Car Rental in Essaouira
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 04:41 on 2021-03-06. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Language
Arabic,
French
French
Currency
MAD
Country code
212
Traffic direction
Right-hand
Speed limit out of town
100 km/h
62 mi/h
Speed limit within town
60 km/h
37 mi/h
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.00%
Why rent a car in Essaouira?
Essaouira is a fascinating place to explore. Once the preferred holiday destination of Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens, the city has developed a lot over the last few decades, but it’s medina, coastline, and distinct atmosphere continue to attract visitors to this day. After seeing Essaouira, you can explore Morocco’s shoreline by going up or down the coast or travel inland to Marrakesh and perhaps even as far as the Sahara.
One-Way Car Rentals in Essaouira
The most popular one-way rental options for pick up in Essaouira and drop off in another city include:
- From Essaouira to Marrakech - 42 offers from US$ 35.69 per day
- From Essaouira to Oujda - 25 offers from US$ 35.69 per day
- From Essaouira to Agadir - 25 offers from US$ 35.69 per day
- From Essaouira to Rabat - 25 offers from US$ 35.69 per day
- From Essaouira to Ouarzazate - 25 offers from US$ 35.69 per day
Top ways to enter Essaouira
- Essaouira Airport: Also known as Essaouira-Mogador, this small airport is served by five airlines, although only two (Transavia and Royal Air Maroc) offer flights year-round. In addition to domestic connections, the airport also hosts flights to and from France, Belgium, and the United Kingdom. Located 17 km (11 miles) southeast of the city center, Essaouira Airport can be reached in about 20 minutes.
- Marrakesh Airport: With an increase of 20% from the year before, Marrakesh Menara Airport served more than five million travelers for the first time in its history in 2018. The airport offers flights to a number of European countries, including France, Germany, Spain, and Switzerland. Located 184 km (114 miles) east of Essaouira, the airport can be reached in about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Agadir Airport: Also known as Al Massira Airport, it handled almost two million travelers in 2018. The airport is handled by around 20 different airlines, including low-cost airlines like Condor, Ryanair, and easyJet. Located 200 km (125 miles) south of Essaouira, Agadir Airport can be reached in about three hours with a good portion of the road taking you right along the Atlantic coast.
- Casablanca Airport: By far the largest in Morocco, Casablanca Mohammed V Airport is also among the ten busiest in all of Africa. A large base for Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia, it hosts many flights to and from destinations in North and Sub-Saharan Africa as well as Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. Casablanca Airport is 380 km (236 miles) north of Essaouira and can be reached in about four hours.
- Rabat–Salé Airport: Serving the capital city region of Morocco, Rabat-Salé Airport handled almost one million travelers in 2018. The airport is served by nine different airlines offering flights to destinations like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Belgium, Italy, and many others. The airport is 480 km (298 miles) north of Essaouira and can be reached in just over five hours.
Useful city facts
- Essaouira has a semi-arid climate with Mediterranean influences. Temperature differences are very low between the seasons - the average high temperature is 22°C (72°F) in September, the warmest month, and 18°C (65°F) in January, the coolest. There is almost no precipitation from mid-May all the way to September, but Essaouira is quite rainy from November to January.
- As elsewhere in Morocco, the local population is divided rather evenly between Arab and Berber speakers. Knowledge of French is very high among the local population, and languages like English and Spanish are also much spoken among the people working in the tourism and service industries. Essaouira used to have a large Sephardic Jewish community, but almost all of them have emigrated during the last century. However, some Jewish architecture survives in the city to this day.
Top destinations and activities
- Essaouira Citadel. Located by the harbor, the Citadel is one of Essaouira’s symbols - if you’ve ever seen a photograph or a postcard of this city, it probably featured that impressive building. Visitors are allowed to access the top of Citadel from where you can enjoy beautiful views of the nearby Medina to one side and the ocean to the other.
- Essaouira Medina. No Moroccan city is complete without its old town or medina, but the one in Essaouira is among the most beautiful. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is made up of wide main pathways, narrow side streets, and countless doors and window frames painted in the distinct blue that Essaouira is famous for. During the day, life is brimming here as the area is full of restaurants and market stalls - but try to also visit the Medina after dark when its unique atmosphere can be appreciated even more.
