Marrakech to Essaouira: How to Get There (Bus, Taxi, Transfer)
Trading the chaotic, sweltering streets of Marrakech for the cool ocean breeze of Essaouira is one of the most popular itinerary choices in Morocco. The journey is straightforward, safe, and highly scenic, passing through the arid Haouz plain where you might even spot goats climbing Argan trees.
The distance from Marrakech to Essaouira is roughly 175 kilometers (108 miles), and the drive takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours depending on your mode of transport.
Here is a complete breakdown of exactly how to get from Marrakech to Essaouira, including prices, schedules, and insider tips.
1. The Best Way: The Supratours Bus
For 90% of travelers, the Supratours bus is the best, safest, and most comfortable way to travel between Marrakech and Essaouira. Supratours is owned by ONCF (the national railway company), so the buses are modern, air-conditioned, and have strict luggage policies.
- Departure Point: The Supratours station in Marrakech is located right next to the main train station (Gare de Marrakech) in the Gueliz district.
- Arrival Point: The Supratours station in Essaouira is incredibly convenient. It drops you off just steps away from Bab Marrakech, one of the main gates into the pedestrian-only medina.
- Travel Time: Exactly 3 hours, including a 20-minute rest stop halfway at a roadside cafe.
- Price: 90 MAD (about $9 USD) for a standard ticket, or 110 MAD for the “Confort Plus” bus which has wider seats and more legroom. Note: You must pay an extra 5 MAD per piece of large luggage before boarding.
- How to Book: You can buy tickets at the station, but this route is incredibly popular and frequently sells out a day in advance, especially during the summer. It is highly recommended to buy your tickets online via the official ONCF website or at the station a day before you travel.
(Another option is CTM, Morocco’s other premium bus company. CTM is also excellent, but their station in Essaouira is slightly further away from the medina than Supratours).
2. The Budget Way: Shared “Grand” Taxis
If the buses are sold out, or if you prefer a more adventurous, local way to travel, you can take a shared grand taxi.
- How it works: Grand taxis in Morocco are usually older Mercedes sedans or newer minivans that run fixed routes. They do not leave on a schedule; they leave when all 6 passenger seats are full.
- Departure Point: You can find the Essaouira-bound grand taxis parked near the main bus station (Gare Routière) at Bab Doukkala in Marrakech.
- Price: A single seat costs roughly 100 MAD.
- Insider Tip: If you want more comfort (since 6 people crammed into a taxi is tight), you can buy two seats for yourself for 200 MAD, giving you the entire front passenger seat.
3. The Most Comfortable Way: Private Transfer
If you are traveling with a group of 3 or 4 people, or if you simply value convenience, hiring a private driver is a fantastic option.
- The Experience: A driver will pick you up directly from your Riad or hotel in Marrakech and drop you off exactly at the closest gate to your accommodation in Essaouira. You can ask the driver to stop for photos, bathroom breaks, or to see the famous “tree-climbing goats” along the way.
- Price: A private car typically costs between 800 MAD and 1000 MAD ($80 - $100 USD) total for the vehicle.
4. Renting a Car
Driving in Morocco is easier than many people expect, especially on the route between Marrakech and Essaouira. The R207 highway is a well-paved, modern two-lane road.
- The Drive: It is a straight shot west. However, be extremely mindful of speed cameras. The Moroccan police frequently set up radar checkpoints right at the entrance to small towns along the highway. Do not exceed the speed limit.
- Parking: Cars are not allowed inside the Essaouira medina. You will need to park your rental car in one of the guarded outdoor lots just outside the city walls (usually costs around 20-30 MAD per day).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do a day trip from Marrakech to Essaouira?
Yes. Many tour companies in Marrakech offer full-day excursions. However, keep in mind that you will spend nearly 6 hours of the day just driving. If you can spare the time, spending at least one night in Essaouira is much more relaxing.
Is there a train from Marrakech to Essaouira?
No, there is no train line connecting Marrakech and Essaouira. The national train network (ONCF) ends in Marrakech. This is why ONCF operates the Supratours bus line to complete the journey to the coast.
Where can I see the goats climbing trees?
About 20-30 kilometers before you reach Essaouira, the landscape fills with Argan trees. You will often see herds of goats standing in the branches eating the Argan nuts. Note: if you stop to take photos, the herders expect a small tip (10-20 MAD).
