faq morocco
questions
general questions
where is sandycamps ?
Sandycamps is in the renowned fishing village of Imsouane, 85 km north of Agadir and 80 km south of Essaouira. We are 1h45-30 from both airports, and only 2-3 hours for most of European airports. It is the ideal surf destination all-year-long for a total change of scenery, 300 days of sunshine per year, and perfect waves.
which airport is closer to imsouane ?
To facilitate your arrival in Imsouane, we recommend you to fly to Agadir or Essaouira. Agadir is serviced by many airline companies from most of the European cities. Essaouira is a smaller airport and flight connexions will vary in time depending on agreements but it's worth looking into. Marrakech is further, 3h30 by car from Imsouane, but is one of the most serviced airport in Morocco and you will find cheap round-trip flights from there. Count 5-6 hours and 20-30€ per person by public transport to Imsouane, or around 110€ to 150€ by transfer/taxi.
when can i arrive ?
The arrival and departure days can be any day of the week. The minimum stay is 4 nights and we recommend to stay at least 7 nights to fully enjoy the amazing surf and vibe of Imsouane.
You are welcome to arrive at any time of the day. We kindly ask you to inform us in advance of your arrival time if you don't have a transfer with us, so we can welcome you properly on arrival and especially if you arrive before 1pm or after 8pm.
How do I get from the airport to sandycamps ?
By car, Agadir Al Massira Airport is approximately 1h45 from Imsouane, Essaouira is about 90 minutes and Marrakech about 3h30 from Imsouane. You have three options: book a private transfer directly with us when you make your reservation (recommended for first-time visitors), take a taxi from the airport to Imsouane (negotiate the price directly with the driver, there are fixed prices for each destination but it may still vary), or rent a car at the airport. In Agadir, there is now a bus taking you to the city center. However from there, there is no bus to Imsouane. You would still need to have a car, transfer or taxi to reach the village.
what are the check-in and check-out times ?
Check-in is from 2pm. Check-out is by 11am. If you arrive early, we are happy to store your luggage while your room is being prepared. If your flight departs late, let us know in advance and we will do our best to arrange a late check-out depending on availability. Otherwise you'll be welcome to stay longer at the surf house and enjoy the surf a bit longer.
Which airline company to choose ?
Many low-cost airline companies operate regular flights between Europe and Morocco. You'll find a lot of compagnies flying to Agadir, Marrakech or Essaouira.
The flight tickets can be very cheap, although they vary with the seasons. We recommend you to consult booking websites like Skyscanner, Expedia, or search engines as DuckDuckGo, to find the best prices.
Is the price of the flight ticket included in your packages ?
No, the price of the flight ticket is not included in our rates. You should arrange for yourself the reservation and payment of your flight ticket to come to Morocco. We do not take charge of your travel to and from Morocco.
Do I need an insurance ?
We do not insure you during your stay at Sandycamps. Any person booking a stay at Sandycamps must subscribe to a travel insurance and a civil liability, that covers the entire duration of the stay, a travels and medical care, before the arrival and until the return.
By booking a stay with us, you acknowledge that you have personally subscribed to an insurance covering your travel/medical care/accidents and a civil liability for the entire duration of your stay. We shall not be held accountable in any way, and will not accept any responsibility or any obligation for the loss or deterioration of personal belongings, financial loss, accident, disease, fault, delay or prejudice to yourself or a third party, occurring on your way to SANDYCAMPS, during your stay, and your return. Tip : World Nomads
what is the cancellation policy ?
If you cancel more than 6 weeks before your arrival, you will receive a full refund minus a 50€ administration fee. Cancellations made between 6 weeks and 30 days before arrival will be refunded at 50%. Cancellations made between 30 to 15 days before arrival will be refunded at 25%. Less than 15 days before arrival, the full amount is charged. We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.
Do I need a visa to come to Morocco ?
European Union citizens do not need a visa to come to Morocco, for a stay up to 3 months. You need a passport with a minimal validity of 6 months at your departure date from Morocco. For example, if you leave Morocco on the 1st of February, your passport must be valid until the 1st of August of the same year.
