Overview:

This popular itinerary combines Fes' mysterious allure with Essaouira's relaxed coastal vibe. Throw in a day visit to the valleys below the often snowcapped Western High Atlas, and you'll get more than enough out of your 3-day tour holiday .

* Duration: 3 days / 2 nights * Departure time: 8/9 am * Starting point: Your hotel / Riad or anywhere in Essaouira * Ending point: Your hotel / Riad or anywhere in Fes

> Stopping at panoramic viewpoints along the way > Driving along the Souss River Valley and through the fields of argan trees > Exploring Taroudant’s beautiful old medina and photographing its spectacular walls

> Visiting the government-run saffron museum in Taliouine > Visiting the local rug and carpet cooperatives in Taznakht > Exploring the Dra’a Valley’s date palm oases and photographing its many kasbahs > Experiencing a camel ride to the summit of the dunes

> Having dinner under the starlit sky and sharing an evening of music with the nomads around a campfire > Staying in your private luxury desert camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes > Going on a full-day desert trek to explore the Merzouga Desert and having lunch out in the dunes > Or listening to Sub-Saharan Gnawa music and sipping a glass of tea with a nomad family

Tour Itinerary: Best Essaouira to Fes Tour 3 Days

DAY 1: ESSAOUIRA - MARRAKECH -AIT BEN HADDOU KASBAH – OUARZAZATE

Today we leave Essaouira at 8:00 in the morning and will cross Marrakech,  and we travel to Ouarzazate through the astonishing landscapes of Tizi n’Tichka road. We will have a lunch break at the Kasbah of Telouet.

Then, we will continue our trip toward Ait Ben Haddou. Ait ben Haddou and Ouarzazate are both very famous filming sites that can be recognized from movies such as Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Jesus of Nazareth, and so on.

DAY 2: OUARZAZATE – TODGHA GORGES – ERFOUD – MERZOUGA DESERT

Early in the morning, we will leave Ouarzazate and head toward Merzouga. But before that, we will visit The Kasbah of Taourirt. Then, we will pay a quick visit to the Rose Valley and Dades Valley. Afterward, we will stay a little bit at Toudra Gorges and have lunch thereafter we enjoy taking a walk across the narrow canyons.

Then, we will get to Erfoud via Tinjdad, which is situated in an area where there are a lot of fossils. At Merzouga, we will leave our car behind and ride the camels toward Erg Chebbi Dunes. After we admire the amazing sunset over a high dune, we will head to the desert camp to spend the night there with the band of nomad musicians in their tent.

DAY 3: MERZOUGA – ZIZ VALLEY – MIDELT – CEDAR FOREST – AZROU – IFRANE – FES

This day after we have our breakfast, we will leave the desert, and travel on our Casablanca Desert tour through the region of Tafilalt and the Atlas Mountains.

After a quick lunch stop at the apple town Midelt, we will visit the Monkeys of the cedar forest near Azrou and we will stop again at Ifran. Later in the afternoon, we will arrive at Fez where we will have an overnight stay at a local Riad in the Medina.

* Pick up and drop off you at your hotel in Essaouira * Tour in air condition vehicle A/C * Experienced English-speaking driver * 1-night stay at a private room at hotel/riad ( dinner & breakfast included ) * 1-night stay at the private tent at desert camp ( dinner & breakfast included ) * Camel trek * Moroccan mint tea at the camp * Fuel * Visit some interesting places along the way

* Lunches * Drinks

3 Day Tour From Essaouira to Fes on The Map:

Essaouira Day Trip

1 day excursion.

The charming fishing harbour, Essaouira is the old Portuguese city of Mogador. You can see the influence of the Portuguese on the architecture of the town. Despite this obvious influence on the UNESCO protected world heritage site, Essaouira has a history dating back to the 7th Century.

ESSAOUIRA DAY TRIP FROM MARRAKECH

Essaouira Day Trip start at your hotel/riad in Marrakech at 9am and drive 3 hours and we make our way across the stunning landscapes of the coast. Along the way we will stop to see the argan trees where small goats clamber up the low branches and feed. Sometimes there are as many as 20 goats sitting up in one tree. It is a fascinating sight and an absolute must when it comes to getting a photo opportunity.

Also along the way we will stop off at a women’s cooperative where argan oil is produced. The oil is extracted from the kernels of the tree and is a delicious accompaniment to a Moroccan bread meal or simply for drizzling over a pitta bread. The oil is also used as a beauty product for skin and hair treatment.

Our Day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech arrives in the resort and port city where you’ll see the vast expanse of the North Atlantic Ocean. The vibrant old town (medina) is a world heritage site, and it won’t take you much to realize just why. Old brass cannons line the walls and ramparts protect the sea front from ancient invasions.

There are several modern cafes and restaurants in the port city and this up-to-date culture combines with the history of the city very well. You will feel as though you are drifting in a time machine as you move from modern café to a rickety house in the medina in just a few yards.

Recent history, was famous for attracting hippies, artists and craftsmen. Today, the town is still favourable with artists and musicians. Artisans of Essaouira are famous for their woodwork using thuya wood as well as raffia craftwork.

Our return journey will leave for Marrakech to arrive back in time for 6.00 pm. Once again you’ll be able to enjoy the surrounding sunset as the sun begins to set in the late afternoon. Essaouira is a popular stopover point for most tourists visiting Morocco, and you’ll see just why when you embark on this fascinating day trip to the coast.

The Private tour includes :

• Pick up and drop off at your riad/hotel
• Private vehicle/ all fuel cost
• Speaking English guide
• Essaouira visit

The Private tour excludes:

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Contact us about our morocco tours and excursions . If you are interested in a customized tour we will be happy to accommodate your requests. We look forward to meeting you.

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14 Best Things to do in Essaouira Morocco, the Complete Guide to Morocco’s windy city

This is the complete travel guide to Essaouira Morocco, including everything you need to see and do in Essaouira, how to get there, how to get around in the city, where to eat, and where to stay.

Essaouira has a certain charm and it is really hard to pinpoint what exactly in this city attracts me the most.

Maybe it’s the young crowd of surfers and backpackers that gravitate there throughout the year, the city’s peculiar Portuguese architecture, or the small streets filled with the beautiful handicraft of local artisans.

One thing is for sure, this city has won our hearts from the moment we walked its streets. It’s a trendy city with a vibrant and fun atmosphere.

Essaouira has its own fortified old Medina, amazing cuisine, and a fun and hip energy that is very distinct from other Moroccan cities.

The city is located very close to Marrakesh and is also easily accessible from nearby coastal cities such as Casablanca , Rabat , and Agadir . 

In this guide, I will cover everything that Essaouira has to offer in terms of what to do and see, where to stay and where to eat while you are there.

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Morocco Travel essentials and resources

• Morocco Travel Guide: 19 things you should know before you go
• Where to go: The 17 most beautiful places to visit in Morocco
• Plan your trip: 3 itineraries to discover the best of Morocco
• Is Morocco safe: 18 useful tips to stay safe while traveling in Morocco
• Tours and experiences: Book a customized tour
• Where to stay : Find a room in a hotel, hostel, guesthouse or desert camp
• Travel Insurance: Find the best travel insurance for Morocco
• Getting around : Rent a car in Morocco or travel by bus or train

TABLE OF CONTENTS

14 Best things to do in Essaouira Morocco

Essaouira is a city buzzing with life and regardless of the time of the year or whether you visit Essaouira with kids , with friends or by yourself, there will always be something to do.

Here is a list of all the fun things you can do in Essaouira to really get the feel of the place and enjoy the city to the fullest.

Essaouira Morocco Map

1. Visit the Skala Port ramparts

The fortified ramparts of the old Medina in Essaouira were used as a set in the popular series Game of Thrones and when you walk there, you’ll totally understand why.

The ramparts of Essaouira are really beautiful and they give the city a medieval ambiance. 

They were built in the 1760s to upgrade this small fishing town into a royal port and commercial center.

The fortifications served in defending the city from sea invaders and are still standing today.

You can even sit on an ancient Portuguese canon and admire the view over the Atlantic Ocean.

2. Visit the fishing port

This port is a photographer’s paradise. While visiting Essaouira, I just loved going there on a daily basis to get pictures of the fishermen returning from the sea in the evening.

Essaouira is a fishing town and was the country’s main fishing port during the 1900s. The port hasn’t lost its authenticity and is the perfect place to see the fishermen unload their catch of the day and sell it to the locals.

If you’re a foodie you can buy fresh fish and get it grilled directly on site.

Apart from the delicious fish that you can enjoy there, the port is also a great place to admire the sunset.

Don’t miss the chance to climb on top of the jetty for the best view of the sun disappearing behind the island of Mogador.

Morocco Photography Tips – How to take portraits of the Moroccan people

3. Visit the fortress tower Borj el Barmil at the port

There is a small entrance fee to go inside this fortress tower but it’s the best place to have views of the whole city. You will be able to see the port and the old town from one side and the ocean from the other. 

It’s best to go there on a weekday as it gets really busy during weekends.

4. Go for a walk along the ocean rocks and cliffs

The rocks and cliffs that surround the old part of Essaouira are spectacular and you can walk near them at low tide.

To get there you will have to come out of the old city on the square Moulay Hassan and go in direction of the port.

When you reach the end of the square you will be able to access the beginning of this rocky path on your right. 

The rocks continue to the right for about 1 km and they will offer you great views of the outer walls of the city.

5. Visit the Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah Museum

This Iconic history museum is definitely worth a visit. It is located in a 19th-century mansion right in the center of the old city and was named after the founder of the city himself.

