Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 44 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout worth booking?
Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout is a 12-hour experience in Agadir, Morocco, from $35 per person. It scores 77 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 44 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 77 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (44)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $35 per person
The Medina of Essaouira, formerly named Mogador (name originating from the Phoenician word Migdol meaning a « small fortress »), is an outstanding example of a fortified town of the mid-eighteenth century, surrounded by a wall influenced by the Vauban model. Constructed according to the principles of contemporary European military architecture, in a North African context, in perfect harmony with the precepts of Arabo-Muslim architecture and town-planning, it has played a major role over the centuries as an international trading seaport, linking Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa with Europe and the rest of the world. The town is also an example of a multicultural centre as proven by the coexistence, since its foundation, of diverse ethnic groups, such as the Amazighs, Arabs, Africans, and Europeans as well as multiconfessional (Muslim, Christian and Jewish). Indissociable from the Medina, the Mogador archipelago comprises a large number of cultural and natural sites .
What you get
About this experience
The Medina of Essaouira, formerly named Mogador (name originating from the Phoenician word Migdol meaning a « small fortress »), is an outstanding example of a fortified town of the mid-eighteenth century, surrounded by a wall influenced by the Vauban model. Constructed according to the principles of contemporary European military architecture, in a North African context, in perfect harmony with the precepts of Arabo-Muslim architecture and town-planning, it has played a major role over the centuries as an international trading seaport, linking Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa with Europe and the rest of the world. The town is also an example of a multicultural centre as proven by the coexistence, since its foundation, of diverse ethnic groups, such as the Amazighs, Arabs, Africans, and Europeans as well as multiconfessional (Muslim, Christian and Jewish). Indissociable from the Medina, the Mogador archipelago comprises a large number of cultural and natural sites .
What's included
Included
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Lunch
What you'll see and do
Essaouira Ramparts
Departure at 7h:20 am from your hotel.about 170 km by main road to Essaouira,offers some pleasant exploration.3 hours driving to arrive to Essaouira with photos stops in the way : After 60 km,stop in a nice panoramic view Second stop to see "flying goats " on the way and information about Argan tree. Relax and café in a berber village Visit the Argan Oil production factory. The programe includes visit of the medina (old city),Scala (great sea bastion) ,fishing port,jewish quarter and a nice place with lots of character and very relaxing.after lunch you will have your free time to admire the city beauty... The return will be around 16h by the same route to go ... arrival scheduled at 19h00
300 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, fr
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Wed, Fri
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Bakhazouz Tours Company
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 44 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
6 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
4 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
44 verified traveler reviews for Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Good trip, loooong drive!
An interesting trip with a great guide Hassan. Essaouira is a fascinating town to visit, steeped in history and well worth a visit. With an ancient Medina wrapped in a colonial fort dating back to the 1600's, hidden souks, a traditional fishing harbour and steeped in culture Essaouira offers the full Moroccan experience. Offering a meld of Berber, colonial and modern Arab/African culture without the hassle and stress of navigating the intense crowds of Marrakech or Casablanca Essaouira has a unique charm that is well worth the time taken to visit. Booking was simple and competitively priced and adding our hotel (which wasn't on their list) was very easy and problem free. Messaged the tour operator the day before just to confirm our pick up and received a prompt reply confirming all and provided our pick up time from our hotel. Pick up arrived 15 minutes late with zero communication advising about the delay. No biggie in our book as we sat drinking coffee in our hotels excellent 24hr bakery, but can see how this could be an annoyance for some ⏰️. Vehicle was a 21 seat Mercedes Minibus that was clean, well kept and our drivers driving was safe and professional throughout the day ✅️. Now read the tour description carefully folks, you will be packed in to a minibus for a VERY long drive along the coast and through the Atlas Mountains. It is very twisty with many hairpin bends and switchbacks along undulating tarmacked roads. Two of our party got travel sick during the trip there and the rest of us endured their vomiting into bags and associated smells which was not particularly pleasant