Western Sahara 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary: Western Sahara Adventure

This itinerary focuses on exploring the highlights of Western Sahara, keeping in mind the unique considerations for travel in this region.

Important Note:

  • Western Sahara’s political status is complex. The territory is largely claimed by the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) but considered by Morocco to be part of its territory.
  • Travel advisories are recommended. Check your country’s travel advisory for Western Sahara and consider the potential risks before traveling.

Day 1: Arrival in Dakhla & Desert Exploration

  • Morning: Fly into Dakhla Airport (DHI).
  • Afternoon: Check visa requirements for your nationality. Visitors from many countries can enter with a simple tourist visa, but some may require additional documentation.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants in Dakhla.

Day 2: Dakhla Lagoon Adventures

  • Morning: Explore the stunning Dakhla Lagoon by kayak or paddleboard. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make it perfect for these activities.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach, learn to kitesurf with a local instructor (Dakhla is known for its kitesurfing schools!), or try windsurfing - the strong winds off the coast are ideal for both.

Day 3: Desert Oasis & Sahara Culture

  • Morning: Visit an authentic nomad camp and experience their traditional way of life.

  • Afternoon: Take a jeep tour through the dunes, visiting breathtaking oases like “Oyster Lagoon” or “Dakhla Beach”.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal in Dakhla, followed by a mesmerizing sunset over the lagoon.

Day 4: Travel to Western Sahara’s Interior

  • Morning: Depart for a desert adventure!
  • Afternoon: Explore the vast and stunning landscapes of the Sahara Desert. Visit the breathtaking “Eye of the Sahara” (a geological formation) or a traditional Sahrawi market in a town like El-Aaiún.
  • Evening: Relax under the stars in the desert, enjoying the silence and the incredible night sky.

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Visit a local nomadic village and learn about their unique culture from the elders.

  • Afternoon: Participate in traditional activities like cooking over an open fire, learning to play a musical instrument or listening to stories around a campfire.

  • Evening: Enjoy a Moroccan Tagine dinner and experience live music and cultural performances.

Day 6: Departure & Memories

  • Morning: Relax on the beach one last time before saying goodbye to the desert landscape.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Western Sahara.

Things to Know Before You Go:

  • Visa Requirements: Check with the Moroccan embassy in your country as visa policies vary for different nationalities.

  • Weather: Be prepared for extreme heat and arid conditions, especially during desert excursions. Temperatures can soar during the day, so pack accordingly (light clothing, sunscreen, hat, water bottle).

  • Accommodation: Dakhla offers a range of accommodation options, from campsites to luxurious desert camps with all the amenities.

  • Transportation:

    • Within Dakhla: You can explore the city on foot, by taxi, or by renting a bike/car/4x4.

  • Activities:

    • Day Trips: Many tour operators in Western Sahara offer day trips into the desert with activities like 4x4 adventures, camel trekking, and desert camping experiences.
    • Desert Activities: Explore the vast Sahara on an off-road adventure by renting a 4x4 vehicle and venturing into its stunning landscapes.

  • Respect for Culture: Remember that Western Sahara is a predominantly Muslim region. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local villages, be respectful of prayer times and customs, and avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion with strangers.

  • Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a cooking class, learning to weave traditional rugs, or even attending a cultural exchange program where you can meet and interact with Sahrawi people.

  • Dinar Exchange: The Moroccan Dinar (MAD) is the official currency.

Things to Consider:

  • Safety: Western Sahara is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.

  • Cultural Sensitivity: Be respectful of local customs when traveling in the region.

  • Culture Shock: Traveling to a new and different culture can be overwhelming. Be prepared for the differences in language, language, food, and social norms.

Dakhla Travel Tips:

  • Best time to visit: October-April offers the best weather for enjoying the Sahara’s natural beauty.

  • Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.

  • Health: Check with a travel clinic about necessary vaccinations and health precautions.

  • Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the official currency of Western Sahara. You can typically exchange currency at banks or currency exchange bureaus.

Remember: This itinerary assumes you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of Western Sahara. If your interests lie elsewhere, adjust the activities accordingly!