How to Get from Marrakech to Essaouira: A Complete Guide

If you’re planning a trip, you won’t want to miss the coastal city of Essaouira, one of the most captivating places to visit in Morocco. With its charming medina, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, traveling from Marrakech to Essaouira is a popular journey to experience this must see destination. It’s only a couple of hours on the road, bringing you from a bustling city to a laid back seaside paradise.

Getting from Marrakech to Essaouira is easier than you’d think. But it certainly helps to know the options when planning your travel day. Below are the three best ways to get from Marrakech to Essaouira: bus travel, private transfers, and rental cars. No matter which option you choose, you’re in for a real treat with this city break.

Here’s everything you need to know about getting from Marrakech to Essaouira (or Essaouira to Marrakech) in 2024.

The Best Way to Get From Marrakech to Essaouira

Option 1: Marrakech to Essaouira by Bus

One of the most popular ways to get from Marrakech to Essaouira is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate this route, including CTM, Supratours, and ALSA.

Buses typically depart from Marrakech’s main bus station (Gare Routière Marrakech) and arrive at Essaouira’s bus station, which is located just outside the medina, about a five minute drive away. Normally, taxis are readily available to transport you, but be sure to agree on a price beforehand so you don’t get stuck overpaying on arrival.

ctm bus station location in essaouira, morocco — CTM Bus Station Location in Essaouira

The journey takes about 3 hours and can cost anywhere from 70 to 120 Moroccan dirhams (MAD) per person, depending on the bus company and the time of year. It’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel season. The best time to visit Essaouira is during the summer months, bringing an immense amount of tourism to the tiny town, so it’s essential to plan ahead.

I’ve personally taken the CTM bus a few times between the two cities and have always had a positive experience. You’ll share the journey with locals — be sure to grab some snacks for the ride before departure. It doesn’t hurt to use the bathroom ahead of time, either. And remember, you can also take the bus between Essaouira and Marrakech for a return trip.

ctm bus station in marrakech — CTM Bus Station Location in Marrakech

Option 2: Marrakech to Essaouira via Private Transfer

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of public transportation, you can also hire a private transfer to take you from Marrakech to Essaouira. This option is more expensive than taking the bus, but it offers more convenience and comfort. Many tour companies and private drivers offer this service, and you can usually negotiate the price.

A private transfer takes about 2.5 hours and can cost anywhere from 800 to 1500 MAD, depending on the type of vehicle and the company. If you’re staying at a hotel or riad in Marrakech, you can ask the front desk to help you book the transfer. This is the most reliable way to end up with a reputable driver.

Option 3: Marrakech to Essaouira in a Rental Car

If you prefer to have your own wheels, you can also rent a car and drive from Marrakech to Essaouira, or Essaouira to Marrakech. This option gives you more flexibility and allows you to stop at other destinations along the way, as well as cruise along the coast while staying in Essaouira.

It’s quite a straight shot between the two cities on a long central road. The only tricky part is navigating out of Marrakech, which can make even the toughest drivers cringe. However, it’s important to note that in general, driving in Morocco can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to the local driving style.

There are several car rental companies in Marrakech, and you can expect to pay around 300 MAD per day for a small car. Be sure to bring your international driver’s license and a credit card for the deposit. When you arrive in Essaouira, you will need to park the car outside of the medina. There’s a central lot next to the city gates that costs a couple bucks a day.

Enjoying the views from Marrakech to Essaouira

What to Remember About Traveling from Marrakech to Essaouira

No matter which option you choose, getting from Marrakech to Essaouira is a fun and easy adventure. And because they’re so close to each other, the trip makes a great day away, a relaxing weekend getaway, or the perfect longer trip.

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for luxury, there’s a transportation option that will suit your needs. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Morocco!

FAQs About How to Get From Marrakech to Essaouira

Is it easy to get from Essaouira to Marrakech?

It’s very easy to get from Essaouira to Marrakech. The CTM bus runs regularly between the two cities and takes about 2.5 hours. It’s also straightforward to organize a private transfer from Essaouira to Marrakech and vice versa.

How long is it from Essaouira to Marrakech airport?

It takes a little under 2.5 hours to drive from Essaouira to Marrakech airport. If you plan on taking the bus, it will take a bit longer as you’ll need to take a taxi from the bus station in Marrakech to the airport.

Is Essaouira worth visiting?

Essaouira is worth visiting to explore the seaside charm of Morocco. The coastal port city has a significant history, an old city crowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a buzzing music scene. It’s also a top spot for kite surfing.