From Marrakech: Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Marrakech to the enchanting coastal city of Essaouira, where rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning Atlantic vistas await.

From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania
×
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania

Overview

Your adventure begins with a comfortable drive through the picturesque Haouz plains, offering glimpses of Morocco's diverse landscapes. A brief stop in the village of Chichaoua allows for a refreshing coffee break, setting the tone for the day ahead. As you continue, you'll traverse the argan forests, where a visit to a women's cooperative provides insight into the traditional production of argan oil, a staple in Moroccan culture.

Upon arrival in Essaouira, the city's historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons with its labyrinthine streets, bustling souks, and artisan workshops. Stroll through the vibrant markets, where the scent of spices fills the air, and discover unique handicrafts, from intricate woodwork to handcrafted jewelry. The medina's architecture reflects a blend of Portuguese, French, and Berber influences, offering a visual feast for history enthusiasts.

A visit to Essaouira's lively fishing port provides an authentic glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen. Observe the traditional blue boats returning with the day's catch and experience the vibrant atmosphere as fishmongers prepare for the bustling market. The port's historic fortifications and medieval cannons stand as guardians over the Atlantic, offering panoramic views and a sense of the city's storied past. 

No trip to Essaouira is complete without indulging in its renowned seafood cuisine. Numerous seaside restaurants offer the freshest catch, from grilled fish to succulent shellfish, prepared with local spices and flavors. Dining by the ocean, with the sound of waves and the scent of sea air, creates a truly immersive culinary experience that delights the senses.

The expansive sandy beaches of Essaouira invite leisurely strolls along the shore, where the invigorating Atlantic breeze provides a refreshing respite. For the more adventurous, the consistent winds make Essaouira a popular destination for windsurfing and kite surfing. Whether you choose to relax on the sand or engage in water sports, the beach offers something for every traveler. 

As the day draws to a close, you'll depart Essaouira with a collection of cherished memories, from the historic medina to the serene beaches. The journey back to Marrakech offers time to reflect on the day's experiences, arriving in the evening with a deeper appreciation for Morocco's coastal treasures.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1, Child x 0

Adult

Age 8-25+

Child

Age 0-7

Excursion Itinerary

Marrakech
Start Activities

Van (Transfer)
Duration: 3 Hours

Your journey starts with a scenic drive through Haouz plains, a coffee break in Chichaoua, and a visit to an argan oil cooperative, immersing you in Morocco's diverse landscapes and culture.


Essaouira
Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing, Scenic views on the way,
Duration: 2.5 Hours

Join a popular day trip from Marrakech to Mogador. Explore Essaouira’s old city, visit the port, sekkala, medina, Jewish town, and savor a fish lunch by the port.


Essaouira
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walk, Scenic views on the way,
Duration: 2.5 Hours

Visit a women’s argan oil cooperative, see argan-making, snap photos at the Marin gate, explore Mogador’s medina, Jewish Quarter, Sqala, and enjoy Morocco's largest argan forest.


Van (Transfer)
Duration: 2 Hours

As the day ends, you'll leave Essaouira with memories of the medina and beaches. The return to Marrakech offers time to reflect, arriving in the evening with a deeper appreciation for Morocco's coast.


Marrakech
Finish Activities

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Explore the UNESCO-listed medina of Essaouira, rich in history and culture.
  • Visit a traditional women's cooperative to learn about argan oil production.
  • Experience the bustling atmosphere of the historic fishing port.
  • Savor fresh seafood at local seaside restaurants.
  • Enjoy leisure time on the expansive sandy beaches, with options for water sports.

What's Included and What's Not?

Included

  • Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech.
  • Entry/Admission - Medina of Essaouira Formerly Mogador.

Not Included

  • Lunch and drinks.
  • Entrance fees.
  • Personal expenses.
  • Gratuities (optional).
  • Guide

Not Suitable For This Activities

  • People with mobility impairments
  • Wheelchair users

Not Allowed This Activities

  • Alcohol and drugs
  • Pets
  • Smoking indoors
  • Smoking in the vehicle

Important Information

What to Bring

Camera
Cash
Comfortable clothes
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Sunscreen

Information Before Booking

  • The drive from Marrakech to Essaouira is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way.
  • This tour involves walking; comfortable footwear is recommended.
  • Suitable for individuals with a moderate level of physical fitness.
  • Not recommended for those with severe mobility issues due to uneven surfaces in the medina.

