Morocco is known for being one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It is a country full of culture, history, landscapes, and diversity. It’s also a hub of magical places, historic cities, breathtaking views, and amazing beaches. So if you’re planning on traveling to Morocco anytime soon, you might consider visiting Dakhla city, one of the best cities in Morocco. This city is located in Moroccan Western Sahara and is home to many dazzling attractions worth trying out.
In the first part of this article, we will cover the top places to see and things to do, while the second part lists the best places to stay in Dakhla. We’ll also provide you with some helpful tips on how to get there and more. So let’s get started!
Dakhla is a medium-sized city located in the Western Sahara region of Morocco. It’s located along the Atlantic coast about 140 km south of Agadir and has a population of around 100,000. The city is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, attracting many travelers yearly.
The region is famous for its incredible scenery and the most beautiful combination of desert and sea. It’s also a great place to experience arid landscapes and desert sailing.
So before you pack your bags and book your plane ticket, how about getting answers to some questions that might cross your mind?
Is Dakhla safe to visit?
Dakhla is a safe and beautiful city. The local people are amiable and welcoming and will do everything they can to make your visit enjoyable. While you should always be aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions, there’s no reason to think that Dakhla is more dangerous than any other Moroccan city. It would help if you also kept in mind that Dakhla is a small city; getting lost is not as easy as in Rabat or Casablanca. The city is not a tourist hotspot, so you will be able to experience Morocco without the crowds and noise. This is why many people visiting Dakhla say it’s one of their favorite cities in Morocco.
Is it Expensive to Stay in Dakhla?
If you’re looking for a low-budget vacation, then Dakhla is not for you. According to Champion Traveler, the average cost of a 7 day trip to Morocco – Dakhla for a single traveler is $1,223, $2,197 for a couple, and $4118 for a family of four members. If you’re planning to stay in a hotel, then the average daily cost of your room will be from $38 to $200. It’s best to book your accommodation beforehand because finding an affordable place at the last minute can be challenging. You can also consider looking for hostels or Airbnb accommodations, which are usually cheaper than hotels. Alternatively, you can visit Dakhla city in late January when hotels are less expensive.
checkout our desert tours here.
Is Dakhla Worth Visiting?
Here are some reasons why many people say that Dakhla is one of their favorite cities in Morocco:
Let’s Get Started With Places To See in Dakhla
Dakhla Souks
The souks in Dakhla are one of the most exciting places to visit. They’re full of shops selling everything from fruit and vegetables to carpets and clothes at meager prices. The souks are also an excellent place to buy presents and souvenirs. You can find anything you want there, so make sure you visit them when you are there.
Dakhla’s Oyster and Ostrich Farms
One of the most fascinating things to see in Dakhla is the oyster and ostrich farms. The ostrich farms are located 8 kilometers from the city and are owned by an ostrich-loving businessman. His farms are quite impressive, as they contain about 460 ostriches in a 2 to 3 meters park.
Next, a few kilometers outside the city of Dakhla, head to the oyster farm for a guided tour and a satisfying lunch to taste freshly shucked oysters, seafood tajines, mussels, and other shellfish. Various grilled local fish are also on the menu.
We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to see these two places while visiting Dakhla. They are both riveting and fun, so make sure to include them in your itinerary.
Experience the flavor of Sharaoui Tea
The Sahrawi people are known for their love of tea. They serve it at every meal and drink it all day. Many people say that Sahrawi tea is one of the best teas in the world. You should try it out and see if you like it. When you visit Dakhla, be sure to try some.
Dakhla Discovery
Dakhla Safaris are a great way to get up close and personal with the desert. Whether you’re looking for adventure tours or just want to relax, there’s something for everyone in this region.
If you’re planning on going on a Morocco desert tour, it’s essential to know the best time of year to do so. The climate in Morocco changes significantly depending on which part of the country you visit. If planning your trip between October-February, expect slightly cooler temperatures and clear skies during the day while there are fewer crowds during these months because it’s off-season. However, if going between June and September, expect warm days, cooler nights, and higher rates due to high demand at this time of year.