It displays beautiful historical artifacts from the city such as ancient pottery, jewelry, musical instruments, woodcraft, and weaving. The museum also contains a lot of interesting information on the Berber tribes that inhabited the region.

To visit this museum you’ll have to reach Rue Laâlouj , a central street in the city of Essaouira (see map above).

6. Visit the sunday open-air mar ket (Sunday Souk)

Visiting a traditional souk in Morocco is an experience that you should absolutely try. They often look like small labyrinths of stalls and shops and will overwhelm you with their smells and colors. Visiting these open-air markets is the best cultural experience you could have in Morocco.

Although there is a souk held almost every day in the market area of Essaouira, the one on Sunday held just outside of Bab Doukala is particularly special.

This one is a flea market where you can buy second-hand clothes, books, jewelry, home equipment, and furniture.

To get there you’ll have to get out of the old city from Bab Doukala. You should continue straight along with the horse carriages and pass the gas station and then you will see a street full of stalls and vendors.

7. Enjoy the beach on foot, by horse, camel, or quad

The beach in Essaouira is very big and there are tons of different ways to enjoy it. You can spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing while enjoying Moroccan teas at the different cafes facing the sea.

If you would like something a bit more adventurous, you can also go for a horse ride along the sandy coastline. There are plenty of horses and camels on the beach available for rides for a modest price.

You could also go to the horse ranch in Diabat, a small village just 3 km outside of Essaouira on the coast.

They offer different horseback trips on the beach and on the surrounding sand dunes for a very good price throughout the whole year.

Here are some fun outdoor activities you can do on the beach of Essaouira:

8. Visit the Jimmy Hendrix sandcastle (Dar Sultan castle) in Diabat

Walk to the far end of the beach passed the camels and horses and a rock that sticks out of the sea. There you will see a river that flows into the ocean.

If you follow this river to your left across the sand dunes you’ll come across a path that will take you to the famed ”Jimmy Hendrix sandcastle”.

This ”sand castle” is actually a palace called ”Dar Sultan”. It was built outside the city near the coast and furnished in a typical European style.

It is said that Jimmy Hendrix once stayed there for a whole day to drink and smoke while writing his famous song ”Castle Made Of Sand”.

9. Get amazed by the colorful craftwork of local artisans

I was caught off guard by the sheer amount of handmade crafts I found in Essaouira.

In the souks of the city, it’s possible to find handmade pottery and ceramics, leather products such as bags and shoes, hand weaved carpets, musical instruments, lamps, and many more beautifully made crafts.

10. Buy some local gifts for your friends

No trip to this city would be complete without buying at least a few gifts and souvenirs for your loved ones. From handmade Argan soap to traditional pastries, you can be sure you’ll find something for everyone in Essaouira.

11. Sit and relax in one of the cafes in Essaouira

This vibrant coastal city is full of cute and hip little cafes. I really enjoyed just sitting on the terrace of one during a busy afternoon and watching the hustle and bustle of the streets of the old medina.

12. Go to a hammam in Essaouira

Visiting a Hammam is the quintessential Moroccan experience. In Essaouira, just like in most major Moroccan cities, you will have two options when it comes to visiting Hammams. You can either go to the popular local hammam where the majority of the locals go or you could visit a spa-type hammam.

I would personally recommend the first type over the latter. Popular cheap local hammams are a great part of the Moroccan culture.

All you need to do before you go is grab some natural Argan soap and your scrubbing cloth. Once there, you’ll be handed a bucket and you have to undress in the midst of locals scrubbing each other’s backs while chatting about their daily life.

It wouldn’t be appropriate to take photos in the Hammam… So instead, here’s a picture of how the Argan nut is processed into oil and soap.

13. Get your hands painted with Henna tattoos

Covering the hands with Henna tattoos is a tradition that is often associated with weddings and other celebration rituals.

The tradition of using Henna decoratively on the body in Morocco can be traced back to when the early nomadic Berber tribes traveled around the country.

Henna was used after any big event, whether it was to celebrate victory in battle, weddings or births.

You can now be part of that tradition in Essaouira as well! Local ladies will paint your hands or feet with Henna for a modest fee in almost any main street of the old Medina in Essaouira.

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14. Go surfing and kitesurfing

Essaouira is a windy coastal city and this makes it a top destination for surfers and kite surfers . The swell of the waves is much stronger in winter so you’ll see more surfers there at that time of the year.

You’ll see plenty of surf shops and surfing schools, as well as windsurfing schools in Essaouira. If you always wanted to learn water sports, Essaouira is the place to be:

The best spot for surfing in Essaouira is at the far end of the main beach where camels and horses are gathered.

S u r f i n g in Morocco: a Guide to the 9 Best Surfing Spots in the country

Essaouira City walking tours and cultural tours

There are some guided tours in Essaouira I like to recommend, especially if you want to learn more about its rich history and vibrant culture.

First, there’s the Essaouira Discovery Tour . During this 4-hour tour, you’ll visit all the historical sites of the city while the guide gives you more background info and stories about each place you visit.

Food lovers will also have a great time exploring the city! During the Essaouira Food Tour , you’ll go on a 3-hour guided walking tour in the city and while you’ll learn more about its history, you’ll also get introduced to the local’s lifestyle and the traditional food in Essaouira.

There’s also the option of taking a cooking class at a local family’s home. You first join them to buy fresh ingredients and aromatic spices at the food market. Then the family teaches you how to cook a traditional meal in their home kitchen. This will be a unique experience!

Another activity I’d recommend is to pay a visit to the Argan Forest . The Argan trees are only found in the southwest of Morocco and are a mythical emblem of the Essaouira region.

Throughout the hike, the guide will give you useful insights into the ecology of these trees. You will also visit a little village where there is a “Marabout” (saint‛s temple) and have tea at the home of a Berber family.

At the end of this walking tour , you will visit a women’s cooperative where you will discover the secret of making the famous argan oil.

Where to stay in Essaouira

You have two options of where to stay in Essaouira. You could either stay inside the old city (close to the beautiful souks and shops filled streets) or outside the fortified walls.

Essaouira is a city that is worth taking the time to discover. It offers many fun activities so you will want to stay there for at least a night or two. We even ended up staying there for almost two weeks, we just fell in love with the place!

Essaouira has a great selection of hostels for budget travelers who want to save money and swap stories with fellow backpackers in the shared kitchen or bar in the evening.

There are also many beautiful Riads, guesthouses, and hotels for travelers who want a more fancy, relaxing experience of the city.

Best budget hostel to stay in Essaouira

• The Chill Art hostel

This hostel is one of our top recommendations in Essaouira. We went there a few nights to enjoy live music and share a meal with some of the guests in the main lobby.

It was built inside an old traditional restored Ryad and the architecture of the place is fascinating. The Chill Art hostel is also, as its name says, full of art and beautiful murals.

There is a delicious breakfast served every morning. It also features a terrace that gives a 180 degrees view of the ocean.

Click to check out rates and availability for ”The Chill Art hostel”

Best Riads and hotels to stay in Essaouira

• Hôtel El Kasbah Souiria

For those who want a more fancy experience and feel like royalties, this is the place!

Hôtel El Kasbah Souiria has a lush garden and has an architecture that reminded us of the traditional Moroccan Riads with its beautiful multicolored tiles.

This hotel is just outside the old Medina with one entrance to the old city just one minute away and another one at about a five-minute walk.

The beds of this hotel are super comfortable and the surroundings of the building are very quiet. If you want a luxurious yet relaxing stay in Essaouira, don’t think twice and b ook this place now !

Click to check out rates and availability for ”Hôtel El Kasbah Souiria”

• Hotel Cote ocean Mogador

Facing the sea, this hotel offers 4-star accommodation and has a private beach area, an outdoor swimming pool, and a garden.

It also offers a  24-hour front desk, a shared lounge as well as a very good wifi signal. All the rooms include a desk, a flat-screen Tv as well as a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a wardrobe.

Click to check out rates and availability for ”Hotel Cote ocean Mogador”

Where to eat in Essaouira

Essaouira has a wide selection of delicious restaurants. You can eat traditional dishes such as Tajines and harira soup almost anywhere in the city.

If you would like something a bit fancier, it’s also possible to enjoy a Mediterranean dinner in one of the few luxurious restaurants overlooking Moulay Hassan square.

If you fancy sandwich places or crepes, those can be found throughout the old city. Making an exhaustive list of all of these restaurants here would be impossible, however, I’ll recommend a few of my absolute favorites.

1. Tara Cafe

The best thing about this cafe is its location and atmosphere. It’s on the edge of a small quiet courtyard and Cynthia and I just loved the environment there. You can have local fish for dinner such as sardines and it tastes heavenly!

They also serve a very tasty breakfast with fresh orange juice, coffee, crepes, yogurt, and delicious jams and honey to put on toasted bread.

This restaurant is really not expensive and offers Moroccan dishes as well as some European snacks.

2. Triskala Cafe

The inside of this restaurant is decorated in a very cool and stylish style. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a fancy romantic candlelit dinner without breaking the piggy bank!

The menu is small and changes on a seasonal basis depending on which fruits and vegetables will be fresh. They have very good vegetarian and vegan options such as tasty falafel plates.

3. Patisserie Chez Driss

Patisserie Chez Driss is not quite a restaurant, however,  it’s where I had the best pastries and sweets ever so I had to include it in this guide.

If you love pastries, this is THE place to visit! I just wish I could try everything that was on the shelves. They have a wide selection of cakes, sweet cookies, as well as chocolate eclairs and pastries filled with real cream and almond paste.

