Essaouira The Atlantic Coast, Morocco Travel Guide
Sidi Kaouki (25 km south) offers a wilder, bohemian beach, popular for riding waves and going for a horse ride. Diabat (5 km south) features picturesque kasbah ruins and offers a quiet escape. Imesouane (80 km south) is a surf spot known for long waves. Argan Cooperatives throughout the rural areas showcase argan oil production.
Sidi Kaouki and Diabat are reached by shared grand taxi or local bus. Imesouane reached by grand taxi or local bus. Argan cooperatives are best visited with a private grand taxi or organized tour. Independent travel offers flexibility; organized tours offer convenience for scattered locations or specific activities like surf camps.
Essaouira's natural surroundings welcome connection with its Atlantic landscape and unique ecosystems.
The Purpuraires Islands (Mogador Island), can be seen from Essaouira's ramparts, are a nature reserve and bird sanctuary, specifically for the Eleonora's Falcon. Access out to the islands is restricted for wildlife preservation, but boat trips offer views from the sea.
Essaouira Beach gives a wide expanse for walking and watersports. Sidi Kaouki Beach provides a wilder, more expansive experience with undeveloped stretches and consistent waves.
Essential information for a smooth experience in Essaouira.
Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi are main providers. SIM cards are inexpensive, available at airports, official stores, or small shops. Registering your passport is needed. Prepaid data/call plans meet various usage needs. Consider Airalo for eSIMs.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, riads, cafes, and restaurants. Speed varies. Reliable 4G coverage is available throughout Essaouira via local SIM cards. Consider Solis Wi-Fi for portable internet.
Essaouira's main post office (Poste Maroc) sits outside the medina walls in the new town. It offers mail, parcel, and money transfer services.
Official languages are Arabic (Darija) and Amazigh. French is widely spoken in tourism. English is increasingly common among younger generations. The Google Translate app (with offline packs) is useful. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Shops generally open 9/10 AM-1 PM and 3/4 PM-7 PM. Restaurants open from breakfast through dinner. Government offices/banks operate Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM with a mediumday break.
Essaouira's historic medina has challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
The medina's narrow, uneven cobblestone alleys, numerous steps, plus a shortage of ramps challenge wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. The ancient infrastructure was not designed with modern accessibility in mind.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. Private transfers using specialized tour operators might be arranged, but specific accessibility features are not guaranteed.
Tipping expectations in Essaouira are customary. For detailed dining customs and what is expected for tipping, refer to dedicated sections of a complete guide.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women and children. Respect any refusal. Vendors might expect a purchase if you photograph their stalls. Military, police, or government buildings must not be photographed.
Morocco is a conservative society. Public displays of affection, even for heterosexual couples, are uncommon and best avoided. Solo female travelers might experience more attention or verbal harassment (catcalling), but this is generally not threatening. Ignoring or a polite but firm refusal works.
Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco. Public displays of affection for same-sex couples are strongly advised against. Discretion and safety are paramount.
Alcohol is available in licensed establishments, but public intoxication is frowned upon and can lead to legal issues.
During The month of ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours as a sign of respect.
