The small taxis of Essaouira
Everything you need to know about taxis in Essaouira
The taxi is the most widely used means of transport for getting around Essaouira. Fast, affordable and available throughout the day, it makes it easy to reach the city's different neighborhoods, the surrounding villages, or even Essaouira-Mogador Airport.
Unlike many Moroccan cities, Essaouira's small taxis are not fitted with meters. Fares are fixed and well known to locals, which makes getting around simple and transparent once you know the prices charged. In this guide, discover how taxis work in Essaouira, the usual fares, as well as the different options for your journeys.
Small taxis in Essaouira
Small taxis handle trips within Essaouira as well as to some nearby villages such as Diabat or Ghazoua. They are easily recognizable by their blue color and can carry up to three passengers.
In Essaouira, small taxis often operate as shared taxis. If one or more seats are available, the driver may pick up other passengers heading in the same direction.
Small taxi fares
Fares vary depending on your destination and the type of ride (private or shared):
Trips within Essaouira: For all journeys made within the city, the fare is 8 DH per person. Whether you are alone, with two or with three people, the price remains 8 DH per passenger. It is also possible to get into a taxi that is already occupied if there are seats left. The night fare is slightly higher, rising to 9 DH per person.
Trip between Essaouira and Diabat: Located just a few minutes from the city center, this trip will cost you 30 DH if you wish to privatize the small taxi (for 1 to 3 people). For the return trip to Essaouira, it is common to use a shared taxi passing through the village for a fare of 10 DH per person.
Trip between Essaouira and Ghazoua: To reach Ghazoua as a private ride, expect to pay 30 DH during the day (for 1 to 3 people) and generally 40 DH in the evening or at night. The return trip to Essaouira by shared taxi costs 10 DH per person, depending on availability.
Practical tips for your taxi rides
To make sure your rides go as smoothly as possible, here are a few simple rules to keep in mind:
Have some change ready: Drivers don't always have change for large bills. Try to always carry 1, 2, 5 or 10 DH coins with you.
Sharing is the norm: Don't be surprised if the taxi stops to pick up other people along the way. This is the normal and friendly way Essaouira's small taxis operate.
Confirm the price beforehand: Even though fares are fixed and well known, it's always more reassuring to confirm the fare with the driver before getting in, especially for trips to Diabat or Ghazoua.