This is a great place to go grab a drink and enjoy live music on a terrace. It’s located on one corner of the square Moulay Hassan. Taros is a mix between a bar, a restaurant, and a club.

Its terrace is one of the tallest in the area so it’s the ideal place to enjoy the sunset.

The prices are very reasonable and it’s also the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine while eating delicious fish and listening to some great music.

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Where to find and buy alcohol in Essaouira

Bar ‘Le Trou’

This authentic Moroccan bar also called ”Le Trou” in French is hidden in a small alley. Nothing beats this place when it comes to authenticity.

It’s overcrowded every night by local men, travelers, and expats. If you want cheap draft beer, music and wine, this is the place to visit. It’s located behind the Mechouar hotel.

Liquor Store ‘Libre Service’

If you fancy a glass of wine or some beers at your hostel (first check if your hostel allows alcohol on the premises) after a day of surfing or getting lost in the small streets of Essaouira, you can buy some just outside of Bab Doukala.

There is a shop called ‘Libre Service’ selling alcohol just outside of the old city gate. The wine there is usually quite cheap and they have a huge selection of liquors. The shop closes at 8 pm and is also closed on Friday. 

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How to get to Essaouira Morocco

How to get to essaouira from casablanca.

Casablanca is another beautiful coastal city north of Essaouira and since most people will start their trip around Morocco from Casablanca, I decided to include practical information on how to transit between the two cities.

How to get to Essaouira from Casablanca by bus

The best way to get from Casablanca to Essaouira is by bus with a bus company called CTM .

I’ve traveled around Morocco with various bus companies and CTM, although being slightly more expensive,  is the only one I would recommend. The buses are always newer and much more comfortable than the ones used by other companies.

The trip between the two cities will cost between 215 and 275 MAD and takes around 7 hours . There are 13 buses that leave throughout the day, the earliest being at 7:15 and the latest at midnight.

You can catch the bus at the CTM bus station in Casablanca in the city center on Rue Léon (see map down below). You can buy your ticket in advance at the bus station or book it online.

Remember, if you book your ticket online , you still have to go to the CTM office to pay for your luggage on the day of departure so make sure you arrive a bit ahead of time.

In Essaouira, you’ll reach the main city bus station “Gare Routiere” located just 10 minutes on foot outside of the city gate Bab Doukala (see map below). From there you will be practically in the old Medina and right in the city center.

This bus station has toilets and it’s located next to small cafes and shops.

How to get to Essaouira from Casablanca driving your own car

Since these two cities are located on the coast, a great idea could be to travel from one to the other by car. Whether you travel with your own car or in a rented one , this road goes along some gorgeous landscapes and you’ll have the freedom to stop whenever you want to take pictures.

This drive is definitely a pleasant one and along the way, you’ll pass through another gorgeous little coastal city called El Jadida  (see below ‘Other places to visit near Essaouira’).

The driving distance between Casablanca and Essaouira is 371 km. It should take around 4 hours to reach the southern city.

To drive from Casablanca to Essaouira follow highway A1 towards the south along the coast until you reach a roundabout to the city of Bouguedra. Take the direction of Bouguedra and from this city continue driving south-west on highway N1 until you reach Essaouira.

Everything you need to know about renting a car and driving in Morocco

How to get to Essaouira from Casablanca via Marrakech

Another good option to get to Essaouira from Casablanca is to take a combination of a train and a bus and pass through the city of Marrakech.

Traveling around Morocco by train is a fantastic idea because they’re cheap and they are an awesome way to see the incredible Moroccan landscapes.

In Morocco, it’s very easy and quite convenient to buy your train tickets in person directly at the train station. All the information concerning timetables and prices can be found on the ONCF website , once you know which train you will take and at what time you can head over to the Casablanca train station to buy your ticket.

Make sure to have cash on hand to buy your ticket as it’s not always possible to pay by card. There is a direct train leaving daily from Casablanca (see map below) and arriving in Marrakesh.

The train leaves nine times a day and the journey takes approximately 3h.

Once you are in Marrakesh, you’ll need to walk for about 15 minutes to catch a bus from the main station in the direction of Essaouira. A combination train/bus ticket is available for purchase for this route at the ONCF website .

How to get to Essaouira from Marrakech

How to get to essaouira from marrakech by bus.

Getting a bus out of Marrakesh is relatively easy.

You can find a Supratour or a CTM bus to Essaouira at the main Marrakesh bus station. This bus station is located almost adjacent to the train station in Marrakesh.

The ticket prices for these 2 bus companies are almost the same and the CTM timetables and ticket prices can be found here.

The journey by bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira takes 3 hours with a twenty-minute break somewhere along the way.

How to get to Essaouira from Marrakesh with your own car

If you have your own car, the fastest way to get to Essaouira from Marrakesh is by following the highways A7, N8 and R207.

From Marrakesh, you will have to drive northwest on the A7 until it merges with highways N8 and R207. Follow the highway R207 west until you reach Essaouira.

 The distance between Marrakesh and Essaouira is 191 km and getting there will take about 2h40 minutes.

How to get to Essaouira from Marrakesh by shared taxi

The best way to get from Marrakesh to Essaouira if you don’t have your own car is by shared Taxi. The price per person in a shared taxi should be between 85 and 220 MAD .

How to get to Essaouira from Agadir  

Top things to do in A g a d i r – Agadir City Guide

How to get to Essaouira from Agadir by bus

You can take a bus from Agadir to Essaouira with CTM, Supratour or any of the other bus companies that operate from Agadir. It’s possible to buy the ticket online or at the bus terminal.

Agadir’s Gare Routiere is just 2.5km from the city center and the beach. A taxi from the beach to the bus station will cost about 10 to 15 MAD.

This bus station is quite easy to navigate through and platforms with numbers and bus company names are clearly marked.

This is where the CTM and Supratour terminals are located in Agadir:

How to get to Essaouira from Agadir with your own car

The coastal road between Agadir and Essaouira is enchanting and driving there will give you a feeling of total freedom.

If you have your own car or if you are renting one , just follow highway N1 towards the north. The distance between the two cities is 175 km and the trip should take about 3 hours.

How to get to Essaouira from Agadir by shared taxi

You will find shared taxis that can take you to Essaouira from the main bus terminal. A shared taxi will take about three hours to cover the distance between the two cities and will cost between 90 and 200 MAD.

How to get to the bus stations in Essaouira

There are two bus terminals in Essaouira, one is used only by CTM and the other one is used by Supratour and the various other bus companies that operate there.

The Supratour terminal is much closer to the old city while the CTM one is located a bit farther. The Supratours bus stop can be found just southwest of the square known as Bab Marrakesh.

Here is the location of the bus terminals in Essaouira:

How to get around Essaouira

Essaouira is not very big so you can easily explore the old medina on foot. If you need to be in the new part of Essaouira (to go to the bus station f.eg.), all the taxis in the city have the same flat rate – 7 MAD .

So there is no need to negotiate when you hop in the taxi, just tell the driver where you want to go and pay when you arrive.

Other beautiful places to visit near Essaouira

There are two other coastal towns north and south of Essaouira that we would recommend visiting while you’re on the Moroccan coast. These are the cities of Taghazout and El Jadida .

They are both quite different and their proximity to Essaouira makes them ideal locations to visit after your stay there. I would also strongly advise you to visit a beautiful canyon filled with pools of water east of Taghazout called Paradise Valley .

Taghazout is a cool surfing town where surfers from all over the world come to enjoy the winter waves.

It’s sometimes quoted as one of the best winter surfing destinations in Morocco. The water temperature rarely drops below 16C in winter and the air temperature hovers around 18-20 C even in January.

This town has an amazing vibe as you can imagine any surfer paradise would have. There are plenty of cheap hostels there where you can meet fun travelers in pursuit of waves.

How to get to Taghazout from Essaouira?

From Essaouira, you can take a bus in the direction of Agadir (either with Supratours or CTM ).

The journey between Essaouira and Agadir costs about 65 MAD but you will have to arrange with your driver to drop you off in Taghazout 20 minutes north of Agadir. You should do this upon purchasing your ticket just to be sure you will be dropped off at the right place.

If you have your own car or if you’re renting one, you can follow highway N1 south until you reach the surfing hub.

The distance between the two coastal towns is 154 km and the trip should take about two hours and a half. There are plenty of viewpoints along the way where you can stop to get great pictures of the coastline.

Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley is a limestone canyon filled with palm trees and pools of pristine turquoise water. It’s located in the mountains 40 minutes east of Taghazout.

How to visit Paradise Valley Agadir

How to get to Paradise Valley from Essaouira

To get there from Essaouira, you’ll first have to get to Taghazout. You can get there by bus or by your own car (see above).

Once in Taghazout, take a bus to Aourir. There you will find a roundabout that heads up to Paradise Valley.

If you walk up this road for a few minutes you’ll see some shared taxis and they can bring you all the way to Paradise Valley for 25 to 50 MAD (this is the price per person, not for the full taxi).

This small city north of Essaouira is quite famous for its appearance. It has massive Portuguese fortifications and a very interesting architecture that is unlike any other Moroccan city.

Although it’s not a huge holiday destination, it is quite popular among the Moroccans who go there to enjoy small resorts facing the sea.

How to get to El Jadida from Essaouira?

There is a daily CTM bus that leaves from the CTM terminal in Essaouira to El Jadida. It takes about 4,5 hours to reach the northern city and a ticket costs 110 MAD.

If you have your car and want to drive there, simply follow the highway N1 towards the north. The distance between the cities is 255 km and the trip should take 3h45.

