The festival that put Essaouira on the world map

Every year, the Gnaoua and World Music Festival turns Essaouira into a huge open-air stage. Gnaoua maâlems, guardians of a spiritual tradition listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, share the stage with jazz, African and rock musicians from many countries. Concerts take place on the squares of the medina, by the ramparts and facing the ocean, and much of the programme is traditionally open to the public. The 2026 edition took place at the end of June; the dates of the next edition are announced on the festival's official website, festival-gnaoua.net.

Why come by car

Essaouira has no railway station, and coaches are in high demand during the festival. With a car you leave when it suits you, you can stay in a riad in the medina or in a quieter house along the coast, and you are free to head back after the last concert. The road from Marrakech is about 190 km; from Casablanca, allow about 350 km, largely on the motorway towards Safi or Marrakech, then on national roads.

Which car to choose

For a couple or a small group of friends, a compact SUV such as the Porsche Macan (from 1400 MAD/day depending on the length of rental) is enjoyable on inland roads. For a family or four adults with luggage, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport (from 2000 MAD/day for long rentals) or the Audi Q8 (from 2100 MAD/day) offer five seats and plenty of space. If you prefer an understated and economical saloon, the Mercedes CLA 220 is available from 1000 MAD/day. All cars are automatic, with unlimited mileage.

Where to pick up the car

These models can be collected at the Casablanca agency (Maarif) or at several airports, including Casablanca Mohammed V, Marrakech and Agadir. For Essaouira, Marrakech is often the most convenient starting point: land, pick up the car and take the road to the ocean. The minimum rental period is 3 days, which fits the length of a festival well. A deposit is required; the amount depends on the model and is shown on each car's page.

Practical tips on the spot

Essaouira's medina is pedestrian: leave the car in a guarded car park outside the ramparts and continue on foot. During the festival the town fills up quickly, so book your accommodation early and try to arrive in daylight. Use the car to explore the surroundings too: the beaches of Sidi Kaouki to the south, the argan oil cooperatives along the road, or a return journey north along the coast.

Book

To book your car for the Gnaoua Festival, message us on WhatsApp at +212 646 618 020 or book directly on loccor.com from the page of the car you choose.