Are you thinking about visiting Essaouira for your next vacation?
This is a great idea—this ancient fortified city on Morocco’s Atlantic coast will allow you to explore a UNESCO-listed medina, ramparts overlooking the ocean, and renowned handicrafts.
But before we go, here are all the details to answer your question: Is the city of Essaouira safe?
Check out all our tips for a worry-free vacation!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Essaouira a safe city? Quick answer
Yes, overall, Essaouira is one of the safest destinations in Morocco. The city is significantly calmer and less hectic than Marrakech, with a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to many travelers looking for a gentle introduction to the country. The few risks to be aware of include the occasional pickpocketing in the medina and souks, a few common scams, ocean currents and wind that can catch you off guard at the beach, as well as the sun. All in all, Essaouira is one of the Moroccan cities where we felt the most relaxed!
Essaouira is a city in Morocco where Moroccan laws apply. Morocco is a constitutional monarchy whose state religion is Islam. We always recommend taking the usual precautions, just as you would at any other destination.
WHERE TO STAY IN Essaouira
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In the medina
Hotel Salut Maroc! – see pictures and availability
On the seafront
Hôtel Atlas Essaouira Riad Resort – Check photos and availability
In the hinterland
Hôtel Jardin des Douars – Check photos and availability
Rare cases of pickpocketing
As in any tourist destination, pickpocketing can occur in Essaouira’s busiest areas, particularly in the souk and on Moulay El Hassan Square. However, the problem is significantly less prevalent than in Marrakech, as the medina is smaller and less crowded. Nevertheless, we keep our valuables out of sight in the crowds of the shopping alleys—a simple habit that helps minimize risks.
Advice:
- Carry your bag closed in front of you in the souk and on Moulay El Hassan Square
- Keep your valuables safe
- Don’t leave anything in plain sight in your vehicle
Tourist scams
Essaouira has significantly fewer scams than Marrakech, but a few situations come up regularly. Some jet-ski or scooter rental companies charge extra fees after the rental, citing damage or loss of equipment that they’ve made up out of thin air. We always check the condition of the equipment before and after a rental, taking photos if necessary. Taxis that refuse to use the meter are also a reality, though less common than in Marrakech. We always agree on the price in advance to avoid any arguments once we arrive at our destination.
Advice:
- Check the condition of the equipment before and after renting a jet ski or scooter, with supporting photos
- Agree on the fare for a taxi ride before getting in, or make sure the meter is running
- Stay polite but firm when dealing with a pushy salesperson
- Always check the restaurant bill before paying
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Maroc
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Adapt your choice of vehicle to your itinerary!
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
Risks at Sea and Water Sports
Essaouira’s main beach is exposed to the trade winds that blow almost constantly along this stretch of the Atlantic coast, making it a well-known spot for surfing and kitesurfing, but also a place where the currents can be strong. At Sidi Kaouki Beach, about 25 km to the south, swimming is not recommended due to the currents and powerful waves. If you’re not an experienced surfer or kitesurfer, take lessons before trying your hand at either sport —there are plenty of local schools with well-trained instructors!
Advice:
- Find out about safe swimming areas before entering the water
- Avoid swimming at Sidi Kaouki, which is mainly reserved for water sports
- Take a few lessons at a local school before you start surfing or kitesurfing to familiarize yourself with the local conditions
A LITTLE MORE PATIENCE
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay at Maroc a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Coming soon!
Safety for women travelers
Essaouira is known as one of the safest cities in Morocco for women traveling alone. Verbal harassment is virtually nonexistent there, and the overall atmosphere remains calm even in the evening. We walked alone through the medina after dark without feeling particularly uncomfortable, even in some of the side streets near the main thoroughfares. We still remain vigilant in the most deserted alleys, where lighting becomes scarcer as the night wears on.
Tips for women traveling alone:
- Stick to the main streets of the medina in the evening
- Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees in the medina
- If your lodging is outside the city walls, take a taxi when returning late at night
Traffic and Driving in Essaouira
The medina of Essaouira is entirely pedestrian-only, which makes getting around much easier once you’ve parked your rental car in one of the parking lots along the ramparts. Outside the city, the roads to Marrakech or Agadir are generally in good condition, but we recommend avoiding driving on them at night, as visibility and the behavior of some drivers become less predictable. We always prefer to travel during the day for long distances.
Advice:
- Park in a secure parking lot near the city walls rather than on the street
- If you don’t drive, opt for CTM or Supratours buses for long trips
- Check the fare for a taxi ride before getting in
Is the water safe to drink in Essaouira?
We do not recommend drinking tap water in Essaouira. While there is no serious health risk, it may cause digestive problems for visitors who are not used to it. We recommend drinking bottled water with a cap, which is available throughout the city at a reasonable price.
DISCOVER Essaouira
Emergency Numbers in Essaouira
Essaouira has medical facilities appropriate for a city of this size, including a hospital and several clinics for routine emergencies. We recommend that you purchase travel insurance before your departure, as medical care may be billed directly to you. Keep these numbers handy during your stay:
- Police: 190
- Firefighters and emergency medical services: 150
- Sidi M’ed Ben Abdellah Hospital in Essaouira: 05 24 47 27 16
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Neighborhood safety
Essaouira does not have any neighborhoods that are truly dangerous for tourists. However, here are a few useful points to keep in mind.
Is the medina safe?
The medina and the ramparts of La Skala remain safe at all hours, with a much more relaxed atmosphere than in the country’s larger medinas. We keep a close eye on our belongings in the busiest shopping alleys of the souk, where petty theft can occur just as it does anywhere else.
Are the boardwalk and the beach safe?
The Essuira promenade and beach are safe areas, frequented at all hours of the day by walkers, horseback riders, and athletes. Swimming simply requires caution due to currents and wind, rather than concerns about personal safety.
And outside the city walls, at night?
The residential neighborhoods outside the city walls, where some of the newer accommodations are located, remain safe but are less lively after dark. If your riad or hotel is located there, a taxi is the easiest way to get back late at night rather than walking alone.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Morocco
- Best of
Must-See Places in Morocco
Most Beautiful Riads
Most Beautiful Cities
Most Beautiful Medinas
Morocco’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
Most Beautiful Gardens
Best Museums
Morocco’s Most Beautiful Beaches
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Morocco
Driving tips
Where to Stay in Morocco
- The must-dos
Marrakech
Casablanca
Fez
Meknes
Chefchaouen
Essaouira
Rabat
Tangier
Tetouan
Agadir
The Sahara Desert
