A visit to a Moroccan spice market unlocks the secrets behind the traditional cuisine | Sue Badyari
A visit to a Moroccan spice market unlocks the secrets behind the traditional cuisine  | Sue Badyari
Essaouira Fort Morocco
Essaouira Medina Morocco
Typical riad accommodation used in Essaouira

Essaouira Sojourn

Unwind in Morocco’s laid-back coastal town where tradition meets sea breeze, at your own pace

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 1 review

3 Days from

$390 USD

Trip Code: ESS
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement
$80 USD
Solo Traveller Supplement
$180 USD

Duration

  • 3 Days

Activities

  • Day Walking

Accommodation

  • 2 nights riad

Meals

  • 2 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

1 / 10

Discovery and Cruising

Trip highlights

  • Wander the artisan-filled laneways of Essaouira’s UNESCO-listed medina
  • Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, from harbour to souk
  • Stroll the historic ramparts with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean
  • Savour freshly grilled seafood at the local harbour market
  • Discover a unique blend of Berber, Portuguese and French influence
  • A peaceful contrast to Marrakesh – perfect for winding down your Moroccan journey

Overview

Heading west from Marrakesh, we head to the magical port city of Essaouira. Unwind by the sea in Morocco’s breezy whitewashed port town where laid-back charm meets rich history. This 3-day sojourn is an ideal way to decompress after time in Marrakesh. Travel by public coach to the Atlantic coast and settle into your traditional riad within the old fort walls. With time at leisure, you’ll be free to discover the town’s highlights: walk the impressive sea ramparts, explore quiet medina laneways dotted with local craftspeople, or relax in a café as seagulls swirl above. Essaouira’s mix of Berber, Portuguese and French heritage gives the town a distinct character, while its seafood is as fresh as it gets. Don’t miss a simple, local grilled lunch on the harbour’s edge. Whether you’re looking to explore or just slow down and breathe the sea air, this short stay offers the perfect change of pace. Return to Marrakesh for onward travel feeling refreshed and recharged.

Itinerary

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This morning, you will be collected in Marrakesh and transferred to the Marrakesh Bus Station. You will board the Supratours public bus service to Essaouira, which takes approx 3 hours. The bus departs at 9:00am or 10:45am. Upon arrival into Essaouira at the Supratours Bus Station, you will walk to your riad located within the fort walls (approx 15 mins walk). The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. You have free time to experience this magnificent town, wander through the fascinating labyrinth of streets, explore narrow lanes, enjoy the squares and cafes, along with the medina. Overnight: Riad Mimouna (or similar).

Meals: Nil

Today you have a wonderful, relaxing day in Essaouira where you are free to do as you please. With its Greek-like whitewashed walls and its mixture of Portuguese, French and Berber fortifications, Essaouira has a completely different flavour to Marrakesh, and other destinations in inland Morocco. Essaouira is a handicraft centre, particularly for artisans working with sandal, cedar and lemon wood. You can take a relaxing walk along the Atlantic coastline. Fishing is also one of the main industries of the town and the fresh catch is a specialty of the restaurants and the inexpensive harbour side fish markets are a must for lunch. The shopping is great and so is the beach with numerous water sports on offer. Overnight: Riad Mimouna (or similar).

Meals: B

After breakfast this morning, you will walk from your riad to the Supratours Bus Station (approx 15 mins walk). You will board the Supratours public bus service to Marrakesh, which takes approx 3 hours. The bus departure times depend on your flight time in Marrakesh. Upon arrival into Marrakesh, you will be collected from the bus station and transferred to the airport or your hotel. If you have stored luggage at your hotel in Marrakesh, then the transfer to the airport will be via the hotel. Trip arrangements end on arrival at the airport.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

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What’s included?

Included

  • 2 breakfasts
  • 2 nights in traditional riad on a twinshare basis
  • public bus transfers between Marrakesh and Essaouira
  • transfers in Marrakesh between bus station and hotel/airport on day 1 and 3
  • *additional nights in Essaouira on request (extra cost applies)

Not included

  • International airfares & departure taxes
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Costs of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, emails, etc.
  • Tips
  • Visas & Travel insurance
  • Additional nights in Essaouira on request (extra cost applies)

Reviews (1)

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