- The beach. In addition to architecture and cuisine, Essaouira also boasts a beautiful coastline that stretches for kilometers. Although the city is very windy and a little cooler than beach destinations in Southern Morocco, Essaouira Beach is still a great place to make local friends, take long walks, or observe the blue boats of fishermen. A number of nearby beach spots, like Cape Sim and Sidi Kaouki, can also be reached by a rental car. They offer great kitesurfing opportunities, although the strong winds means it is not the best place for beginners.
- Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum. Named after a sultan who resided in Essaouira, this museum is dedicated to the rich and varied history of the city. Essaouira has been inhabited by Carthaginians, Romans, and ancient Berber dynasties, and the museum has vases, coins, artworks, weapons, and other artifacts left by these impressive civilizations.
Traffic and parking tips
- Unless specifically indicated otherwise, the speed limits are 120 km/h on highways (autoroutes), 100 km/h on roads outside urban cities that are not highways, and 60 km/h within populated areas.
- In some big cities and most smaller towns and villages, there are no special lanes for cyclists or sometimes even sidewalks for pedestrians. In those cases, you’ll be sharing the road with them, so be extra careful.
- Road signs are written in both Arabic and French. If you don’t know either of these languages, it’s good to learn at least basic terms in one of them before renting a car.
- The legal alcohol limit is 0.00% for both experienced and novice drivers. Drunk driving can lead to large fines and even jail time or deportation.
- Proof of insurance and the car’s documentation need to be in the car whenever you’re driving.
- When driving, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
- The nation-wide emergency police number is 19 and the nation-wide ambulance and fire safety department number is 15.
Toll roads
A toll needs to be paid for using most of Morocco’s highways or autoroutes. All of the toll roads in Morocco are administered by the state-owned company Autoroutes du Maroc (ADM).
Morocco uses a “closed system” for its toll roads, meaning that there is a toll booth both at the entrance and the exit of the toll road. You pay either by cash or by credit card (although some toll points might only accept cash, so it’s good to have some available at all times). Make sure to keep proof that you have paid for the toll road as police checks are frequent and fines can be hefty. The prices for using the toll roads are generally quite low.
Most of the toll roads connect the largest cities of the country. Oftentimes you can opt to use regional roads instead - while traveling along those will be much slower, the views are usually much more scenic.
Ideas for a day-trip
- Marrakesh. According to many travelers, Marrakesh is the most impressive city in all of North Africa. Its large main area, or Djemaa el-Fnaa, is a place that never sleeps. The central square is full of singers, drummers, snake charmers, and craftsmen, while the backstreets are a mazy labyrinth of shops and guesthouses that seem to have changed little over the last few centuries. Outside Djemaa el-Fnaa, travelers love to visit the city's many impressive mosques and beautiful Majorelle Gardens. Located 190 km (119 miles) east of Essaouira, Marrakesh can be reached in about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
- Taghazout. A tiny, but beautiful coastal town, Taghazout is one of the most relaxing places in all of Morocco. The weather is good for surfing year-round, the city is full of little cafes and local restaurants, and it’s very easy to find a room for rent that has both a mountain view and an ocean view. Located 150 km (93 miles) south of Essaouira, Taghazout can be reached in 2 hours and 40 minutes with most of the road going right along the Atlantic coast.
- Agadir. A large coastal city just south of Taghazout, Agadir is mainly known for the many beautiful beaches that surround it. But there are interesting attractions inside the city, too, including the Municipal Museum that has a great collection of traditional Berber musical instruments and the impressive Agadir Fortress. With a rental car, you can also easily reach the beautiful Paradise Valley, an area of impressive cliffs, canyons, and waterfalls, and Souss-Massa National Park. Located 175 km (109 miles) south of Essaouira, Agadir takes about three hours to reach by car.
- Safi. Similar to Essaouira in some ways, but not as well-known among international travelers, Safi is a quaint and pleasant city to visit. The city is home to well-preserved architecture and interesting historic sites as well as the ‘The Largest Tagine in the World,’ a monument dedicated to the national dish of Morocco which is excellently made by many of Safi’s restaurants. Located just 135km (84 miles) north of Essaouira, Safi takes about two hours to reach.
Most popular rental types and cars
The most popular rental car in Essaouira is the Dacia Sandero, closely followed by the Peugeot 208 and Fiat 500. The most popular rental car types are economy, mini, and standard.
