Casablanca to Essaouira: Complete Travel Guide (Routes, Prices & Hidden Tips)

Traveling from Casablanca to Essaouira is one of the most rewarding journeys in Morocco. Whether you want to bask in Atlantic sunsets, explore the UNESCO-listed Medina, or enjoy the artistic vibe of Morocco’s most relaxed coastal town, Essaouira is a must-visit. But how do you actually get there from Casablanca—comfortably, cheaply, and efficiently?

This guide gives you everything no one tells you: real travel times, hidden routes, best stops, cost breakdowns, luggage rules, timing hacks, and expert tips to help you plan your trip like a local.

Why Visit Essaouira from Casablanca?

Essaouira (formerly Mogador) is a city where Portuguese history, Moroccan culture, and ocean breeze create a unique blend. Compared to Casablanca—busy, modern, and business-focused—Essaouira is calm, artistic, and perfect for nature lovers.

Travelers choose the Casablanca to Essaouira route because:

• It’s one of Morocco’s most scenic coastal journeys.

• The city offers mild weather year-round.

• It’s a peaceful escape from Casablanca.

• It’s accessible by bus, car, private transfer, and sometimes domestic flights via Marrakech.

1. Casablanca to Essaouira by Car (Best Option)

Distance: 370 km

Travel Time: 4h 30m – 5h

Best For: Comfort, families, photographers, and road-trip lovers

Driving from Casablanca to Essaouira is the fastest direct option and gives you complete flexibility. There are two main routes:

✔ Route A: Highway via El Jadida & Safi (Recommended)

Casablanca → El Jadida → Oualidia → Safi → Essaouira

• Best roads

• Smooth highway (A5)

• Beautiful stops

• Easy for beginners

Travel time: 4h 30m

Toll cost: Around 60–90 MAD

Fuel: 180–250 MAD depending on car type

Hidden gems along this route

• Oualidia – Morocco’s lagoon paradise; great for oysters & beaches
• Safi – pottery capital of Morocco
• Sidi Bouzid – cliffside viewpoint

Most tourists miss these spots—add them if you want a fuller experience.

✔ Route B: Highway + Coastal Road

Casablanca → Azemmour → Oualidia → Souira Kedima → Essaouira

This road is slower in some parts but more scenic.

Best for:

• Drone photography

• Romantic road trips

• Ocean views

2. Casablanca to Essaouira by Bus (Most Affordable)

Travel Time: 5h 30m – 7h

Price: 120–180 MAD

Comfort: ★★★☆☆

Companies:

• CTM (most reliable)

• Supratours

• Public buses (not recommended)

✔ CTM Bus: The Best Option

• Air-conditioned

• Better seats

• Online booking

• Luggage included

Typical schedule:

• 08:00 – Casablanca → Essaouira

• 13:00 – Casablanca → Essaouira

Travel time varies because there is no direct highway all the way, and buses take short stops.

✔ Supratours Bus via Marrakech

Casablanca → Marrakech → Essaouira
More time, but better for travelers who want a break in Marrakech.

Total time:

6h – 7h

Local tip you won’t find online

Book the left-side seats.
You will get better ocean views near Safi and Souira Qedima.

3. Casablanca to Essaouira by Train (Partially Possible)

There is no train station in Essaouira, but you can take a train part of the way.

Option:

Train from Casablanca → Marrakech
then
Supratours Bus Marrakech → Essaouira

Total travel time:

6h – 8h

Cost:

• Train: 50–150 MAD

• Bus: 80–120 MAD

This is ideal if you want to rest, avoid cars, and enjoy a smoother ride.

4. Casablanca to Essaouira by Flight (Rare Option)

Essaouira does have an airport (ESU), but flights from Casablanca are not always available. Royal Air Maroc sometimes offers:

Casablanca → Essaouira

• Duration: 50 min

• Price: 700–1,200 MAD

• Available only during some seasons

Most travelers fly to Marrakech and then drive 2h 45m to Essaouira.

5. Private Transfer (Most Comfortable)

Price: 800–1,200 MAD / car

Travel Time: 4h 30m

This is the best option for:

• Families

• People with luggage

• Groups

• Travelers landing at Casablanca Airport

The driver picks you up from your hotel or terminal, making it the most stress-free choice.

Best Time to Visit Essaouira

Essaouira’s weather is unique thanks to Atlantic winds.

Casablanca to Essaouira Map (Overview)

Distance: 370 km
Main road: A5 Highway + N1 Coastal Road
Stops: El Jadida, Oualidia, Safi

What to Pack for Essaouira

• Light layers (windy city!)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Camera / drone

• Sunscreen

• Sweater (nights can be cold even in summer)

What to Do in Essaouira Once You Arrive

Here are activities many guides forget to mention:

✔ 1. Explore the Portuguese ramparts at sunset

The “Skala de la Kasbah” is one of the most cinematic spots in Morocco.

✔ 2. Visit the Jewish Quarter (Mellah)

Rich history, restored buildings, and unique architecture.

✔ 3. Enjoy camel trekking on Essaouira Beach

Less touristy than Agadir and more relaxed.

✔ 4. Shop for Thuya wood crafts

Essaouira is the world capital of this artisan craft.

✔ 5. Try seafood at the old port

Fresh, cheap, and lively.

✔ 6. Learn Kitesurfing or Windsurfing

Essaouira is Morocco’s wind city—perfect for beginners.

Casablanca to Essaouira Cost Breakdown (2025)

FAQ: Casablanca to Essaouira

Is there a direct train from Casablanca to Essaouira?

No. You must travel to Marrakech first, then take a Supratours bus.

Is the road from Casablanca to Essaouira safe?

Yes—it is one of Morocco’s safest and smoothest highways.

Can you do Essaouira as a day trip from Casablanca?

Possible, but not recommended. Total travel time is 9–10h round trip.

Where to stay in Essaouira?

Consider:

• Medina Riads (authentic experience)

• Beach resorts (for relaxation)

Is Essaouira cheaper than Casablanca?

Much cheaper—for food, hotels, and taxis.

Discover More:

• Essaouira Day Excursion
• Surfing In Essaouira
• Golf Trips Morocco: The Ultimate Guide to All-Inclusive Golf Holidays in North Africa

Final Recommendation

The best way to travel from Casablanca to Essaouira is by private transfer or car, especially if you want flexibility and scenic stops. Buses are great for budget travelers, and train+bus is best for comfort.

This journey offers everything—history, nature, culture, and endless ocean views. No wonder Essaouira is known as Morocco’s windy jewel.