Essaouira Day Trip from Marrakech: Coastal Town, Argan Goats & Pickup

Summary

Essaouira’s sea air, argan groves and a slow day by the coast

You’ll catch ocean breezes on this Essaouira day trip from Marrakech, spot goats perched in argan trees (if they’re feeling cooperative), visit a women’s argan oil collective, and have time to roam Essaouira’s medina at your own pace before returning by comfortable van.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salt in the air, even before we’d left Marrakech behind — that faint promise of ocean somewhere ahead. Our driver, Hassan, had this easy way of pointing out things along the road without making it feel like a lecture. We stopped for coffee about halfway (I think it was called Café Atlas? My memory’s foggy), and honestly, stretching my legs felt better than the caffeine. There were families chatting quietly over mint tea, and a cat weaving between tables looking for crumbs.

I’d read about the goats in argan trees but seeing them up there — actually balancing on branches — made me laugh out loud. Someone near me joked they must be training for the circus. We spent a few minutes at a women’s cooperative nearby; I tried some of their argan oil on my hands (it smelled nutty, almost earthy) while one of the women explained how they make cosmetics from scratch. She smiled when I stumbled over “shukran.”

Essaouira itself felt like a deep exhale after Marrakech’s rush. The medina is smaller here, easier to wander without feeling lost or hustled. Gulls circled above the ramparts and you could hear waves hitting the old city walls if you listened past the market noise. I bought grilled sardines from a stall by the port — messy but perfect with lemon squeezed on top. We had hours to explore before heading back; no pressure to keep up with a group or follow anyone around. The drive home was quieter, everyone sort of sunk into their seats watching sunset colors flicker through dusty windows. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira

• Meet outside Argana Cafe or hotel
• Drive 90 minutes, stop at café
• Photograph goats in argan trees
• Visit women's cooperative for cosmetics
• Explore Essaouira and beach at leisure
• Depart Essaouira at 4:30 pm
• Return to Marrakech by 8:00 pm

Top questions

How long is the drive from Marrakech to Essaouira?

The drive takes about 3 hours each way, totaling 6 hours round trip.

Is hotel pickup included for this Essaouira day trip?

Yes, hotel or riad pickup and drop-off in Marrakech are included.

Will we see goats in argan trees on this tour?

You may see goats in argan trees but it’s not guaranteed—they move around freely.

Is there free time to explore Essaouira alone?

Yes, you’ll have several hours to explore Essaouira at your own pace without a guide.

Are meals or lunch included?

No meals are included; you can buy food during stops or in Essaouira itself.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

An English-speaking guide is available while you’re in the van during transit.

Is bottled water provided during the trip?

Bottled water is included while you’re traveling in the van.

Can infants or children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or riad pickup and drop-off from Marrakech, travel by air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water and WiFi onboard, an English-speaking guide during transit between cities, plus stops to see argan tree goats (if they show up) and visit a women’s cooperative before plenty of free time in Essaouira.