Kite Tripping (Essaouira, Morocco)

ABOUT THE SURF CAMP

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LOCATION AND SURF CONDITIONS

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Exact location and description:

The surf camp is located in Essaouira, Morocco, in a peaceful area just a few minutes from the beach. Surrounded by dunes, ocean views, and traditional Moroccan charm, the camp offers a relaxed atmosphere close to nature, yet near the vibrant medina.

Distances to surf spots, town centre, other important sites:

Main beach surf spot: 5 minutes by car or 15–20 minutes walking

Town center/Medina: 10 minutes by car or taxi Essaouira

Airport: 20 minutes by car

Sidi Kaouki surf spot: 30 minutes by car

Imsouane (day trip surf spot): 2 hours by car

Description of surf spot; one spot or various spots?: We surf at various spots depending on daily conditions. Main sessions take place at Essaouira’s beach break, perfect for all levels. We also organize surf trips to nearby spots like Sidi Kaouki (more advanced waves) and Imsouane (famous long right-hand point break).

Surf conditions at the camp and nearby: At the main beach (Essaouira): Soft sandy beach break, consistent swell, safe and ideal for beginners to intermediates

Sidi Kaouki: Stronger waves, less crowded, ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers

Imsouane: Legendary long waves, great for progression and longboarding

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CAMP CHARACTER

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Target group: Adults 18+ solo travelers, couples, small groups welcome – special sessions like Girls’ Camp (25+) available also kids 

Camp size: Small and friendly – cozy, family-like atmosphere

Party or relax camp: Relaxed and laid-back vibe, not party-focused

Average age of participants: Between 10and 70years old

Main language used in camp: English and French (Arabic also spoken by staff)

Family-/child-friendly: Primarily adult-focused, but families with older children are welcome upon request

Dogs permitted: Pets are not allowed in the accommodation

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CAMP OPERATOR

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Who is the owner of the camp?

The camp is owned and managed by Achraf Laamiri, a passionate local surfer from Essaouira with years of experience in water sports and tourism. Team introduction:
Our team is made up of certified local surf instructors, friendly hosts, and experienced guides. Each member brings deep knowledge of the waves, Moroccan culture, and hospitality, ensuring you feel welcome and supported throughout your stay.

Short history (how it all began…):
The surf camp was founded by Achraf after years of teaching surfing along the Moroccan coast. Inspired by his love for the ocean and his hometown, he created a space where travelers can learn to surf, connect with nature, and experience true Moroccan culture in a warm and authentic environment.

ACCOMMODATION AND CATERING

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ACCOMMODATION TYPES

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Type: Surf guesthouse (like a relaxed boutique hostel)

Situation: Located in a quiet area near the beach with partial sea view and easy access to the town and surf spots

Room types: Private and shared rooms available; options with private bathrooms and balconies

Extras: Free Wi-Fi, lounge area, surfboard storage, rooftop terrace, nearby free street parking

Provided: Bed linen, towels, and hair dryer (on request) included

Electrical adapter necessary?: No adapter needed for most European plugs (220V, Type C & E sockets)

Storing of valuables: Lockers or safe available for personal items

Smoker or non-smoker accommodation?: Non-smoking indoors; designated smoking area outside

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CATERING

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Surf camp: Daily breakfast included; half-board (breakfast + dinner) available on request

Self-catering: kitchen provided?: Yes, there is a shared kitchen available for guests who prefer to cook

Shopping facilities and price level of food products: Local shops and markets are within walking distance; food prices are very affordable (e.g., fresh produce, bread, and local snacks all under €1–€3)

Restaurants nearby or directly at campsite? (price level): Many local restaurants and cafés are just a few minutes away; meals range from €5–€15 depending on the dish

Catering by surf camp – special meals for vegetarians/persons with allergies?: Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly meals are available upon request — just let us know in advance!