One small note I would like to add at the end of this guide is how useful an Arabic phrasebook has been for me to get by around Morocco.

I highly recommend getting your hands on the Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook .

It is packed with all the essential words and phrases you will need on your trip to Morocco and will help you in every situation — from finding a hotel room to ordering tajine or joining the local festivities, this book will cover almost every situation you could imagine.

The photos in this post were taken with the  Lumix GX9 , the ideal camera for street photography. I used the following lens:  Panasonic Lumix G Vario Lens, 14 – 140mm, f3.5-5.6 .

I hope this guide to Essaouira will help you and make your stay in this fishing town more enjoyable.

Have you been to Essaouira already? What did you like the most about this town? Are you planning on going soon and do you have more questions?  Let me know in the comments below.

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More morocco travel resources:.

• What you need to know before you go: 23 Travel Tips for Morocco
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• Morocco City Guides: Fez , Tangier , Essaouira , Chefchaouen , Rabat , Meknes , Marrakech , Casablanca , Agadir
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• How to get to the Akchour Waterfalls from Chefchaouen
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• Surfing in Morocco – The best surfing spots in Morocco
• How to visit Paradise Valley in Agadir
• What to wear in Morocco: Complete packing list for Morocco
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• Books about Morocco: 10 Great Novels set in Morocco

6 thoughts on “14 Best Things to do in Essaouira Morocco, the Complete Guide to Morocco’s windy city”

This was good to read. Too bad I haven’t found on my travel to Morocco, but at least I can use these tips when I go back!

Hi Chrissy, we’re very happy to hear you enjoyed our article about Essaouira. If you ever go back to Morocco, you should definitely visit this lovely city! It’s one of our favorite destinations in Morocco 🙂

Hi Niko, I just miss the chance of seeing this place like you did. So, hoping to have a good experience in my second visit.

You will love Essaouira Agness! 🙂 It really is a lovely city!

Thank you very much for helpful and for exciting me to elect them for the Morocco excursion!

You will love Essaouira Agness 😀 We’re glad we could help you prepare your trip to Morocco.

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Tours from Essaouira

First, we offer Tours from essaouira  , a range of services to assist couples, families, and groups from around the world in planning your route in detail.  Our clients are essential to us, We strive to provide the best for you to make sure your stay is an enjoyable time in our beautiful country. Come and enjoy the experience with us.

Nomad Morocco holidays  offer a wide range of activities, Excursions & Tours All Around Morocco. Explore the magic of the Imperial Cities. the rolling dunes of the Sahara Desert – the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains.

We’ll help you assemble the cultural itinerary or trekking excursions of a lifetime! Our sample Morocco Tours will give you an idea of the various tour possibilities. We pride ourselves in not only our unique trips and customer responses. Also, We provide good quality services to ensure that you enjoy your Morocco holiday or vacation while exploring the wonderful landscapes – historic sites, and the unique and inviting culture of the Berber people.

we invite you to discover our amazing tours from Marrakech and share with us Morocco’s culture, landscapes, food …

Essaouira desert Tour 5 days

Whatever you want from your essaouira tour, our team of expert travel designers is ready to help

7 days desert tour Essaouira

Nomad Morocco Holidays invites you to discover our amazing Tours from essaouira and the Sahara desert

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Tour from Essaouira to desert

Best Tours from Essaouira

Essaouira is a city in western Morocco known for its beautiful beaches, old medina, and colorful port. There are many tours available from Essaouira that allow visitors to explore the surrounding area and learn about the city’s history and culture. Some popular options include:

Historical and cultural tours of the medina: These tours typically take visitors through the narrow streets of the old city, showcasing the city’s rich history and traditional Moroccan architecture.

Beach and coastal tours: Essaouira is home to some of Morocco’s best beaches, and there are several tours available that take visitors to these beautiful stretches of sand. Some tours also include activities such as camel rides and sandboarding.

Wine tours: The region around Essaouira is home to several vineyards, and there are several tours available that take visitors to these vineyards to sample the local wine and learn about the wine-making process.

Nature and wildlife tours: Essaouira is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, and there are several tours available that take visitors to explore the surrounding countryside and observe local wildlife such as birds and monkeys.

Cooking classes: Many tours from Essaouira include cooking classes where visitors can learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes.

There are many tour operators in Essaouira offering a wide variety of tours, so it’s worth shopping around to find the one that best fits your interests and budget.

Places to visit in Morocco

• Marrakech : Known for its vibrant markets, stunning palaces, and the famous Djemaa el-Fna square.
• Fes : Home to one of the world’s oldest universities and an enchanting medina (old town) with narrow winding streets.
• Chefchaouen:  A picturesque town with blue-painted buildings nestled in the Rif Mountains.
• Casablanca : Morocco’s largest city, famous for its modern architecture, and the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.
• Essaouira : A coastal town with beautiful beaches, a charming medina, and a thriving arts scene.
• Atlas Mountains : Ideal for hiking, trekking, and exploring traditional Berber villages.
• Sahara Desert:  Experience a unique adventure by visiting the vast dunes, going on a camel trek, and spending a night in a desert camp.

These are just a few highlights, and Morocco has much more to offer regarding history, culture, and natural beauty. Remember to research and plan your trip according to your preferences and interests.

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12 BEST day trips from Essaouira

Posted on Last updated: February 12, 2024

From a short taxi ride out of town to a three hour drive, here we cover the best day trips from Essaouira.

There are so many things to do in Essaouira , but if you’re staying a week or more, or perhaps using Essaouira as a longer-term base for your Morocco travels (indeed Essaouira is a popular destination in Morocco for digital nomads ), you may be looking for some ideas for day trips from Essaouira. Although we wouldn’t blame you if you just wanted to chill around the medina sipping mint tea and taking long sunset walks along the beach; Essaouira’s chilled out vibes are very easy to slip into!

But if you do want to explore more of the beautiful Moroccan countryside and coastlines around Essaouira, or perhaps venture further afield to explore a Moroccan city, then here we’ve rounded up for you the best Essaouira day trips.

Self-driving is the easiest way to travel for a day trip from Essaouira. But if you don’t have your own wheels, we have provided other transport options for each destination suggested. Please note that any prices quoted here were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change.

Alternatively, why not join a tour with Lou’s Rides who organised day trips into the Essaouira countryside to meet local people and guide you off the beaten track.

If you have more time, you may want to follow our 5-day Agadir to Essaouira road trip itinerary which takes in many of the suggested Essaouira daytrip suggestions below, including Diabat , Sidi Kaouki and Taghazout.

The below map shows the locations of the best day trips from Essaouira.

READ OUR GUIDE: Diabat Distance from Essaouira: 4km (10min drive)

Four kilometres south of Essaouira’s medina is the dusty, sleepy village of Diabat . This is the easiest day trip from Essaouira being only a ten minute drive or beach stroll away.

Back in the early 1970s, Diabat (and Essaouira) was firmly on the hippie trail, solidified by a visit from the legendary musician, Jimi Hendrix, in 1969. He may have only visited for a couple of days (in fact, apparently he wanted to buy Diabat), but this was a good enough reason to open a Jimi Hendrix café and hotel in the village, which are still open today.

Diabat sees only a small fraction of the tourists compared to Essaouira, and the hippie communes are long gone. But if you are visiting Essaouira during the high season months of  July  and  August  and want to escape the crowds, Diabat is the place to come. Visitors only tend to come here for a  quad biking  or horse riding tour, or they may be staying at the  Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa  (which is actually in Diabat rather than Essaouria) and tend to stick to the confines of luxury.

But one of the top things to do in Diabat is to visit the ruins of Dar Sultan Palace , nestled amongst the sand dunes between village and the beach. It has been rumoured that Dar Sultan Palace inspired Jimmie Hendrix to write  Castles Made of Sand .

Getting to Diabat

It’s a very pleasant walk along the shoreline from Essaouira to Diabat (when the river between the two places isn’t flowing). From Diabat beach there’s a wide stone track that leads up to the village (1.5km).

Otherwise, you can flag down a petit taxi from Essaouira to take you to Diabat (read our guide to taking  petits taxis in Essaouira ). Taxis won’t take you along the track to Diabat beach though. Between Essaouira and Diabat, the fare is fixed at 30DH. 

Diabat to Essaouira walk

Escape the hustle and bustle of Essaouira’s medina with this 5km walk from Diabat to Essaouira medina via Dar Sultan Palace, the beach, and a sundowner and one of Essaouira’s beach bars.

2. Sidi Kaouki

READ OUR GUIDE: Sidi Kaouki Distance from Essaouira: 23km (25min drive)

Sidi Kaouki is a surfing beach, 30 minutes drive south of Essaouira. It’s a beautiful spot, but the secret is out on this sandy stretch and you will find a handful of basic restaurants, and locals offering camel and horse rides along the beach.

A large abandoned building stands at the northern end of the sandy beach. This is actually the shrine and pilgrimage site of Sidi Kaouki, a 19th-century marabout (a Muslim religious leader and teacher), and who this Berber village is named after. To the north of this shrine are rock pools to explore, and to the south is the long sandy swathe of beach.

The main reason tourists visit Sidi Kaouki is for the surfing. Indeed the surf here is much stronger than Essaouira beach . There’s a surf shop next to the restaurants, adjacent to the car park, if you want to hire a surfboard or boogie board, or perhaps have lessons. Or if you just wan to relax, hire sun loungers and a parasol on the beach, 50DH for a pair (although laying your towel out on the sand is free). 

