Things To Do
in Safi
Situated on the Atlantic coast, Safi is a windswept port town known for its fishing heritage and striking blue-gray medina walls. The city blends industrious charm with colorful streets, traditional pottery kilns, and a lively fish market that fills the harbor with scents of the sea. Safi's long fishing tradition has shaped its cuisine, arts, and friendly, hard-working communities.
Visitors can expect a laid-back atmosphere, striking coastal scenery, and easy access to nearby beaches and archaeological sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the old medina of Safi, where narrow streets are lined with vibrant shops selling local crafts and pottery. As you wander through the bustling marketplace, take in the scents of spices and freshly baked bread. Don't forget to stop by the historical Kasbah of the Udayas, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into Safi's rich history by visiting the National Museum of Ceramics, which showcases exquisite local pottery and traditional techniques. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside café, where you can savor fresh seafood while overlooking the water. As you stroll along the coast, admire the picturesque views of the cliffs and the crashing waves.
As the sun sets, make your way to the local beach to experience a stunning sunset over the Atlantic. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachside restaurant, where you can taste traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine or couscous. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk along the shore, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Kick off your day by visiting a local pottery workshop, where you can witness skilled artisans at work creating beautiful ceramics. Participate in a hands-on pottery class, learning the traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the culture and craftsmanship of Safi.
After your pottery class, head to the artisan market where you can browse an array of handmade crafts and souvenirs. Engage with local artisans and learn more about their craft, from textiles to jewelry. Grab a light lunch at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and mint tea.
In the evening, dine at a traditional Moroccan restaurant, enjoying a feast of flavors with dishes like pastilla and harira soup. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of the medina, appreciating the beautifully lit architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Cap off your night with a visit to a local music venue or cultural event to experience the sounds of Moroccan music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛵Short taxi ride within city | $1-3 |
| 🍜Two-course meal for two | $20-35 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🧿Local crafts souvenir | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime culture and fresh seafood
- Affordable travel with a relaxed vibe
- Colorful pottery heritage and workshops
- Proximity to beaches and coastal scenery
- Limited English in some areas outside tourist hubs
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Less extensive tourist infrastructure than major destinations
- "Salam alaykum" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La afham" - I don’t understand
- "Kam hdha/?" - How much is this?
- "Bismillah" - In the name of God, used when starting meals or activities
Places to Visit in Safi
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse perched on rugged cliffs, offering dramatic sea backdrops at sunrise and sunset.
Early morning scenes of fishing boats, nets, and working waterfronts provide vibrant color and activity.
Colorful kilns and artisans shaping ceramics, great for candid and studio photography.
Narrow streets, whitewashed walls, and blue-gray tones with a hint of maritime history.
Raw Atlantic coastline with expansive skies and dramatic rock formations.
Food in Safi
Safi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh sardines grilled with lemon, garlic, and olive oil, often served with bread and salads.
Must-Try!
Fish tagine with tomatoes, peppers, olives, and preserved lemon, a Safi specialty.
Couscous served with fish and vegetables, a hearty coastal version of a Moroccan staple.
Hearty lentil and tomato soup sometimes enjoyed as a light meal or starter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can buy fresh seafood, produce, spices, and local snacks.
Fresh fish and shellfish display with quick-cook options and simple grilled preparations.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Light, modest clothing is appropriate in most public spaces; consider coverage when visiting religious sites.
Always request permission before photographing individuals, especially in markets or traditional settings.
A warm greeting goes a long way; bargaining is common in markets but done with a smile and patience.
Safety
Tipping in Safi
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. For hotel staff, round up a bit or leave modest tips for housekeeping and porters.
Cash in Moroccan dirhams is widely accepted; many restaurants and shops in Safi also take debit/credit cards, especially in larger establishments. ATMs are common in town, but it’s wise to carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; great for coastal walks and street photography without intense heat.
Hot days with coastal breezes; expect busy beaches and crowds; hydrate and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant temperatures and clear seas; ideal for longer photography sessions and harbor activities.
Cool to mild weather with occasional rainfall; sea conditions can be rougher, but the coast remains dramatic.
Safi at Night
Hiking in Safi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal trail with sea views and cliffs suitable for a half-day hike.
Near the Oualidia area, easy nature walks and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Safi by plane.
Serves Essaouira and the surrounding region; domestic flights and some seasonal international routes; roughly 150-180 km from Safi.
Casablanca's major international hub with extensive connections; about 200-250 km north of Safi; good for long-haul flights.
Near Rabat; smaller international and domestic connections; longer transfer to Safi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The traditional core of Safi’s economy with a strong sense of community.
Urban youth, pottery makers, and craftspeople contributing to the city’s creative scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport nationwide; expect local matches and fields around the city.
Coastal Safi offers surf-friendly waves at various beaches suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Safi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable tagines, lentil soups, couscous with vegetables, and salads in most restaurants; olive oil and lemon provide flavor without meat. At markets, look for seasonal vegetables and chickpea dishes and ask for meat-free options when ordering at cook-and-sell stalls.