Tour Description

Ancient Portuguese city - 1 day from 07:30 to 18:00

The Medina of Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador (a term derived from the Phoenician word Migdol meaning "small fortress"), represents a remarkable example of a fortified city from the mid-18th century, surrounded by ramparts influenced by the Vauban model. Erected according to the principles of contemporary European military architecture, in a North African context, in perfect harmony with the precepts of Arab-Muslim architecture and urban planning, it played a major role over the centuries as an international commercial port, linking sub-Saharan Africa to Europe and the rest of the world. The city also illustrates a model of multicultural center, testifying to the coexistence, since its foundation, of various ethnic groups such as the Amazighs, Arabs, Africans, and Europeans, as well as various faiths (Muslim, Christian, and Jewish). Inseparable from the Medina, the Mogador archipelago is home to many cultural and natural sites of exceptional universal value. Its relatively late foundation compared to other medinas in North Africa was the work of the Alaouite sultan Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah (1757-1790), who aspired to make this small Atlantic town a royal port and the main Moroccan commercial center open to the outside world. Long known as the port of Timbuktu, Essaouira became one of the main commercial centers of the Atlantic between Africa and Europe in the late 18th and 19th centuries.

Essaouira remains an exceptional example of a fortified city from the late 18th century, built in North Africa according to the principles of contemporary European military architecture. Since its inception, it has maintained its status as a leading international trading port, connecting Morocco and the Saharan hinterland to Europe and the rest of the world.

Details: Excursion to Essaouira

Departure at 07:30 from the hotel heading north. Essaouira is 173 km from Agadir, about a 3-hour drive.

The Agadir-Essaouira route offers coastal views of the Atlantic, with several photo stops along this magnificent road:

- At 60 km from Agadir, a superb panoramic view of the ocean.
- Photo opportunity of goats on argan trees.
- A coffee break for refreshment.
- Visit to a women's cooperative for argan oil extraction (optional).

Once in Essaouira, a guided tour of the entire medina (old town) reveals the hidden places of the city, including the Scala, Portuguese cannons, bustling alleys, and the fishing port, where many well-organized blue-painted boats can be observed.

After lunch (which is extraordinary), free time allows for fully appreciating the beauty of this charming city of Essaouira or Mogador.

The return is around 16:00 by the same route. Arrival is expected at 19:00.

Duration: 1 day from 07:30 to 18:00
Departure days: Monday - Wednesday - Friday