Know Before You Go

  • Lunch is not included; however, there are numerous dining options in Essaouira to suit various budgets.
  • Entrance fees to certain attractions, if any, are not included and should be paid on-site.
  • The itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions and other factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Please inform the tour operator of any specific dietary requirements or medical conditions in advance.

4.9/5

34
Reviews

About This Activity

Free Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot and pay nothing today

Duration 10 Hours

Check availability to see starting times.

Driver

English

Pickup Optional

We pick up all travelers fom their accommodations or nearest place for the transport from your Riad.

Location

Marrakech Morocco

Book Today

From

€13.00

per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Zara Christi - Qatar

We had an incredible day with Mohamed Ait Ouaghlad, who was our driver. He kept us well-informed throughout the entire trip, sharing details about the culture and history of each town we passed through. His knowledge alone made the experience well worth the cost! Just a tip – make sure to bring ca...

Read More

Sebastian Velda - Spain

We were made to wait for more than 20 minutes. After that, we were taken to another location where we were placed in a minibus that was already full, so we had to sit separately. To make matters worse, the guide-driver didn’t speak Spanish, even though I had specifically requested a Spanish-speaki...

Read More

See More Reviews

Customer Reviews

All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.

Overall Rating

4.9/5

Based on 34 Reviews

Guide

4.9/5

Transportation

4.9/5

Value for Money

4.9/5

By Traveler Types
By star rating
Z
Zara Christi - Qatar
22 May

We had an incredible day with Mohamed Ait Ouaghlad, who was our driver. He kept us well-informed throughout the entire trip, sharing details about the culture and history of each town we passed through. His knowledge alone made the experience well worth the cost! Just a tip – make sure to bring cash, as we assumed a large restaurant would accept cards, but ended up needing to rush to an ATM.

Helpful? Yes

S
Sebastian Velda - Spain
16 June

We were made to wait for more than 20 minutes. After that, we were taken to another location where we were placed in a minibus that was already full, so we had to sit separately. To make matters worse, the guide-driver didn’t speak Spanish, even though I had specifically requested a Spanish-speaking guide. There was no explanation for any of this.

Helpful? Yes

J
Jai Braydon - Germany
14 July

We had a very enjoyable excursion with our guide, Mohammed Ait Ouaghlad! The town of Essaouira is delightful, with its vibrant narrow streets and the bustling fish market by the harbor.

Helpful? Yes

C
Cedar Tracy - United Kingdom
06 June

The experience was fantastic, and Mohamed, our driver, was incredibly friendly and helpful. The service was excellent. I would definitely come back.

Helpful? Yes

S
Soren Sinjin - France
23 July

Our driver, Yassine, arrived right on time at the meeting point in a very comfortable 4x4, along with another couple. He informed us that we would have a coffee break halfway to Essaouira. There was no pressure to visit any shops. We also had the option to stop at the Argan cooperative, but since none of us were interested, we decided to continue straight to Essaouira to have more time in the town. Along the way, Yassine allowed us to stop or slow down for photos. Once in Essaouira, we had four hours to explore the town and the harbor. It was a fantastic experience! Our return was equally punctual. Yassine was very helpful, knowledgeable, and had a great sense of humor. Highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

D
Deloris Delilah - Germany
13 July

It was a nice, small group. Yassine, our driver, was very friendly and more than happy to accommodate any requests we had. Overall, it was a wonderful and relaxed day!

Helpful? Yes

V
Vivian Chloe - Russia
26 July

A beautiful, beautiful city! The Medina, the seaside, and the fish market were all highlights. The trip was well-organized, and our guide was very friendly.

Helpful? Yes

D
Debby Candace - United Kingdom
13 June

A big thank you to the highly professional driver for our excursion to Essaouira. He was punctual and flexible, easily accommodating our preferences.

