Western Sahara Travel Guide (North Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Western Sahara
List of Places to Visit in Western Sahara
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Western Sahara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Sahara
Best Things to Do in Western Sahara: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Western Sahara
Food and Drink Scene of Western Sahara
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Western Sahara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Western Sahara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Western Sahara
Best Time to Visit Western Sahara
Do’s and Don’ts of Western Sahara
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Western Sahara
- Health in Western Sahara
Getting to Western Sahara: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Western Sahara
Where to Go Next from Western Sahara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Western Sahara

Western Sahara is a disputed territory in North Africa, bordered by Morocco, Mauritania, and Algeria. The region has a rich history that dates back to ancient times and is home to a unique mix of cultures, including Arab, Berber, and Sahrawi. While Western Sahara remains a politically sensitive area, it offers visitors a range of travel experiences, from natural wonders to cultural highlights.

List of Places to Visit in Western Sahara

If you’re planning a trip to Western Sahara, here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Laayoune Museum of Art and Culture: This museum features exhibits on the region’s history, culture, and art, with a focus on the Sahrawi people.
Ruins of Smara: Smara was a former capital of the region, and its ruins offer a glimpse into the area’s past.
Assa Oasis: This oasis offers a great escape from the desert and a chance to see traditional Sahrawi architecture.

Natural Attractions of Western Sahara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dakhla Bay: This bay is a popular spot for water sports, including kiteboarding, windsurfing, and fishing.
Lagouira Beach: This beach is known for its clear waters and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Lakhrafiyine Dunes: These dunes are a must-visit for those looking for an adventure in the Sahara desert.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Western Sahara

Western Sahara offers several options for hiking and biking enthusiasts:

Aousserd Trek: This trek starts in the town of Aousserd and takes hikers through a variety of terrains, including valleys and dunes.
Moroccan Walls Trek: This trek takes you along the historic Moroccan walls, which were built in the late 1970s to separate Morocco from Western Sahara.

Best Things to Do in Western Sahara: Activities and Tours

Desert Safari: A desert safari is a must-do activity when in Western Sahara. You can choose to go on a day trip or a longer excursion.
Fishing: Western Sahara is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with Dakhla Bay being a popular spot for anglers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Western Sahara

If you have a week to explore Western Sahara, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day	Destination
1	Laayoune
2	Smara
3	Aousserd Trek
4	Dakhla
5	Dakhla Bay
6	Lakhrafiyine Dunes
7	Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Western Sahara

Must-Try Dishes

Couscous: This is a staple dish in the region and is made with semolina, vegetables, and meat.
Tajine: Tajines are made with meat or fish, vegetables, and spices, and are cooked in a special pot.

Local Beverages

Mint Tea: This is a popular drink in the region, served hot and sweetened with sugar.
Sahrawi Tea: This tea is made with green tea leaves, mint, and sugar, and is served in a traditional teapot.

Where to Stay in Western Sahara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Laayoune: Hotel Parador, Hotel Jodesa, and Hotel Plaza Laayoune are popular options.
Dakhla: Hotel Calipau Sahara, Hotel Western Sahara, and Hotel El Bahia are great choices.

What to Buy in Western Sahara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jewelry: Sahrawi women are known for their intricate beaded jewelry.
Textiles: Traditional Sahrawi dress is made from handwoven fabrics and makes for a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Western Sahara

The Sahrawi people have a rich culture, with traditional music, dance, and dress. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, including dress codes and social norms.

Best Time to Visit Western Sahara

The best time to visit Western Sahara is from November to February, when the weather is mild and there is less chance of sandstorms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Western Sahara

Do:

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
Respect local customs and traditions.
Try the local cuisine.
Take caution when traveling at night.

Don’t:

Photograph military installations or personnel without permission.
Give money to beggars.

Safety and Health

Safety in Western Sahara

While Western Sahara remains a politically sensitive area, it is generally safe for tourists. Visitors should exercise caution when traveling outside of major cities and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Health in Western Sahara

Visitors to Western Sahara should be up to date on routine vaccinations, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), chickenpox, polio, and the annual flu vaccine. Travelers should also bring medications for common travel ailments like diarrhea.

Getting to Western Sahara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports in Western Sahara

Laayoune Hassan I Airport: This is the main international airport serving Western Sahara.
Dakhla Airport: This airport is served by several airlines, including Royal Air Maroc and Binter Canarias.

Bus Stations in Western Sahara

Guelmim Bus Station: This is the main bus station serving Western Sahara.

Other Options

Car Rental: Car rental is available in major cities like Laayoune and Dakhla.

How to Get Around in Western Sahara

Taxis and buses are the most common modes of transportation in Western Sahara. Visitors can also rent a car or bicycle to see the sights at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Western Sahara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mauritania: Mauritania is just south of Western Sahara and offers visitors a chance to explore ancient ruins and natural wonders.
Morocco: Morocco is just north of Western Sahara and features bustling cities and historic sites.

Conclusion

Western Sahara offers visitors a range of travel experiences, from natural wonders to cultural highlights. By following our travel guide, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to this unique region.