If you are not a European citizen, we invite you to visit the Moroccan Consulate website to verify if you need a visa and IF YES, the documents required: http://www.consulat.ma/an/prestation.cfm?gr_id=72&id=458
What is the local currency and where can I change money ?
The currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham.
1€ = 10.85 Moroccan Dirhams approximately. Dirhams cannot be changed for other currencies outside of Morocco.
Imsouane is a small village and there are now a few ATMs but the go often out of order. At your arrival in Morocco, you can change money at the exchange office of the airport where you land, at better rates. For your own daily expenses, count about 10€ per day, keeping in mind that the services not listed in our packages are at your own cost (Day trips, lunches, drinks, etc.). Payments can be made in Dirhams or Euros at Sandycamps.
Can I come with my family and children ?
Children are welcome at Sandycamps. They nevertheless remain under the sole responsibility of their parents, who must look after them during the entire stay even at the beach as we don't have dedicated surf instructors to look after them. We cannot give surf lesson under 16 year.
Which language is spoken in Morocco ?
The official language of Morocco is Arabic. The inhabitants of Imsouane are Berber and speak their own dialect, as well as Arabic, and for a large majority French, sometimes English or Spanish.
At Sandycamps, we speak fluently French, English, Spanish and Arabic!
Can I use my mobile phone in Morocco ?
Almost all European telephone operators have Moroccan partners. Before your departure, we recommend checking or contacting your operator to have all the necessary information and pricing policies applied abroad to avoid bad surprises back home.
can i connect to internet/wifi and where ?
Imsouane is a small village, away from modern infrastructures. In our surf house we have a WIFI connection in the common areas. Our connection is usually good to consult and answer messages, emails, whatsapp/messenger calls, etc. You can also easily buy a 3g sim card in the village and charge internet for few euros)
What are the electrical outlets and voltage in Morocco ?
We use 220-Volts outlets with European standard power sockets, type C.
Can I drink tap water ?
No! We advise you not to drink tap water. You can however safely use it to brush your teeth, shower, etc. To drink, you can buy water bottles at the surf house, in the village, or in local stores.
What should I bring in my luggage ?
Bathing suits, summer clothes during day time (shorts, t-shirts,…), hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen (waterproof IP50), beach towels and bag, light shoes, and some warm clothes for the evenings (sweater, pants, closed shoes, etc.). Between December and February, evenings can be colder. And don't forget to bring clothes adapted to the activities you have planned (yoga, hiking,...)
Note: Morocco is an Islamic moderate country. Values and traditions should be respected. Women and men can dress normally (shorts, dress, t-shirt or bathing suit on the beach) but provocative clothing and nudity are prohibited. Be discreet while changing.
Do you supply shower towels ?
Yes we supply shower towels but not beach towels. Don't forget to bring your own with you.
What is the best season to go to Morocco ?
Morocco has an exceptional climate with more than 300 days of sunshine per year, and the surf is amazing all year long. There are several surf spots in Imsouane, and no matter the season or weather, there are always good waves to surf.
Imsouane’s waves are famous worldwide. It is common to come across surfers from the other side of the planet on our spots, and sometimes pro surfers.
From October to April is the best time to visit us, it's the “Surf Season” in Morocco. The temperatures can vary between 16 and 28° Celsius during the day. Evenings can be cooler. The water temperature is between 17 and 22°C. It is the ideal season to enjoy the waves of the bay and the climate that made Morocco famous in the world. Get your bathing suit out of the closet, the summer goes on in Imsouane!
Between May and September, it is “summer” in Morocco. At this time of the year, waves have a medium to small size. Water temperature is between 20 and 25°C and the days are longer and sunny. Surf sessions are often in morning and evening to avoid the heat and thermic wind that can occurs during the hottest hours of the day.
SEASON GUIDE
How far are the surf spots from Sandycamps ?
Sandycamps is slightly set back from the village, in a peaceful and lush nature, at just 5 minute walk from the first surf spots and village center.
