Adventure on the Atlantic Coast
This 6-day tour will take you to discover the best of Morocco, starting in the modern city of Casablanca. Then, we will head to the vibrant Marrakech, where you will explore its souks, gardens, and the iconic Djemaa el Fna square. The journey culminates in the charming coastal town of Essaouira, known for its beaches, fortified medina, and artistic atmosphere. A unique experience that combines culture, history, and unforgettable landscapes.
Tour Details
Duration
6 days
Arrival
casablanca
Departure
casablanca
Season
All the year
Group Size
exclusive
Itinerary
- Arrival in Casablanca, where you’ll be greeted at the airport with a sign from our agency, Unique Morocco Experience, and transferred to your riad.
- Afterward, take a short trip to the picturesque town of Azemmour. The walls and fortifications around the medina have been incredibly well preserved, and the old town, perched on a cliff, overlooks the Oum er Rbia river and its estuary.
- A long sandy beach, El Haouzia, awaits you just north of the city.
- You’ll spend the night, with dinner, at a riad in the medina.
- After breakfast at the riad, you’ll start a new day traveling south along the Atlantic coast.
- A must-see stop is El Jadida, formerly Mazagán, a fortified town built by the Portuguese in the early 16th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It boasts incredible cisterns, sea-facing walls perfect for a scenic stroll, impressive gates, and a unique city layout. Even the newer part of the city is worth visiting for its ocean views and lively markets.
- We recommend taking the coastal road to Oualidia, as it is much more scenic and less crowded. For seafood lovers, there are plenty of spots along the coast to enjoy fresh seafood.
- You’ll spend the night, at a guesthouse.
- After breakfast, continue driving along the coast, passing one beach after another.
- In Safi, an industrial port city, you can admire the ancient fortress built by the Portuguese. As you continue, the coast becomes steeper and more rugged.
- Stop at the Kasbah of Hamidouch, a citadel built in the 17th century at the mouth of the Tensift river by Moulay Ismaïl Ibn Sharif.
- You’ll arrive in Essaouira in the afternoon. Settle into your riad in the heart of the city’s medina.
- This cozy riad offers quality and service and is owned by a Franco-Moroccan couple who will warmly welcome you and provide helpful tips for your stay in Essaouira.
- After the breakfast enjoy a full day in Essaouira.
- Essaouira, known by numerous nicknames such as “The Pearl of the Atlantic,” “The Sleeping Beauty,” and “Beautifully Laid Out” (from the Arabic Souirah), is a UNESCO World Heritage city that retains the charm and authenticity of a place frozen in time. This city marks the end of the Mediterranean, with its last walled fortification on the Atlantic coasts, whose houses resemble the “white villages” of Andalusia.
- Essaouira has become an essential stop for any trip to Morocco. Adventurous explorers will be drawn to the friendliness and hospitality of the inhabitants of Essaouira, who have lived for centuries at a crossroads of cultures, civilizations, and religions. Here, the Phoenicians left their mark, and the city’s splendor dates back to their settlement, followed by the Romans, Carthaginians, Berbers, Portuguese, and French.
- You will be able to enjoy a lunch with delicious fresh fish and seafood, which arrives every morning at the city’s market.
- Overnight at the riad/hotel.
- After breakfast, head north to Casablanca, passing through Marrakech on the way.
- If you depart early, you’ll have time to stop and explore this beautiful pink city for a while. A highway connects Marrakech with Casablanca in just two and a half hours.
- Don’t miss the impressive Hassan II Mosque on the coast.
- Settle into your hotel for the night.
- After breakfast, depending on your flight’s departure time, you may have some free time for final visits and shopping.
- You will be transferred to the airport at the agreed time for your departure.
- End of our services.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the picturesque town of Azemmour, renowned for its well-preserved walls and fortifications.
- Visit the fortified city of El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Stroll through the charming streets of Essaouira, where Arab and European cultures blend seamlessly.
- Spend a full day exploring Essaouira at your own pace, enjoying its bohemian and laid-back atmosphere.
