Why Essaouira is worth the drive

Essaouira, once known as Mogador, is one of the most charming towns on Morocco's Atlantic coast. Its fortified medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, keeps its ramparts facing the ocean, its cannons lined up on the Skala and its white lanes with blue shutters. The fishing harbour, with its blue boats and grilled-fish stalls, is still the living heart of the town. The almost constant wind has made it a well-known spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The town itself is best explored on foot, but a car opens up everything around it: wild beaches to the south, inland villages, argan forests and argan oil cooperatives along the road.

The road from Marrakech

Essaouira lies about 190 km from Marrakech, close to three hours' driving depending on stops. The route crosses plains and then hills covered in argan trees, where you may spot goats perched in the branches. It is a pleasant road, but much of it is two-lane: a comfortable, stable and powerful car makes overtaking far more relaxed.

The most practical starting point is Marrakech Menara airport, one of the pick-up locations for a large part of our fleet. You land, collect your car and head for the ocean the same day.

Which car to choose

An SUV is the natural choice here: a high driving position, a generous boot for luggage and comfort on the less even stretches.

  • Land Rover Range Rover Sport (2025, diesel): from 2000 MAD/day, with a base rate of 3000 MAD/day and reduced rates from 7 days.
  • Maserati Levante (2026, petrol): from 1500 MAD/day for long rentals, 2300 MAD/day base rate.
  • Porsche Macan (2026, petrol): from 1400 MAD/day, 2000 MAD/day base rate.
  • Land Rover Range Rover Evoque (2025, diesel): from 1300 MAD/day, a more compact option for the town's narrow streets and car parks.

All our cars are automatic with unlimited mileage. The minimum rental for these models is 3 days and the deposit is 30000 MAD. A driver can be offered on request, subject to availability.

Practical tips on the spot

Essaouira's medina is pedestrian: leave the car in one of the car parks by its gates and continue on foot. The wind can blow sand across the coastal road, so drive carefully and plan a wash before returning the car. If you are planning a longer tour, Essaouira pairs well with Agadir further south, whose airport is also a pick-up location.

Book your car

To book the right model for your stay in Essaouira, message us on WhatsApp at +212 646 618 020 or book directly on loccor.com from each car's page.