Essaouira one day

Essaouira l'ancient Portuguese city - 1 day from 07:30 AM to 6:00 PM

The Medina of Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador (a term derived from the Phoenician word Migdol meaning "small fortress"), is a remarkable example of a fortified city from the mid-18th century, surrounded by walls influenced by the Vauban model. Built according to the principles of contemporary European military architecture, within a North African context and perfect harmony with the precepts of Arab-Muslim architecture and urban planning, it played a major role over the centuries as an international trading port connecting Sub-Saharan Africa to Europe and the rest of the world. The city is also an example of a multicultural center, proven by the coexistence, since its foundation, of various ethnic groups such as the Amazighs, Arabs, Africans, and Europeans, as well as multiconfessional (Muslim, Christian, and Jewish). Inseparable from the Medina, the Mogador archipelago includes 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 aimed to make this small Atlantic town a royal port and the main Moroccan trade center open to the outside world. Long known as the port of Timbuktu, Essaouira became one of the main trade centers in 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 foundation, 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.

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

The Agadir-Essaouira route is a coastal journey with a view of the Atlantic, with several photo stops on this beautiful road:

- After 60 km from Agadir, a superb panoramic view of the ocean.
- Photo of goats on argan trees.
- A coffee break for refreshments.
- 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, lively alleys, and the fishing port, where one can observe many well-organized boats painted in blue.

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

The return is around 4:00 PM along the same route. Arrival is expected at 7:00 PM.

Duration: 1 day 7:30:00 a.m. _ 6:00 p.m.

Departure days: Monday - Wednesday - Friday