Further destinations
- Rabat. The capital of Morocco is better known for its political importance than touristic delights, but that is a shame as the city has plenty to enjoy. Some of Rabat’s attractions include the Museum of History and Civilizations, the old Oudaias fortress or kasbah with the Andalusian gardens, and the Rabat Medina, UNESCO World Heritage site. Located 450 km (279 miles) north of Essaouira, Rabat can be reached in about five hours; you’ll also pass Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca, on the way.
- High Atlas. This beautiful mountain region is one of the trademarks of Morocco. Best accessed from Marrakesh, its foothills are home to many traditional Berber villages; if you travel higher, you’ll reach the impressive Ourika Valley, the mud-brick city of Aït-Benhaddou, or the Oukaimeden winter sports resort. The latter is 260 km (160 miles) east of Essaouira and can be reached in about four hours.
- Ouarzazate. A small and relaxed city located over 1,000 m (3,300 ft) above sea level, Ouarzazate is located in the southeastern part of the country. The city is famous for its impressive kasbah or fortress, the Museum of Cinema, and the nearby Dadès gorges, but the number one attraction of Ouarzazate is that it can serve as a gateway for the Moroccan Sahara. Located 385 km (239 miles), Ouarzazate can be reached in about 6 hours and 30 minutes.
- El Jadida. A coastal city located roughly halfway between Safi and Casablanca, El Jadida has many beaches that are less built-up and touristic but just as beautiful as those of the more famous coastal towns of Morocco. The number one attraction of El Jadida, however, is Cité Portugaise, its well-preserved Portuguese colonial town which dates back to the 16th century. Located 280km (174 miles) north of Essaouira, El Jadida can be reached in about 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Car Rental Prices in Essaouira
- Station wagons - from $132 per day
- Large cars - from $99 per day
- Medium cars - from $40 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $86 per day
- Premium cars - from $120 per day
- Small cars - from $35 per day
- SUVs - from $72 per day
How can I save money on my rental car?
There are different things you can do in Essaouira to get a great rental car, such as:
- Compare the rates of different rental car providers
- Book your rental car well in advance
- Plan your route before you go
- Know your fuel and mileage requirements
- Visit during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Essaouira is the cheapest in February when renting a car is about 50% cheaper than the yearly average and 81% cheaper than renting in July.
Top 11 Cities near Essaouira
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Casablanca Car Rentals from $7.34 per day290.0 km / 180.2 miles away
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Marrakesh Car Rentals from $7.34 per day163.7 km / 101.7 miles away
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Tangier Car Rentals from $7.83 per day588.4 km / 365.6 miles away
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Rabat Car Rentals from $8.46 per day387.9 km / 241.0 miles away
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Agadir Car Rentals from $7.34 per day136.0 km / 84.5 miles away
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Fez Car Rentals from $8.46 per day521.8 km / 324.2 miles away
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Oujda Car Rentals from $13.52 per day815.1 km / 506.5 miles away
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Nador Car Rentals from $15.75 per day735.6 km / 457.1 miles away
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Ouarzazate Car Rentals from $15.75 per day278.5 km / 173.0 miles away
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427.3 km / 265.5 miles away
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Mohammedia Car Rentals from $54.78 per day329.3 km / 204.6 miles away
Top 20 Locations near Essaouira
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Essaouira Airport Car Rentals from $13.74 per day14.7 km / 9.1 miles away
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Agadir Airport Car Rentals from $7.34 per day136.0 km / 84.5 miles away
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Marrakesh Airport Car Rentals from $7.34 per day163.7 km / 101.7 miles away
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Marrakech Train Station Car Rentals from $13.23 per day165.5 km / 102.8 miles away
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Marrakesh Agdal Car Rentals from $23.33 per day168.2 km / 104.5 miles away
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Ouarzazate Airport Car Rentals from $15.75 per day278.5 km / 173.0 miles away
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Casablanca Airport Mohammed V Car Rentals from $7.34 per day290.0 km / 180.2 miles away
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Casablanca Nouaceur Car Rentals from $10.51 per day291.0 km / 180.8 miles away
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Casablanca Hotel Club Val d'Anfa Car Rentals from $56.83 per day302.6 km / 188.0 miles away
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Casablanca Mowenpick Hotel Car Rentals from $56.83 per day305.2 km / 189.6 miles away
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Casablanca Hotel Sofitel Car Rentals from $56.83 per day306.9 km / 190.7 miles away
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Casablanca Hotel Novotel Car Rentals from $56.83 per day307.0 km / 190.8 miles away
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Casa-Port Train Station Car Rentals from $7.67 per day307.3 km / 190.9 miles away
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Casa-Voyageurs Train Station Car Rentals from $13.94 per day307.8 km / 191.3 miles away
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Rabat The View Hotel Car Rentals from $14.20 per day383.3 km / 238.2 miles away
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Rabat Agdal Ryad Car Rentals from $14.20 per day387.1 km / 240.6 miles away
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Agdal Train Station Car Rentals from $8.46 per day387.9 km / 241.0 miles away
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Rabat Hotel Sofitel Jardin des Roses Car Rentals from $14.20 per day388.0 km / 241.1 miles away
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Le Pietri Urban Hotel Car Rentals from $9.97 per day390.5 km / 242.6 miles away
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Theatre National Mohammed V Car Rentals from $9.97 per day390.8 km / 242.8 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
Which is the cheapest month to rent a car in Essaouira?
