What I love about the private Marrakech–Essaouira drive

Why I love this journey as much as the destination

Every time I take a group to Essaouira, I feel the same thing the moment the car leaves Marrakech: a sense of lightness. We leave behind the bustle of the Médina, the smell of spices, the hum of engines — and we slip gently into another Morocco. The two cities are roughly 170 kilometres apart, about 2h30 of driving. It's not nothing, but that's precisely what I appreciate: the journey is part of the trip.

Departure is around 8:00 from your accommodation. No complicated meeting point. We pick you up, and off we go.

What you see out of the window

The road passes through landscapes that change gradually. We leave the outskirts of Marrakech, travel alongside olive groves and argan trees, and sometimes — if you keep an eye out — goats perched in the branches as if suspended in mid-air. It's a sight visitors always photograph with disbelief, and one that still makes me smile after all these years.

The closer we get to the coast, the more the light changes. The air cools, the sky takes on a whiter, almost milky hue. Essaouira is known for its wind — the famous Atlantic trade wind — and you feel it arrive well before you catch sight of the ocean. That's why I always recommend bringing a windproof jacket, even in the middle of summer. And sunglasses. And sunscreen — the coastal sun is deceptively strong.

In town: what I recommend once you arrive

Essaouira is a flat city, which makes it a very easy destination for everyone. The Médina is walkable, effortlessly. I suggest starting with the ramparts, strolling past the artist galleries that line the blue-and-white alleyways, then making your way down to the port.

1 day or 2 days: how to choose

This is the question I get asked most often. My answer always depends on your pace. In one day, you have more than enough time to visit the Médina, wander along the beach and have lunch at the port before heading back. It's enough to feel the soul of Essaouira.

But if you like to take your time, to see the city settle into the evening and wake up in the morning mist — then two days is the way to go. The Excursion Essaouira depuis Marrakech – 1 ou 2 jours I offer is designed precisely to fit your schedule, whether you have one full day or two.

A few practical details to keep in mind

• Booking must be made at least 5 days in advance of your departure.
• A deposit is required at the time of booking; the balance is settled in cash on the day.
• Cancellation is free up to 5 days before. After that, the deposit is non-refundable.
• Bring comfortable shoes, a windproof jacket and sun protection.

Essaouira is one of those cities that leaves a gentle mark. I don't know many people who come back disappointed — and often, those who go for a day wish they had planned for two nights.