- Visit the famous Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world, before heading back home.
- Relax on the serene beach of Oualidia, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
WHAT IS INCLUDED / NOT INCLUDED
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Accommodations during the tour with breakfast
- Private vehicle with a English-speaking driver throughout the journey
- Fuel, tolls, and all associated expenses
- Administrative Fees
- Flights
- Lunches
- Entrance fees to monuments or museums
- Dinners
Overview
Your adventure begins at Casablanca International Airport, where your driver will greet you. After a short drive, you’ll arrive in Azemmour, a charming town known for its ancient walls and panoramic views of the Oum er Rbia River. Enjoy dinner in a cozy riad within the medina.
You’ll continue south along the coast, stopping at the fortified city of El Jadida, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can stroll along its impressive walls and explore the local markets. Next, you’ll arrive in Oualidia, famous for its fresh seafood and beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
On your way to Essaouira, you’ll experience the charm of Morocco’s coastline. You’ll visit Safi and its historic fortress and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean. Upon arriving in Essaouira, you’ll settle into a riad in the heart of the medina, where the quality and hospitality will make you feel right at home.
Take time to explore the magical city of Essaouira, wandering through its vibrant alleyways, enjoying the beaches, and engaging in water activities like surfing. Savor a delicious seafood lunch at a seaside restaurant and immerse yourself in the relaxed vibe of this coastal town.
As your journey nears its end, you’ll return to Casablanca, with a brief stop in Marrakech, the “red city.” Don’t miss the stunning Hassan II Mosque before arriving at your hotel in Casablanca.
With your heart full of memories and experiences, you’ll be transferred to Casablanca Airport for your return flight, carrying with you unforgettable stories from your Moroccan coastal adventure.
This tour perfectly combines history, culture, and beautiful beaches, ideal for those seeking a well-rounded and enriching experience in Morocco.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: As you explore various cities and landscapes, including mountains and beaches, it’s important to have sturdy and comfortable walking shoes to keep your feet happy throughout the journey.
- Lightweight Clothing: Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, especially for the warmer climate. Consider bringing items that can be layered to accommodate temperature changes during the day.
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays, especially during outdoor activities and beach visits.
- Daypack or Backpack: A small daypack or backpack will come in handy for carrying essentials such as water bottles, snacks, a camera, and other items while exploring.
- Travel Adapter: Morocco uses the Europlug Type C and Type E sockets, so ensure you have a suitable travel adapter to charge your electronic devices.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, so having a reusable water bottle will allow you to refill it throughout the day and reduce plastic waste.
Casablanca: In Casablanca, you’ll stay at a centrally located hotel. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and serves breakfast, making it a convenient base for exploring the city before your departure.
Azemmour: Azemmour features several accommodation options, including small family-run hotels and riads that reflect the local culture. These lodgings often provide an intimate atmosphere, offering the chance to experience Moroccan hospitality and enjoy delicious traditional breakfasts.
Oualidia: Oualidia is known for its cozy guesthouses and hotels with views of the lagoon. These accommodations typically offer a relaxed, family-friendly environment where you can enjoy beautiful sea views and savor fresh seafood dishes, a specialty of the region.
Essaouira: Essaouira offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and historical charm. The Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers various riads and guesthouses with authentic Moroccan architecture. You can also find hotels and resorts along the beachfront, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful views and easy access to the ocean.
During this tour, comfortable and reliable transportation will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are the details regarding transportation:
- Private Vehicles: Depending on the group size, you will travel in private vehicles, typically air-conditioned minibusses or vans. These vehicles are spacious and designed to provide a comfortable ride throughout the tour.
- Professional Drivers: Experienced and licensed drivers will accompany you throughout the trip. They know the routes, ensuring safe and efficient transportation between destinations. Our drivers are familiar with the local terrain and will navigate the roads with expertise.
- Airport Transfers: Upon your arrival in Marrakech, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Similarly, at the end of the tour, you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your departure. These transfers will be arranged to coincide with your flight schedule.
