Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Morocco?
As we do not offer flights, you will need to book them yourself. We suggest using either Sky Scanner (a flight comparison site) in order to search for flights from certain countries to Morocco. Alternatively, the following airlines fly to and from Morocco from the UK:
EasyJet
British Airways
Ryanair
Royal Air Maroc
Thomson
First Choice
The following airlines fly to and from Morocco from the rest of Europe:
EasyJet
Ryanair
Royal Air Maroc
AerLingus
TUI
Condor
AirBerlin
JetAir
Which airport is best to fly to?
Essaouira (ESU) is the nearest airport to us, only 15 minutes by car. EasyJet currently flies from London Luton to Essaouira twice a week. Airport transfers can be arranged for £15 per way.
Marrakech (RAK) is approximately 2 hours away. We are happy to arrange an airport transfer from Marrakech for £60 per way. If you prefer to come by bus we suggest using either CTM or SupraTours and it will cost about 10 Euros. When you come out of the airport take a “petit taxi” to either CTM or SupraTours bus stations where you will be able to buy a ticket for the next available bus. There are several buses running throughout the day.
Agadir (AGA) is about 2.45 hours by car. Airport transfers from Agadir airport can be arranged for £80 per way.
Do I need a visa?
If you hold an EU passport you are entitled to visit Morocco for up to 90 days without a visa. If you are coming from outside the EU, we advise you to check with your nearest Moroccan embassy for further information.
What currency is used in Morocco?
The Moroccan currency is the Dirham (MAD). However, you won’t be able to get hold of any currency outside the country and you cannot bring it in or take it out of Morocco. There are ATM machines and exchange facilities located in the airports as soon as you walk out of arrivals. There are also several ATMs and exchange facilities in Essaouira, within walking distance from the riad. We advise you NOT to bring travellers cheques as you will struggle to change them anywhere.
How long do you recommend I stay for to get the most out of my surfing?
We recommend staying for at least 5-7 nights if possible. That way we can tailor your surf lessons to suit you best, and you get to experience as many different surf spots as possible. Plus, there is so much to see and do in the local area you will be able to squeeze a few trips in too!
If you can’t make a whole week though, don’t worry! You will still enjoy it and we will do our best so that you get the most out of your stay, however long it is. Feel free to contact us for prices and packages for shorter stays than 7 days.
What is the weather like?
Morocco has over 300 sunshine days a year, so you can expect it to be sunny most days! It can get a little cooler in the evenings, particularly during October-March.
What is the water like?
Warm water tends to last between May-November, however expect to need a winter wetsuit between November to March/April.
When is the surf best?
Morocco is a great place to visit and surf all year round. The surf is best during the winter months, when you can expect to see big overhead swells coming through. The summer months between April-October still offer rideable waves, with small to medium swells.
Is internet available?
We have free wifi in the surf camp and there are plenty of internet cafes in Essaouira.
What about alcohol?
Alcohol is available in supermarkets, as well as at many restaurants and bars in Essaouira. We do ask that you to drink responsibly and respect local customs.
Do I need to bring towels?
Bath towels are provided at the riad.
What local facilities/amenities are available?
There are lots of cafes and restaurants in Essaouira, along with grocery shops, surf and surfboard repair shops, internet cafes and fully stocked pharmacies. There are plenty of things to see and do in the evening; head out for dinner, drink tea in the medina, enjoy a cocktail at one of the roof top bars, hit the shops and local stalls in Essaouira, you can chill out on our roof terrace, watch a film in your room and if you’re really up for it you can sample the nightlife on offer!
What if I don’t want to surf one day – what else can I do?
There is a whole range of different things that can be arranged; including camel and horseback riding, quad biking and jet skiing. There are several different beaches close by, as well as hiking possibilities. The souks (local market) in the medina (old town) are a must, as is a trip to a local Hamman. Alternatively, if you want to hit the city life there is also Marrakech. Just give us a shout and we can help arrange any of the above.
I am travelling alone, is this ok?
Not a problem! We regularly host solo travellers, and being keen travellers ourselves, we will ensure you are well looked after. We arrange a safe pick up service to collect you from the airport (whatever time or day you arrive) and take you directly to the riad so you don’t have to worry about finding a taxi on your own. Once you arrive, there are plenty of opportunities for you to socialise with other guests, and of course go surfing with your group!
Can I bring a friend or my partner if they don’t want to surf?
Of course! They are more than welcome to come along with you and relax on the beach. If they fancy a change of scenery, then we can arrange other activities for them, such as listed above.
Can I bring my children?
Of course! We welcome families with open arms, and our surf instructors tailor lessons for children of all ages. Please note however, that we do not offer any childcare facilities.
What plugs are used in Morocco?
What time is check in and check out?
You can arrive at any time, if your room isn’t ready until the afternoon then we can store your luggage until it is and you are welcome to begin your adventure. Just let us know what time you expect to arrive, and whether or not you require an airport transfer. Check out is 11am.
Do I need any vaccines/immunisations?
What clothing do you recommend I bring with me?
At the beach: Normal beachwear; shorts, swimming costumes and bikinis.
Around town: Shorts/t-shirts are fine. It is respectful to cover up your shoulders and knees when going into town.
At night: It can get cooler at night, particularly during the winter so it is advisable to bring some warm clothes (jumper, hoody, cardigan etc.) just in case.
Ready to book your surf adventure?
Hey Nic and Zak! Just wanted to say that I had a great time with the guys last week and will def be back at some stage, the accommodation, food and surf was fantastic! Thanks again guys!
Aidan Mc ManusHi Nicola, home again after a great week in Morocco. Everything went well and we had a great time. Thanks and hopefully we’ll see you again.
Steen & Lorraine TerpDear Nicola (and Zak!), We just wanted to all say a really big thanks for the week we had. It was really good fun and it was great to escape from the cold British winter for a week. I kept reminding myself it was January! Many of my colleagues commented on my tan today so it’s good to have something to show for the time away. The surf was great and it was great to have such easy access to good waves and good tuition. So just a big thanks to you, Zak and Margrit as well as the two cooks who looked after us so well. I do hope we’ll return in the not too distant future, perhaps once our surfing has improved further!, Many thanks to you all.
Pete, Tom & GwynHi Nicola, I just wanted to email and let you know that I had an AMAZING time with you and Zak and with the boys in the group and at the Villa…I wouldn’t shut up talking on Sunday telling my husband all about it, and I think he felt a bit jealous! I REALLY want to return, and I find myself drifting off in daydream in front of my computer screen at work…. wishing I’d been out for a morning surf… Such great memories. So thank you a thousand times thank you. It was totes amaze! I REALLY hope to see you guys again sometime not too far off. Thanks again!
Taryn Ferris