Essaouira, also known as the “Windy City” due to its constant sea breezes, is a charming coastal town located 176.8 km (110 miles) west of Marrakech. A popular day trip from the bustling city, Essaouira offers a delightful escape with its laid-back atmosphere, historical medina, and beautiful beaches.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect on a day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira, including what’s typically included and excluded:

What’s Included:

• Transportation: Most day trips from Marrakech to Essaouira include round-trip transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
• Guided Tour: Many tours offer the services of a knowledgeable guide who will share insights into the history, culture, and landmarks of Essaouira.
• Free Time: You’ll have free time to explore Essaouira at your own pace, wander through the medina, relax on the beach, or enjoy a delicious seafood meal.
• Optional Activities: Some tours may offer additional activities such as a visit to an argan oil cooperative, a camel ride on the beach, or a boat trip to explore the Essaouira coast.

What’s Excluded:

• Food and Drinks: Lunch and any other refreshments are typically not included in the tour price. However, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes in Essaouira to suit all budgets.
• Entrance Fees: Entrance fees to specific attractions, such as the Skala Fortress or the Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum, are usually not included in the tour price.
• Gratuities: Tipping your guide is optional, but it’s a nice way to show your appreciation for their service.

Itinerary:

A typical Day Trip From Marrakech To Essaouira starts with an early morning departure from Marrakech. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, offering scenic views of the countryside along the way.

Upon arrival in Essaouira, you’ll likely embark on a guided walking tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina. The medina is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with shops selling traditional Moroccan crafts, carpets, and souvenirs. You can also visit the Skala Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore Essaouira independently. Relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. You can also try some of the delicious seafood specialties offered by the many restaurants along the beach promenade.

In the afternoon, you’ll start your journey back to Marrakech, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

Additional Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring sun protection, sunglasses, and a hat, especially during the summer months.
• Essaouira can be windy, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or scarf.
• Bargaining is expected in the souks, so be prepared to negotiate for the best price.
• Moroccan Dirham is the local currency, but some shops may accept euros.
• However, it’s always recommended to have some Dirham handy for smaller purchases and local transportation.
• With its historical charm, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Essaouira makes for a perfect day trip from the vibrant city of Marrakech. So, pack your bags, embrace the “Windy City”, and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gem of Essaouira.