Should I pay an extra fee to have a single room ?
Yes there is an additional fee if you choose to book a single room. Rates depend of the type of the accommodation (apartment, double room, etc.) As we have a limited amount of private rooms, we recommend that you book in advance the room or apartment of your choice, so that you can guarantee this option.
Can I come alone ?
Absolutely! About 50% of our clients travel on their own. It is one of Sandycamps advantages! Our house is a friendly and chilled surf vibe where you will feel home instantaneously, and meet people with the same passions.
is imsouane safe for solo female travellers ?
Yes. Imsouane is a small, quiet fishing village with a very relaxed atmosphere. Many of our guests travel solo, including a large number of women. Our team is present 7 days a week and will make sure you feel at home from the moment you arrive. As with any destination, we recommend the usual common sense: avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Inside Sandycamps and during the day in the village, you will always be surrounded by fellow travellers of which many Europeans.
How old are the other participants ?
Most of Sandycamps’ clients have between 20 and 45 years old, but sometimes people over 45 also join us, of whom the spirit and dynamism have no equal, convincing us that the age is just a number.
What is the minimum age to come to Sandycamps ?
You must be at least 18 years old to stay on your own at Sandycamps. Teenagers and children are welcome at Sandycamps if they are accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for them during their entire stay.
We would like to come as a couple, is it possible ?
Of course! Sandycamps is open to everyone, alone, as couples, in family or groups. It is the ideal place to spend your holidays, meet people from different horizons, chat and exchange. In parallel, Sandycamps is also big enough to find a quiet place to relax and hang out just the two of you.
Is there a pharmacy in Imsouane ?
Yes, there is a pharmacy relatively well supplied in Imsouane, with most of the common products.
Are there shops/stores in Imsouane ?
There are several small grocery stores in the village, selling everything you’ll need: water, sodas, bread, fruits, vegetables, biscuits, chocolate, and basic necessities. There are also several surf shops well supplied in the village, and a shaper.
is alcohol served at sandycamps ?
Alcoholic beverages are not included in our packages, nor sold in the surf house. You can however order them at the bar of the village, juste 5 minutes away by foot. You will find beers, wine, and spirits. It goes without saying that alcohol is forbidden under 18 years…
What kind of food are we going to eat ?
Food is delicious in Morocco. You will have the opportunity to taste wonderful tajines and fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as typical meals from the region.
All our packages include accommodation and half board with 2 meals per day. At breakfast, you will be served a generous Moroccan breakfast with fresh bread, jams, honey, cheese, olive oil, amlou, eggs, a choice between warm milk, a glass of orange juice, coffee or mint tea.
At dinner, you will be served typical dishes from Morocco (tajines, couscous, etc.), and international dishes (pasta, paella, salads, etc.). As deserts, you will be able to choose between fruits of the season, homemade cakes or yogurts.
Drinks (sodas, smoothies and juices, coffee, etc.) are not included in our packages.
Do you have vegetarian or vegan dishes / special diets ?
We will do our best to satisfy our vegetarian and vegan guests, as well as those will special diets (lactose or gluten free), to the extent possible, given that Imsouane is a small village and depending on the products that can be found in Morocco. Inform us of your needs in advance so we can arrange it if possible.
What is the program of the evenings ?
The evenings are free, and you can organize your own program. Do whatever makes you happy; relax in your room, read, watch a movie, have a drink with friends, play board games, chat, etc… The life in Imsouane follows the sun and the pace slows down as the evening comes.
Can I rent Sandycamps facilities for an event ?
Of course! You can rent our facilities to arrange your event in Imsouane. We have a capacity of 50 people and more. We can arrange all the logistics for you, and we will do our best to meet your desires. Consult our “Groups” page for more information or send us an email at bookings@sandycamps.com
Are pets allowed ?
Pets are allowed under certain conditions, detailed in our Terms and Conditions. Please contact us to make sure you can stay at Sandycamps.
surf questions
Is there a minimum level in surf to come to Sandycamps ?