Safari Tours
Dakhla coast is a natural paradise. This is where you’ll find the most beautiful stretches of sand, the most transparent waters, and the most welcoming people. It is not a typical beach holiday experience; it’s more an adventurous trip with activities like quad biking on white sandy beaches, surfing the waves of the Atlantic Ocean and camel trekking through the sand dunes, or even discovering secret bays with crystal clear water. The Moroccan desert adventure begins with booking a private excursion where you visit unique places and enjoy the pleasant sensations of discovering virgin beaches.
White Dune
Start with a visit to the White Dune, one of the most charming places where you can enjoy kiteboarding on the white sand surrounded by a crystal clear ocean. A unique experience to feel the wind in your hair and face the challenges of nature, as you will have to learn how to kite properly – if you’re not already an expert.
Asmaa Thermal Springs
Sure you don’t wanna miss heading to Asmaa springs, a natural oasis where you can swim or relax in the hot springs. You will also have a chance to enjoy the beauty of the nearby desert.
Imlili Desert
You can also plan an Imlili desert trip. When you hear desert, the first thing that comes to mind is heat, sand, and cacti. Surprisingly, the Imlili desert is more about saltwater pools and lush green vegetation than the scorching sun.
Imlili features multiple medium-sized lagoons where you may see a rare phenomenon. The lagoons are home to ancient fish species.
Dragon Island
On the southernmost tip of Morocco, where the Sahara meets the Atlantic Ocean, there is a magic bay, and Dragon Island stands out like a mirage on its horizon.
The many lovely places you may find in this area, distinguished by being a place where wind and waves are protagonists, will always provide you with fresh possibilities to be astounded by its beauty.
It takes just two hours to get there by boat, but once you make the journey to Dragon Island in the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll feel like you’re miles away from the rest of the world. This lost island is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. It’s the perfect setting for a reality show about castaways or pirate movies.
What to Do in Dakhla?
Aquatic Activities
Dakhla isn’t only about excursions and tours; it’s also a watersport activities hub. From windsurfing, kiteboarding, surfing, and paddle boarding to fishing, deep sea diving, and snorkeling, Dakhla offers it all.
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing is a water sport that is growing in popularity and is among the best aquatic activities in morocco. It’s an activity for people of all ages, and it’s especially great for those who want to explore the desert. If you’re an amateur or just getting into kitesurfing, Dakhla provides some of the best conditions in the world for learning how to kiteboard.
If you’re interested in taking up this fun and exciting sport, here are some tips:
- Start small. You don’t have to buy a huge kite right away; instead, start with something smaller and build your way up as you learn more about what works best for you.
- Look for courses or book a private lesson from a professional instructor. You’ll learn more quickly with the guidance of someone with experience in kitesurfing, and you’ll avoid making mistakes that could cause injuries or damage equipment.
Kayaking in Dakhla
Dakhla is one of the best places in the world to kayak. The waters are calm, the sun is shining, and there is nothing but open sea. Kayaking in Dakhla is a great way to get off the beaten path and see the desert from a different perspective. It’s also a great way to explore some of the nearby islands.
If you’re interested in kayaking in Dakhla, there are a few options available:
Kayak rental: You can rent kayaks from several places along the beachfront road in Dakhla. The rental companies will provide life jackets and paddles for you, but bring your own sunscreen and water if you plan on being out on the water too long.
Book a private kayaking service: If you want to get out on the water with other tourists but don’t want to worry about renting equipment, you can book a private kayaking tour. Most companies offer tours that last about three hours and include transportation from wherever you’re staying in Dakhla.
Sahara Sailing
The Sahara sailing can be done in both the lagoon and the dunes; it’s up to what kind of adventure you want! If you choose to sail in the lagoon, you will have a chance to explore some beautiful areas around Dakhla while enjoying stunning sea views or nearby islands. You can also take guided tours where fishermen will show you their fishing gear or teach you how they catch fish—and then enjoy your catch later on!
If, instead, you want something more adventurous (or just more dramatic), try taking part in a boat trip through one of Morocco’s most impressive landscapes: its desert dunes! Depending on which direction you go from Dakhla port, there are two options for this trip: either north towards Sidi Ifni (where there are also abandoned buildings from colonial times) or south towards Tarfaya (which has some excellent beachside resorts).