Getting to Sidi Kaouki

The easiest way to get to Sidi Kaouki from Essaouira is to take a Grand Taxi. You will need to get to the Grand Taxi station, which is next to the main bus station in Essaouira. Click here for the Google Map point. There is a flat fee of 15DH per person, or 90DH for the whole taxi (i.e. 6 people), to Sidi Kaouki. To get back to Sidi Kaouki, arrange a collection time with your driver. 

Alternatively, you can take a public bus from just outside Bab Doukkala. Head to the blue ‘ Lima Bus, Essaouira ‘ sign on the right as you exit Bab Doukkala and take the Lima bus, Line 2   (7DH per person).

3. Had Draa market

READ OUR GUIDE: Had Draa market Distance from Essaouira: 30km (25min drive)

Had Draa is a dusty, non-descript village in the countryside around Essaouira. But on Sunday mornings it comes alive with the largest markets in the region. It’s a fascinating insight into local culture and enables you to discover authentic rural life in Morocco.

Animals and produce have been traded for centuries at Had Draa Souk, and is the place to come if you need to pick up a camel, goat, or donkey (do check your Ryanair baggage allowance though). There’s also an on-site halal abattoir and stalls selling grilled-meat kebabs.

Aside from livestock, there’s everything from baskets, to fresh fruit and vegetables, carpets, clothes, kitchenware, and much more.

Market sellers arrive from sunrise to set up and much of the cattle selling takes place in the early hours. However, the market is still bustling from 9am to 12pm, so don’t worry about missing breakfast to get there.

Getting to Had Draa market

Local buses leave from outside Bab Doukkala to Had Draa (ask around on a Sunday morning), or take a Grand Taxi from the Grand Taxi station. Either way it’s 10DH per person.

4. Ida Ougourd market

READ OUR GUIDE: Ida Ougourd market Distance from Essaouira: 20km (25min drive)

If your visit to Essaouira does not coincide with the Sunday market at  Had Draa , the next best option in the region is Ida Ougourd , held every Wednesday. Set on a hillside, the market is separated into distinct areas: a large open fruit and veg market spills out in front of the mosque, a Halal abattoir will be found down a little alleyway, and animals are traded in a walled square. There’s even a donkey park (as opposed to a car park).

The market starts from 5am, but is still going around 9am. Between 10am and 11am it’s starting to wind down, and by noon it’s finished.

Getting to Ida Ougourd market

Local buses leave from outside Bab Doukkala to Ida Ougourd (around 7am on Wednesday mornings), or take a Grand Taxi from the Grand Taxi station. Either way it’s 7DH per person.

5. Val d’Argan

READ OUR GUIDE: Val d’Argan winery Distance from Essaouira: 25km (25min drive)

People are often surprised to hear that there has been a vineyard in Essaouira since 1994. Just 25 minutes along the road from the centre of Essaouira to Marrakech is Domaine du Val d’Argan .

Baked by the desert and benefiting from the trade winds off the Atlantic, Domaine du Val d’Argan is the first and only Moroccan vineyard exclusively dedicated to grape varieties of the Rhône Valley. Over the past 20 years, the vineyard has grown from 5 to 50 hectares, with 13 different grape varieties from the Rhône Valley.

Visitors are welcome for wine tasting, or to enjoy Moroccan cooking accompanied by the wines harvested on site. There is also bed and breakfast accommodation available, with guest rooms spread around the gardens with a swimming pool.

Email in advance to reserve your wine-tasting session. The price is 200DH and includes tasting:

• Le Val d’Argan Blanc (white wine)
• Argania du Val d’Argan Blanc (white wine)
• Le Val d’Argan Rosé (rosé wine)
• Le Val d’Argan Rouge (red wine)
• Argania du Val d’Argan Rouge (red wine)

Wine-tasting session times are:

• 11am to 11:30am
• 2:30pm to 3:00pm
• 3:00pm to 3:30pm

Getting to Val d’Argan

There is no shuttle service to the Val d’Argan, so visitors need to make their own way over (a Grand Taxi or private driver). Expect to pay 300DH for the return journey.

6. Les Jardin by Villa Maroc

READ OUR GUIDE: Day pass at Les Jardins de Villa Maroc Distance from Essaouira: 24km (20min drive)

If your Airbnb, riad, or hotel in Essaouira doesn’t have a swimming pool, how about treating yourself to a day pass at a swimming pool?

Les Jardins de Villa Maroc is stylish, small resort, nestled in the Swiri countryside, just off the road to Marrakech, and offers a day pass (11am to 5pm, 320DH per person) for visitors to use the heated swimming pool and dine at the restaurant. This is the sister hotel to Villa Maroc , Morocco’s oldest riad-hotel situated in the heart of the medina.

A transfer from Essaouira’s medina is included in your day pass fee. The BBQ buffet lunch spread is fantastic.

Getting to Les Jardins de Villa Maroc

A transfer from Villa Maroc in the medina is included in your day pass. This is arranged on booking.

7. Hôtel Domaine de L’Arganeraie

READ OUR REVIEW: Hôtel Domaine de L’Arganeraie Distance from Essaouira: 11km (20min drive)

As an alternative option to Les Jardins de Villa Maroc , Hôtel Domaine de L’Arganeraie is an equally beautiful setting and also offers a day pass for non-guests to use their heated pool.

Hidden off a dusty road through the village of Ghazoua, Hôtel Domaine de L’Arganeraie is just a 20 minute drive from Essaouira.

The heated pool is larger, and as the day pass (11am to 6:30pm) to use the pool is slightly cheaper (from 100DH per person), it’s popular with families. The lunch menu is a good selection including pizzas, burgers, tagines, and vegetarian options.

Getting to Hôtel Domaine de L’Arganeraie

On booking, a transfer can be arranged for your from Essaouira (100DH, priced by car rather than person).

READ OUR GUIDE: Things to do in Safi Distance from Essaouira: 124km (2 hour drive)

Rarely on the tourist radar, the coastal town of Safi just a two hour drive north of Essaouira , is famed for its pottery. Indeed, a visit to the Pottery Quarter is one of the top things to do in Safi , Morocco. Although with it’s Portuguese history and coastal location, we believe there is more to this sleepy town and is worthy as a full day trip from Essaouira.

Being an industrial town, Safi is admittedly not as picturesque as Essaouira, and perhaps why it’s off the beaten tourist trail in Morocco. But its Portuguese history provide pockets of interest, including Cathédrale Portugaise, Qasr A Bahr, and the Kechla. Plus a wander around the medina feels far less touristy that Essaouira, and for surfers, Safi provides another excellent surf spot along Morocco’s Atlantic coastline.

En route to Safi from Essaouira, its worth stopping at Oualidia , a sleeping fishing village (renowned for shellfish) spread across a crescent-shaped lagoon with soft sand and gentle waters.

Getting to Safi

If you don’t have your own wheels, a Grand Taxi is the next best option.

CTM also operates a regular bus service between Essaouira and Safi. At the time of writing, the first CTM bus leaves Essaouira at 10am (arriving 12pm) and the last bus leaves Safi at 5:15pm (arriving 7:15pm). The bus station in Safi is south of the town centre, so you will need to get a petit taxi when you arrive (expect to pay 10DH). Once you’re in the town centre, everything is is walkable.

9. Taghazout

Distance from Essaouira: 152km (2.5 hour drive)

Taghazout is characterful surf town just north of Agadir. With its hippy / back-packer vibe, and restaurants hugging the coastline, it’s a wonderful place to spend the day. You can also hire boogieboards for the kids to play in the surf. Hours of fun!

The wind isn’t as strong in Taghazout compared to Essaouira, but the beach is very small and compact. It’s one of those Moroccan towns where there isn’t really a lot to do, but there’s just a really lovely vibe, and for this reason alone makes it a worthwhile day trip from Essaouira.

Getting to Taghazout

Hiring a car or a driver is really the only way to get to Taghazout from Essaouira.

10. Paradise Valley

Distance from Essaouira: 186km (3.5 hour drive)

Paradise Valley is a stunning hidden gorge with ponds to paddle and swim in. Further downstream are cafes along, and even in , the river serving the usual orange juices, tagines, and western food.

As you driver through Taghazout to get to Paradise Valley, it’s worthwhile combining the two for a day trip from Essaouira.

Head to this Google Map point for parking, it’s then a 15 minute walk down to the gorge. Plan to arrive either early in the day or evening if travelling during school holidays as it does get rather busy.

Getting to Paradise Valley

Hiring a car or a driver is really the only way to get to Paradise Valley from Essaouira. Although if you are staying in Agadir, many of the hotels offer a day tour to Paradise Valley.

Distance from Essaouira: 175km (3 hour drive)

Many visitors to Morocco choose between Agadir or Essaouria for a beach holiday as they are the two obvious choices. However, these two Moroccan beach towns offer a very different vibe. Agadir is geared more towards package holiday tourist wanting a sun and pool holiday, whereas Essaouira offers a deeper cultural connection to tourists with its traffic tree medina and working fishing port.

In all honesty, Agadir is not the best representation of Morocco, and you would be forgiven for thinking you were on the Spanish Costas. An earthquake in 1960 destroyed most of the city, which has since been rebuilt into a large grid pattern with concrete being the preferred material.

So why come to Agadir? Well firstly, the long stretch of sandy beach is more sheltered that Essaouira, and Agadir enjoys a slightly warmer climate. If your visit to Essaouira has combined with very gusty winds and you would like to enjoy some calmer days sunbathing on the beach, it may be worth venturing down to Agadir.

