Essaouira is a charming port city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. A place that I was longing to visit since the day I saw it on Game of Thrones. It was in Season 3 of Game of Thrones when Daenerys travelled to Astapor aka Essaouira and bought the army of Unsullied in exchange for one of her dragons.
It was my first solo international trip. I was sceptical about my safety. Therefore, I booked day tours instead of the evening ones. However, I couldn’t manage to get an early bus to Essaouira because of which I had to stay pretty late. But to my surprise, I found the city to be extremely safe and filled with kind and helpful people. For my convenience, I booked an Airbnb walking tour. You read about my experience here.
The ‘Wind City’ of Africa is known for its serene sunset, quaint medina, pristine beaches, Scala port and seafood. A place that will ‘blow’ your mind on a literal sense. The best way to explore this city is on foot. Start your day at the Kasbah then head to Plage d’Essaouira beach. Watch a beautiful sunset at Port du Scala and hog on delicious seafood. If you start your day early, then don’t miss out on fresh oysters. You can find vendors inside the Kasbah as well as at the port.
Here are the five reasons why I loved my time at Essaouira:
Taking a stroll around the Kasbah
Essaouira is known for its quaint narrow lanes that smell of fresh mint and spices. The Kasbah of Essaouira offers beautiful art galleries and boutiques along with the traditional handicraft stores. A unique combination that you won’t encounter anywhere else.
The most delicious seafood
Seafood is a speciality of this city. From fresh oysters to fishes. The best way to enjoy a plate of delicious grilled fish is to head to the local fish market. Buy the fish of your choice, buy vegetables (onions, tomatoes and capsicum) from a vendor nearby along with some bread. Head to a restaurant and hand them over the items that you bought and grab a seat. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed mint tea while you wait. What comes next is the best that you can imagine. Juicy grilled fish along with traditional salad, spicy olives and bread. A wholesome meal that doesn’t break your pocket.
It’s home to two of the iconic Game of Thrones location
A dream destination for all the GOT fans. Live the moments and get clicked at the spots where Daenerys stood.
The best sunset view ever!
Skala Port is where you get to witness the best sunset ever. The changing colours of the sky and the silhouettes is a candy to the eye.
Picturesque locations
Port du Scala is a beautiful location to practice your photography skills. The captivating view of the ocean, Portuguese canons, breathtaking skyline bordering the beach and a stream of blue boats is what makes this an ideal location to go on a clicking spree.
How to reach Essaouira?
There are just two buses that run between Marrakech and Essaouira every day. Therefore, you need to plan your trip accordingly or else a taxi ride back might cost you fortunes.
Marrakech to Essaouira – Bus timings (8:45 am and 12:30 pm) and Cost (470 – 650 INR).
Essaouira to Marrakech – Bus timings (12:45 pm and 5:00 pm) and Cost (470 – 650 INR).
Taxi ride – 18000 INR (one way)
If you have any queries related to this trip, then drop a comment or message me and I shall get back to you ASAP! 🙂
