Marrakesh to Essaouira tickets

	Distance 167 km (104.4 miles)
	Price range US$ 8-US$ 242
	Ride Duration Range 2h-4h
	Earliest Departure 23:00
	Latest Departure 23:00
	Most Popular Operator Supratours

The most affordable way to travel from Marrakech to Essaouira is by bus. Departures are limited so you may want to book a ticket in advance. Going by train or airplane is not an option. Essaouira is known for its incredible scenery, so be sure to pack your camera. You can go fishing, visit the museums, or walk along the ocean rocks and cliffs. September and October are the best months to visit to enjoy the best weather and sea temperatures.

Taking a bus from Marrakesh to Essaouira

Fastest bus: 3h

Cheapest bus: US$ 8

The fastest: 3h

The cheapest: US$ 8

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

English Speaking Staff

A/C

Wifi

Reclining Seats

Charger

The fastest: 2h

The cheapest: US$ 22

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

English Speaking Staff

Wifi

Charger

Food

Blanket

Reclining Seats

The fastest: 2h

The cheapest: US$ 68

POSSIBLE AMENITIES:

A/C

English Speaking Staff

Charger

Wifi

Food

About the ride from Marrakesh to Essaouira

After the sensory overload of Marrakesh, Essaouira is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the coastal vibes. Its' fresh ocean breezes are a stark contrast to Marrakesh's heat and hustle.

Thankfully, traveling between the two is a breeze.

Choose a bus, grab a seat in a minivan, or ride in style in a private car. It's only 112 miles (181 km). The ride is a quick 2.5 to 3 hours, and it's quite the scenic transition from Marrakesh's bustling energy to Essaouira's laid-back charm.

Snag a window seat to watch the landscape shift from the ochre tones of Marrakesh to the windswept Atlantic coastline. The route winds through small villages, olive groves, and the occasional herd of goats precariously balanced in argan trees — a truly Moroccan sight.

Five extraordinary things to do in Essaouira

People come for the laid-back boho charm but stay for all the cool things to do.

Explore the Medina. You'll inevitably find yourself lost in Essaouira's charming, historic medina — and that's part of the magic. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and artisan workshops. Don't miss the 18th-century ramparts, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Atlantic waves crashing below.

Try kitesurfing or windsurfing. Also known as the "Windy City of Africa," it's one of Morocco's best spots for wind sports. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, there are plenty of schools to help you ride the waves. Wing foiling is also gaining popularity, so if you're up for a new challenge, this is the place to try it!

Immerse yourself in Gnawa Music. Essaouira has a deep-rooted music scene. Gnawa is a hypnotic blend of North African and West African rhythms. Catch a live performance at a local café, or, if you're lucky, experience a spontaneous street jam where the beats are so infectious you'll be dancing in no time.

Visit the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) and Synagogue. Essaouira has a rich Jewish heritage, and the Mellah (Jewish Quarter) is where you can explore its unique architecture and history. The recently restored Simon Attias Synagogue is a highlight.

Take a day trip to Val d'Argan Vineyard. Yes, Morocco has vineyards! Just a short drive from Essaouira is one of the country's best wineries, offering tastings of locally produced wines in a gorgeous setting. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

How to get from Marrakesh to Essaouira

The quick overland journey via bus, car or minivan will have you on the coast in under three hours. Here are the details for each to help you make your decision.

Bus: The cheapest option

Duration: 3 hours

Starting price: $7

A $7 bus ride to get you from chaos to the coast is worth every penny.

The buses have A/C and a large luggage allowance of at least 44 lbs/20kg. Some even have WiFi (but I wouldn't count on its dependability) — it is better to be prepared by downloading your favorite time-wasters.

If you have extra luggage, you can pay about $1 more for it. The fee is usually around 10 MAD.

The bus usually stops about halfway so you can stretch your legs, buy a snack, and use the bathroom.

You’ll depart from the Marrakesh Bus Station and arrive at Gare Routiere d'Essaouira. With multiple departure times per day, you'll easily find something that fits your schedule.

Private Car: The lux option

Duration: 2-3 hours

Starting price: $60 for the entire car

Grab a few friends and ride in style in your private, modern SUV. Most vehicles comfortably seat three to four passengers.

With a private ride, you're in charge. They'll pick you up from your hotel or the Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) and drop you off at your hotel in Essaouira whenever your little heart desires.

Need to stop for that epic picture? Just ask.

The SUV has all the amenities of a modern car. You'll be super grateful for the cold air conditioning because Morocco can be hotter than Hades.

Minivan: The most comfortable option

Duration: 2-3 hours

Starting price: $18 for a seat and $62 for a 4-seater minivan

Hop on a spacious minivan to get you from Essaouira to Marrakesh. It's more comfy than an SUV but gets you there in the same amount of time.

They'll pick you up from your hotel (or the airport) and drop you off at your next accommodation.

So, it's super affordable door-to-door service.

Many shared minivans have a minimum requirement of three people.

If you've made some new friends and want to travel together, hire a private minivan. You'll split the cost and be able to keep the prices per seat pretty low.

When to visit Essaouira

Essaouira is a year-round destination blessed with 300 days of sunshine. However, the best time to visit depends on what you're looking for — gentle sea breezes, peak adventure, or a crowd-free escape.

Visit between March and June or September and November for the perfect balance of warm weather and mild winds. Temperatures hover between 61 and 79°F (16 and 26°C), making it ideal for exploring the medina, venturing into the countryside, and soaking up the coastal charm without the summer crowds.

If you're here for kitesurfing or windsurfing, July and August bring the strongest winds, keeping temperatures at a pleasant 82°F (28°C) while the rest of Morocco sizzles. But if your dream trip involves lounging on the sand, be warned — the gusts love to kick things up and give you an unrequested sand facial.

Winter (December-February) is the coolest season, with temperatures around 66°F (19°C) and occasional rain. It's still a great time to wander the ramparts and enjoy fresh seafood by the port, but don't expect scorching beach weather.

September, October, and late winter are the sweet spots for those who prefer a quieter visit with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.

How many days should you spend in Essaouira?

Staying two to four days in Essaouira gives you time to explore the medina, chill on the beach, and soak up the culture and tradition. But it's easy to stay longer if you are learning a new sport or slow traveling.

Where to travel after Essaouira?

After you've learned to windsurf, head south along the coast to the calmer beaches of Agadir. Its resort-like atmosphere offers a modern seaside escape with luxury hotels and surf spots.

Or head north to Safi for its off-the-beaten-path surfer vibe. While there, learn about its rich history of traditional pottery-making.