Waves are our priority, so we adapt to the surf conditions. Times may vary, but a typical day might look like this: 8:00 a.m. breakfast, 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. surfing with a coach, 12:00–2:00 p.m. chill time, 2:00 p.m. lunch, 4:00–6:00 p.m. free surfing, 7:30 p.m. dinner, and 9:00 p.m. video analysis/surf etiquette/forecast study session.

We can't control nature—and that's part of the adventure! However, the waves are usually very consistent this time of year.

If there are no waves in the bay, we'll head to other nearby spots. If it's too stormy or windy, we'll work on our technique at the skate bowl, improve our posture, and practice turns on the surf skate.

Don't worry: We'll make up for any missed surf sessions on the following days. If worse comes to worst, we'll explore beautiful Essaouira and treat ourselves to a hammam or a massage. Not so bad, right? 😉

The nearest airport is Essaouira, just 1 hour away. Alternatively, you can fly to Agadir (2.5 hours) or Marrakech (3.5 hours). I'm happy to organize your airport transfer. Whenever possible, I coordinate group transfers with other participants to save you money. Please note that transfers are to be paid in cash directly to the driver.

There are several ways to get to the villa:

- Transport company

- Rental car

- Local shared taxi

I'd be happy to help you organise your journey. Simply indicate when booking that you need assistance. Prices and travel times with the Transport company vary depending on the airport (Essaouira: 1 hour, €35 // Agadir: 2.5 hours, €75 // Marrakesh: 4.5 hours, €100). Whenever possible, I will try to arrange for participants to travel together, so the costs can be shared and the journey is more enjoyable.

Yes! Villa Aljana is open before and after the retreat. If room is available, you're welcome to arrive early or stay longer—perhaps even with one of your new surf buddies.

For environmental reasons, I encourage you to extend your time in Morocco. Why not explore nearby surf spots with some of the other girls from the retreat? I'd be happy to connect you in advance and provide some local tips so you can plan your mini surf adventure.

Yes! If you want to save yourself the stress of planning, you can book through my partner Surfwise Travel . They're a Swiss surf travel agency that organizes your flights, travel insurance, transfers, and all the information you need for a smooth trip.

You'll enjoy hearty, homemade meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner—all included in the price and freshly prepared by three Moroccan sisters. There's also a tea bar with local herbs, which you can use free of charge at any time. Seasonal fruits and unlimited water are also available. Not included are chocolate bars, sodas, and coffee from the coffee machine, which you can purchase on-site.

Please let us know when booking if you have any special dietary requirements or food allergies – we'll be happy to accommodate them!

My native language is Swiss German, but I'm fluent in German, English, and French. My Spanish is also good enough to teach surfing and have a conversation. Other languages? Well, we'll probably have to rely on sign language and a good mood 😄

Yes. To ensure progress, all participants should be at a similar surfing level. An intermediate surfing level (Level 2 or 3) is required for this retreat. Find out your surfing level here .

If possible, practice your paddling strength in the sea, lake, or river beforehand. This will help reduce muscle soreness during the first few days.

If you're already fit, you're ready! You'll quickly get used to paddling once you're in the water.

Morocco's main surfing season is from October to March, with the most consistent waves.

The water temperature in Morocco in January is around 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit). If you want to bring your own wetsuit, I recommend a 4:3. For those who always get a bit cold, I also recommend surf booties with a 2-3 mm thickness.

Yes, Wi-Fi is available in the villa's common area. If you need a more reliable or personal internet connection, you can easily purchase a prepaid SIM card (orange or inwi recommended) at the airport.

Morocco is generally considered a safe travel destination and is visited by many tourists every year. As everywhere, it's advisable to take the usual precautions and keep an eye on your valuables. The surf regions have a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, so you can look forward to your surf trip without worry.

You can bring cash and valuables with you. In the past 10 years nothing has ever gone missing in Tafedna. However, if you want to be on the safe side, you can lock your valuables in the safe – there's one in every room.

The surf towns have a relaxed, touristy atmosphere—on the beach, you're welcome to wear a bikini or surfwear. Outside of the water, it's respectful to dress a little more conservatively (e.g., covering your shoulders or knees), especially in smaller towns. Light, loose clothing will keep you comfortable and appropriately dressed everywhere.

No, no vaccines are required to travel to Morocco.

You might see camels, donkeys, goats, or seabirds—and if you're lucky, even dolphins. The area is quiet and very natural—perfect for some unexpected animal encounters.

Technically, yes, but sharks are almost never spotted along the coast. Morocco's coast is considered very safe for surfing. I've never heard of or experienced a shark encounter there in the past 12 years.

Please read the full cancellation policy here. I recommend all participants purchase travel insurance. In case of no-show, the full amount will be charged. Refunds are not available in cases of accident or illness—this will need to be handled through your insurance.

Cancellation by you (participant)

· Up to 90 days before departure: 90% refund (10% will be retained as an administration fee)

Between 89 and 60 days before departure: 70% refund

Between 59 and 30 days before departure: 50% refund

Less than 30 days before departure: no refund possible

However, you can transfer your booking to another person (e.g. a friend) free of charge up to 2 days before departure.

Cancellation by the organizer

If the retreat is cancelled due to extreme weather conditions, illness, major logistical problems, or similar:

· The amount paid will be fully refunded or

· The booking can be transferred to another retreat of your choice (must have the same financial value)

Important recommendation

We strongly recommend that you purchase personal travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical expenses, and transportation issues.

Joyride Surf Retreats assumes no liability for damage to participants or third-party property. The organizer is not responsible for lost valuables, clothing, or equipment.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me here.