October gives Essaouira a unique light: soft, cinematic, and perfect for photography lovers. Discover why, every year, photographers from around the world choose this corner of Morocco to capture unforgettable shots among dunes, horses, and ocean sunsets.
There is a time of year when Essaouira sheds its vibrant summer energy and puts on a more intimate, golden dress. October, on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, is not just a pause between seasons. It’s a month that holds a different kind of light—one that sculpts the ochre walls of the Medina and the ocean waves with a unique kind of magic.
It’s no coincidence that every year, around this time, professional photographers and enthusiasts from all over the world gather here. They don’t come just to take photos—they come to capture the soul of the “City of Wind” in its most poetic moment.
A cinematic light, shaped by wind and ocean
In the heart of autumn, the sun lowers on the horizon at the perfect angle. Natural light becomes cinematic. The frequent, passing clouds act like a natural diffuser, softening the rays and creating delicate reflections—ideal for portraits and landscapes rich in atmosphere.
It’s the month when colors appear more honest: the deep blue of the fishermen’s boats pops even more, the warm tones of the sand glow at sunrise, and the faces of locals in the Medina reflect softer hues. Every photo taken in Essaouira in October holds a story waiting to be told.
Essaouira: the true protagonist
This city is an open-air film set, and in October it shows its most fascinating side. Its ramparts mirrored in the Atlantic, the iconic blue boats swaying in the port, the seagulls gliding across a pastel sky—every corner is a perfect composition waiting to be framed.
The mild weather is an open invitation to wander the Medina or explore the surroundings at your own pace. You don’t need to be an expert rider to experience a magical moment— even a simple two-hour horseback ride at sunset becomes an unmissable opportunity: the silhouette of horses against a fiery sky is the image that defines Essaouira—one shot that’s worth the entire trip.
The adventure for photographer-riders: the wild coast
For more experienced riders, this is the perfect time to blend a passion for adventure with a love of photography. Riding along the wild coastline in October means crossing epic landscapes bathed in perfect light. The sun, never too harsh, caresses dunes and cliffs, creating unique contrasts and textures.
Our routes, like the Atlantic Coast Trek (October 4–11) and the Amazigh Trek (October 11–18), are designed to cross the most photogenic landscapes at the best time of day, offering countless opportunities for memorable shots.
The ritual of sunset
In October, every sunset in Essaouira is an event. The sky fills with pink, orange, violet, and sometimes a red so deep it feels unreal. The sun’s last rays dance on the waves, illuminate the walls of the Skala de la Kasbah, and offer a different spectacle every evening.
That’s why so many travelers choose this month: because each day in Essaouira ends with a moment of pure beauty—one to remember, and of course, to photograph.
See october with new eyes (and a camera in hand)
If photography moves you—or if you simply love places that fill the soul—Essaouira in October is an experience not to be missed.
Are you an experienced rider ready to combine adventure and photography?
Explore our October Horseback Treks.
Are you a traveler or photography enthusiast in search of the perfect shot?
Book your sunset beach ride now.
Get ready to fill your memory—and your heart—with unforgettable images.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need professional equipment?
Absolutely not. The October light is so magical that even with a modern smartphone you can capture stunning shots. Natural light will do most of the work. - Is there a best time of day to take photos?
Early morning and the hour before sunset (the “golden hour”) are perfect. The light is warmer and softer—ideal for both wide landscapes and portraits. - Is it possible to photograph the horses respectfully?
For us, the well-being of the horses always comes first. They’re not props for photos but travel partners. That means clear rules: limited working hours, proper rest, high-quality feed, and continuous care. The beautiful photos you take will be the result of harmony between you and the animal—not a forced performance. - What is the best itinerary for a photographer?
It depends on what you're looking for. For a great variety of landscapes (beaches, cliffs, villages), the Atlantic Coast Trek is unbeatable. To capture Essaouira’s most iconic shot, the two-hour sunset ride is simply perfect.
