Riad Kafila is a small riad in the Essaouira medina on Rue Yamen, one minute on foot from the Skala de la Ville ramparts and three minutes from Place Moulay Hassan. Guests score it 9.6 out of 10, with top marks for cleanliness and praise for the location and the staff. A free full breakfast is served every morning, and the riad also serves dinner, so you can eat in on a windy evening without walking far. There is a rooftop terrace for the sunset, a library with books to borrow, a small gift shop, a concierge and a front desk that is staffed around the clock. Rooms have rainfall showers, free toiletries, hair dryers, heating, free bottled water and free wifi, and the riad offers laundry and dry cleaning for a longer stay.
Rooms and who they suit
There are seven rooms, which keeps the atmosphere quiet and personal. Six of them are described as having ocean views, including two deluxe doubles, two premium doubles, a premium twin and a family room that sleeps four with a queen bed and two twin beds.
The smallest rooms are cosy and best for couples travelling light, while the family room gives parents a rare chance to stay together in a riad. Room sizes and layouts differ, so compare the room numbers and views when you book and ask for the one that matches your plans.
Location and getting around
The Skala de la Ville, with its row of bronze cannons and sea-facing ramparts, is a minute away, Bayt Dakira about two, and Place Moulay Hassan and the lanes of the souk about three. The clock tower is around five minutes on foot and the beach and the Skala du Port with its fishing harbour about ten.
Cars cannot reach the door and the riad does not list parking, so arrive by taxi, walk in with a small bag and leave any vehicle outside the walls. Essaouira-Mogador airport is about twenty-seven minutes away by road, and an airport shuttle can be arranged for an extra charge.
What to check
Some guests mention that spa treatments are arranged at a nearby spa rather than in the building, so check when you book what is offered on site and whether you need to reserve ahead. Check-in runs from the afternoon into the late evening and check-out is at noon. Pets are not allowed.
The riad suits couples, small groups of friends and families with one or two children who want a quiet base in the middle of the old town, with a good breakfast, a view of the sea and the best of the medina on the doorstep. Book early for spring, autumn and the windsurf and music festival weekends.
Why stay here
- ✓Free full breakfast
- ✓Rooftop terrace
- ✓Restaurant for breakfast and dinner
- ✓Library
- ✓Ocean-view rooms
- ✓Family room for four
- ✓24-hour front desk and concierge
- ✓Free wifi
Good questions
How far is Riad Kafila from Place Moulay Hassan?+
About three minutes on foot. The Skala de la Ville is a minute away and the beach and the fishing harbour are about ten minutes.
Is breakfast included?+
A free full breakfast is served each morning, and the riad also serves dinner. Confirm what your rate includes when you book.
Does it have ocean-view rooms and a family room?+
Most of the seven rooms are described as having ocean views, and one family room sleeps four. Ask for the room you want when you book.