for the rest of us so be aware of this when you book!! (And if you know you get travel sick.... medicate yourself...! we dont want to see, or more importantly smell your breakfast 🤢..... Don't be that guy!!!!) The drive to and from Essaouira for the most part is through the mountains, this offers some absolutely stunning views and impressive back drops. The portion of the drive along the Atlantic coast is also very beautiful and offers some amazing views along the coast particularly on the return journey where we got to experience the sunset across the ocean making the drive in and out an experience in itself. HOWEVER the stated 3hr journey each way fails to account for 2 x 20 minute stops along the way, once for toilets and once to visit an Argan Oil Cooperative along the route. Then another 45 - 60 minutes of additional driving to reach Essaouira additionally to the 3 hrs already driven.... all in all our journey there took 4 hours 10 minutes (with our return journey a touch under 4 hours a 3 hrs 40 mins). This may test the endurance of some people, especially if travelling with younger children 🤐. Our tour guide Hassan was great, offering commentary fluently in both English and French throughout which helped keep the long drive there interesting without simply talking for talkings sake 👍. At the first toilet stop, there is a cafe with plently of seating that offers snacks and drinks.... including amazing fruit juices squeezed to order!! (But have a pocket full of change as you have to pay to use the traditional Arab style toilets here). 2nd stop at the Argan Oil Cooperative was interesting and well presented with a local guide (also impressively fluent in many languages!) taking you on a 5-10 minute tour that culminated in the inevitable exit via the shop. Thankfully no hard sell tactics just polite and respectful invitations to buy their various products. (And most importantly, free and very clean conventional european sit down toilets....🎉) If you've done other trips in Morocco before booking this one you will have seen this set up many times already. As it seems a large part of the local economy it is understandable and well worth a look if you haven't seen this before and an opportunity to support the locals and their economy. (Essentially if you book any trip in Morocco you will inevitably be given a tour of a local Pottery, Honey or Argan Oil Cooperative being as it plays such an important part in the local Berber economy but after the 3rd or 4th visit you will ultimately run out of things you wish to buy 🤷♂️) The scheduled 3rd stop to view the local tree climbing goats (the infamous 'flying goats') didn't occur which dissapointed a few but didn't bother us in the slightest (given the already lengthy transit time.... we did pay to see Essaouira after all not goats in trees!!) The more observant passangers would have noticed this was already a common sight in many of the fields along the way if they actually looked during our journey there and back..... Just saying 🤔. Essaouira itself was amazing and I won't spoil the suprise for you describing anymore than I opened with. It is well worth the drive and a fascinating place. (but I can imagine at the height of the tourist season it could feel rather clostraphobic for some as it is very 'compact' so perhaps keep that in mind?). The one thing I will share here is trust Hassans recommendation of where to eat lunch (which happens late, around 2 pm), many did their own thing for lunch and weren't happy about it when they shared their dining experiences on the journey home, lol. We went with Hassans suggestion and had a fantastic meal in a lovely family run restaurant off the beaten track and it was superb (and incredibly inexpensive by UK standards!) Throughout the day our guide Hassan was attentive, friendly and was full of knowledge and funny anecdotes that made the tour a great day for us throughout. If you're prepared for the long travel times there and back this tour offers great value and a fascinating experience for a very reasonable price which we would both happily recommend (particularly if you get Hassan as your guide). Thank you for a great day out Hassan, brilliant, we had a great day out. 🙏
via Tripadvisor
Fabulous day trip from Agadir to Essasouria via Taghouzet arranged by Younnas Excellent service Beautiful Morrocco
Day Trip – Highly Recommended We met with Younas to discuss and arrange a private day trip for four adults from Agadir to Essaouira via Taghazout, and from the very start the experience was excellent. Younas took genuine time to understand exactly what we wanted from our day and organised everything accordingly. He was never pushy and came across as a decent, honest man who clearly runs a professional and trustworthy business. Our group of four adults travelled very comfortably in a brand-new Fiat van driven by Mustapha. The vehicle was immaculate and extremely comfortable. We had made it clear to Younas that we did not want to be taken to tourist stops suggested by the driver and preferred to follow our own itinerary. Although Mustapha suggested an argan factory and a restaurant of his choice, he fully respected our wishes when we declined. We visited the beautiful, bohemian surf village of Taghazout before continuing on to Essaouira. The drive itself was a highlight, with stunning coastal views combined with dramatic mountain scenery—truly interesting and beautiful throughout. In Essaouira, we enjoyed lunch at a beachfront