HOW TO VISIT ESSAOUIRA ON CAMPER
Tourists flock to Essaouira for many reasons, but young travelers, in particular, come for the world-class surf, kitesurf, and wind-gliss sports. Others are drawn to its romantic, bohemian charm—a city famously frequented by Jimi Hendrix. Often called the ‘Windy City,’ it is a small coastal heaven where many Moroccans escape the intense summer heat of Marrakech and other inland cities, making it a bustling paradise in high season. For me, two days is enough to experience the magic, unless you are there to master surfing or kitesurfing. To visit Essaouira on a campervan or a camping car, you have to look where to park safely:
WHERE TO PARK
AVENUE al AKOUASSE FREE PARK
Since there is no city-center camping, I recommend parking on Al Akouasse or Al Moukaouama street near the beach. Located near the Catholic Church Sainte-Anne and a police post, this spot offers 24-hour security. It’s a perfect, secure base for visiting the nearby old Medina, and since Essaouira is compact, you can explore everything on foot without needing your van.
PARKING BAB MARRAKECH
Parking at Bab Marrakech is an excellent, secure choice near the medina entrance, though it operates as a paid,, 24/7-guarded facility. While you may experience city noise, this location allows you to easily leave your vehicle to explore the old city on foot, often costing around 50-70MAD/day.
Experience: Can be noisy, but ideal for pedestrian access.Convenience: Very close to the medina.
TENT CAMPING
Essaouira’s beach is ideal for tent camping, but be prepared for strong winds at night and chilly temperatures, requiring warm clothing.
