Immersion in the Countryside Around Essaouira on an Electric Motorbike
Discovering the Countryside Around Essaouira Differently
An Electric Motorbike Ride Through Rural Morocco
When travelling in Morocco, we tend to visit cities, monuments, beaches, and the desert, rarely the countryside. Living in a small village myself, the only European among Moroccans, I feel particularly connected to this rural culture. And I know it takes time to truly understand the countryside around Essaouira.
That is exactly what appealed to us in Lou Ride’s approach. It is not just an activity, it is a journey, taking time to observe, to meet people, to sit and share moments with locals.
The Encounter
Getting to Grips with the Electric Motorbike
At the meeting point, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, the bikes were neatly lined up, each marked with our names, helmets ready, bottles of water waiting. Everything felt perfectly organised, reassuring from the start. A quick explanation on how to use the bike, and off we went on a long descent.
Roads in Morocco are quiet, which makes the ride feel safe and relaxed, a true road trip atmosphere where you can fully enjoy the scenery. We did this micro journey in February, after heavy rains had turned the countryside lush and green, absolutely stunning.
The Argan Tree, Symbol of the Essaouira Region
The argan tree is emblematic of the region. It is a unique species adapted to arid conditions, with roots that can reach more than 30 metres deep to find water.
Many women’s cooperatives produce the famous argan oil, used both in cooking and, even more so, in cosmetics for its recognised benefits. You will find it easily in the medina.
One important note, if someone tries to sell you argan oil from Marrakech, be cautious, as argan oil does not exist there, as argan trees only grow in the southwest of Morocco.
Our stop beneath a 400-year-old argan tree was therefore essential. Lou chose it deliberately, and he tells its story far better than I ever could.
The Souk and Daily Life in Villages
The donkey parking area is not where unruly students are sent. Donkeys remain an essential means of transport in rural Morocco.
In one small town along the main road, villagers arrive on donkeys from surrounding areas. They leave them grazing in a designated area, sometimes up to forty animals. Then they hitchhike to the souk, the local market several kilometres away. Hitchhiking works perfectly here, no apps needed, just strong community spirit.
They return with fresh produce, vegetables, and head back home with their donkeys. Village shops only sell dry goods, flour, semolina, oil, household items. For fresh food, the souk is essential, and also a social moment, a chance to meet and share tea.
A Chance Encounter
We crossed a dry riverbed. Lou clearly enjoys adding a sense of adventure. There, we met a Moroccan family picnicking under the trees, in the middle of nowhere, joyful and welcoming. This is very common in Morocco, families gathering outdoors with rugs, tea and food.
A warm Salam aleykoum, smiles exchanged, even without knowing each other. Then we continued our journey.
continued our journey. Meeting the Shepherd
In the countryside, you inevitably come across goats and sheep, sometimes camels. We were lucky to see all of them.
Lou explained the life of shepherds, why goats climb trees, how grazing areas are chosen, and the value of livestock. It is a simple life , yet one that can support an entire family. We even fed the animals with pieces of bread, a simple but meaningful moment.
The Village Grocery Shop
The village grocer holds a special place. The one we visited operates from a traditional beldi house, with rooms arranged around an inner courtyard.
The shop itself is a small room, barely five square metres. Customers speak through an opening in the wall while the grocer retrieves items from shelves packed with essentials. It may look minimal at first glance, but everything needed for daily life is there.
MOROCCAN SOLIDARITY
The grocer also plays a social role, offering credit to farmers and shepherds until they receive payment for their work. This creates strong social bonds within the community. This solidarity is one of the most striking aspects of Moroccan life.
The Descent to Sidi Kaouki Beach at Sunset
The day was already rich, but the finale was breathtaking. After leaving the village, the road suddenly opened onto a stunning view of the ocean, glowing under the setting sun.
We rode down to the beach, then along the shoreline, a moment of pure freedom. Riding that electric motorbike, I felt deeply connected to the ocean. More than an activity, it was a powerful experience.
My Impressions
In Essaouira, there are classic quad bike rides, fun and playful, but you do not learn much. With Lou, it is different. It is a journey, a true encounter with Moroccan life. It lasts half a day, enough to immerse yourself in another world and another rhythm. A must-do if you want to understand a deeper Morocco.
This is exactly the kind of experience we love to share with our guests at Riad Eucalyptus Ethnic Hotel, stepping off the beaten path and returning in the evening to a charming hotel that truly reflects the soul of Morocco.