Helpful? Yes

C
Cori Giselle - Russia
23 July

The driver, Mohamed Ait Ouaghlad, was excellent. We had a wonderful day, and I will definitely return. Thank you to everyone. We are from Brazil and have been here for quite some time.

Helpful? Yes

S
Silas Brodie - United States of America
17 July

Hello, my friends. Today’s trip to Essaouira was truly special. We visited some beautiful, upscale locations, took some amazing pictures, and captured great videos. We even saw a lovely cat along the way. It was a very enjoyable trip, and I’m grateful for the experience.

Helpful? Yes

M
Miley Alonzo - United Kingdom
19 July

We had a wonderful day in Essaouira, such a beautiful city. The team was very friendly and pleasant. Khalid, our guide, was nice and always smiling, and Younes, our driver, was equally great. Thank you both!

Helpful? Yes

S
Sinclair Aviana - France
01 June

We had a fantastic day in Essaouira. Our guide Khalid was excellent, very pleasant, and always smiling. Younes, our driver, was highly professional and friendly. It was a superb team, and they made us want to return. I highly recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

W
Wilkie Jaidyn - Germany
22 July

Highly recommended! The trip was very enjoyable, thanks to Youness and Khalid. They made sure we had plenty of time to explore Essaouira and offered great advice along the way.

Helpful? Yes

M
Merlin Robin - United Kingdom
12 June

We had an amazing experience with Younes and Khalid. They were both extremely friendly, patient, and provided us with a lot of valuable information. I would definitely recommend them!

Helpful? Yes

J
Jaslyn Grenville - United Kingdom
21 May

An excellent tour guide and driver. Very friendly and approachable. I would highly recommend this experience. Five stars. The beach and Medina were beautiful, with so much to see and do. I would definitely do it again.

Helpful? Yes

H
Homer Marshal - United Kingdom
22 June

It was a stunning visit. If you're in Morocco, this city is a must-see. The driver was very helpful and kind.

Helpful? Yes

M
Magnolia Saige - United Kingdom
07 June

We had a wonderful trip to Essaouira with Mohamed Ait Ouaghlad. He shared many interesting details and helpful tips for exploring Essaouira and other nearby attractions. I highly recommend this experience.

Helpful? Yes

B
Berry Miracle - Denmark
08 August

Visiting Essaouira with Bahadi was an unforgettable experience. His deep knowledge of the local history and culture truly brought the city to life. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone planning a trip to Morocco.

Helpful? Yes

J
Jeri Colton - Russia
13 October

I had an amazing experience. Bahadre, our tour guide, was incredibly friendly and made the entire trip so enjoyable. Essaouira is a beautiful destination, and the Medina was lovely to explore. The beach was equally delightful. Attending Friday prayers at the mosque was a remarkable experience and added a unique touch of Moroccan spirituality to the trip. It’s a wonderful journey for people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

Helpful? Yes

A
Aloysius Hudson - United Kingdom
30 May
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania

There was great communication both before and throughout the day. Our driver, along with Bahadi, were very friendly and helpful, making the entire day calm and enjoyable. Essaouira is stunning – it's such a tranquil place to visit, with a charming Medina and harbor to explore. The four hours we had there felt like just the right amount of time to take it all in without feeling rushed. The freshly grilled sardines were definitely a highlight!

Helpful? Yes

M
Mora Richardine - United Kingdom
20 December
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania

The tour was enjoyable. We had 4 hours to explore Essaouira on our own. Essentially, we paid for transportation, and the guide informed us that we would have time to discover the small city at our own pace. The driver was very smooth in handling the vehicle.

Helpful? Yes

B
Briar Kelia - United States of America
13 October

I had high expectations for this tour. The communication leading up to the day was excellent, and most reviews were 5-star ratings with a few 4-stars. Sadly, the experience did not meet any of the expectations I had based on those reviews, which is why I chose to book this trip in the first place. The whole experience felt more like a bus ride between two locations rather than an actual guided tour. There was no tour guide present. After waiting for 10 minutes for our van, we had to walk a considerable distance beyond the promised pick-up point. Once we crossed the town, we saw multiple other tours coming and going. Eventually, we were packed onto a large bus with dozens of other passengers. We sat there for 40 minutes waiting to depart. When I asked why we were on such a large bus despite booking a "small tour," I was told that they had run out of smaller vans due to an unexpected number of bookings—over 200 people. I’m not sure how they didn’t anticipate that, especially since it was reservation-only. I’d recommend limiting the number of tours available for booking rather than overbooking and forcing people onto large buses without a guide. We stopped at a café/shop for what was supposed to be a 10-minute break, but it turned into a 30-minute stop. Then we visited a touristy argan cooperative, which was essentially a short sales pitch. Finally, we were dropped off in Essaouira with no guidance at all. I strongly advise against booking this tour.