SURF COURSE AND ACTIVITIES

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SURF COURSE DETAILS

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Organisation: Surf lessons are organized daily based on wave and weather conditions to ensure the best learning experience

Group size; ratio participants:surf instructors: Small groups with a maximum of 4 students per instructor for personalized coaching

Course schedule and total duration: Each lesson lasts 2 hours, offered once or twice daily; packages available from 1 to 7+ days

Course programme: Includes warm-up, theory (safety, technique, ocean knowledge), and practical surf time in the water with feedback

Course location: Primarily on Essaouira’s main beach, but we may move to Sidi Kaouki or other spots depending on conditions

Levels and goals: Open to all levels — from first-time surfers to advanced; goal is progression, confidence, and fun in the water

Breaks (lunch?): Short rest during the session; lunch is not included but available nearby after the lesson

Course language: English and French (Arabic also spoken by instructors)

Only course participation (without accommodation) possible?: Yes, surf lessons can be booked separately without accommodation

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SURF MATERIALS

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Materials used during surf course: Soft-top foam boards for beginners; fiberglass and epoxy boards available for intermediate and advanced surfers

Fiberglass boards for advanced surfers?: Yes, advanced surfers can use fiberglass boards upon request

What will be provided?: Surfboard, wetsuit, leash, wax, and safety gear are all included in the course price

What will participants have to bring themselves?: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water bottle, and personal belongings

Use of materials outside course hours: Use of surfboards and wetsuits outside lesson times is allowed free of charge with certain packages; otherwise, equipment rental fees apply Rental and fee: Equipment rental outside lessons is available at €25 per day

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OTHER ACTIVITIES<

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Further activities: Camel and horse riding on the beach (€20–€30 per hour), quad biking in nearby dunes (€40 per hour), and traditional hammam spa visits (€15–€25).

Organised trips: Day trips to Sidi Kaouki or Imsouane for surfing (€25–€40 including transport and guide), cultural tours of Essaouira medina (€15–€25), and desert excursions (prices vary, from €70+).

Surfboard rental (fee): €10–€15 per day, including leash and wax.

Materials for activities – rental? (fee): Yoga mats and paddles for SUP available on-site; usually included or €5 per session.

Yoga, Pilates: Yoga classes available daily (€10–€15 per session); Pilates upon request.

Other: Sunset beach walks, Moroccan tea ceremonies, and cooking classes available for an additional fee.

MORE INFO, HOW TO GET THERE & FAQ

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SURF CONDITIONS

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Breaks directly at the main spot and at nearby spots

Short characterization:

Essaouira offers a sandy beach break that is perfect for surfers of all levels. The waves are consistent, mellow, and safe, making it ideal for beginners and intermediates. Nearby spots include point breaks and reef breaks suitable for more advanced surfers.

Distances:

Main surf spot: 5–10 minutes by car from the camp
Town center: 10 minutes by car
Sidi Kaouki surf spot: 30 minutes by car
Imsouane (long point break): Approximately 2 hours by car

Seasonal conditions

Water temperature: Ranges from 17°C in winter to 21°C in summer; wetsuit recommended year-round

Air temperature: Mild and pleasant, averaging 18°C in winter up to 28°C in summer Wind: Generally light to moderate in the morning, picking up to stronger winds in the afternoon — excellent for both surfing and kitesurfing

Waves: Consistent beach breaks with gentle to medium-sized waves, ideal for all skill levels

Crowd factor and local people

Crowded or quiet place?: Essaouira is generally a quiet and relaxed surf destination, especially on weekdays. It gets a bit busier on weekends but remains uncrowded compared to major surf spots.

Local habits: Locals are friendly and respectful in the water, and they gladly share waves with visitors, promoting a welcoming surfing community.

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SURROUNDINGS / REGION

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Characterization of surroundings/region

General information about region: Essaouira is a charming coastal town in Morocco, situated on the Atlantic Ocean. It is approximately 2.5 hours from Marrakech by road. The town is known for its historic UNESCO-listed medina, vibrant fishing port, wide sandy beaches, and beautiful coastal landscapes.

Culture, local people, customs: The local community is a warm mix of Berber, Arab, and French influences. People are known for their hospitality and laid-back lifestyle. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, such as modest dress when visiting religious or traditional areas.

Helpful language skills: French and Moroccan Arabic (Darija) are widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas, especially among younger people and service providers.

Currency and cost of living: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the currency. Essaouira offers a very affordable cost of living; meals can range from €3 to €10, and public transport is inexpensive.

Health (vaccinations required, medical care, insurance, etc.): No mandatory vaccinations are required for most travelers, but standard vaccinations (tetanus, hepatitis A/B) are recommended. Medical facilities are available locally, including clinics and pharmacies. Comprehensive travel and health insurance is strongly advised, especially for water sports activities.

