Essaouira
A laid-back coastal town with a bohemian vibe and picturesque beaches.
Overview
Essaouira, also known as the “Wind City of Africa,” is a beautiful coastal city located in the western part of Morocco. It was founded in the 18th century as a fortified port city and has since become a popular tourist destination. The city has a mild and pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C throughout the year. Its geographical area is characterized by a long sandy beach, rocky coastline, and a picturesque medina (old town) with narrow streets and alleyways. Essaouira is also home to a variety of plant and animal species, including argan trees, thuya trees, and a range of bird species. The city’s beaches attract visitors interested in water sports, while its medina offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs. Overall, Essaouira offers a breathtaking experience for tourists looking to explore a beautiful coastal city with a rich history and culture.
Things to Do
Explore the Ksar: Wander through the maze-like streets of the ksar, marveling at the ancient mud-brick buildings and traditional Moroccan architecture.
Visit the Kasbah: Climb to the top of the kasbah for panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and the Atlas Mountains in the distance.
Shop for Souvenirs: Browse the local shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs, including rugs, ceramics, and traditional Moroccan clothing.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Moroccan dishes at one of the local restaurants, such as tagine, couscous, and pastilla.
Take a Guided Tour: Join a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of Ait Benhaddou from knowledgeable local guides.
Visit the Film Locations: Explore the locations where famous movies and TV shows like “Game of Thrones” and “Gladiator” were filmed.
Photograph the Sunset: Capture the stunning sunset over the ksar and the surrounding desert landscape.
Attend a Cultural Event: If you’re lucky, you might be able to attend a local cultural event or festival, showcasing traditional music, dance, and art.
What to See
Medina of Essaouira: The Medina of Essaouira is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the historic center of the city. It’s a maze of narrow streets, alleys, and squares that are lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Medina and see the traditional Moroccan architecture and bustling markets.
Essaouira Beach: Essaouira Beach is a long and wide sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists and is known for its picturesque sunsets.
Skala de la Ville: Skala de la Ville is a fortified wall that was built in the 18th century to protect Essaouira from attacks by sea. It’s a popular spot for tourists to take photos and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and the city.
Essaouira Port: Essaouira Port is a bustling fishing port that’s known for its fresh seafood and colorful fishing boats. Visitors can take a stroll along the harbor and see the fishermen at work.
Essaouira Citadel: The Essaouira Citadel is a 16th-century fortress that’s located on a hill overlooking the city. It’s a great place to take in the panoramic views of Essaouira and the surrounding countryside.
Essaouira Jewish Quarter: The Essaouira Jewish Quarter is a historic neighborhood that’s home to the city’s Jewish community. Visitors can see the synagogues, cemeteries, and other Jewish landmarks that are scattered throughout the area.
Essaouira Art Galleries: Essaouira is known for its vibrant art scene and is home to several galleries that showcase the work of local artists. Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, and other works of art that reflect the unique culture and history of the city.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Essaouira is during the spring and autumn months, which run from April to May and September to November, respectively. During this period, the weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Additionally, the city is less crowded during this time, allowing visitors to explore its winding streets and bustling markets without the crowds. While summer is also a popular time to visit Essaouira due to the warm weather and festive atmosphere, visitors should be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Getting there
By Road: Essaouira is well-connected by road, and you can reach it by car or bus from major cities in Morocco. From Marrakech, the drive takes about 2.5 hours via the N8 highway. Supratours and CTM operate comfortable bus services from Marrakech and other cities to Essaouira, with a journey time of around 3 hours from Marrakech.
By Air: Essaouira Mogador Airport (ESU) is located about 15 kilometers from the city center and offers domestic flights from Casablanca and Marrakech. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city center.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Riad Zahra
Located just a few minutes away from the beach, Riad Zahra is a popular mid-range accommodation option in Essaouira. It features traditional Moroccan architecture and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
Dar El Paco
This cozy riad is located in the heart of Essaouira’s medina and offers guests a unique blend of traditional Moroccan style and modern comfort. It has a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city and the sea.
Hotel Miramar
Hotel Miramar is located right on Essaouira’s beachfront and offers guests comfortable rooms with sea views. It has a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and a bar.
Luxury Accommodation:
Heure Bleue Palais
This stunning 19th-century palace has been converted into a luxury hotel and is located in the heart of Essaouira’s medina. It features a spa, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and elegant rooms with traditional Moroccan decor.
Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa
This 5-star hotel is located just outside Essaouira’s medina and features a golf course, a spa, and a private beach. It offers spacious rooms with modern amenities and a balcony or terrace with views of the golf course or the sea.
Villa de l’O
This luxurious villa is located just a few minutes away from Essaouira’s medina and features a spa, a heated pool, and a garden. It offers spacious rooms with traditional Moroccan decor and modern amenities, as well as a private terrace or balcony.
Other Attractions in Morocco
Chefchaouen
Marrakech
Fez
Asilah
The Saharan Desert
Rabat
Casablanca
Ait Benhaddou
Meknes
Taghazout
High Atlas Mountains
Agadir
Tangier
Ouarzazate
General Knowledge Base
General information about Essaouira, Morocco.
Essaouira is located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, about 175 kilometers (109 miles) west of Marrakech.
Essaouira was founded in the 18th century as a fortified town by Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah. It was known as Mogador at that time.
s Essaouira a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, Essaouira’s Medina (old town) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its well-preserved example of a late 18th-century fortified town.
The Essaouira Citadel, also known as the Scala de la Kasbah, offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular spot for visitors.
Essaouira is known for its fresh seafood, including grilled sardines and seafood tagines, as well as traditional Moroccan dishes like couscous and tajine.
Yes, Essaouira is known for its beautiful beaches, where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy water sports like surfing and windsurfing.
Yes, Essaouira has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries, workshops, and music festivals showcasing local and international talent.
