8 Once In A Lifetime Activities In Essaouira, Morocco
Lying on the Atlantic Coast is the city of Essaouira, Morocco, a place unlike any other in the African country. With a huge amount of historic architecture, stunning beaches and activities to go with them as well as beautiful shopping areas, don’t miss out on the city.
If you’re travelling through the country, then Essaouira from Marrakech is just shy of three hours, so consider renting a car to make your trip even easier.
With many regretting not spending enough time in Essaouira, ensure you dedicate enough time to uncover all that’s on offer in this hidden gem of Morocco.
Amazing Activities In Essaouira, Morocco
Essaouira is a city for everyone. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, exploring Morocco with the kids or you are doing it as a solo traveller, the following activities are a must when visiting.
If you’re looking for something relaxing, or perhaps more thrilling entertainment, the Moroccan city has plenty on offer.
Stroll Through The Ramparts
These fortified walls against the city’s shores were built in the 18th century to protect Essaouira from attack. Incredibly, many of the canons and structures are still standing and well-preserved to this day and provide an outstanding view out onto the ocean.
A great open space for the kids to run around and explore, TV fans may also recognise it from Game of Thrones.
Horse Riding Along The Beaches
This could be another activity for the whole family, depending on how comfortable or experienced you are with horses. However, this would certainly be an experience you wouldn’t forget.
Across many of the beaches in Essaouira, there are businesses offering horseriding sessions, catering from beginners to experienced riders.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, then you can even try camel riding too!
For a truly beautiful sight, head down to any of the beaches at sunset to ride along the sands, hearing the waves rolling into the shore.
Essaouira Surfing Cannot Be Missed
Essaouira is known as one of the windiest cities in Africa and is therefore famous for its surfing.
The winds here are very strong, especially during the summer months. If you’re thinking of visiting during July and August, the blowing winds may stop you from enjoying sunbathing, so consider that when booking your trip.
Essaouira surfing is a great activity if the sands are a little blustery. Take your own equipment or take lessons from one of the Essaouira surfing schools to learn regular surfing or even kite surfing if you’re up for the challenge.
Take A Trip To Moulay Hassan Square
If you’ve had enough of the beach and are looking for a more relaxing activity in Essaouira, Morocco, then head to Moulay Hassan Square.
Lively and full of culture, enjoy a bite to eat out in the sunshine whilst listening to street performers. Take part in some people-watching whilst having some crepes and a coffee, indulging in the vibrancy of Essaouira, Morocco.
Quad Biking Across The Essaouira Beaches
Perhaps horseriding or camel riding isn’t exhilarating enough for you and you want something with a bit more adventure. Luckily, this can be provided and you can enjoy quad biking in Morocco along the Essaouira beaches.
Those partaking in the activity can do so for a few hours or up to a day with a personal guide to make the most of the experience. Dash over the dunes, the sands whipping up by the shore and take on an adventure like no other.
Ride Through The Countryside
Seeking even more of an adrenaline rush? Then head into the countryside of Essaouira, Morocco for a thrilling ride on an electric bike.
With tours lasting an hour or half a day, this is a great opportunity to see all the sights in a truly unique way. See the Moroccan wildlife up close as well as ride through the hills and villages to meet the locals.
Be mindful that only those who are over 16 can ride a bike, with those above 10 permitted on the tour as passengers. Unfortunately, those younger than that cannot participate in the electric bike rides.
Relax In A Traditional Hammam
After all that adventure, it’s time to treat yourself to a relaxing time. This can be found in a traditional Hammam, offering an almost spa-like experience.
Here, you will enter a hot-tiled room and remove your clothes down to your underwear. Your entire body will be scrubbed and thoroughly cleaned. Though going into a public hammam offers the most authentic experience, you can hire a private hammam to have to yourself if you’re more self-conscious.
Visit Essaouira Medina
Essaouira, Medina is a must-visit, even if you only have time for a quick stroll. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, vehicles aren’t permitted here and the area isn’t too large that you don’t have to worry about getting lost.
There are plenty of shops and souks to peruse to dive into the culture and to find an intriguing souvenir for your Moroccan trip. There are plenty of locals around to have a conversation or if you need any help or recommendations for restaurants in the area.
Explore Essaouira, Morocco by renting a car with Finalrentals today.
