Agadir to Essaouira tickets

How to get from Agadir to Essaouira

Once you’ve had your fill of Agadir’s palm-lined boulevards and sleek resorts, it’s time to pack up and journey to Essaouira — a port city with an 18th-century medina, ample kitesurfing opportunities and serene beaches. 

Essaouira is the perfect place to unwind and experience Moroccan hospitality. 

From fresh seafood dishes to portside cafes, you’ll want to slow down and enjoy the views (and the exquisite tastes, too!)

The journey from Agadir to Essaouira is 122 km (76.3 miles) and takes anywhere from one hour to three hours and 35 minutes, depending on your chosen ride. Transport options include buses, minivans, and cars. 

Some rides take the scenic route along the coastline, but others follow inland highways. There are plenty of departures every day and lots of different comfort levels to choose from. No matter your travel style, you’ll find a ride that suits you!

When you leave Agadir, you’ll likely depart from Agadir Bus Station or your hotel. On arrival in Essaouira, the top drop-off points include the Essaouira Bus Station, CTM Bus Station Essaouira, and hotel drop-offs. Consider where you want to start and end the journey before you book.

The journey from Agadir to Essaouira is easy to navigate. Keep reading to become an expert in minutes.

Five places you need to see in Essaouira 

Essaouira is a haven waiting to be discovered. You'll want to extend your visit with its stunning Atlantic coastline, historic architecture, and plenty of divine eateries. Here are the top five spots to add to your itinerary:

1. The Medina: The Medina of Essaouira (formerly known as Mogador) is an 18th-century fortified town and UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, it’s full of souks (markets), cafes, and independent restaurants.

2. Essouria’s Ramparts: Alongside the Medina, Essouria is home to well-preserved 18th-century ramparts, making it an excellent place to stroll and take photos. 

3. Safi Beach: If your main objective is to chill on the beach, this is the spot for you. This beach is quieter than the main tourist beach, allowing you to truly relax and recharge. You’ll find these golden sands north of the city. 

4. Moulay Hassan Square: This is the place to be if you want to eat fresh crepes while people watching. This unique square has a European vibe, and there are often live musicians to keep you entertained.

5. Kitesurfing: OK, kitesurfing isn’t a place. But this city is known for its insane kitesurfing opportunities and has even been dubbed the “Windy City of Africa.” The winds are best in July and August. 

Can you swim in Essaouira, Morocco?

Yes, you can swim in Essaouira. However, taking a dip can be difficult when the winds are strong. So, keep this in mind if you’re looking for a swimming holiday. These wide and sandy beaches are better for kitesurfing and paddling. 

How to get from Agadir to Essaouira

There are three main travel options from Agadir to Essaouira: bus, minivan, and car. Here’s what you need to know before you book.

By bus

Plenty of buses run from Agadir to Essaouira every day. This is the most affordable way to travel, with the cheapest buses starting at $8. Perfect for shoestring travelers. 

Standard buses come with A/C, individual seats, and onboard TV. Passengers are allowed a 23 kg bag plus hand luggage.

Express Buses come with individual seats and A/C. 

Most buses make W/C stops along the ride. However, these aren’t always guaranteed. The fastest bus journey from Agadir to Essaouira takes three hours. 

By minivan

Minivans are the fastest way to zip from Agadir to Essaouira. Journey times vary between two to three hours, depending on the provider. Perfect for those who don’t want to waste a minute of their trip! 

However, minivans are more expensive than the bus. Prices start at $32 and go up depending on the amenities included in the ride. 

Although the amenities vary by operator, most minivan options for Essaouira include:

Note that minivans aren’t private transfers by default. If you don’t want to share your ride, filter for “private transfer” while booking. 

By car

The final travel option from Agadir to Essaouira is by car. The fastest car route takes two hours and starts at $31 per person.

The cars include A/C and English-speaking staff and drivers. Each passenger has a 20 kg luggage allowance.

This isn’t a private transfer, so be aware that you might have to share the journey with fellow travelers. You never know — your fellow passengers might become lifelong friends!

About the ride from Agadir to Essaouira

The ride from Agadir to Essaouira takes you in a northern direction through western Morocco. 

The journey can take between one and three and a half hours, and you’ll likely travel on the highway for most of it. However, some routes travel along the coastline for the first portion of the journey. Hello, sea views!

All route options from Agadir to Essaouira are safe for travelers, including solo and female travelers. 

Drivers and bus station staff usually have basic English skills and are very helpful. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if needed.

The best time to travel from Agadir to Essaouira

The best time to travel from Agadir to Essaouira depends on what you’re looking for! The hottest months are from July to September when temperatures peak at 29°C/84.2°F. However, this is the busiest tourist period. Not ideal if you want to skip the crowds. 

If you want to see Essaouira without stepping on other tourists’ feet, consider visiting in September and October. The weather sits at 27°C/80°F, and the water temperature is pleasant for dipping your toes. Perfect for a fall break.

Looking for winter sun? Essaouira’s coldest month is January (19°C/66°F). So, you can still see the sights and enjoy portside views without bundling up in a winter jacket. 

Where to visit after Essaouira?

If Essaouira isn’t your final destination, consider switching the pace with a trip to buzzy Marrakesh. It’s known for its non-stop pace, vibrant markets, and distinct flavors. The journey is simple, as you can get from Essaouira to Marrakesh in as little as two hours. Easy.