You don’t need to know how to surf to join Sandycamps. There is no minimum level to join our courses. About half of our clients have never surfed before. We offer beginner lessons for those who have never set foot on a surfboard, as well as intermediate lessons for those who want to practice their manoeuvres.
What type of waves am I going to surf during my stay ?
Please read our SURF page to know everything about the waves in Imsouane.
what is the best surf spot for beginners in imsouane ?
The Bay of Imsouane is one of the best spots in the world for beginners. Its long, slow, and gentle waves allow you to catch your first rides with ease and build confidence quickly. It is also one of the longest waves in Africa at over 800 metres, which means more time on the wave and faster progression. Our instructors will guide you to the right section of the bay depending on your level and the conditions of the day.
do you offer private surf lessons ?
Yes, private surf lessons are available on request and subject to instructor availability. A private lesson gives you one-on-one coaching tailored entirely to your level and goals, which is ideal if you want to progress faster or work on a specific technique. Contact us at bookings@sandycamps.com to arrange your private session and get pricing information.
Should I know how to swim to join a surf course at Sandycamps ?
You must mandatorily know how to swim to join our courses (or any surf lesson anywhere in the world). All surfers are not necessarily Olympic champions of course, but you do need to feel comfortable in the water and be able to swim. You will learn to surf in an area adapted for beginners and safe, where you can slowly get used to the ocean and waves.
Is surfing a dangerous sport ?
All sports are dangerous if we don’t respect certain rules.
Our professional instructors will allow you to learn these rules while enjoying the surf, the safe way and determine the schedule for the surf lesson.
Is the surf equipment included in the packages (surfboards, wetsuits) ?
At Sandycamps, we have surfboards and wetsuits available for rent. Depending on the package you have chosen, this equipment is included during your stay (Sandypack & Freesurfer). Please see what's included in the package you have chosen, ask us through our website or directly at Sandycamps.
We take good care of our surf equipment to provide you with the best quality product. When you rent/use the surf equipment, it's placed under your responsibility. You should give it back in the same state as you have received it. Any degradation will result in a repair that you should pay. If the surfboard is broken and becomes unusable, it should be reimbursed based on its original price when new. A security deposit of 100€ will be required before the start of your stay/rent.
Can I change to another level during my stay ?
Of course. If you feel you are not in the right group/level, discuss it with the instructors and they will redirect you to a more suited one.
Do I have to attend all surf lessons ?
Depending on your level of energy or motivation, you can choose to join the surf lesson or not. You can enjoy the beach and the sun, do some yoga or just relax at Sandycamps.
Are there surf lessons every day ?
Surfing depends on the weather and swell. There are normally 5 days of surf lessons per week, with one day to relax in the middle of the week (usually on Wednesdays) to let your body rest a bit, in order to fully enjoy the waves the rest of your stay (and maybe visit Essaouira or Paradise Valley...). Unless there are absolutely no waves or a chaotic and dangerous ocean (which can happen), you will be able to surf every day.
what can we do on the day off ?
Usually, the day off is on Wednesday. This is also the day trip to discover Essaouira for 35€ per person, transport included.
what kind of surfboards do you have at sandycamps?
We have all kind of different sizes and surfboard shapes for every level. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or intermediate surfer, we have the right board for you! Our surfboards are all made of high-quality epoxy or polyester resin. This means the best possible performance on the water.
What type of wetsuit do you recommend for Morocco ?
In general, the water temperature never drops under 16-17°C so you should feel perfectly at ease with the full 3/2 wetsuits we will provide you during your stay.
yoga questions
What type of yoga do you propose ?
It will depend if you are in Morocco or Portugal and if you book through us or directly in a Studio, but you will find mostly Hatha and Yin yoga. Just get in touch and we'll let you know about the options!
Do you offer yoga lessons ?
We don't offer yoga lessons inside our structures on a daily basis, but yoga lessons can be organised upon demand. The price varies depending on the amount of guests joining the lesson. We can either organise them for you, or give you all the information to join group classes in the studios around us.
