Review: A Private Two-Day Escape from Marrakech All The Way To Essaouira, Which is Otherwise Known as Mogador

Thinking of swapping the lively, maybe even frantic, vibe of Marrakech for some calming ocean breezes? A two-day private trip from Marrakech to Essaouira, or Mogador as some might say, could be just what you’re seeking. So, actually, I had the opportunity to check this adventure out, and let me share some thoughts, and probably a few helpful insights if this sounds like your type of experience.

First Impressions: Kicking Off From Marrakech

Setting off from Marrakech, early, before sunrise even, provides a jolt to the system, particularly when you have got the sounds of Djemaa el-Fna echoing from the previous evening kind of bouncing about in your head. You might expect some sort of chaos, yet things get going in a surprisingly simple fashion. Meeting the driver’s easy enough, typically right at your riad or hotel, that is, as long as it’s accessible by vehicle, you see? First impressions do count, and the vehicles often neat and properly air-conditioned, which is greatly appreciated, I suppose, especially during those hotter months.

The drive initially presents a chance to just observe the countryside shift gradually. That dry, dusty landscape near Marrakech eventually gives way to somewhat greener scenery as you start getting near the coast. There could be a stop or two planned, quite possibly at an argan oil cooperative, it is almost touristy yet insightful. Getting a sense of how argan oil makes it from tree to bottle can be pretty neat, actually. If you are the shopping type, then brace yourself, you know?

It’s worth specifying, just maybe, with the tour operator beforehand precisely what sort of stops you feel like. That way there aren’t too many unwanted diversions at these sorts of locations, which are basically tourist traps to purchase wares from the store. So, too, It’s about discovering that nice middle ground where you get the insight into the locale, but without being constantly sold to. This private journey option, seemingly, permits greater flexibility. Or, as my mom says, “You get what you pay for.”

Arrival in Essaouira: First Contact

Arriving in Essaouira is, actually, kind of like stepping into another reality. That atmosphere is instantly more laid-back compared with Marrakech’s frenzy. That air feels salty, very much a tonic. The city’s charm is quite clear straightaway, by having those blue-and-white buildings along with the fortified walls. The Medina feels very walk-able and less difficult than Marrakech’s labyrinthine alleys, it is almost more accessible.

First things first, many private tours include some sort of guided walk around the Medina, that gets you orientated pretty rapidly. Your guide might, often, show you the key locations, tell a little bit about the history of the place, that blend of Berber, Arab, and European cultures. These are, you know, people that have molded Essaouira’s character over many centuries. Check out the Skala de la Kasbah, a fortification offering sweeping ocean views, or, too, pop along to the harbor to witness the fishing boats returning with their catch, it feels authentic.

Lunch in Essaouira must mean fish, right? Many small restaurants offer super fresh seafood. Just take your pick from the catch-of-the-day grilling before you. The ease is nice, definitely refreshing after Marrakech’s push and pull. Basically, savor that sea breeze as you take pleasure in an unwinding lunch.

Deeper Exploration: What To Do In Essaouira

Having a free afternoon gives a chance to discover at a more relaxed pace. Those beaches in Essaouira are famous for a reason. While it is almost breezy, therefore great for windsurfing, it is still nice for just a stroll. Watch the local children play soccer or simply just observe the Atlantic waves roll in, it’s great therapy, you see.

For history lovers, there is always the Essaouira Ramparts. Wandering along these old sea defenses, one gets wonderful views and some good insight into the town’s defenses against invaders gone by. The ramparts are incredibly well preserved, seemingly, the ideal location to snag pictures.

The Medina holds tons of shops to explore, yet in a way that does not overwhelm in the fashion of Marrakech. There are workshops selling thuya wood products. It’s an interesting craft that has been local to the spot for centuries. Perhaps, find some spices, local art or some clothes, the range tends to be broad and typically reasonably priced.

Where To Stay: Riads Or Hotels

One of the beautiful elements about Essaouira involves its broad array of accommodations, frequently boasting greater character than standard hotels. You see, a Riad, typically, a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an indoor courtyard, is an amazing spot to bed down.