restaurant before heading into the Medina. Just outside the main Medina entrance by the car park, we stopped for freshly squeezed orange juice from a local trader—it was absolutely delicious. We spent several hours exploring the Medina, soaking in the vibrant colours, incredible spice aromas, and lively atmosphere. We loved haggling with the market traders and watching skilled craftsmen at work, from metal goods made from scrap to beautiful silver jewellery being created by hand. We also stopped for a fresh coffee at a small café where the staff were incredibly friendly. Throughout the day, we shared many laughs with our driver Mustapha, who entertained us with stories from his life and made the journey even more enjoyable. Younas personally came to see us off on the morning of the trip and met us again afterward to check that we had enjoyed the experience, which was a very thoughtful touch. We would highly recommend Younas without hesitation. He is a man of excellent character and an honest businessman, and our day trip was one of the highlights of our time in Morocco.
via Tripadvisor
Essaouira day trip
The tour met our expectations from the description. Pick up from Agadir was on time on this small group tour. Our guide Hassan was good & informative to both French and English speaking travellers. A stop for photos of goats in trees made a local shepherd's day with tips and the obligatory stop at Argan Oil collective was ok where you can buy the oils or the most expensive peanut butter you will ever find.. Essaouira guided tour was very good and sufficient free time to explore the town. Lunch not included in price but you are guided to a restaurant as tour description. We skipped the lunch to have a bit more time exploring the town. A 3hr journey each way with good comfort stops along the way. A photo stops along the coast on the return
via Tripadvisor
A lovely day
We were picked up from our hotel on time and joined a small group of lovely people. The driver, was safe, which believe me, we have been on some trips that we didn't feel safe on at all, so that is very important. Our guide was wonderful, very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw some wonderful things and after being taken to a restaurant, ( the food wasn't included in the price, but I preferred that, it was nice to chose our food and to have a fantastic meal at a good price ) we were given loads of free time to do what we wanted. We weren't on a rushed timescale, and we both thoroughly enjoyed this trip
via Viator
Essaouira is a lovely...
Essaouira is a lovely seaside town. We enjoyed exploring the medina and the port. Very relaxed and not too touristy. Vendors are not pushy. Excellent communication with travel company. Very accommodating. Tour guide is fluent in several languages and connected with the group well. He was professional in his dealings and did not make us feel like we were lead into tourist traps. Would not hesitate to book with this company again.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Wed, Fri
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 15
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Bakhazouz Tours Company, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.4.
See everything Bakhazouz Tours Company runsWhy this scores 77
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Agadir.
How much does Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout cost?
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Prices start at $35 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Agadir usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout take?
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Plan for about 12 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Agadir is not rushed.
Is Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 77 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 44 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Agadir, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout?
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Around 15 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Agadir can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Agadir and add a light layer if any part of the 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Agadir within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Agadir?
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On Outty we rank every Agadir experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Paradise Valley and Atlas Mountains Adventure in Agadir, 4x4 Jeep Safari in Agadir Mini Sahara and Berber Lunch, Agadir City Tour & Cable Car Experience. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Agadir?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Agadir?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout?
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Included: In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 10 listed pickup locations in and around Agadir. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout offered in?
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It is offered in English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Agadir. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Day trip to Essaouira the portuguese town from Agadir or Taghazout?
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Across 44 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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