Driving from Marrakech to Essaouira
Allow 175 km and about 2 h 45 on the N8 national road, via Chichaoua and the argan forests. There is no motorway all the way: you can take the A7 to the Chichaoua exit, then the N8. The road is good, straight and easy, with speed checks at the entrance to villages.
Collect the car at Marrakech-Menara airport or have it delivered to your riad on the morning you leave.
In and around Essaouira by car
- Park in the large car park near Bab Sbaâ or the harbour: the medina is pedestrian.
- Sidi Kaouki (25 km south): a surf beach and horse rides.
- Moulay Bouzerktoune (30 km north): a kitesurfing spot.
- The coast road to Agadir (175 km), one of the most beautiful in Morocco.
When will Locavi open in Essaouira?
We open a city when verified local agencies join us. Leave your email below to be notified. Are you an agency in Essaouira? Join Locavi: 0% commission.
Our tips for driving in Essaouira
- Park in the large car park near Bab Sbaâ before entering the medina.
- The wind is strong in the afternoon: plan the beaches for the morning.
- A Marrakech–Essaouira return trip in one day is possible, but two days are more pleasant.
Sidi Kaouki25 km · 30 min
Marrakech175 km · 2 h 45
Agadir175 km · 2 h 45
Safi130 km · 2 h