Car rental prices in Essaouira vary a lot according to the time of year. This graph compares month-to-month price changes to help you find the best offer.
Average Rental Price in Essaouira
The best month to rent a car in Essaouira is February (when prices for an Economy class start from $21.45). This is 50% cheaper than the yearly average and 81% cheaper than renting in July (when rental prices start at $112.01 for a Compact class). Knowing this can help you find the best price.
What’s the usual rental length in Essaouira?
Travel lengths vary from month to month: in September, travelers rent a car for an average of 20 days in October, the average rental period is 2 days.
Average Rental Length in Essaouira
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Essaouira?
While travelers visit Essaouira year-round, the most popular month for renting a car is February, and the least popular is November.
Popularity of Car Rental in Essaouira by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thrifty | Fiat Panda | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| AirCar | Suzuki Celerio | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| AirCar | Dacia Duster | 4 | 1 | People Carriers/Vans |
| AirCar | Dacia Logan | 4 | 1 | Small cars |
| AirCar | Fiat Panda | 4 | 1 | Medium cars |
| AirCar | Toyota Yaris | 4 | 1 | Medium cars |
| Dollar | Dacia Duster | 5 | SUVs | |
| Thrifty | Citroen C3 | 4 | 2 | Small cars |
| AirCar | Dacia Dokker | 4 | 1 | Station wagons |
| Surprice | Hyundai i10 | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
Our Customers Reviews
MW
Belgium
Dacia Logan
April 28, 2019
Wonderful coastline to discover
Top 12 Suppliers in Essaouira in 2021
Europcar
+2120522431228
48H ADVANCE BOOKING
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:00
Tue:07:00-23:00
Wed:07:00-23:00
Thu:07:00-23:00
Fri:07:00-23:00
Sat:07:00-23:00
Sun:07:00-23:00
RightCars
Avis
+212524474926
Essaouira-Mogador Apt
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:00
Tue:07:00-23:00
Wed:07:00-23:00
Thu:07:00-23:00
Fri:07:00-23:00
Sat:07:00-23:00
Sun:07:00-23:00
Budget
+212524785692
Aeroport Essaouira Mogador
Working hours
Mon:07:00-22:30
Tue:07:00-22:30
Wed:07:00-22:30
Thu:07:00-22:30
Fri:07:00-22:30
Sat:07:00-22:30
Sun:07:00-22:30
Keddy
+2120522431228
ESSAOUIRA AIRPORT
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:00
Tue:07:00-23:00
Wed:07:00-23:00
Thu:07:00-23:00
Fri:07:00-23:00
Sat:07:00-23:00
Sun:07:00-23:00
SIXT
+212600077800
BP 131 Essaouira Airport
Dollar
+212802007778
Airoport Essaouira Mogador, Essaouira
AirCar
+212656000355
Aéroport d'Essaouira, Essaouira
Working hours
Mon:08:30-23:00
Tue:08:30-23:00
Wed:08:30-23:00
Thu:08:30-23:00
Fri:08:30-23:00
Sat:08:30-23:00
Sun:08:30-23:00
LocationAuto
Thrifty
+212802007778
Airoport Essaouira Mogador, Essaouira
Hertz
+212802007778
Airoport Essaouira Mogador, Essaouira
Surprice
+212661531617
Essaouira Mogador Airport
Working hours
Mon:07:00-23:00
Tue:07:00-23:00
Wed:07:00-23:00
Thu:07:00-23:00
Fri:07:00-23:00
Sat:07:00-23:00
Sun:07:00-23:00