The Atlantic coast of Morocco is becoming known as a world-class surfing destination.
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Catching the waves in Morocco —
For many years, fishing was the major industry in the town of Essaouira. Lately, the stocks in the ocean have depleted, causing many local fisherman to struggle financially.
Abdelhak Senna/AFP/Getty Images
Catching the waves in Morocco —
Many in the fishing industry have instead turned their focus to the influx of surfers to the region.
Abdelhak Senna/AFP/Getty Images
Catching the waves in Morocco —
Essaouira can be extremely windy, which makes it an ideal spot for water sports.
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Catching the waves in Morocco —
In the past, surfing in the region was unregulated. Lately, surfing schools are striving to follow global regulations, keen to establish Morocco as a recognized surfing destination.
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Gnaoua festival —
There's more to Essaouira than surfing. The historic town is known for its Gnawa, or Gnaoua, music, which originated in West Africa. Pictured, members of a Gnaoua troupe parade along a street in Essaouira ahead of the Gnaoua World Music Festival.
ABDELHAK SENNA/AFP/Getty Images
Gnaoua festival —
Moroccan horsemen ride along Essaouira's beach at the 2012 Gnaoua World Music Festival.
