8 of the best small-group tours in Essaouira for solo travellers
Tucked away behind centuries-old walls, Essaouira exudes a relaxed, bohemian vibe that is uniquely its own. This coastal Moroccan city is rapidly gaining popularity as one of the country’s top tourist destinations for solo travellers and it’s easy to see why. Its relaxed streets are filled with art galleries and eclectic cafes while radiating an overall feeling of safety.
While you can easily spend a day or two wandering the medina on foot and exploring the local museums, there is so much more to uncover. Whether you’re eager to dive into Moroccan cuisine or discover the secrets behind argan oil, Essaouira offers countless experiences.
Despite the wide range of day trips and tours available, not all cater well to solo travellers, with some requiring a minimum booking of at least two people. Thankfully, there are several wonderful small-group experiences in Essaouira that are perfect for single participants to join, without paying a “solo supplement”.
In this article, I’ll share some of the best small-group tours in Essaouira for solo travellers, from cooking classes to quad-biking adventures and day trips beyond the medina. All of these small-group tours in Essaouira for solo travellers come with glowing reviews from previous guests, ensuring you have the best experience possible.
Looking for Essaouira accommodation? Check out some of my top recommendations in the city for solo travellers.
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Small-group cooking class at L’Atelier Madada
Best small-group cooking class in Essaouira for solo travellers
While this Essaouira cooking class is a little more expensive than others in the city, it’s well worth the price tag due to the professionalism displayed at every turn. It takes place in the atmospheric kitchen of L’Atelier Madaba, which occupies a former almond warehouse at the entrance of the medina. Also within the complex is an inviting cafe and concept store where you can browse design-focused creations after your class.
On arrival, your instructors will get you acquainted with your workstation and explain what’s on the menu, which will depend on your dietary preferences. It might include spicy zaalouk (a warm eggplant salad) or hearty harira soup, followed by a beef or lamb tagine with almonds and dates. Vegetarians/vegans and pescatarians are also well catered for!
After donning your apron, it’s time to get to work, with the instructors explaining the rationale behind different cooking techniques and the traditional ingredients used. While your food is slowly cooking, she will take you on a short walk to a local spice bazaar where you can smell a variety of local flavour enhancers and learn about their various uses (there’s absolutely NO pressure to buy!)
Once you return to L’Atelier Madaba, it’s time to enjoy your culinary creations, followed by sweet mint tea and pastries. This small-group Essaouira cooking class has a maximum of eight participants, allowing for personalised attention from the instructors, who do a great job of translating for both English and French-speaking guests. They always receive glowing reviews for their communication and for creating such a supportive space.
Sunday Market in Had Draa small-group tour
Best market tour in Essaouira for solo travellers
If your visit to Essaouira coincides with a Sunday, you absolutely cannot miss this market tour! Located about 30 kilometres from the medina is Had Draa, which boasts one of the largest rural markets in the Essaouira area.
On Sundays, hundreds of farmers arrive in the town with their animals, crops and crafts, attracting a large number of shoppers and a riot of activity. It’s not only a chance to gather their weekly groceries but also a perfect opportunity to catch up on local news over countless cups of mint tea.
During this small-group Essaouira tour, you’ll experience all the colours and aromas of the Had Draa Market while picking up lots of interesting facts about Morocc’s rural economy. It provides a genuine glimpse into the everyday lives of locals, along with the opportunity to taste a variety of fresh produce and unique food items. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try some freshly grilled camel meat!
I would say this is one of the most authentic tourist experiences you can have in Essaouira and the guide, Abdoul, makes it really accessible. Not only is he a wealth of information about Amazigh life but he recognises that some people may find sections of the market confronting (particularly the butchery), giving you the option to avoid these if you wish. The glowing reviews speak for themself!
Just a heads up that group sizes are capped at eight and this tour only runs once a week (on Sundays), so book early if it’s something you really want to do.
Horse riding on the beach at sunset
Best horse riding tour in Essaouira for solo travellers
This sunset horseback ride in Essaouira offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the coastal beauty of the area while connecting with its equine residents. Whether you’re just starting out (like me!) or have plenty of riding experience, the ride can be tailored to suit your pace and comfort level.
Over the course of two hours, you’ll walk, trot and gallop along Essaouira’s beaches and through the eucalyptus forest that backs the dunes. Along the way, you’ll meet locals going about their daily routines as the sun slowly sinks toward the horizon – this is Essaouira at its most atmospheric!
Among the glowing reviews for this Essaouira horse riding experience (it has dozens of 5-star reviews at Viator), previous participants comment on how calm and gentle the animals are. They provide horses that are perfect for beginners, as well as spirited steeds that will delight more experienced riders. If you’re travelling solo, you may end up in a group (up to 10 riders) or venture off alone with one of the experienced guides.
Small-group camel ride at sunset
Best small-group camel ride tour in Essaouira for solo travellers
If experiencing sunset atop a camel is more your thing, then this small-group Essaouira tour is perfect for solo travellers. You’ll be joining no more than nine other adventurers, guided by skilled professionals who always prioritise your safety. Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a camel before – they will explain everything you need to know!
After a comprehensive briefing, you’ll mount your camel and feel the unique sensation as it rises to its feet. If you’ve ever felt this before, you’ll know what I mean! The ride takes you through eucalyptus groves and picturesque villages, and includes mint tea cooked over a fire in the forest (accompanied by homemade treats).
The small-group Essaouira tour culminates in an unforgettable view of the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean – be sure to bring your camera. The guide Mostafa is not only incredibly endearing but a great photographer – he’ll stop to take pics of you whenever you request it.
