Are you going to visit Essaouira in Morocco? Check out our selection of must-see activities to make the most of this desert gem.
Essaouira has a strategic position on the Atlantic coast and has therefore always been an important commercial port since the 15th century. Different peoples and cultures have lived side by side in harmony for centuries, creating a city with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Its many monuments give it a charm not found anywhere else in Morocco.
Between mosques, synagogues, fortifications, beaches, and markets, a visit to Essaouira ensures an unforgettable stay.
1. The Medina
To visit Essaouira is, first of all, to soak up the typical Moroccan atmosphere. And what better way to meet the residents than to stroll through the narrow streets of Medina? You will wander from souks to small restaurants, between shopping and tea tasting. The different souks offer all kinds of souvenirs and gifts: spices, olives, handicrafts ... The charm of the historic center and the cheerfulness of the shopkeepers will make you spend a pleasant time.
The medina is surrounded by fortifications that can be climbed. If you are looking for things to do in Essaouira, the Medina is a must-see. In 2001, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. The ramparts
The ramparts of Essaouira were erected in the 18th century to protect the city from foreign invasions. At that time, Essaouira was the main trading port of Morocco, and Sultan Mohamed Ben Abdallah decided to build fortifications to protect it. The French architect Theodore Cornut was chosen to design the walls and direct the work. A pupil of the Marquis de Vauban, he created an enclosure around the Medina inspired by the fortifications of Saint-Malo.
On the city side of the fortress is pierced by a monumental gate. Toward the ocean you can climb the ramparts to the Rock and admire the twenty Spanish cannons pointing out to sea. The top of the tower offers a view of the Medina, the sea and the sea islets.
3. The fishing port
The port of Essaouira is deeply connected to the history of the city and is a must if you are going to visit Essaouira. Formerly known as the "Port of Timbuktu", it served as a link between the trans-Saharan routes to Black Africa and the main maritime trade routes. Today it remains one of the three most important sardine ports in Morocco. It is certainly the liveliest place in the city, especially in the early afternoon. Fishing boats return and unload the day's catch under the watchful gaze of gulls, cormorants and cats, who more or less patiently wait their turn. Sea bream, sardines, and other crustaceans are then sold at the Auction, in a cacophonous but organized atmosphere.
A few steps away, the gargoyles prepare these fresh foods for instant tasting. In the summer, you may be lucky enough to attend an impromptu diving contest. The city's children gather for ever more impressive jumps from pontoons or even fortifications and towers. A shipyard is also on the spot, for the construction of wooden trawls, in an artisanal way. An interesting place, therefore, if you are looking for what to do in Essaouira for a day.
4. The sunset
If you plan to visit Essaouira, be sure to watch the sunset. The city's geographical location and picturesque buildings offer breathtaking scenery as the sun sets on the horizon. Birds whose shadows are cast against a backdrop of orange light will be the preferred models for your photoshoot.
For the best places to watch the sunset, we recommend Kasbah Square, next to the canons. You can also go to the port or stroll around the port sqala, to see the iridescent colors of dusk reflected on the ramparts.
5. The souks
If you are looking for things to do in Essaouira, do not miss a shopping session in the different souks of the city. Fewer tourists than in big cities like Marrakech or Agadir, they have managed to stay authentic. There are original handicrafts that are different from those of the rest of the country. At the jewelry store, you'll find jewelers who create jewelry by hand before your eyes. The workshops of leatherwork and marquetry also reserve beautiful surprises.
On the food side, we will go and have a look at the meat souk. The fish market is located in a building protected by a beautiful glass roof, which gives it an undeniable cachet. You choose fresh fish and then go cook it at one of the many stalls that complete the building. The spice souk will amaze you with its colors, with piles of raz-el-hanout, cumin, or paprika arranged symmetrically.
6. The beach
The main beach stretches for several kilometers between the fort and the south of the city. You can relax on the sun loungers, have a drink or taste Moroccan food while enjoying the sun. The white sand caressed by the waves makes Essaouira beach one of the most beautiful in Morocco. You'll admire the arabesques of kite-surfing under sails in the blue sky, as well as surfers cutting across waves and crossing each other in a ballet with a well-oiled machine.
For a more sporty vacation, you can take lessons or just rent equipment. South of the beach you'll find camels that will take you for a ride, a great activity if you're looking for things to do in Essaouira with kids.
7. The village of Diabat
Just 3 kilometers south of Essaouira is the charming village of Diabat. Its beautiful beach is ideal for water activities and there are both upscale accommodation and guesthouses. Diabat is home to the sandy palace of Dar Sultan, the former residence of Sultan Mohamed Ben Abdallah, which overlooks the mouth of Oued Ksob. It is also known that Diabat was frequented by hippies in the 1970s. Singer Jimmy Hendrix, who is said to have been inspired by the sand palace to write his famous song "Castle of Sand," stayed there.
8. Women's Argan oil production cooperatives
The argan tree, the tree from which the fruit from which argan oil is derived, grows only in Morocco. More precisely in the Essaouira-Tiznit-Taroudant triangle.
A few kilometers from Essaouira you will find cooperatives run by women who process the fruits of the argan tree to produce certified organic edible or cosmetic oil. This miraculous oil, prized not only by great chefs but also by cosmetic laboratories, generates income for Berber women and their families. You will meet the workers, who will explain everything about the production process. You will learn, in particular, that it takes 35 kilograms of dried fruits and 20 hours of work to produce one liter of argan oil. A visit to Essaouira will allow you to bring this luxurious product home directly from the producer.
9. The synagogue of Simon Attias
Mella is the old Jewish quarter of Essaouira. Until the 19th century, Essaouira was home to a large Jewish population that left many architectural evidences, such as the synagogue of Simon Attias. This religious building is remarkably well preserved. The 500 square meter area is spread over three levels, between the prayer hall, the cultural center, and the Judaism museum. Look at the wrought iron mezzanine that was once reserved for women. The synagogue was renovated in 2015 using antique materials to preserve its original appearance.
10. The hammams
The hammam is inseparable from the Moroccan culture and is an activity of choice when you come to visit Essaouira. Most hotels have a hammam, but to soak up the true Moroccan atmosphere, we recommend that you go to a public bath.
While it is not easy to immediately understand all the codes and rituals, you are sure to have a good time relaxing. For even more perfect relaxation, the staff also offers massages and scrubs.
11. A walk in the desert
Several formulas allow you to go to the desert to capture the special atmosphere that prevails there. This immensity of sand is accessible by 4×4, quad, or dromedary. Three-hour quad tours allow you to enjoy the scenery while getting a lot of thrills.
For the adventurous, multi-day excursions are organized. They camp around the fire, with their eyes riveted on the stars and the Milky Way, free from light pollution. After a traditional Berber dinner, you'll fall asleep to the sound of a crackling fire, before another extraordinary day.
