Exploring the Atlantic Coast of Morocco with the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip

Marrakech is one of the best cities to visit in Morocco with a unique blend of old and new cultures, offering a wide variety of activities to explore the true essence of the city. While there, visitors often wonder what they can see and do in Marrakech. One popular activity is the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip.

What is the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip?

The Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip is a guided tour that takes you on a journey to the coastal town of Essaouira from Marrakech. It is a full-day trip that allows you to explore the laid-back town and its various attractions at your own pace. On the tour, you get to wander through the labyrinthine streets of the medina, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch in the port, take a walk around the 16th-century ramparts, and soak up the sun on the more than 6 miles of beaches. The full description of the tour can be found here.

What are the highlights of the tour?

The highlights of the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip include exploring the laid-back town of Essaouira at your own pace, wandering the labyrinthine streets of the medina, enjoying a fresh seafood lunch in the port, walking around the 16th-century ramparts, and soaking up the sun on more than 6 miles of beaches. You will also get to transfer by air-conditioned vehicle across west Morocco, enjoying views of the arid landscape and argan trees en route. The tour offers a unique blend of attractions for those seeking to explore more of the Moroccan culture and its coastal history.

How long is the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip?

The Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip is a full-day tour, taking around 10 hours to complete. It departs from Marrakech at around 8 AM and returns to Marrakech around 6 PM on the same day. The length of the tour is perfect for those who want to explore the town and its various attractions within a day without having to stay overnight.

What is the cost of the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip?

The cost of the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip varies depending on the provider, but it typically costs around $80 to $110 per person. It is important to note that the tour cost may not include additional expenses like your food and drinks or additional activities that you may want to participate in while on the tour.

What should I wear for the tour?

The climate in Marrakech can vary depending on the season, but it is generally warm or hot throughout the year. The coastal town of Essaouira is somewhat cooler due to the Atlantic winds. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and footwear that are appropriate for the weather. It is ideal to carry a light jacket or sweater for the cooler temperatures in the evening. If you plan on visiting the beach, carry a swimsuit and a towel as well.

What are the recommended activities to do in Essaouira?

Essaouira is a town located on the Atlantic Coast of Morocco with plenty of things to see and do. Besides the destinations covered in this day trip, other recommended activities include:

• Visiting the famous fish market and sampling delicious seafood
• Exploring the citadel of Essaouira
• Visiting the art galleries and workshops of local artists
• Participating in water sports like kite-surfing and windsurfing

Are there any souvenirs I can bring back from Essaouira?

Essaouira is famous for its handicrafts and unique artisan shops. Some recommended souvenirs to bring back from Essaouira include:

• Essaouira’s famous argan oil
• Hand-painted ceramics
• Handmade jewelry
• Weaved baskets and rugs

Conclusion

If you are planning on visiting Marrakech and looking for a unique way to explore the coastal town of Essaouira, then the Essaouira & Atlantic Coast Full-Day Trip is an ideal activity to check out. The tour offers a unique blend of culture, history, and beautiful landscapes, allowing you to explore the town at your own pace. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and footwear, carrying a light jacket or sweater, and carrying a swimsuit and a towel if you plan on going to the beach. Book the trip now on GetYourGuide.com to explore more of Moroccan culture and the Atlantic coast!

An Insider’s Guide to Essaouira, Morocco

If you’re planning a trip to Morocco, Essaouira is a must-visit destination. This charming port city on the Atlantic coast offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression. From hidden gems to cultural experiences, here’s an insider’s guide to Essaouira:

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While the historic ramparts, narrow streets, and bustling port are the obvious attractions for tourists, there are plenty of lesser-known spots worth exploring. For example, the Gnawa music festival, a fusion of West African rhythms and Moroccan melodies, is a lively celebration of Essaouira’s cultural heritage. Another spot you’ll want to check out is the small fishing community of Moulay Bouzerktoun, famous for its windsurfing conditions and bohemian vibe. And finally, make sure to visit Hafa Cafe, a laid-back spot with a terrace overlooking the ocean and a charmingly bohemian atmosphere.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Essaouira is known for its fresh seafood, so it’s no surprise that the food here is delicious. For a local experience, head to the Essaouira fish market where you can choose your catch from the morning’s offering and have it grilled on the spot. For a sit-down meal, make a reservation at La Table by Madada, a restaurant that serves up traditional Moroccan fare with a contemporary twist. And don’t forget to try the city’s famous pastry, the chebakia — a sweet, sesame-crusted pastry that’s especially popular during Ramadan.

Cultural Experiences: Tradition and Art

Essaouira is rich in artistic and cultural traditions, which is evident in its many art galleries, music festivals, and cultural celebrations. One such celebration is the Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival, a four-day event that showcases traditional Gnaoua music, as well as a blend of international sounds. You can also visit the Essaouira School of Art, which offers courses in painting, drawing, and sculpture, and has a gallery of student work.

Local History: Legends and Lore

Beyond the history of the city’s ramparts and fortified walls, Essaouira has many stories to tell. One of the most famous is the story of Hendrix’s visit to Essaouira, where he found inspiration for his psychedelic masterpiece “Castles Made of Sand.” The city is also home to the Skala de la Ville, an 18th-century fortification that was used in the Orson Welles film Othello.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Adventures

If you’re looking to do something different, Essaouira has plenty of unique adventures to offer. How about a horseback ride along the beach, or a camel trek through the dunes? You could also take a cooking class to learn about Moroccan cuisine and culture, or visit an argan oil cooperative to see how the famous oil is made. Whatever you choose, Essaouira is sure to captivate and enchant you with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.