Essaouira Extension

Discover tiny Essaouira, an 18th century gem set on the Atlantic coast. With its ancient ramparts above the sea, Essaouira has a decidedly medieval atmosphere.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1
Essaouira

From Marrakesh, a morning drive brings you to Essaouira, a charming seaside town enclosed within 18th century ramparts. After checking in at your hotel, enjoy a typical seafood lunch at the fishermens’ market hall at Essaouira’s small port. Fishermen sell their catch here—just-caught fish on display range from fresh scampi to sardines—and you can have it cooked in small stands nearby. After lunch, enjoy a guided tour that includes the waterfront, where wooden fishing boats are still built the traditional way, and the old 16th century Portuguese fort, with its cannons and battlements. Much of the town you see today was laid out in the 17th century by a French architect at the request of Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah. Orson Welles filmed scenes for Othello in Essaouira in 1949, and on your explorations you may see a small bust of him in a tiny garden square. Jimi Hendrix spent time in Essaouira in the 1960s—Essaouira is said to have inspired his song "Castles Made of Sand." Overnight at hotel...BL

Day 2
Essaouira

Enjoy a day of independent exploration on your own in this lovely little town. Its whitewashed houses, with their blue shutters and ornate doors under the bright Moroccan sun, give it a picturesque Mediterranean ambiance. You can visit the bustling fish market and explore the great little artisan shops that line the narrow lanes. There are outdoor cafes along the beach that serve excellent fresh seafood. Overnight at hotel...BL

Day 3
Marrakesh

Morning transfer to Marrakesh, with the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at hotel...B

Day 4
Depart

Transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights...B