Secondly, if you love shopping for a bargain, Agadir has one of the largest and liveliest souks in all of Morocco, Souk El Had. Set in a grid pattern and all undercover, it’s relatively easy to navigate and cool in the summer months. This timeless souk sells absolutely everything; electronics, food, clothes, hardware, toys, the list is seemingly endless. Just be prepared to haggle hard.

Thirdly, Agadir is home to Crocoparc , a superb reptile park and a must if visiting Agadir with kids . The entire park is exceptionally laid out and it is teeming with Nile crocodiles swimming and sunning themselves around a large lagoon. You will also find iguanas, tortoises, snakes, and a very cool cactus garden.

Getting to Agadir

If you don’t have your own wheels, you could arrange for a Grand Taxi to drive you (expect to pay 600DH each way).

The cheapest option is to take the CTM bus . However, at the time of writing, the earliest bus leaving Essaouira to Agadir is 14:30, which arrives at 17:30; not ideal times if you’re planning a day trip from Essaouira and not planning on staying overnight.

However, if you have more time, why not make it into a longer road trip and follow our 5-day Agadir to Essaouira road trip itinerary , which also stops off at Sidi Kaouki, Imsoune, and Taghazout enroute.

12. Marrakech

Distance from Essaouira: 185km (3 hour drive)

Many people visit Essaouira as a day trip from Marrakech. It therefore makes sense that you can do a day trip the other way around, from Essaouira to Marrakech! Admittedly, it will be a long day as it’s a three hour drive each way. But if you are basing yourself in Essaouira for a week or so, a day trip to Marrakech is very doable.

Essaouira is far more chilled and relaxed than Marrakech, so if your only experience of Morocco thus far is of Essaouira, be prepared for an assault on the senses, especially in the heart of the medina; motorbikes whizz at speed down the narrow alleyways, shops spill out on to the streets, donkeys dragging carts squeeze through the bustling thoroughfare, and this is all before you’ve reached the exotic fanfare of Jemaa el-Fnaa (the main square) with it’s snake charmers, street food, musicians, and teeth sellers (yes, teeth sellers). If you’re visiting Marrakech with kids , do take care with little ones when walking around.

Spend your morning wandering the medina, shopping and browsing, with lunch on a rooftop restaurant overlooking Jemaa el-Fnaa. Then in the afternoon, to escape the hustle and bustle of the media, dive into Jardin Majorelle, Le Jardin Secret, or Bahai Palace for some peace.

If you are visiting Essaouira with kids , a worthwhile day trip from Essaouira is the brilliant Oasiria waterpark in Marrakech. Here are a number of slides, a big wave pool, a very long lazy river, a climbing wall that runs alongside a pool, and a whole section devoted to small kids, complete with a pirate ship and more slides.

Getting to Marrakech

To  travel from Essaouira to Marrakech  you can either hire a private transfer (your accommodation host will be able to help you with this), Grand Taxi (expect to pay 600DH each way), or travel by  bus  (which is the cheapest option, especially for single or couple travellers).

The first Supratours bus to Marrakech from Essaouria leaves at 7am and arrives into Marrakech at 10am. The last bus back leaves Marrakech at 7pm and arrived to Essaouira at 10pm. It’s a long, but very doable day trip from Essaouira. Although there are early return buses if you prefer.

However, f you are visiting  Essaouira with kids , you may find that a private transfer is easier and more cost effective for a family. 

Click here  for further information on getting from Marrakech to Essaouira.

Explore Essaouira ebook

Updated for 2024, the Explore Essaouira ebook is the only travel guide you need for exploring Essaouira . It is jam packed with inspiration on what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and also includes a step-by-step self-guided walking tour (with photos). 

This is a PDF download for use offline and on the go (and ad-free!). Save it to read on the plane to Morocco, download to your phone to follow the self-guided walking tour around the medina, or print it off at home before you leave on your adventures and highlight all the bits you want to remember for your visit.

If you have found this website useful for planning your Essaouira adventures, you can show your support by  buying Jenny a coffee . Thanks so much!

Before your go, check out these useful reads for your visit:

The best things to do in Essaouira

Essaouira walking tour (self-guided)

Day trips from Essaouira

How to get around Essaouira

The best restaurants in Essaouira

The best hotels in Essaouira

Essaouira travel FAQs: everything you need to know before your visit

A brief history of Essaouira

GET A PRIVATE ROOM FOR £1 ON SELECTED TRIPS

Morocco Express: Marrakesh, Essaouira and the Desert

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The trip in a nutshell

Our adventures in morocco are running safely.

Following the recent 6.8 magnitude earthquake near Marrakech, we're relieved to report the safety of our community, including customers, guides, and partners. 

Our thoughts are with Morocco's affected population. Departures remain uninterrupted as a testament to our commitment to Morocco and local partners. From October 2023, trips may be modified to avoid affected areas, prioritising WeRoaders' safety and local recovery efforts. Your safety and aiding local communities remain paramount to us.

While we understand these are worrisome times, it's vital to keep exploring this amazing destination. Tourism is a lifeline for many local communities in Morocco. 

Embark on a journey to the enchanting country of Morocco on this five-day express tour . Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality that this country has to offer. Explore the vibrant and bustling streets of Marrakech , where you will discover the ancient medina and colorful souks. Take a step back in time and experience the traditional way of life in the city, which has remained unchanged for centuries. Get a taste of the desert life as we head to the Agafay Desert, where you will spend a night in a tented camp and enjoy a bedouin dinner under the stars. This is a true desert experience that you will never forget. On the next leg of the tour, we will move to the Atlantic coast and explore the charming town of Essaouira . Known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches, Essaouira is the perfect place to soak up the coastal vibes of Morocco. Don't forget to catch the sunset, which is not to be missed.

This five-day tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Morocco in a short period of time. From the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the peaceful coastal town of Essaouira, this tour will give you a taste of the many different sides of Morocco. You will soon see why Morocco has been fascinating travellers for centuries.

Express : jam-packed itinerary to make the most of the few days of holiday allowance you have.

Physical rating

LOW - this itinerary is easy-going and any extra sports or activities are entirely optional - minimum physical effort is required.

Entry requirements

For UK nationals, please visit the gov.uk website. For all other passport holders, please refer to your national government website.

Arrival and departure

This trip will begin and end in  Marrakech.  Aim to arrive on the first day by 5pm - on the last day you are free to leave whenever!

Accommodation

Little hotels or riads, and a tented camp for the night in the desert.

The no-sharing room option is not available for all departures.

The first hotel will be shared with you at least 2 days before your departure by your Travel Coordinator!

What's included

4 nights accommodation in shared rooms

All breakfasts

Walking tour with local guide in the Medina of Marrakesh

Local Experience : an unforgettable night in a typical tented camp in the desert with a Bedouin dinner

Minivan with driver from day 2 to day 4

Cooking class and lunch in Essaouira

Travel Coordinator services

Free cancellation with 100% refund up to 31 days before departure

Are you travelling with someone else? A private double room is included!

On this trip you're guaranteed a private double room at no extra charge when booking for 2 people, subject to availability. When checking out, don't add it to your basket, we will automatically include it for you!

Welcome to Morocco!

First stop the desert, from the desert to the ocean, essaouira and marrakesh, goodbye morocco.

The travel coordinators

Our travel coordinators are chosen because they are people like you. Not only are they the best travel buddy you could hope for, but they're trained professionals guaranteed to show you a travel experience like never before

The temperature can vary a lot in Morocco. It will likely be hot in Marrakesh and the desert, particularly during the summer, but it can get a little colder in the evenings, especially by the sea in Essaouira. So pack lightweight, breathable items and some layers to put on when you need them.

Info to know

Our trips are led by a Travel Coordinator who has been specifically trained by us to lead group travels to ensure you have the best time. A WhatsApp group with all travel participants will be created two weeks prior to departure by your Travel Coordinator.

Visas and Vaccinations

Before booking, please ensure you check what documents, visas, and vaccinations are required to enter the country you are visiting. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Arrival and Departure Times

We always advise trying to get to the meet-up point for the first day of your tour by 5pm. On the last day of the tour you are free to leave whenever you want!

Backpacks are mandatory to allow easy transfers - we recommend a 45L backpack for our trips.

Local Culture

During Ramadan from February 28th to March 29th 2025, our itinerary may be adjusted due to changes in the opening hours of public places. We'll rely on packed lunches and dine in private areas during the day, as part of our commitment to respecting local traditions and immersing ourselves more deeply in the culture.

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Currently trying to decide if we should book a multi day tour to see the Sahara region with a day trip to Essaouire, or spend more time in Essaouira and look closer to Marrakech , like Agafay, for a desert stay.

If we choose an option closer to Marrakesh for the desert, that leaves us with some other days for overnight days outside the city center. There are so many alluring options. We’d love to hear suggestions for things you love or places we should avoid.

Many thanks for your thoughts and ideas!

7 replies to this topic

"Currently trying to decide if we should book a multi day tour to see the Sahara region"

I suspect you are looking at the big dune areas of either Erg Chebbi near Merzuga or the Erg Chigaga near M’Hamid. Both these places are not in the Sahara desert. They are 100’s of kilometers from the Sahara desert.

But if you just want spectacular dunes and a nice desert experience, both Ergs woukd be amazing. I like the Erg Chebbi by Merzuga much better. Plan for 4 or 5 days to do this round trip from Marrakech . With the 3 day trip , you have one day’s just after breakfast to well after dark drive and one only most if the day drive. So you barely get to see the dunes for more than an hour or 2 in daylight.

The Agafay is not a desert but an area of dirt where little grows (an area of mud if it is raining).