- Sightseeing and Excursions: For excursions and sightseeing activities, including visits to attractions, cities, and natural sites, comfortable transportation will be provided. It allows you to relax and enjoy the journey while experiencing the beauty and diversity of Morocco.
The vehicles used for transportation are well-maintained and comply with safety standards. Your comfort and safety are our priority, and we strive to ensure a pleasant travel experience throughout the tour.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to savor Moroccan cuisine’s flavors through various dining experiences. Here’s an overview of the meals included:
- Breakfast: Each tour day will begin with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation. You can expect traditional Moroccan breakfast items such as bread, pastries, jams, honey, cheese, olives, yogurt, eggs, and fresh fruits. Hot beverages like coffee and tea will also be available.
- Lunch: Meals are not included during the trip. However, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of options at local restaurants or prepare your own meals according to your preferences. We recommend trying authentic Moroccan dishes such as tagines, couscous, grilled meats, salads, and vegetarian options, which feature a blend of spices and flavors characteristic of Moroccan cuisine.
- Dinner: are not included during the trip, however you will have the opportunity to enjoy your dinner at your accommodations or local restaurants, offering a diverse range of Moroccan culinary delights. You can indulge in traditional dishes, such as Moroccan tagines, couscous, grilled kebabs, aromatic soups, and flavorful salads. Vegetarian and dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.
Moroccan cuisine is known for its rich flavors, spices, and diverse influences, blending Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Every effort will be made to ensure that you have a memorable dining experience, discovering the unique tastes of Morocco during your journey.
Please inform your tour operator about any dietary restrictions or food allergies so that they can make suitable arrangements for your meal preferences.
- Essaouira: Essaouira has a coastal climate influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. Summers are mild and breezy, with temperatures ranging between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Winters are relatively cool, with temperatures ranging between 15-20°C (59-68°F). Packing layers, including lightweight clothing for the summer, and a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings during the winter, is advisable.
- Marrakech and Casablanca: Both cities experience a warm semi-arid climate. Summers are typically hot and dry, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) or more. It is advisable to wear lightweight and breathable clothing during this period. Winters are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F), though evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended.
- Azemmour: Azemmour has a climate similar to Casablanca, with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 32°C (90°F), while winter temperatures range from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). Due to its location near the Oum er Rbia River, the city experiences some humidity, especially during the warmer months.
- El Jadida: El Jadida features a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures can reach around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures range from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F). Rainfall is more frequent between October and April, and the sea breeze provides relief during hot days.
- Oualidia: Oualidia, known for its lagoon and beaches, enjoys a temperate climate. In summer, temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), while winter temperatures are cooler, between 8°C and 18°C (46°F to 64°F). The city is known for its gentle winds, making it ideal for water activities, and rainfall is more common during the winter months.
It’s important to note that weather conditions can be unpredictable, and it’s always a good idea to check the local forecast before your trip. Packing appropriate clothing, including lightweight and breathable attire for hot weather and warmer layers for cooler temperatures, will ensure your comfort throughout the tour. Remember to bring sun protection essentials like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the strong Moroccan sun.
Visa requirements for traveling to Morocco vary depending on your nationality. Here are some general guidelines:
- Visa Exemptions: Citizens of several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many European Union countries, do not require a visa to enter Morocco for tourism if their stay is less than 90 days. Upon arrival, they will receive a stamp in their passport, allowing them to stay in the country for the specified period.
- Visa on Arrival: Some nationalities, such as citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several European Union countries, can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or other designated ports of entry. The visa is usually valid for up to 90 days.
- Visa in Advance: Citizens of certain countries must obtain a visa from a Moroccan embassy or consulate before traveling. It applies to nationals of countries such as China, India, Russia, and several African countries. It’s important to check the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your home country for specific visa requirements and application procedures.
When applying for a visa, you may be required to provide supporting documents such as a valid passport, a completed application form, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket. Applying for the visa well before your planned travel dates is recommended to allow for processing time.
It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, so it’s advisable to check with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country or consult with a travel agent for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding visa requirements for your nationality.
