Essaouira Day Trip Review: Your Perfect Getaway From Marrakech

Thinking about escaping the heat and noise of Marrakech? A day trip to Essaouira, that breezy coastal town, might be just what you need. It’s very popular with travelers. Essaouira, which is sometimes called Mogador, offers a welcome change of pace with its attractive views, relaxed feel, and tons of history. My trip there, you know, very recently, gave me a firsthand experience of what makes this excursion worthwhile, and that is exactly what I’m hoping to share with you.

Why Choose Essaouira for a Day Trip?

Okay, so you might be thinking, “Why Essaouira when Morocco has got tons of spots?” Fair enough, really. But Essaouira, that it’s something special. The climate’s nice. Like, imagine a cool Atlantic breeze hitting your face after the super dry heat of Marrakech – definitely nice. That the medina is also surprisingly easy to deal with. I mean, instead of the intense haggling and constant bustle that you get in Marrakech, that it has a much more relaxed vibe. You are free to walk around without being badgered constantly.

That too, it’s got history in spades. The Portuguese originally fortified the town back in the 16th century, yet the Berber, Arab, and European influences, which give it a uniquely multicultural feel, are definitely still present. If you like photography, very, very nearly every corner offers a picture-worthy moment. It’s almost whether it’s the blue-and-white painted buildings, the busy fishing port, or people watching in a little café. Trust me, your Instagram will appreciate it.

Planning Your Trip: Tours vs. Going Solo

Right, the big question: tour or no tour? It tends to be that both have pros and cons, alright? Joining a guided tour, in a way, is super convenient, and that is true. Usually, anyway, that it takes care of transport, so that’s huge, especially if you’re not up for Moroccan roads. Guides often add a bit of info about the area, that you might miss if you’re just wandering by yourself. That’s just my opinion. However, like, you are on their schedule. So, spontaneity sort of goes out the window.

On the flip side, doing it alone, maybe, gives you freedom. Like, you could linger in a cafe a little longer, look for different things, or change your mind and do nothing but relax on the beach. You would have to arrange transport – maybe a bus or grand taxi – and figure out the schedule and routes, or whatever. For me, at least, that part is the adventure, that is kind of challenging, alright?

Basically, my recommendation is to pick a tour, or no tour, based on your comfort level and the kind of travel style you want. I picked the “doing it alone” route, really, which allowed me, surprisingly, to find some real hidden gems and avoid crowded spots. The Supratours bus, in my opinion, was comfy enough, basically, and that it was surprisingly easy to book online, alright? So I managed ok.

What to Expect on the Road

Regardless of whether you travel by tour bus or taxi, or any means of transport, very few people would say the ride from Marrakech to Essaouira is super short. It often seems that you should factor in about three hours each way. The scenery can be quite varied. To start with you go past that arid, almost desert-like landscape around Marrakech. After this it changes into the Argan tree area.

Keep an eye out for goats in trees – no, I’m serious. Very few who travel to Morocco ever actually believe this but some farmers train their goats to climb the Argan trees to get the nuts, that they can’t reach on the ground. Very, very ingenious. That most tour buses stop at an Argan oil cooperative, where you could find how they make the oil from these nuts and, well, obviously purchase some. It’s often the stop gives a bit of insight into traditional Berber practices.

Things to Do in Essaouira: Making the Most of Your Day

You got to Essaouira! So, how to make the best of that time? That medina is the place where it all begins. It may be a UNESCO World Heritage site, actually, and has those narrow streets, that are filled with shops, selling crafts, woodwork, and textiles. Remember that, Essaouira is really popular for its thuya wood products, so, you know, maybe grab a souvenir.

Next, go to the Skala de la Kasbah, it could be. The old fortress that offers views out across the Atlantic, it’s almost really impressive. You can sort of see why Orson Welles shot some scenes for his movie “Othello” there – like that’s a really good place for cinematic scenery. As a matter of fact, the harbor’s really busy too. Here it’s nearly you watch the fishermen bring in their catch, definitely fixing nets, and usually bargaining at the fish market.

That too, Essaouira’s a place that windsurfers and kitesurfers seem to absolutely love. Now, as I was saying, if you’re the active type, or not, that a stroll along the beach will definitely be fun. And yeah, do check out the local eateries. It’s almost they offer really yummy seafood. Grabbing grilled fish right at a stall near the harbor’s an absolute must.

Where to Eat: Essaouira’s Culinary Delights

Alright, so you are peckish! That is understandable, of course. Food in Essaouira can be just an experience on its own. Fresh seafood can be a must-try. So, basically head to the harbor, really, where the grills, usually, sizzle all day long. Pick what fish you prefer. See that it’s grilled immediately. The taste, the taste, of course, depends upon which herb mixture or marinade is used, and served to your table. As a matter of fact, it’s as fresh as it comes, anyway.

The restaurants inside the medina sometimes offer some really lovely, quieter settings and Moroccan style food. Very popular is a tagine, that slow-cooked stew, that, you know, comes with meat or vegetables. Couscous on Fridays might be a really good cultural experience. For something quick and budget friendly, you see plenty of little cafes, in a way, offering sandwiches and mint tea. Bargain away if it seems high!

Avoiding Tourist Traps and Scams

Obviously, just like most tourist spots, Essaouira, is nearly always where you could bump into tourist traps or possible scams, alright? Always fix your taxi price before starting your ride, okay? This will obviously prevent any inflated rates on arriving. Secondly, really, be aware of overly friendly people, those offering to be your “guide”. Now, as I was saying, while that could be genuine, of course, very often their actual motive is usually to get you to specific shops so they earn a commission.

If, actually, you aren’t happy to shop, just say no. With force if necessary. Bargaining, in a way, is anticipated in the souks. So don’t be frightened to negotiate to get the fairest value, in your eyes. Usually, you may be approached by somebody requesting that you take their photograph, yet, should this occur, do always agree your money up front or refuse to take the photo. The request can often lead to issues at the end.

What to Pack for Your Day Trip

Alright, that means that being properly equipped definitely makes the day so much smoother. That starts with sunscreen, since that Atlantic breeze can, maybe, make you think that the sun isn’t as strong as it is. Sunglasses as well as a hat are an absolute necessity. You will need both, so better take them.

Bring layers in clothing, if you want, really. The temperature sometimes changes noticeably throughout the day, that is quite unpredictable. Comfy shoes, really, are a total must, particularly as that means that you are probably doing tons of walking. A refillable water bottle will help that you keep hydrated without having to get bottled water everywhere. Of course, have some local money available if some shops might prefer cash to credit cards.

Final Thoughts: Is Essaouira Worth It?

So, the million-dollar question: Is a day trip to Essaouira, like, worth it, seriously? I mean, my vote is absolutely yes. It usually is just a great contrast to Marrakech. A much needed dose of fresh air and laid-back beachy atmosphere, it could be. In case you plan in advance, keep a lookout for any tourist traps, that is what most people do, so very, very easily this trip becomes just a high point of that time in Morocco.

That you do your research, stay hydrated, bring a jacket and embrace spontaneity. It might be an easy day trip that delivers awesome rewards!

I do hope you will enjoy your Essaouira trip soon.