Helpful? Yes

J
Jem Esmond - Germany
17 November

Our driver, Hassane, was excellent. He provided great advice and was very kind to everyone. I highly recommend him without hesitation. The small port of Essaouira is very charming, and it's a wonderful place to escape from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech for a day.

Helpful? Yes

B
Booker Peers - United Kingdom
13 October

We had a fantastic trip with Mustapha, who was always on time, friendly, and had a smile on his face throughout the entire day.

Helpful? Yes

J
Julius Victoria - Germany
13 November

This is an incredible trip, and if your driver-guide is Mohamed, you're in for a real treat. The journey will be both fun and engaging. The city itself is beautiful, peaceful, and welcoming.

Helpful? Yes

L
Letitia Geralyn - Denmark
29 July

This was a fantastic day trip to Essaouira. Mohammad was a wonderful driver and guide. Due to new local regulations, the stop to see the baby goats is no longer part of the tour. I do wish we had more time to explore the town, but overall it was a great day. I would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

S
Star Norah - United Kingdom
07 May

I had a wonderful time on the trip. He is friendly, patient, and a great driver. I will definitely return.

Helpful? Yes

A
Albin Jillian - Russia
10 April

If you're staying in Marrakech for a few days, Essaouira is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the ocean views while wandering through its charming streets. Our experience was made even better by our fantastic guide. He was always there when needed, offering us a lot of insight into the city's history, and kept us amused with his great sense of humor. I highly recommend this trip!

Helpful? Yes

T
Temple Patti - Denmark
19 November
From Marrakech:  Essaouira Day Trip The Ancient Mogador City and Coast | ®ExcursionMania

Our guide, Yassine, was polite and on time. Spending a few hours of your holiday in Essaouira is definitely worth it—it's a beautiful coastal town by the ocean. I highly recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

S
Sandie Jacqui - Australia
22 May

The day trip was very convenient, made even better by the amazing guide, Mohammed Ouzanzoul. He was very engaging and shared a wealth of information about the country and its people.

Helpful? Yes

M
Melba Tyron - United Kingdom
06 July

We had a wonderful day in Essaouira. The visit was short but enjoyable, and our driver was both friendly and punctual. A big thank you!

Helpful? Yes

A
Alisia Jean - United States of America
23 June

We traveled in a very comfortable car, complete with cushions in case you wanted to take a nap. The driver was polite and respectful, and he shared many interesting real-life stories when we asked. I gained a new perspective on what life must be like for the locals in the villages we passed along the way. Essaouira is a charming fishing village with lovely rooftop terrace restaurants and delicious fresh grilled fish, especially if you head to the actual fisherman’s market, past the gate near the ocean. There’s also a smaller, less crowded blue restaurant by the park that serves grilled fish, which is another great option. One thing I felt was missing was a guide who could share the history of the village and possibly demonstrate traditional and modern fishing techniques. Overall, it was a good trip and definitely worth adding to your list of things to do in Morocco.

Helpful? Yes

M
Mahala Sylvan - United States of America
13 July

The tour bus arrived on time and took us to all the places I had hoped to visit. However, the only downside was being dropped off in the main area of the Médina instead of back at my riad. This wasn't ideal, as it was 8 p.m., and as a solo female traveler, I felt uneasy walking back through the Médina to my riad. Other than that, everything was wonderful.

Helpful? Yes

A
Abegail Earleen - United Kingdom
23 October

We had a very enjoyable day trip to the coast by mini-bus. The experience was definitely worth the money, and Essaouira felt a bit more peaceful and relaxing compared to Marrakech.

Helpful? Yes

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