Which airport should I choose to get to Essaouira?
Essaouira-Mogador Airport, identified by the IATA code ESU and the ICAO code GMMI, is the main airport serving the coastal city of Essaouira. Managed by the National Airports Office (ONDA), this airport has undergone significant modernisation with an investment of 185 million dirhams, enabling the replacement of the old terminal with a contemporary terminal with considerably increased capacity.

The infrastructure has a single runway numbered 16/34, approximately 2,100 metres long with an asphalt surface, capable of accommodating medium-haul aircraft such as Boeing 737s. Located at an altitude of 117 metres above sea level, the airport can handle up to 500,000 passengers annually at its nominal capacity.
Dynamic traffic growth
The airport is experiencing remarkable growth in activity. In 2023, it welcomed 180,302 passengers, marking a strong post-pandemic recovery. This trend continued in 2024, with growth of 38% in the first quarter and 28% in the first half of the year compared to the same periods in 2023. This growth reflects Essaouira’s growing appeal to international travellers.
Airlines and destinations
The airport is mainly served by low-cost airlines offering regular connections to several European destinations. Among the operators present, Ryanair operates flights from Brussels-Charleroi and Marseille, while Transavia connects Paris-Orly to Essaouira. This offer allows European travellers to easily access the city without having to go through the major hubs of Casablanca or Marrakech.
How to get to Essaouira from the airport?
The airport is located approximately 15 km from Essaouira city centre. Travellers have several transport options for making this journey.

Taxis are the most direct and comfortable option. The standard fare to the city centre is around 150 dirhams (approximately £10). Taxis are usually available outside the terminal.
For travellers on a budget, there is a bus service connecting the airport to the city of Essaouira. This option allows you to reach the city centre for less than 10 dirhams (€1), although the journey may take slightly longer than by taxi.
Private transfers are a popular alternative for those seeking a personalised service. These services, offered by various companies, cost between 250 and 300 dirhams (approximately €25 to €30) depending on the provider and the type of vehicle chosen. They offer the advantage of advance booking and a personalised welcome on arrival.
And then there is car hire, which remains an attractive option for visitors wishing to explore the region independently. International agencies such as Avis are located directly at the airport, making it easy to arrange a hire car on arrival.