Embark on an Essaouira day trip from Marrakech to explore a hidden gem along the Atlantic coast. Also called Mogador, this charming city is famed for its fortified Medina and vibrant fishing port. With its artistic, bohemian vibe and pleasant climate year-round, Essaouira has become a favorite escape from Marrakech. The scenic drive takes just 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect day trip. Daily excursions depart from Marrakech, and only one participant is needed to secure your spot.
8:00 AM – Departure from Marrakech
Your Mogador day tour starts with a pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech. Relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as you journey west towards the coast. Along the 2-hour 30-minute scenic drive, enjoy the changing landscapes, including the famous argan tree groves, where you might spot goats climbing the trees.
10:30 AM – Arrival in Essaouira
Upon arrival, you'll feel the fresh Atlantic breeze as you begin your Day trip to Essaouira, also known as Mogador. Your first stop is the harbor, where you’ll see the traditional blue fishing boats and a bustling fish market.
11:00 AM – Visit the Medina
Wander through Essaouira’s UNESCO-listed Medina, known for its distinct architecture and artsy atmosphere. Stroll through narrow, vibrant streets filled with artisan shops offering handmade crafts, jewelry, and local products like argan oil. Don’t miss the impressive city walls and the historical Skala, which offers stunning views of the ocean.
12:30 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood at a local restaurant near the port or in one of the charming cafes lining the Medina’s streets. Essaouira is renowned for its seafood, so this is the perfect chance to savor dishes like grilled sardines or a traditional fish tagine.
2:00 PM – Free Time and Beach Walk
After lunch, take some time to enjoy the beach or continue exploring on your own. You can relax by the shoreline, try camel or horse riding along the beach, or visit the local art galleries and museums.
3:30 PM – Departure from Essaouira
Bid farewell to Essaouira and begin your return journey to Marrakech. You’ll stop briefly at an argan oil cooperative, where you can learn about the production process and shop for high-quality products.
6:00 PM – Return to Marrakech
You’ll arrive back in Marrakech, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation, bringing your day trip to a close.
This itinerary offers a balance of guided sightseeing and free time, making it perfect for those looking to experience the unique charm of Essaouira.
The itinerary you see above is only a sample of what your Morocco Holiday could look like. Each traveler has different preferences, and we believe your tour should reflect that. If this plan doesn’t match what you’re envisioning, just let us know, we’ll adjust the route, pace, and activities to suit your interests and the time you have available.
The final price of the tour is depending:
Transportation costs are fixed, so the more people sharing the vehicle, the lower the price per person becomes. For an exact, detailed quote, simply contact us; we’ll be happy to provide one.
Check out our most popular Morocco tour routes:
Marrakech Tours, Fes Tours, Casablanca Tours, Tangier Tours, Errachidia Tours and Ouarzazate Tours, each offering a unique way to discover Morocco.
We recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months in advance if your travel falls during peak season (Spring/Autumn), especially if you want to secure the best desert camps and specific Riad accommodations.
Yes, absolutely! Every tour is private, allowing you to fully customize your itinerary. Whether you prefer more time in the desert or wish to visit the Atlantic coast before returning, we can tailor the route to your interests.
The most popular desert tours are 3 to 4 days. The 3-day tour is the minimum needed to reach the major Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga and return comfortably to Marrakech. Shorter tours often go to Zagora, which has smaller dunes.
Our drivers will drop you off at the nearest accessible point to your Riad/hotel (as cars are restricted inside the medina). We recommend using an official guide or your Riad staff for initial navigation assistance within the city walls.
While rare, snow can occasionally affect the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m) in winter. Our drivers are experienced in mountain driving and will always prioritize your safety, adjusting the route or timing if needed.
Absolutely. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) at the time of booking, and we will ensure the hotels and desert camps are prepared for your needs.
Most standard tours focus on the Desert and Imperial Cities (like Fez). However, you can easily customize your tour to include coastal towns like Essaouira or Agadir.
