The route between Marrakech and Essaouira is one of the most popular travel connections in Morocco. The two cities are about 180 kilometers apart—a distance you can easily cover in just a few hours. In this article, you’ll find all the transport options from Marrakech to Essaouira at a glance, including tips for day trips.
If you’re staying in Marrakech, Essaouira is just a short ride away, and this captivating coastal town is definitely worth the trip! Its charming Medina, vibrant souks, and breezy beaches offer a perfect contrast to the city’s energy.
Unfortunately, there’s no train connection between Marrakech and Essaouira. Marrakech is the southernmost stop on Morocco’s railway network. But don’t worry, you can easily reach Essaouira from Marrakech by road. There are numerous transportation options available, including buses, shared taxis, private transfers, and rental cars.
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Bus connections to Essaouira from Marrakech
The most affordable way to get from Marrakech to Essaouira is by long-distance bus. Depending on the bus company, the journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, including a short 15-minute break. Besides the two major national companies, Supratours and CTM, several private providers also operate buses from the Bab Doukkala bus station in Marrakech.
If you want to travel with CTM or Supratours, it’s best to buy your ticket in advance, especially during high season or on public holidays. You can purchase tickets online or directly at the bus station. Keep in mind that many bus companies in Morocco charge a small fee for larger luggage, usually around 5–10 DH (0.5–1 EUR).
With Supratours from Marrakech to Essaouira
Supratours is the main company serving the Marrakech–Essaouira route. Their buses are modern, air-conditioned, and depart from the Supratours terminal in Marrakech. In Essaouira, the terminal is located right next to the city wall of the medina, very central and convenient.
Seven Supratours buses run daily in both directions. Tickets cost around 100 DH (approx. 9–10 EUR) per person, and the ride takes about three hours.
| Marrakech – Essaouira | Essaouira – Marrakech |
| 7:45 AM – 10:45 AM | 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
| 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 9:15 AM – 12:15 PM |
| 10:45 AM – 1:45 PM | 11:15 AM – 2:15 PM |
| 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 2:15 PM – 5:15 PM |
| 2:45 PM – 5:45 PM | 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
| 4:45 PM – 7:45 PM | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 6:15 PM – 9:15 PM |
- Supratours Terminal Marrakech (Google Maps)
- Supratours Terminal Essaouira (Google Maps)
- Supratours Website
CTM connections from Marrakech to Essaouira
CTM, the second largest national transportation company, also runs the route between Marrakech and Essaouira with modern buses. However, there’s only one daily connection in each direction. The journey from Marrakech takes about three hours, while the journey in the other direction takes only around two and a half hours.
A CTM ticket costs 100 DH (approx. 9–10 EUR) per person.
| Marrakech – Essaouira | Essaouira – Marrakech |
| 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM | 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM |
- CTM Terminal Marrakech (Google Maps)
- CTM Terminal Essaouira (Google Maps)
- CTM Website
Other buses from Marrakech to Essaouira
Many private bus companies run daily services from the Bab Doukkala bus station in Marrakech to Essaouira. While these buses are usually cheaper than CTM and Supratours, they are often in poor condition, less comfortable, and slower.
In Essaouira, these buses arrive at a station outside the medina, about a 15-minute walk from the city center.
- Bus station Marrakech Bab Doukkala (Google Maps)
- Bus station Essaouira (Google Maps)
Getting to Essaouira from Marrakech by Grand Taxi
Grand Taxis are shared taxis that only leave once all six seats are filled. A ride from Marrakech to Essaouira costs about 120–150 DH per person and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. If you prefer not to wait for other passengers or want more comfort, you can book the remaining seats. The price for a full Grand Taxi varies depending on your negotiation skills, but it is usually between 800–1,000 DH (approx. 75–95 EUR).
In Marrakech, Grand Taxis depart from the large taxi stand near Bab Doukkala. In Essaouira, you’ll find them at the city’s edge, about a 15-minute walk from the medina.
Private transfer or shuttle
Private transfers are the most convenient, but also the most expensive, way to travel. A driver picks you up directly from your hotel or the airport and takes you straight to Essaouira without any stops. Prices range from 900 to 1,700 DH (approx. 85–160 EUR) per trip, depending on the provider and vehicle size.
Many hotels and travel agencies offer shuttle services, especially for families or small groups. This option is ideal if you’re traveling with kids or want to save time and effort. There’s no need to book bus tickets or wait around; just get in and go.
From Marrakech to Essaouira by rental car
A rental car gives you the most freedom, which is perfect if you want to make a few stops along the way, for example, at the famous argan trees or in small Berber villages. The main roads (N8 and N1) are in good condition, and the drive takes about two and a half hours without stops.
Rental cars start at around 25 EUR per day. Add roughly 150 DH for gas and some parking fees. Keep in mind: you can’t park inside the medina of Essaouira. The best options are one of the designated parking areas outside the medina or directly by the port.
Day trips from Marrakech to Essaouira
If you only have one day to spare, a guided day trip to Essaouira is a great option. Many travel agencies offer organized tours that start early in the morning and return to Marrakech in the late afternoon or evening. These tours typically include transportation and a guided city tour of Essaouira.
A typical itinerary looks like this:
- Departure from Marrakech around 8 AM
- Arrival in Essaouira around 11 AM
- 4–5 hours of free time in the city
- Return trip in the late afternoon
- Arrival in Marrakech around 7 PM
These day trips are perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the Moroccan coast without having to plan everything on their own.
Conclusion
Even without a train connection, traveling to Essaouira from Marrakech is easy and convenient. Whether you’re looking for an inexpensive option, a fast connection, or maximum comfort, there’s a solution for every need. Supratours and CTM buses are reliable and inexpensive, perfect if you prefer a direct route with modern buses and regular departures.
For more flexibility, Grand Taxis and private transfers offer a quicker and more personalized travel experience. A rental car is great for those who want to explore along the way. If you just want a quick and easy getaway, an organized day trip might be just the thing.
If you’re exploring Marrakech, Essaouira is a wonderful coastal escape just a short journey away. Ultimately, the best travel option depends entirely on your preferences, whether it’s budget, comfort, speed, or the freedom to stop wherever you like.