These Riads vary hugely; some are super luxurious, while others are generally more budget-friendly. What they will often share is that personal service as well as a certain aesthetic that’s profoundly Moroccan. Numerous Riads have roof terraces in which it’s almost amazing to enjoy a morning breakfast, or sit up high at night.

Alternatively, there are more modern hotels around if you feel like bigger pools and more standard amenities. These might, often, be slightly beyond the Medina itself, maybe, so it may affect the feel of being fully immersed in Essaouira. Your selection frequently hinges on personal preference as well as the tour package that you choose.

Food Experiences: What To Eat?

Essaouira might, perhaps, be a total winner with foodies, especially assuming you enjoy fish. One really need to get seafood here – it is, clearly, as fresh as can be and usually incredibly tasty.

The harbor zone hosts several small stands along with restaurants when you can select your fish then get it cooked up at the spot. I would have the grilled sardines – these are basically delicious, extremely cheap and genuinely representative of the local diet. If sardines don’t do it for you, look at some of the sea bream as well as seafood tagines.

To sample more of Moroccan cooking, discover a lot of the smaller eateries dotted around in Medina. One could try a traditional tagine. It includes chicken along with lemon or beef together with prunes – or test couscous. Plenty of restaurants can have western selections assuming you need it, however why not have a go at the local food while you’re around?

Day Two: Winding Back To Marrakech And A Bit More

That second day probably involves an unwinding morning inside Essaouira then travelling to Marrakech in the afternoon. Perhaps enjoy one last wander around, grab an espresso inside a cafe. Also pick-up various keepsakes – then start travel, yet so based on your private tour you could squeeze in a bit more!

The travel typically retraces your original path, which is probably the time for a little self-reflection on every thing you did plus experienced. So maybe require the operator to use alternative paths offering distinct panoramas to relieve things; it actually depends what may be feasible.

Getting back into Marrakech, well, one could easily find the transformation pretty stark. That calmness from Essaouira seemingly makes that intensity from Marrakech much more noticeable. You will be filled with happy memories plus, maybe, find appreciation in the city to which you are headed!

Is A Private Tour Really Worth The Investment?

Therefore, let’s quickly speak as to perhaps the value behind a private tour, shall we? They typically will cost much more, definitely, rather than booking onto the group trip but that extra is frequently invested wisely especially if you favor control as well as a personalised adventure.

• Flexibility: It’s possible to modify the plan with increased simplicity plus perhaps cease at whatever point attracts the attention along the path, so you aren’t bound to the rigid program.
• Personal Attention: You’re sure to get far more focused help originating from that guide – it can provide the ability to have that inquiries clarified comprehensively!
• Comfort: Having your own car or vehicle implies far more personal space along with control of heat or sound that could prove especially inviting when travelling more afield.

On the other hand, team travels might just be much cheaper coupled with offering opportunities where you get introduced when combined with fellow tourists.

Eventually you weigh up something to match individual prerequisites together with spending, though concerning a straightforward leisurely convenient method regarding getting to Essaouira then surely some kind of private excursion holds true value.

Here is an easy summary of key insights from my trip:

• Seafood Delight: Essaouira is awesome if you enjoy sea food, be certain so you could give grilled sardines as well as the local seafood tagine try
• Riad Stay: When it is in budget, a place to stay within that riad enhances complete authentic experiences by giving you authentic, more passionate ambience
• Beaches and Breezes: Don’t neglect a laid-back afternoon walking regarding a shore – air offers amazingly therapeutic characteristics.
• Medina Exploration: Whereas slightly lower occupied compared with Marrakesh often the Medina inside Essaouira allows even much more relaxed shopping excursions; check Thuya woodwork areas.
• Flexible Touring: Private travels render substantial flexibility yet are definitely pricier in comparison with organization options; estimate requirements cautiously preceding arranging your arrangements!

With consideration towards some respite against much more demanding actions available by Morocco; taking those two-day journey via Marrakesh proper till Essaouira gifts rest plus exploration which should definitely interest different tourist, in conclusion. Remember and enjoy its wind from shores together within the laidback way regarding this particular stunning shore community; perhaps plan correctly at the moment!