Essaouira Excursion In One Day Trip

A very worthwhile day-trip to the old port of Essaouira. Feared as a lair for pirates in days gone by, it is now one of the most charming towns on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast. As well as a lively fishing harbour and a wild, windswept beach it has a wonderful souk for shopping away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Scenic rural drive
• Guided tour
• Essaouira port
• Ancient medina
• Ramparts
• Time to explore the souk for shopping and souvenir hunting
• Essaouira beach
• Argan trees oil

Day Trip To Essaouira Details

Complete with a bustling historical centre and surrounded by ancient city walls, Essaouira is a delightful destination for a day trip. Explore the atmospheric alleyways of the ancient medina, and its historic, ochre ramparts which now provide protection from wind-assisted waves coming from the Atlantic Ocean.

With a whitewashed medina enclosed by huge pink sandstone ramparts (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and with a rich Portuguese and Andalusian heritage, Essaouira was originally founded by Phoenicians in the 7th century BC. The Portuguese arrived in the 15th century and established the first fortifications and a trading post. The town itself wasn’t built until the latter half of the 1700’s, sanctioned by an Alouite sultan, Mohammed II.

From a long white sandy beach and dunes to a bustling fishing port with
excellent seafood and colourful wooden fishing boats, Essaouira has always been a favourite retreat of hippies, sailors, artists and musicians. Local attractions include the Sidi Med Ben Abdallah Museum, a lively souk (excellent for shopping and souvenirs), the old city gates and the impressive sqalas – fortified sea bastions. A stroll along Essaouira’s impressive sandy beach is a favourite activity for most visitors.

DEPARTS DAILY

This tour operates daily throughout the year. Timings are approx. and may vary due to interests of the group, weather or seasons.

DON’T FORGET

Sun-glasses, comfortable footwear and plenty of sun protection.