Arrival in Essaouira

From Marrakesh, you travel west (approximately three hours) to the Atlantic Coast and Essaouira, the white-washed port originally settled by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Formally known as Mogador, you proceed to the waterfront for a seafood lunch, and later an independent afternoon exploring its harbor, busy with sardine-fishing boats, or perhaps indulging in your hotel’s amenities such as its rooftop pool and luxurious spa, with a stunning view over the medina and ocean. Later, this evening you may choose to dine at one of your hotel’s four restaurants such as the Moroccan gourmet restaurant, courtyard patio, or panoramic rooftop terrace.

Guided walking tour of Essaouira; easy city walking

After breakfast, you meet your guide in the lobby of the hotel for a walking tour of this fortified town, including the medieval walled medina (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the Jewish quarter (or mellah), the port, and 18th-century scala harbor fortifications. You also visit the Moulay Abdellah museum with its collection of jewelry, costumes, weapons, musical instruments, and carpets from the region. Concluding the tour by mid-afternoon, you are free to continue your explorations of this striking “blue and white” town for the remainder of the day and evening, enjoying your hotel and its central location. A wide sandy beach extends from Essaouira’s port to the south of the town, and just off shore lie the Iles Purpuraires, the islets from which the Phoenicians collected the seashells producing the famous royal blue dye. Returning to your hotel, you may choose a dining option within the property, or venture out to a nearby restaurant.

Morning options, Diabat ranch: bike ride (self-guided or guided), camel ride, or horseback ride; free afternoon

After breakfast in the courtyard restaurant of your hotel, a 15-minute transfer takes you to the nearby coastal village of Diabat and the family-run Ranch de Diabat nestled near the dunes. In addition to a stable of well-cared-for horses and camels, the ranch is surrounded by a network of trails on which you can choose to walk, bicycle, try a camel ride, or enjoy a horseback-riding excursion. By horse or camel, you can saunter along the beach with wide Atlantic views and waves crashing. By bicycle, you can ride along the beach back to Essaouira and around its walls, or with a guide, circle the ruins of the Sultan’s Palace and Fort Al Baroud. All options include a pause for traditional Moroccan mint tea.

In the afternoon, you can return to stroll through the medina and along the seawall at your leisure, perhaps bargaining for some last treasures, on your final night in this fascinating port.

Transfer to Marrakesh for departure

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, a (3-hour) transfer takes you to Marrakesh for your onward flight or travels.