Marrakech to Essaouira by car: route, driving time and tips

Essaouira is roughly 175 to 190 km from Marrakech. Allow 2.5 to 3 hours behind the wheel, a bit more if you stop along the way. It works as a day trip and it is even better with a night on the coast.

The drive

Leaving Marrakech, follow the signs for Essaouira. The road is in good shape and easy to follow, but trucks and buses use it a lot. Leave around 8 am to drive in peace and arrive before the midday heat.

Watch the speed limits: 60 km/h in built-up areas and 100 km/h outside them. There are many fixed and mobile speed cameras, and police checks at village entrances are common.

On the way

The closer you get to the coast, the more argan trees you see. With luck you may spot goats standing in the branches. Pull over where the shoulder is clear for photos, never on the road itself.

Fill up in Marrakech before you leave and keep some cash for fuel stations, parking and cafés.

Parking in Essaouira

The medina is pedestrian only. Leave the car in a car park near the port or the ramparts (paid, a few dirhams) and walk from there. It is often windy, so bring a light jacket even in summer.

Which car?

For two to four people with light luggage, a small car such as the Dacia Logan or Sandero is plenty. With five people or lots of suitcases, pick an SUV or a family car. WadCar rentals come with unlimited mileage, so there are no surprises when you return the car.

Landing at Marrakech airport? We deliver the car right there: book in two minutes.