Enjoy a relaxing day visiting the hippy seaside town of Essaouira. This old fort and busy fishing port, previously known as Mogador, is a popular tourist attraction. Wander the souks, visit historic monuments and watch the fishermen arrive on their iconic traditional blue boats.
Frequently Asked Questions
In the morning we’ll depart from your accommodation in Marrakech and drive for nearly three hours to the coastal resort of Essaouira. Drive along the Haouz palnes to Chichaoua village where we will stop for coffee. We’ll then continue on to Sidi Mokhtar driving through the argan tree forests. These trees are found nowhere else in the world. Keep your eyes peeled for goats climbing in the trees. We’ll visit a local argan oil cooperative to learn more about this unusual activity and how this liquid gold (used for cosmetic and culinary products with reputed health benefits) is produced.
When we arrive in Essaouira you’ll have leisure time to explore. Enjoy the rich culture by visiting art galleries, admiring the well-preserved buildings and beautiful views of the Atlantic coast. Appreciate the hospitality of the locals as you stroll through the busy harbor. Watch the fishermen selling fresh fish from their traditional blue boats. If you are feeling lazy, soak up the sun on the 6 km stretch of sandy beach. Engage in a friendly game of football with the local children on the beach.
Take a photo of Bab al Mersa (“Door of the Port”) in the fortified harbor Scala, a citadel during the war. Then explore the ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Peruse the maze of alleys and souks and then enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a traditional restaurant. Next we’ll visit the old Jewish quarter to see the synagogues. Before heading back to Marrakech we’ll stop to marvel at the cannons by the city ramparts and watch the sunset from the Scala Kasbah. We’ll depart around 7 pm so only expect to be back in Marrakech late in the evening.
Essaouira is known as Mogador and the Moroccan Wind City. Its magnificent beaches have transformed this city into one of the best places in the world for surfing and other exciting water sports. The city has an amazing old town with a strong wall which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. Over the Portuguese castle, rusty guns surrounding the walls point to the sea. On the other hand, narrow roads are filled with the voice of Gnaoua music, and palm trees that decorate the walls of white houses. The culture and history of the city of Essaouira is rich and influential not only from Berbers and Arabs but also from Jews who have particular importance in Essaouira.
Lamine
Nice tour and ontstandig experience!