Overview of the Experience
Discover the magic of the Atlantic coast on a Private Day Trip to Essaouira from Marrakech. This full-day excursion offers a scenic drive through Argan tree forests, optional visits to women-run argan cooperatives, and hours of leisure in Essaouira—a UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina filled with charm, history, and ocean breeze.
Ideal for those who want a break from the bustling Marrakech and experience a laid-back seaside atmosphere with rich cultural heritage.
📍 What to Expect
🚐 Comfortable Pickup & Scenic Drive
Start your journey with a hotel pickup in Marrakech in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. Enjoy a scenic 2.5–3 hour drive through the Moroccan countryside, passing villages, goat-filled argan trees, and panoramic landscapes.
🌿 Optional Stop at Argan Oil Cooperative
Visit a local argan cooperative run by Berber women. Learn how the world-famous argan oil is traditionally extracted and shop for authentic cosmetic or culinary products.
🏰 Explore Essaouira at Your Pace
Once in Essaouira, enjoy several hours of free time to explore:
- 🏛️ The 18th-century medina (UNESCO-listed)
- 🎨 Art galleries, artisan shops & local markets
- 🐟 Fresh seafood lunch by the port (not included)
- 🏖️ Essaouira beach walk or camel ride (optional)
🛣️ Return to Marrakech
After a relaxing afternoon, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Marrakech.
🧭 Suggested Itinerary (Flexible)
- 08:00 – Depart from Marrakech
- 09:30 – Optional stop at argan cooperative
- 11:00 – Arrive in Essaouira
- 11:00–15:30 – Free time: medina, lunch, beach, art galleries
- 16:00 – Return journey to Marrakech
- 19:00 – Arrival at your hotel
✅ What’s Included:
- Private round-trip transportation from Marrakech
- English/French-speaking driver
- Free time in Essaouira
- Optional visit to an argan cooperative
❌ Not Included:
- Meals and drinks
- Tip to driver or guide
📍 Pickup Info:
- Pickup from your hotel or riad in Marrakech
- If your accommodation is in a pedestrian area, a nearby meeting point will be arranged
📅 Booking Info:
- Duration: Full-day (approx. 10–11 hours)
- Departure: 8:00 AM (flexible on request)
- Availability: Daily (early booking recommended)
- Private tour: Yes
- Language: English, French, Spanish, Italian (on request)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private trip?
Yes, this is a 100% private tour, just for you and your group.
How long is the drive to Essaouira?
The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours each way, with optional stops on the route.
Is there a guide included in Essaouira?
No guide is included, but you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. A guide can be added on request.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and walking shoes. A light jacket is advised as Essaouira is breezy even in summer.
Francesco –
Excursion to do absolutely, the port town is a gem on the ocean. Thanks to a wonderful day we could wander freely in the medina looking for gifts and then buy the fish at the port from the fishermen and eat it the same roasted over coals. The people are exquisite and walking on the beach miles a real pleasure
Nayana –
Opting for a private driver in Marrakech was a game-changer for our trip. Our driver, Ayoub, was punctual, friendly, and knowledgeable, making our city exploration seamless. The vehicle was comfortable and well-maintained, adding to the overall positive experience. Highly recommend this service
Daniel M –
This was a great experience with nice explanations about Essaouira. I would recommend 100%, thanks a lot to Sadok and his team 🙂
Martina M –
Our experience with our driver Laarbi is positive. Our pick up at our Marrakesh hotel was punctual and as agreed. His driving is thoughtful and safe, and his service was polite and kind. This getaway to Essaouira nd the Atlantic oceean from the hustle and bustle (noise and pollution) of Marrakesh was the perfect way to relax for a day by the sea and in a calm sea side town with friendly people. We would recommend this 1 day excursion.
Beverley K –
Pick up from hotel on time. Guide Abdul explained itinerary to us. He spoke English which was great for us. Stopped off at cafe and Argan Oil co- operative on the way. Arrived in Essaouira at mid- day. Had 5 hours free time. Nice clean town with plenty of shops in the Medina and lovely beach. Plenty of restaurants. Collected promptly at 5pm at designated point. Delivered safely back to hotel. Recommended *****
Laëtitia J –
Very nice busy day! Our driver Saif was very friendly! He also made the guide on the way out which lasts 3 hours. You can book with your eyes closed without any problems.
Michele S –
We did this tour with Mustapha as the guide, he is an amazing person and guide. He is always making sure you are comfortable, okay and that you are enjoying yourself. The trip was lovely overall, I wish we would have had more time in Essoura but it’s a 3 hr drive there and 3 hr back so I understand it’s very difficult to do. I would super recommend this trip at least to give you a taster of what Essoura is like, you will not regret it!
Naveen D –
This trip was exceptional. Hamid our driver was kind enough to pick us up from our apartment and drop us back. Mustapha our guide was knowledgeable and looked after us very well even stopped to get us water, and was also very informative about the place we had visited. He made the trip worth it. The town itself was unlike anywhere I’ve been before it had culture and charm, followed by outstanding views. If you are looking to explore somewhere more chill and less haggling than Marrakesh I’d highly recommend. It was a beautiful town and an unforgettable trip.