Southern Roads was a surf and adventure film project by French surfer and shaper Paul Duvignau, announced during his preparations for a journey along Morocco’s Atlantic coast in a specially equipped Land Rover Defender 110 TD5. This article looks back at the idea behind the trip, first presented by Pampa Cruz in 2023: following waves, meeting people and exploring overland travel in Morocco.
Historical note: Southern Roads was described at the time as a forthcoming film, with a release planned for 2024. This retrospective does not imply that the film was completed or released; consult the project’s creators for its current status.
Who is Paul Duvignau?
Growing up in the Landes region of southwest France, Paul Duvignau developed a passion for surfing and the craft of shaping surfboards. His work with Hossegor Surfboards reflects his enthusiasm for board design, surf culture and independent projects.
His approach to travel combines the search for waves with the pleasure of the journey itself. In the original Southern Roads project, a self-contained 4×4 was intended to provide the flexibility to follow the swell and stop in coastal villages along the way.
Southern Roads: a Morocco surf trip by Defender 110
The planned trip was built around a Land Rover Defender 110 TD5, adapted to carry surf equipment and enable multi-day travel. The idea was to document not only the surfing, but also board shaping, people met on the road and the landscapes between sessions.
At the time, Pampa Cruz described a film project of approximately 35 minutes. Plans for a 2024 release were announced, but we do not present those original dates as current news.
Why the Atlantic coast of Morocco?
Morocco’s Atlantic coast attracts surfers for its range of beaches, villages and waves, with well-known areas such as Essaouira, Taghazout, Imsouane and Agadir. Farther south, the coast takes on a different, more remote character. Conditions vary greatly depending on wind, swell, tides and season.
A 4×4 camper may make it easier to carry boards and travel between towns, but it should not be used to enter closed tracks, dunes or beaches where driving is not authorised. Choosing appropriate surf breaks and permitted overnight stops is just as important as choosing a vehicle.
Surfing around Essaouira, Agadir and beyond
Essaouira: coastal culture and ocean sports
Essaouira combines historic streets, food and ocean activities. Strong wind can affect surf conditions; some days may be better suited to windsurfing or kitesurfing than to conventional surfing.
Agadir and Taghazout: a practical surf base
Agadir and nearby Taghazout offer access to local surf services, restaurants and coastal accommodation. Choose the right break for your ability, particularly when Atlantic swells are large.
Heading farther south
Longer journeys can include the coastline towards Mirleft, Sidi Ifni or Dakhla, but distances increase and some regions require additional preparation. Check rental permissions and local access rules before travelling.
Choosing an adventure vehicle for a Morocco surf trip
On Pampa Cruz, travellers can compare Suzuki Jimny 4x4s, Nissan Navara campers and Mitsubishi Pajero vehicles with pop-up roofs. Confirm board storage, approved roof racks, sleeping equipment, insurance terms and the collection location for each listing.
Browse 4×4 campers available to rent in Morocco. A booking request is free and carries no obligation; the rental partner confirms availability before payment.
Plan your own Morocco surf road trip
For a practical coastal route, read our Morocco surf trip guide, from Taghazout to Imsouane. If you also want mountains and desert landscapes, explore our 14-day Morocco itinerary by 4×4 camper.
For current news about Paul Duvignau and his projects, visit @paulduvignau and @pampacruzfr.