What to Wear Horse Riding in Essaouira: Packing Checklist

For horse riding in Essaouira you need long trousers, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen and a windproof layer. A fitted riding helmet is provided, so you do not need to bring one. No specialist equestrian kit is required for any of the published rides.

The short checklist

• Long trousers or leggings — prevents stirrup and saddle rub
• Closed-toe shoes — trainers or boots; no sandals or flip-flops
• Sunglasses — glare off wet sand and water is strong
• High-SPF sunscreen — the sea breeze masks how much sun you are getting
• A light windproof layer — the Alizés wind is constant and cools quickly
• A secured phone or camera — zipped pocket or neck strap
• Cash in dirhams or euros — payment is on arrival, not online

Why long trousers matter more than you would think

This is the single most common mistake. Bare legs against a saddle flap and stirrup leathers chafe within about twenty minutes, and on a two-hour ride that becomes genuinely uncomfortable.

Jeans, leggings, or any long trouser with a flat inside seam all work. Avoid thick bunched seams on the inner thigh.

Footwear: what actually matters

You need two things: a closed toe and a small heel.

The closed toe protects your foot around horses on the ground. The heel — even a low one on a trainer — stops your foot sliding through the stirrup. Trainers are fine. Sandals, flip-flops and backless shoes are not suitable and stables will normally decline them.

Dressing for the wind

Essaouira is one of the windiest places on the Moroccan coast, which is why it is a windsurfing destination. The Alizés trade winds blow most of the year and are usually strongest in the afternoon.

Practically:

• Take a windbreaker even when the forecast says warm
• Tie back long hair
• Hats blow off; a helmet is provided anyway, so leave the sun hat behind
• On a sunset ride, temperature drops noticeably once the sun is down — bring the extra layer

Sun protection on the coast

Coastal wind makes sun exposure deceptive: you feel cool while still burning. Wet sand and water reflect light upward, so the undersides of the chin, nose and arms catch more sun than usual.

Apply sunscreen before you arrive, not at the stables — once you are mounted, reapplying is awkward.

What is provided

You do not need to bring:

• A riding helmet — fitted at the stables for every rider
• Any tack or equipment — saddle, stirrups and reins are all provided and adjusted
• Riding boots or jodhpurs — ordinary comfortable clothing is fine

Horses are matched to your size and stated experience before departure.

Cameras, phones and valuables

A phone in an open pocket will end up in the sand. Use a zipped pocket, a cross-body strap, or a small secured bag.

Guides normally pause at viewpoints for photos, so keep it accessible rather than buried in a bag. Leave anything you would be upset to lose at your accommodation.

Seasonal adjustments

• Summer — lightest long trousers you own, maximum sun protection, and book an early slot for the calmest air
• Winter — a warmer layer under the windbreaker; this is the wet season, so check the forecast
• Spring and autumn — the standard list above is enough

Anything else to ask about

If you have questions about rider weight limits, sizing for children, or riding while pregnant, ask before booking rather than on the day — the answer affects horse matching.

Message Brahim with your date and group details. The guide and FAQ covers the common booking questions, and the prices page compares the published rides and durations.