Before You Catch Your Flight✈: Essential Travel Tips for Your Kite Trip to Essaouira🏄🏻♂️
Booking a kitesurfing holiday in Essaouira? Whether you're joining us for your first lesson, an intensive progression week, or simply chasing wind and waves, a little preparation can make your trip much smoother.
Here are some useful things to know before arriving in Morocco.
Bring Some Cash
Morocco's currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), which cannot be obtained outside the country. While many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses now accept international credit cards, Morocco remains more cash-based than many European countries.
You'll find ATMs and banks throughout Marrakech and Essaouira, but international cards occasionally encounter issues with local banking systems. To avoid any surprises, we recommend notifying your bank before travelling and carrying a small amount of Euros or US Dollars as a backup.
Once you arrive, it's always required to have some Dirhams for taxis, small cafés, local shops, and market purchases.
Pack for Wind, Sun & Cool Evenings
One of the reasons Essaouira is famous among kitesurfers is the wind. While temperatures are generally pleasant year-round, conditions can vary throughout the day.
Sunny afternoons can feel quite warm, while evenings often become surprisingly cool, especially after a day on the water. A light jacket, hoodie, or sweater is something most visitors end up using.
For your kite sessions, don't forget:
● Swimsuit or boardshorts
● Rash vest or lycra
● Sunglasses with a retention strap
● Reef-safe sunscreen
● Windbreaker or light jacket
● Comfortable footwear for exploring town
Morocco is also a Muslim country with a rich cultural heritage. While Essaouira is known for its relaxed atmosphere, modest clothing is appreciated when walking through the Medina or visiting local villages.
Getting from Marrakech to Essaouira
Most international visitors arrive via Marrakech Airport before continuing to Essaouira.
There are several transportation options available:
Private Transfer The easiest and most comfortable option, particularly for couples, families, or groups travelling with kite equipment. Private transfers typically cost around 700 MAD one way or approximately €130 return.
CTM & Supratours Buses Reliable, comfortable, and affordable, with tickets generally starting around 100 MAD per person. However, if your flight arrives later in the afternoon, you may miss the final departures to Essaouira.
Shared Taxis A budget-friendly option, although departure times depend on filling the vehicle with passengers and waiting times can be unpredictable.
If you're travelling with a lot of luggage or kite gear, arranging transportation in advance often saves time and stress.
Shopping & Souk Etiquette
Many visitors look forward to exploring Morocco's colourful markets and artisan shops.
While bargaining has long been part of Moroccan culture, fixed pricing is becoming increasingly common, particularly in established shops and boutiques.
If a price is clearly displayed, it's generally best to respect it. If you're genuinely interested in an item but working within a budget, politely asking whether there is any flexibility is perfectly acceptable.
Remember that local businesses are facing the same rising costs as the rest of the world. Supporting local artisans and independent businesses helps preserve the unique character that makes Morocco so special.
Tipping: Appreciated, Not Required
Tipping is not mandatory in Morocco, but it is always appreciated when someone provides excellent service.
Whether it's a restaurant server, transfer driver, hotel staff member, or instructor who helped make your experience memorable, a tip is simply a way of saying thank you.
As in most countries, use your judgement and tip according to the level of service received.
Don't Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is one of those things you hope you never need—but you'll be glad to have it if something unexpected happens.
If you're planning to kitesurf, surf, wingfoil, horse ride, or participate in other adventure activities, make sure your policy specifically covers them.
Many travellers use providers such as SafetyWing because they offer affordable plans that include adventure sports coverage. Even minor medical issues can become expensive without proper insurance, so it's worth checking your policy before departure.
Experience More Than Just the Wind
While the kitesurfing conditions bring people to Essaouira, it's often the culture, food, and people that make them want to return.
Take time to wander through the UNESCO-listed Medina, enjoy freshly grilled sardines at the fishing port, watch the sunset from the beach, try a traditional Moroccan cooking class, or share a Friday couscous with new friends.
The best trips combine great sessions on the water with memorable experiences on land.
We look forward to welcoming you to Essaouira and sharing everything this incredible destination has to offer both on and off the water. Why not book one of our STAY & RIDE HOLIDAY PACKAGES and let us arrange things for you!
BOOK YOUR KITE, SURF OR WINGFOIL PACKAGE TODAY! Have more questions still? Visit our FAQ page for other answers you might be looking for🌊.