Marrakech to Essaouira by Campervan: a 3-Day Road Trip

This is the perfect first road trip: in less than a day's drive, you swap the buzz of Marrakech for the sea breeze of Essaouira, the "Windy City of Africa". The road crosses farmland and then the argan forest before reaching the Atlantic Ocean. Here is our 3-day campervan itinerary, with the must-see stops and our practical tips.

The route at a glance

• Distance: around 180 to 190 km.
• Driving time: 2.5 to 3 hours without stops. Allow half a day to enjoy the breaks.
• Route: head west out of Marrakech, through Chichaoua, then across the argan forest to Essaouira.
• Road type: a tarmac road, easily accessible by campervan. Take care through villages and watch for speed checks.

Distances and times are approximate: check your route on a navigation app on the day.

Day 1 — Marrakech to Essaouira through the argan forest

Pick up your campervan in Marrakech in the morning (or at airport car park P2, by appointment) and head west. After about 75 km, Chichaoua is a handy stop for coffee or fuel.

Further on, the road enters the argan forest, home to the argan tree, an icon of south-western Morocco. Many argan oil cooperatives, often run by women, line the road. They are a great way to learn how the oil is traditionally made and to buy directly from the producers.

You may spot goats perched in argan trees. It is a famous sight, but some scenes are staged for tourists: it is up to you whether to stop.

Arrive in Essaouira in the late afternoon, settle in for the night and enjoy the sunset over the ocean.

Day 2 — Essaouira, the pearl of the Atlantic

Park the van outside the medina and explore on foot:

• the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its white and blue lanes, craftsmen and art galleries;
• the Skala de la Ville, the ocean-facing ramparts lined with old cannons;
• the fishing port and its blue boats, busiest in the morning, where you can enjoy freshly grilled fish;
• the long beach, perfect for a walk. The steady wind makes Essaouira a renowned kitesurfing and windsurfing spot.

In the evening, head to your overnight stop and cook dinner facing the ocean, inside the van or at the camping table.

Day 3 — Sidi Kaouki and back (or head south)

Around twenty kilometres south of Essaouira, Sidi Kaouki is a small surf village on a vast, wild beach. It is perfect for a morning surf session, a walk on the sand or simply a quiet break.

Then choose:

• Drive back to Marrakech in the afternoon, arriving before dark.
• Continue south towards Taghazout and Agadir: see our road trip ideas to extend your trip over several days, or our Morocco surf trip guide if you are travelling with your boards.

Where to sleep by campervan around Essaouira

We recommend equipped campsites first, found around Essaouira and along the coast. They let you plug in (useful for the van's electric hobs), refill water and sleep safely. Otherwise, use an authorised parking area, such as a guarded car park. Wild camping is not permitted everywhere: always check locally. We share our recommendations at handover.

Practical tips

• Leave Marrakech early to avoid traffic and enjoy your stops.
• The wind is often strong in Essaouira, especially in the afternoon: bring a windproof jacket, even in summer.
• Temperatures are milder on the coast than in Marrakech, and evenings can be cool.
• Don't drive at night: on the way back, leave early enough to arrive before sunset.
• Carry small change in dirhams for parking attendants and small purchases.

When to go

All year round. In summer, Essaouira is a refreshing escape from the heat of Marrakech. In spring and autumn, the light is beautiful and it is quieter. In winter, days stay mild but nights are cool.