You can do the Erg Chebbi desert trip but plan 4 days for it - lots of great places to visit on the way there and back

@comicman Do many hotels in Marrakech struggle to keep the AC operating well? I’m a teacher, so June, when we let school out for summer holidays is really my only window for travel to locations far from home. We are coming as early in the year as we are able. I’m following other posts in the forum closely as I’m having a terribly difficult time choosing between riads in Marrakech.

The more expensive places should have good air conditioning. As riads common areas are open it would be hotter there.

Why I do hotels mid May to mid September.

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Essaouira to Erg Chegaga desert tour – 5 days

Essaouira to Erg Chegaga desert tour 5 days – overview:

Wouldn’t the perfect Moroccan holiday be to combine a relaxing beach vacation with a desert adventure?

On this one, you travel south along the Atlantic, walk along Taroudant’s massive ramparts, visit the local, government-run saffron museum in Taliouine and watch Berber rug making in Taznakht,

At the luxury camp, there is a camel ride into the dunes, and later Berber and nomad music around a campfire. The following day is an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wild and still untouched desert of Erg Chegaga.

In Tamegroute, you have a chance to learn about the unique techniques of the local pottery as well as the unique history of the Qoranic school and library of exquisite manuscripts.

One of the most spectacular visits of this trip is to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kasbah Aït ben Haddou, and later Kasbah Telouet; the two most famous Kasbahs in the country.

Depending on your further schedules, you can choose to end this desert tour in Essaouira and we can adjust the itinerary accordingly. Let us know!

Essaouira to Erg Chegaga tour – highlights:

• Travelling along the Atlantic Coast and through traditional Berber villages all along the way
• Touring the massive ramparts of Taroudant and visiting the local saffron museum in Taliouine
• In Taznakht learning about the ancient art of Berber rug weaving passed from mother to daughter
• Going on a full day’s camel trek in the dunes to appreciate the wild desert of Erg Chegaga
• Learning about the special techniques at the local pottery with its iconic green glaze in Tamegroute
• Visiting Kasbah Tamnougalte which is still partially inhabited for hundreds of years
• Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kasbah Aït ben Haddou and Kasbah Telouet

What is included in this desert tour from Essaouira:

• Transport in a private air-conditioned vehicle; 4×4 Toyota Prado TX and fuel
• Pick-up from your hotel in Essaouira and drop-off at your riad in Marrakech
• Experienced local English/French/Spanish/Italian-speaking Berber and nomad driver/guide
• Accommodation in air-conditioned rooms/suites with private bathroom
• Two nights in a luxury desert camp in Erg Chegaga with a private toilet and shower
• All meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner – with vegetarian and vegan options available
• Full-day camel trekking around the dunes of Erg Chegaga
• Luggage service to the camp and all accommodation
• Berber drumming and music
• Free time to explore the sites such as Ait Ben Haddou, for walks, photos, and tea/coffee breaks
• The opportunity to ask the driver to stop when and where you wish
• Entrance fees and local guide
• Tea, coffee, and mineral water in the desert

What is not included:

Know before you go:.

• You can customise this desert tour from Essaouira to Erg Chegaga to suit your interests better
• According to weather conditions from May to the end of September, it may be necessary to find an alternative to the second day of trekking in the dunes
• Here is a downloadable packing list to help plan for your Moroccan desert tour
• We require a 30% deposit of the total price to confirm the booking while the balance is paid to us in the office in Ouarzazate
• The balance is payable through PayPal, bank transfers in Europe, by credit card, or cash (USD, euro, GBP, or MAD)
• To start this tour from Marrakech, please visit From Desert to Sea 5 days
• Our prices can be subject to an increase over the busy season, and, in particular, the Christmas and New Year’s Eve period

Prices per person

Essaouira to erg chegaga desert tour – itinerary:, 1st day: essaouira – taroudant.

Your desert tour from Essaouira to Chegaga Desert will start with the driver fetching you from your hotel at 8.30 in an air-conditioned 4×4 car. You drive south past isolated Atlantic Coast beaches and traditional Berber villages towards Agadir, one of Morocco’s best-known beach resorts. From here you continue eastwards going inland to Taroudant. You will travel along the Souss River Valley with all its argan trees growing on the hilly slopes at the side of the road.

Upon your arrival in Taroudant , known as the “The Little Marrakech”, you have an opportunity to explore its beautiful walled medina and photograph its massive ramparts. At night, a beautiful riad offers a traditional dinner and a relaxing night’s rest.

2nd day: Taroudant – Chegaga dunes

After breakfast in your riad, you continue to Taliouine , the most well-known saffron growing area in Morocco.  Here, you can visit the government-run and interesting little museum dedicated to explaining all about the cultivation of this “golden” crop. The scent of saffron as you enter is strong, even though the precious pistils are enclosed in small glass jars. Later you will cross the two passes of Tizi-n-Tighatine and Tizi-n-Ikhsane, arriving in Taznakht , where you can learn all about Berber women’s rug-making.

From Taznakht, you turn south driving past fascinating rock formations and wider, flatter fields as you approach the edge of the Sahara Desert. As you drive further and further, the excitement mounts as to when exactly you will get to the desert.  Finally, there it is, the last village before the desert, Foum Zguid , and you set off out into a new, exciting and unknown world – the vast Sahara.

First of all, you need to cross the now dry Lake Iriqui where you can stop to hunt for fossils, if so inclined. Then, the itinerary takes you past the various features of the desert; dunes, stony desert with larger stones, getting gradually smaller as you drive further into the sea of sand.

At the Erg Chegaga dunes the spectacle of the sunset from the top of the dunes is quite amazing and memorable sight; a highlight of your desert trip.  Back again at the foot of the dunes, you have dinner and spend the night in a camp of luxury tents. First, though there is a nomad and Berber drumming and music around a fire camp.

3rd day: Erg Chegaga

After breakfast at the camp, you have a unique opportunity to join a guide on a full-day desert trek to explore the wild and expansive dunes of Erg Chegaga . You are accompanied by camels, which you can ride should you wish. They will carry everything needed for your lunch to be prepared out among the dunes by your camel man. Many say this is the best meal during the whole of their Moroccan adventure.

Your nomad guide and camel man will help you navigate the varying landscapes of the Sahara Desert, “hamada – flat desert”, “erg – dunes”, and oases. And who better to explain about the life of desert nomads as they themselves grew up in this environment? Urban dwellers will be full of awe at how people survive this harsh environment. You will not meet a single nomad who does not long for these dunes, their peace, calm and exquisite beauty.

You will walk for about three hours in the morning to reach the oasis where you will stop for lunch. In the afternoon, another three-hour camel trek through the rolling dunes leads to the highest dunes of Erg Chegaga.

Back at the campsite, you can enjoy your well-deserved dinner under the starlit sky of the Sahara Desert. Once again you will share a relaxing evening of Berber music and drumming with the nomads and other guests. Later at night, your private luxury tent offers a well-earned night’s repose.

Weather conditions and temperatures in South Morocco are rarely stable.  Should it become too hot from May through to the end of September, we may have to advise you not to attempt the trekking in the dunes. We can discuss an alternative stay elsewhere.  

4th day: Erg Chegaga – Ouarzazate

If you get up early, you can watch the spectacle of the sunrise, when the colour of the dunes and the play of shadows are an awesome sight.

After breakfast, the itinerary crosses another 60 km of the desert road to arrive in M’hamid , the first village at the very edge of the desert and the beginning of the paved road north. After a tea break, you continue to drive up the Dra’a Valley , the longest valley in Morocco.

In Tamegroute village, you have a chance to learn about the unique way local clay is treated and can visit the kilns used for this unique pottery, which is famous throughout the country. The Quranic library is a fascinating place to visit and absolutely one of a kind with its wonderful manuscripts and long history as a Quranic school.

Lunch is scheduled in Zagora , the largest oasis in the Dra’a Valley, particularly famous for its 44 different types of dates. Afterwards, you follow the ancient route of the caravans travelling by fortified Kasbahs and green oases as far as Agdez . Here, you will visit Kasbah Tamnougalte with a local guide. It is the oldest kasbah in the Dra’a Valley and is still inhabited by a few families.

Then you cross the Anti-Atlas Mountains and Tizi-n-Tinfifite pass to arrive in Ouarzazate where you have dinner and spend the night in an authentic riad.

5th day: Ouarzazate – Marrakech or Essaouira

After breakfast, the road takes you to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, one of Morocco’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the film set for many Hollywood cinematic works. It is the most famous Kasbah in Morocco and some of the buildings date back to the 17th century, so is a must-see on any desert trip to the south. You can explore the kasbah on your own but to understand more of its significance, it is recommended that you go with a local guide. He can explain its interesting history whilst you photograph its adobe-built housing.

From here, you drive north along the beautiful and inspiring Ounila Valley , full of Berber villages and gardens, as well as fortified Kasbahs. You continue to Kasbah Telouet , situated right in the midst of the mountains and once the seat of the last Pasha of Marrakech, El Glaoui .

The kasbah now stands in ruins exposed to the wind and the rain, having been abandoned and plundered after the last Pasha’s property was confiscated for his having plotted the King’s exile. Wait to be pleasantly surprised by the traditional interior decoration as you reach the farthest end of the Kasbah.

Regrettably, the entire Kasbah is now closed because of the harm from the earthquake in Morocco in September 2023. However, it’s well worthwhile looking at the outside with a local guide to learn about its interesting history.

At the end of the afternoon, you cross the High Atlas Mountains and the much straightened out Tizi-n-Tichka pass with its fantastic views and finally, arrive in Marrakech. Your Erg Chegaga Desert tour from Essaouira comes to its end when your driver escorts you to your hotel.

