Take a trip to Essaouira from Marrakech
From Marrakech, you can take an invigorating stroll away from the noise and fury of the pink city, to the delightful blue-and-white town ofEssaouira.
An excursion with a change of scenery
When you set off for the Atlantic coast, you’ll be heading for the region’s main city, Essaouira, the pirate city. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll discover the city’s thousand and one treasures, including its world-famous fishing port, medina, souks and argan oil cooperative.
While you take a lunch break during your free time in one of Essaouira’s lively little streets at mid-day, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the jewelers’ district, renowned for its silver jewelry from Mount Toubkal.
Photo credit: Wikimedia – Bruno.Menetrier
Essaouira the oasis
Far from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, Essaouira seems like an oasis; discovering it will enchant and relax you. You leave your hotel in Marrakech at around 8 a.m. and drive through the country’s stunning countryside, passing small villages where sheep, goats and camels roam and live peacefully.
It’s as if you’re living in a dream, or as if time stood still for a trip to the ocean.
What to see in Essaouira
A trip to Essaouira means taking a breath of fresh air as you stroll along the beach, discovering the fort in the distance and the famous fishing port with its brightly-colored boats, where you shouldn’t miss the sardine auction.
Discover the historic citadel, visit the ramparts with its stores and local craftsmen who will be delighted to share their passion and art with you.
In addition to the marquetry that is Essaouira’s specialty, a visit to the argan oil factory is a tasty experience: this cooperative is traditionally run by women who will show you all the possible uses for the famous oil, from cooking to cosmetics.
There’s also the Bahia Palace, once the magnificent residence of Pasha Ba Ahmed, where he lived with his 4 wives and a harem of 24 concubines.
Essaouira also has its own Koutoubia, with its imposing minaret that dominates the city but cannot be visited from the inside. The city is also famous for its huge, fantastic gates, which once encircled and protected the city from invasion.
Don’t forget to take your lunch break in one of the town’s refined restaurants, sample the fish, taste the pastries and take your time to enjoy this oceanic break.
The duration of this excursion from Marrakech is approximately 11 hours, and the price includes the excursion to Essaouira, the visit to the cooperative, the services and commentary of a professional guide, and transportation by vehicle to and from your hotel in Marrakech.
Main photo credit: Flickr – Jean-Marc Astesana