Excursion 1 day : Essaouira – Mogador

30300Morocco is known for its quaint beauty. It attracts a high number of tourists from all over the world. It is listed as a UNESCO world heritage city.

Essaouira, which is 171 km from Marrakech, used to be known as “Mogador” long ago. It is one of the most attractive Atlantic coastal cities in Morocco which is a tourist’s paradise.

This sleepy little seaside town was founded by the Portuguese and designed by a pupil of Vauban. The climate is semi arid with mild temperature all year round. As a result summers are warm while winders are mild.

Medina, which is the old city, is very fascinating. It has long narrow lanes and streets. You can see small houses on your way. The harbour and the squala with its guns are of particular attraction.

A broad sandy beach extends from the harbour south of Essaouira which attracts a large number of tourists. Essaouira remains one of the major fishing harbours of Morocco. Sardines and conger eels are found in abundance the waters.

 
All over Essaouria you will find Cedar trees which are commonly referred to as Calarisis or Arar. Interestingly the wood looks almost like that of juniper and cypress trees.

The Medina is home to many small arts and crafts businesses, particularly cabinet making  and ‘thuya’ wood carving using roots of  Tetraclinis tree, both of which have been practised in Essaouira for centuries.