It is possible to end the tour in Essaouira instead and to adjust the itinerary accordingly.  Let us know if this is important to you.

Map of Essaouira to Erg Chegaga Tour:

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the erg chegaga desert from essaouira.

The journey from Essaouira to Erg Chegaga roughly covers 630 km (390 miles), with an overnight stop in Taroudant on the first day. The drive from Erg Chegaga to Marrakech spans a distance of around 510 km (315 miles). On the return journey on the fourth day, you have an overnight stop in Ouarzazate. 

You will have several stops at sites of interest, for walks, tea / coffee, and whenever desired or necessary throughout the trip. If you opt to end the journey in Essaouira rather than Marrakech, this would entail an additional two – three hour drive on the final day.

Can we choose the accommodation for this trip?

Yes. We would be delighted to book your preferred choices among our business partners based on availability. If you choose a different option, we will look into securing that for you, although it could involve a cost increase.

Will our tent in the desert camps have a private bathroom and shower?

You spend two nights in a luxury desert camp in the Erg Chegaga dunes where your tent comes equipped with a private bathroom and shower with running hot water.

Do the tents in the Erg Chegaga camps come with AC/ heating?

During the colder months from mid-December to late January, the nights can be chilly, necessitating heating. From June to early September, the Sahara Desert experiences extremely high temperatures and most of the camps close down. So, we would recommend changing the destination to Merzouga instead. 

As only a few camps in Erg Chegaga are equipped with a reversible a/c, please inform us in advance if you wish to have any of these amenities in your tent. It could mean an increase in the price!

Will there be electricity outlets inside our tent for charging phones and cameras?

The desert camp in Erg Chegaga is equipped with electricity outlets for charging phones, cameras, and other electronic devices, frequently in the form of USBs.

Is there Wi-Fi or internet connectivity available during the desert tour?

Wifi access is available in the guesthouse in Taroudant and Ouarzazate. However, there is none in the camps in Erg Chegaga because the signal strength is limited or intermittent due to the remote location. 

If internet access is essential during your desert tour, you could consider obtaining a local SIM card available at the airport on arrival or bringing a portable Wi-Fi device.

What should I wear for the camel ride?

We suggest you opt for loose clothing to avoid chafing. Don’t forget essentials like a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

How long is the camel ride in Erg Chegaga?

The standard camel ride typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, but it can be tailored to accommodate your preference. Please don’t hesitate to coordinate with your driver or the camp staff beforehand to ensure a personalised experience!

Can we skip the camel ride? If yes, then how do we get to the camp?

The Erg Chegaga trips can only be operated in a 4×4, so the driver will be taking you to the camp in the car.  Once you arrive, there is no need to take the camel ride if you do not wish to.

Is sandboarding included?

Yes, you can do as much as you want both in M’hamid and Erg Chegaga – just ask the camp staff for a board! 

May I take photos of local people on my tour in Morocco?

There are many local people, especially in rural areas, who are reluctant, or do not wish to have their photos taken. There could be various reasons for this; frequently shyness but also the unwillingness of many women to have their faces recorded.

So we ask our clients to seek permission from everyone first. Some people will agree, some will not and some will ask for money for you to do so but everyone will appreciate the request.

Where can I find the answers to additional questions?

Please visit our comprehensive frequently asked questions page which covers various topics. 

Alternatively, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly with any inquiries you may have. Our dedicated team of knowledgeable travel specialists is readily available to assist you and provide prompt, personalised responses to your questions.

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• PRIVATE MOROCCO DESERT TOURS
• SHARED DESERT TOURS
• PRIVATE MARRAKECH DAY TRIPS
• SHARED MARRAKECH DAY TRIPS

Private Day Trip From Marrakech To Essaouira

An exclusive escape to the Fishermen town of Essaouira

Enjoy a private day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira , a lovely and calm seaside town only two hours and a half away from Marrakech. First, visit the famous port with its blue boats and flocks of seagulls flying above, and let the sea breeze refresh you as you walk on top of the Skala du Port and along the 6km long sandy beach. Then, treat yourself to a delicious seafood lunch, and take a walk in the old Medina of Essaouira .

Marrakech to Essaouira Day Trip Highlights

• Discover the coastal town of Essaouira on a day trip.
• Admire a rare scene of goats climbing Argan trees.
• Learn about Argan oil processing at a ladies artisanal factory.
• Visit the Medina of Essaouira with its bastions and labyrinthine streets.
• Walk to the fishing port and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch.
• Enjoy a walk on the sandy beach of Essaouira.

Day Trip to Essaouira Itinerary

Marrakech → essaouira.

Start your Day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech at 08h00 AM. Cross the Houaz Plains towards the village of Sidi Lmokhtar just West of Marrakech. You will have a coffee break and continue past the unique Argan trees forest located in this area. It is where you will find goats climbing trees searching for Argan nuts, a wonderful and rare sight to behold. You can stop at a local cooperative that processes Argan oil before continuing to Val d’Argan, a vineyard established by a French wine connoisseur. Should you choose so, you can partake in some wine before leaving for Essaouira. Upon arrival, you will meet your local guide, who will walk you to the city. You will visit the Medina, the Mellah (old Jewish quarter), the Kasbah (old military bastion), and the fishermen’s port. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you will be free to enjoy the city, with its beautiful beaches and relaxed mood; enjoy a cup of coffee or mint tea at the famous Place Moulay Elhassan while listening to atmospheric Gnawa music played. After that, your driver will take you back to Marrakech. Your Marrakech to Essaouira day trip will end around 18h00, as your driver will drop you off at your hotel or riad.

Marrakech to Essaouira Private Day Tour Prices

• A/C modern vehicle driven by an English/French speaking driver.
• Local guide English speaking guide in Essaouira.
• Pick up and drop off at a location of your choice in Marrakech.

Not included

• Lunch & beverages.
• Entrance fees if any.
• Personal expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i expect on a day trip from marrakech to essaouira.

Expect a scenic journey to the serene coastal town of Essaouira, where you can explore its historic port, walk along beautiful sandy beaches, and enjoy the charm of its Medina. The trip combines cultural experiences with relaxing seaside ambiance.

How long is the drive from Marrakech to Essaouira?

The drive from Marrakech to Essaouira typically takes about two and a half hours, allowing you to soak in the views of the Moroccan countryside, including the unique Argan trees, known for their tree-climbing goats.

Is there a chance to learn about local crafts on the Essaouira day trip?

Absolutely! You can visit a local cooperative to learn about the production of Argan oil, a precious commodity in Morocco and an integral part of local artisanal crafts.

Will I have time to relax on the beaches of Essaouira?

Yes, the itinerary includes time to stroll and relax on the 6km long sandy beach of Essaouira. It’s the perfect way to unwind after exploring the town’s historic sites.

Are there dining options available during the Essaouira day trip?

You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant, offering fresh catches from the nearby port. It’s a culinary highlight not to be missed on this day trip.

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Viktor Kova?

Hassan was our driver on several occasions during our stay in Morocco, and he even took us on a day trip to Essaouira. He was always great at staying in touch and making sure we were punctual. What made the experience even better was his role as an excellent guide throughout our journeys. When we reached Essaouira, a wonderful guide was already there to greet us. We got the chance to make stops along the way to check out the Argan co-ops and see the goats – every single detail seemed to be perfectly organized. And a delightful bonus was the enjoyable conversations and music that accompanied us throughout the rides. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Hassan and Marrakech Desert Trips services – they really made our trip special!

Olivia Ramirez

We had a wonderful journey in a cozy vehicle, expertly driven by our guide, Abdel. He was incredibly knowledgeable and shared so much interesting information with us! When we arrived in Essaouira, we were greeted by our friendly local guide, Abdul. One delightful surprise was when we made a stop for some truly fresh mint tea and a tasty snack – it added a really nice touch to the experience.

Valentina Silva

Exploring the coastal city of Essaouira is a fantastic choice for a day trip from Marrakech. Our journey was made even better by Mohamed, our driver and guide, who provided us with plenty of interesting insights and was always polite throughout the drive. Once we arrived, the friendly local guide Ahmed showed us around the old city. He pointed out the fascinating history of the Jewish population that used to thrive here – a culture that has left its mark but has sadly faded over time. I highly recommend this experience. Enjoy!

Leila Nguyen

After enjoying two amazing day trips with Mohamed from Marrakech Desert Trips during our week-long stay in Marrakesh, we decided to include a trip to Essaouira with him as our guide. Mohamed’s knowledge and friendly demeanor had already impressed us. Unlike our previous day trips, the journey to Essaouira had a more relaxed pace, focusing on exploring the Medina – the ancient part of the city. Our local guide, Hamid, who introduced us to the old city, displayed genuine passion and a deep understanding of his hometown. He went above and beyond to show us lesser-known corners of the city, all without any pressure to visit shops. During our travels to and from Essaouira, Mohamed engaged us in insightful conversations about Moroccan life and the sights we encountered along the way.

Jackson Bennett

I had the pleasure of joining Hassan on my second day trip, and just like the first time, it was fantastic. He truly is an exceptional guide – warm, welcoming, and always ready to assist. Right on time, he picked me up from my hotel and had organized a fantastic local guide for our time in Essaouira. Exploring the old city was a delight, with its charm fully embraced. Later, we savored a lovely beachside lunch before making our way back to Marrakech. Working with this company has been a wonderful experience, and Hassan’s expertise shines through. He’s simply the best!