While riding your camel, you’ll discover fascinating insights about these remarkable creatures and their significance in Moroccan culture. You’ll also have the option to don a traditional djellaba for protection against the wind and sand. This guided camel tour in Essaouira is available in both English and French, making it accessible to solo travellers of different backgrounds.
Argan forest walk and women’s coop experience
Best small-group cultural tour in Essaouira for solo travellers
Argan oil is one of Morocco’s most prized exports, used in everything from cooking ingredients to cosmetic products. This small-group cultural tour from Essaouira provides a deeper understanding of its origins and why it is so cherished in this part of North Africa.
It begins with a brief walk through a forest filled with native argan trees, which are considered to have mythical importance in the Essaouira area. The walk is relatively easy (more of a relaxed stroll than an invigorating trek), so you can leave the hiking boots at home.
As you walk, your guide will share valuable information about the ecology of argan trees and you’ll observe them at different stages of growth. Additionally, you will discover the wide variety of products made from the trees and their fruits, along with their beneficial effects on the local culture.
After passing through a traditional village featuring a 16th-century place of worship, you will experience authentic Moroccan hospitality with tea served at an Amazigh home. This walking tour in Essaouira wraps up with a visit to a women’s cooperative, where you will learn the secrets of argan oil production.
Group sizes are capped at 15, although there’s a good chance it will be smaller than that. The guides, Naima and Faisal, are really friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have, not just about argan oil but about life in Morocco in general.
Small-group two-hour quad ride in Essaouira
Best quad bike tour in Essaouira for solo travellers
Quad biking is BIG in Morocco and Essaouira is one of the best places to test your skills. Whether you’re looking to navigate the sand dunes or glide along forest paths, an ATV tour is one of the most thrilling ways to discover the natural beauty around the UNESCO-listed city. And while this bills itself as a “private” experience, solo travellers won’t pay any more if booking alone.
After being picked up from your hotel, your guide will provide all the information you need about operating an ATV, making this off-road adventure in Essaouira perfect for novices. All you have to do is get comfortable behind the controls and follow the trail (and your guide) wherever it leads you.
Over the course of two hours, you’ll explore beaches, forests and dunes, with sightings of camels, horses and perhaps even flamingos along the way. Everyone comments on just how much fun this Essaouira small-group tour is, whether they’re just old enough to drive or in their 70s.
With helmets supplied, you can ride with peace of mind knowing that your safety is prioritised – the guides are also really good at providing assistance if you get nervous descending the big dunes! This small-group Essaouira ATV tour is an excellent opportunity to venture beyond the medina and uncover the coastal landscapes that envelop the city.
Creative embroidery and sewing workshop in Essaouira
Best hands-on Essaouira workshop for solo travellers
If you’re someone who likes to get hands-on and wants a Moroccan souvenir you’ve crafted yourself, then this small-group Essaouira experience is for you. It takes place at the Integrated Craft Complex, which was recently inaugurated by His Majesty King Mohammed VI to celebrate and showcase the region’s artisanal traditions.
Under the expert guidance of local craftswomen, you’ll have the rare opportunity to learn traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. These skilled artisans will share their deep knowledge and passion, providing hands-on instruction as you create your very own bespoke textile piece.
From selecting threads to mastering different stitches, you’ll gain a unique insight into Moroccan embroidery. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for exchanging stories and insights with your teachers and fellow participants over endless cups of mint tea and complimentary pastries. I guarantee you will come away with new friends!
With personalised attention in an intimate group setting, you can progress at your own pace, whether you’re a complete beginner or have some prior embroidery experience. This small-group Essaouira workshop not only allows you to discover and appreciate Morocco’s cultural heritage, but also directly supports the livelihoods of local women. The best part? You’ll come away with a one-of-a-kind creation to remember the experience by.
Two-hour surfing in uncrowded spots
Best surfing lesson in Esasouira for solo travellers
If you’ve never paddled a surfboard before or want to progress beyond the basics, Essaouira is a great place to do it. The medina is framed by beaches where you can practice your pop-up, under the guidance of experienced surf instructors. What I particularly love about this surf lesson in Essaouira is that it takes you away from the main beach to a more tranquil spot that isn’t heaving with crowds.
This small-group surf lesson in Essaouira is capped at 12 participants, which may sound like a lot at first. But they will provide enough instructors for personalised attention and I think surfing is always more fun with the camaraderie of other learners.
If you’re a beginner, you’ll start with a warmup on the beach before practicing how to pop up onto the board while still on the sand. After that, you’ll head into the water to catch your first waves, with a little helpful push from your instructor.
The environment is really supportive, so there’s no need to worry if you fall off the board – it’s all part of the experience! More important is that you have fun…and get bragging rights that you’re a “surfer” at the end of it all.
Tips for finding the best Essaouira tours for solo travellers
When searching for amazing tours in Essaouira for solo travellers, think about the types of experiences you want to have. Consider what excites you the most: are you keen on discovering natural wonders and historical sites or do you prefer cultural experiences and adventure activities? Perhaps you want a mixture!
Also, check whether there are any minimum booking requirements (do you need at least two people to book?) or if there is a surcharge for solo travellers. I always like to select the number of guests at “1” and see how the price compares to when I select “2”. If there is a “solo supplement”, decide whether you are happy to pay extra for a private experience.
Before finalising any tours or day trips from Essaouira, it’s wise to read reviews and feedback from fellow travellers. This will assist you in finding excursions that align with your expectations and desired experiences. Additionally, think about the physical demands of each adventure to ensure you’re prepared. If you’re not sure, send a question to the tour operator in advance.
While some of the Essaouira day trip destinations discussed in this article can be reached by public transport, others are trickier to access independently. That’s why I suggest booking with a trustworthy local tour operator, who will not only offer seamless transportation, expert guidance and logistical support but will enhance your experience with plenty of insider knowledge.