Snorkeling or diving in Dakhla
You can do both snorkeling and diving in Dakhla. The lagoon is perfect for snorkeling, although you can also take a boat to the ocean if you want more of a challenge. You may see dolphins on your swim across the lagoon, but they’re not always there.
Desert Activities
Motocross or quad riding in the desert
You can experience the thrill of off-road motorcycling in the desert. You will be taught how to control a quad and taken out into the desert to drive on sandy tracks. You will always have an instructor with you, and it’s an enjoyable activity for all ages.
The location is approximately 30 minutes from town, so you must have your own transport there or book an excursion with one of many tour companies.
Camel riding
If you are looking for the ultimate desert experience, look no further than camel riding. Camel riding is a great way to get to know the desert and the local people. It allows you to explore the desert differently.
Encounter the sunset on the back of a camel as you watch the sun go down over the sand dunes. It is a truly unforgettable adventure and one that will leave you with many fond memories.
Camel riding can be booked through one of many tour companies or directly with local Bedouin families who will happily take you out into their desert campsite.
Where to Stay in Dakhla
La Tour d’Eole
La Tour d’Eole is an eco-lodge perched on a hill overlooking the bay of Dakhla, completely sheltered from the wind. Mystical heaven of peace between the ocean and the desert where the wind, waves, and sun harmoniously coexist.
La Tour d’Eole is a beautiful hotel built from sustainable materials with complete respect for the local environment, offering its guests a comfortable and charming place to call home during their stay.
La Crique Nature & Spa Dakhla
La Cirque Nature Spa hotel resort is a luxurious residential built around elegance, flamboyance, sensuality, and tranquility. An enchanting spot to be with nature and the sea. La Crique Nature Spa Resort is nested on a hill overlooking the Dakhla lagoon. It offers its guests a unique experience during their stay in Dakhla. A place where nature and comfort come together for an unforgettable holiday.
Dakhla Attitude Hotel
Dakhla Attitude Hotel is the most popular resort in Dakhla. Located about 27 kilometers from the airport and offers a splendid sight of Dragon Island. The hotel is most known for its diverse sports and activities but also for its fantastic facilities and services. It offers its guests a variety of entertainment options, including outdoor activities, a kids club, yoga courses, and much more.
Dakhla Attitude is famous for its sports centre and expert staff. The hotel has a range of activities for all levels, from beginners to advanced ones. It offers its guests an opportunity to learn windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing and fishing at their own pace. If you are an extreme-sport lover, then you’ll definitely love Dakhla Attitude.
Le Palais Rhoul
Palais Rhoul Dakhla is a striking, majestic hotel. Built upon an old lobster farm, the property required extensive renovations to make it a comfortable and memorable place for visitors. Sleek and distinctive, the hotel exudes simplicity in an extremely luxurious setting. It’s a palace that’s both heavenly and mysterious
Located on the edge of the desert, facing Dakhla bay, this luxury Dakhla hotel is an epitome of luxury and sophistication; with its authentic architecture and attention to detail, it’s like no other hotel in Morocco.
This hotel is one of the top 10 best guesthouses eco-friendly in Africa, and the magasines often list it as one of the must-go-to hotels in Dakhla. So if you’re looking for extravagant luxury at its best, this is the place to be.
Pk 25
PK 25 Hotel is an excellent location for recharging your batteries and escaping the chaos of the city. The hotel is situated in an excellent spot, and the room’s view is just amazing.
Each of the 32 bungalows in PK25 has a beautiful view of the lagoon. There is direct beach access. Perfect for groups, families, couples, or solitary people.
This hotel is one of 2021 Tripadvisor’s Travel’s choice
Finally, your Dakhla holidays will be incomplete without trying the local cuisine. Morocco is known for its delicious food, and Dakhla is no exception; it’s one of the ways that you can encounter the Moroccan culture and lifestyle. You can find a wide range of restaurants serving Moroccan cuisine, as well as many different street vendors selling traditional dishes.
if you’re looking for something new and exciting to make your trip memorable, check out these top 10 things to do in Dakhla when planning your next Morocco excursion. For more tips about where to travel in Morocco and how to plan your next trip, visit our Morocco travel blog section.