Activities and facilities

Sports on offer: Surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, yoga, horseback riding, and quad biking

Excursions, guided tours: Day trips to Sidi Kaouki and Imsouane for surfing; cultural tours of Essaouira’s medina; desert excursions; prices range from 40€ to €100 depending on activity

Shopping: Local markets (souks) with handmade crafts, surf shops, art galleries, and fresh produce markets

Cinemas, bars, discotheques: No cinemas, but several cozy bars offering live music and beach parties; nightlife is relaxed and friendly

Special events: The famous Gnaoua World Music Festival (June), traditional Moroccan festivals, and local surf competitions

Other: Traditional hammam spa experiences, Moroccan cooking classes, and sunset beach walks

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JOURNEY

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Ways to get to the camp

Plane, train, bus: The closest airport is Essaouira-Mogador Airport (ESU), with flights from major Moroccan cities and some European destinations. There is no train service directly to Essaouira; the nearest train station is in Marrakech. Buses operated by CTM and Supratours connect Essaouira with Marrakech and other cities.

Shuttle service from airport/train station to camp?: Yes, airport and bus station pickups can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.

Distance camp–airport: The camp is approximately 20 minutes by car from Essaouira Airport and about 2.5 hours by car from Marrakech.

Public transport: Regular buses run between Essaouira and Marrakech; local taxis and minibuses operate within Essaouira.

Taxi costs airport–camp: From Essaouira Airport to the camp, taxis cost approximately €15–€20. From Marrakech airport or train station to Essaouira, taxi fares range from €70 to €100 depending on the service.

Important details

Visa Requirements: Travelers from many countries, including the UK, EU, US, Canada, and Australia, can enter Morocco without a visa for stays up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date and has at least one blank page. Upon arrival, your passport will be stamped; remember to keep this stamp safe, as it’s required for departure. 

For travelers from countries not exempt, an e-visa (Autorisation Électronique de Voyage au Maroc - AEVM) can be obtained online through the Access Maroc portal. The standard e-visa costs approximately 770 MAD and takes about three business days to process. 

Public Transportation Costs:

CTM Bus: Offers comfortable and reliable service between Marrakech and Essaouira. Tickets are typically priced around 95 MAD per person. It’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times.  

Supratours Bus: Operates from the Marrakech train station to Essaouira. Tickets are approximately 95 MAD, and it’s recommended to buy them in person at the station.  

Public Buses: Less comfortable and less reliable than CTM or Supratours, but fares are generally lower, around 60 MAD. However, schedules can be inconsistent.  

Travel Times:

Marrakech to Essaouira: The journey typically takes between 2.5 to 3 hours by bus, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Local Transportation: Within Essaouira, taxis and buses are available. Taxis are relatively inexpensive, but it’s recommended to agree on a fare before starting the journey.

PACKAGES & PRICES

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PACKAGE A - from 500 € per Week 

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This package includes:

Price:  / 500€ for 7 days

Included:

2-hour surf group lesson with certified instructor Surfboard, wetsuit, leash, and wax Moroccan tea before the lesson Transfers to best surf spots (based on conditions) Safety briefing and coaching Group size max 4:1 instructor  team dinner pictures and videos 

Excluded:

Accommodation Breakfast  Transport to/from camp or Essaouira Equipment use outside lessons Personal travel or health insurance

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PACKAGE B - from 600 € per Week 

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This package includes:

Price:  / 600€ for 7 days

Included:

2-hour surf private  lesson with certified instructor Surfboard, wetsuit, leash, and wax Moroccan tea before the lesson Transfers to best surf spots (based on conditions) Safety briefing and coaching Group size max 4:1 instructor  team dinner pictures and videos 

Excluded:

Accommodation Breakfast  Transport to/from camp or Essaouira Equipment use outside lessons Personal travel or health insurance

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PACKAGE C - from 500 € for 5 days 

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This package includes:

Price:  / 500€ for 5 days

Included:

2-hour surf group lesson with certified instructor Surfboard, wetsuit, leash, and wax Moroccan tea before the lesson Transfers to best surf spots (based on conditions) Safety briefing and coaching Group size max 4:1 instructor  team dinner pictures and videos 

Excluded:

Accommodation Breakfast  Transport to/from camp or Essaouira Equipment use outside lessons Personal travel or health insurance