Essaouira in January: the Calm, Good-Value Season
Once the holidays are over, Essaouira returns to the pace of a small fishing town. Prices drop, the lanes empty and the sun still shines on most days.
Essaouira in January means around 18 °C by day and 9 °C at night, with moderate wind and a few rainy days. It is the coolest month of the year but also one of the quietest: after the Christmas holidays (early January), riads often lower their prices and you can find rooms without booking weeks ahead. 14 January (Yennayer, the Amazigh New Year) and 11 January are public holidays in Morocco: offices close, but restaurants and tourist activities run. On the menu: surfing in a wetsuit, horse riding on the beach, the ramparts at sunset and the day trip from Marrakech (2.5-3 hours by road, from €7-12). Pack layers and pick a heated riad.
Plan your stay
The guides and experiences our readers book most for this destination.
Things to Do in Essaouira in January
January is ideal for discovering Essaouira without crowds, on a day trip from Marrakech or a longer stay.
| Experience | Rating | Reviews | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essaouira from Marrakech: coast, medina and lunch in a small group | 4.9 | 9,880 | €12 |
| Essaouira from Marrakech: beach, medina and ramparts with lunch | 4.7 | 9,931 | €12 |
| Essaouira from Marrakech: small group and argan cooperative | 4.8 | 3,082 | €7 |
| Essaouira: group surf lesson | 4.9 | 515 | €22 |
Ratings, reviews and prices taken from GetYourGuide; they may change.
See things to do in Essaouira in January· GetYourGuideFree cancellation up to 24h before on most activities · the best time slots sell out first in high seasonReserve now, pay later on many activities
Compare activities on ViatorYou will be redirected to our partner Viator.- UNESCO medina: walk the thuya-wood craft souks early, then have grilled fish at the port.
- Surf: the winter swell is more consistent; schools provide wetsuits. See surf lessons in Essaouira and Sidi Kaouki for experienced surfers.
- Beach horse ride at sunset: see horse riding in Essaouira.
- Itinerary: see Essaouira in 2 days and things to do in Essaouira.
Where to Stay in January
January is the month to treat yourself to a boutique riad at a gentler price. Check three things: heating or a fireplace in the room, reliable hot water and a terrace sheltered from the wind. See the best riads in Essaouira and where to stay in Essaouira.
See Essaouira riads in January· Booking.comFree cancellation on many properties · the best-rated places fill up firstNo prepayment needed on many offers: lock in your room now
Compare flights and hotels on Trip.com· Trip.com
Book your arrival transferYou will be redirected to our partner GetTransfer.See also Essaouira in December, Marrakech in January and Morocco in January.
Going a little later? See Essaouira in February.
FAQ — Essaouira in January
What is the weather like in Essaouira in January?
Is January a good month for Essaouira?
Can you surf in Essaouira in January?
Which days are public holidays in January in Morocco?
Do I need to book ahead in January?
In Short
- 18 °C by day, a calm town.
- Lower prices after the holidays.
- Heated riad and layers are a must.
