🎒🌊 Backpacker’s Guide to Essaouira: Essentials, Fun & Frugal Travel Tips

#backpackeressentials

Essaouira is Morocco’s breezy, artsy seaside gem — a mix of coastal calm and creative soul. It’s perfect for backpackers looking to slow down, surf, and save some dirhams while soaking in laid-back Moroccan vibes.

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🎒 Backpacker Essentials for Essaouira

🌬️ Windbreaker or hoodie – This “Windy City of Morocco” can get cool, even in summer!
🕶️ Sunglasses & sunscreen – You’re by the Atlantic; don’t underestimate that sun.
📸 Camera or phone space – Every blue door, fishing boat, and sunset is a photo op.
🧼 Wet wipes & hand sanitizer – Super handy after beach days or souk snacks.
🎸 A notebook or instrument – This artsy town inspires creativity. (Jam sessions happen!)

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🎉 Fun (and Cheap!) Things to Do

🌅 Watch the sunset from the Skala de la Ville – The old fortress walls offer stunning ocean views — totally free!
🎨 Explore the medina – A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with artisan shops, galleries, and funky cafés.
🎣 Hang at the fishing port – Watch fishermen bring in their catch and see seagulls dive-bomb for scraps.
🏄♂️ Take a surf or kitesurf lesson – Prices are budget-friendly and include gear (around €15–25).
🎶 Catch live music – Essaouira’s a music town! Gnawa rhythms echo from cafés and street corners.
🏖️ Chill on the beach – Free and endless. Camel rides are optional!

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💸 Backpacker Money-Saving Tips

🍛 Eat fresh grilled fish at the port – Pick your fish, haggle a bit, and enjoy a seaside feast for under €6.
🏠 Stay in a hostel inside the medina – Dorm beds can be found from €8–12 with breakfast included.
🚌 Use Supratours or CTM buses – Travel from Marrakesh for under €10, comfy and reliable.
🧿 Shop smart – Essaouira’s souks are less aggressive than Marrakesh, but still haggle politely for leather, art, or spices.
🫖 Drink mint tea at rooftop cafés – A pot is about €1.50 and comes with a view.