Ad Dakhla Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ad Dakhla, Western Sahara with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best activities, sights, food, and more.


Introduction to Ad Dakhla

Ad Dakhla is a charming coastal city situated in the Western Sahara region of North Africa. Known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, Ad Dakhla is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. This guide will provide everything you need to know to plan your trip to Ad Dakhla, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Ad Dakhla

Here are some must-visit attractions in Ad Dakhla:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dakhla Museum: this museum houses many historical objects and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s cultural heritage.
  • Asmaa Mosque: a beautiful mosque located in the heart of Ad Dakhla that is worth visiting.

Natural Attractions of Ad Dakhla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dakhla Bay: a tranquil bay with crystal clear water and pristine beaches.
  • Aaroui Sand Dunes: a breathtaking expanse of golden sand dunes that are perfect for camel rides and sandboarding.
  • Dragon Island: an uninhabited island located in the middle of the lagoon, perfect for a day trip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ad Dakhla

Ad Dakhla is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some popular routes:

  • La Sarga Trail: a 5 km hike along the coast that provides stunning views of the bay.
  • Mountain Biking: tourists can rent bikes to explore the desert and scenic routes around Ad Dakhla.

Best Things to Do in Ad Dakhla: Activities and Tours

Here are some activities and tours that you must try during your visit to Ad Dakhla:

  • Kitesurfing: Ad Dakhla is known for its strong winds, with ideal conditions for kitesurfing.
  • Fishing: deep-sea fishing is a popular activity in Ad Dakhla.
  • Surfing: The waves in Ad Dakhla make it an ideal spot for both beginner and experienced surfers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ad Dakhla

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Ad Dakhla:

Day 1-2: Explore the City

Take the first two days of your trip to explore the city and immerse yourself in Ad Dakhla’s rich culture and heritage.

Day 3-4: Outdoor Adventures

Spend the next two days indulging in outdoor activities like kitesurfing, sandboarding, and hiking.

Day 5-6: Relax at the Beach

Take some time to relax and unwind after your adventures by spending two days at the beautiful beaches of Ad Dakhla.

Day 7: Departure

Depart Ad Dakhla with unforgettable memories.

Food and Drink Scene of Ad Dakhla

Ad Dakhla is known for its delicious seafood dishes and traditional African cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Couscous: a traditional African dish served with vegetables and meat.
  • Grilled Fish: fresh fish caught from the bay and grilled to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Ad Dakhla is known for its sweet mint tea, a refreshing drink after a day in the sun.
  • Boudbida: a local drink made from dates and almonds.

Where to Stay in Ad Dakhla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are accommodations of every kind in Ad Dakhla, ranging from luxury hotels or budget guesthouses. Here are some options:

  • Hotel Calipau Sahara Dakhla
  • Bab Al Bahar Hotel & Spa
  • Dakhla Attitude

What to Buy in Ad Dakhla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  • Artisanal Crafts: visitors can buy unique handmade crafts from the locals, such as pottery, woven mats, and camel bone jewelry.
  • Spices: You can purchase aromatic local spices such as harissa and ras el hanout from the markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Ad Dakhla

Ad Dakhla has a rich and diverse culture that reflects its history as a trading city. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions, including dress modestly in public places.

Best Time to Visit Ad Dakhla

The best time to visit Ad Dakhla is between October and May when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ad Dakhla

Do:

  • Try out the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Dress modestly in public places.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Engage in any activity that harms the local biodiversity such as purchasing animal products
  • Take photos without permission, especially locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ad Dakhla

Ad Dakhla is a safe place to visit although it is advised to keep your belongings secured at all times and follow safety instructions for outdoor activities.

Health in Ad Dakhla

Ad Dakhla doesn’t present major health risks to tourists, however, tourists should be aware of general water safety precautions and come with insurance that covers repatriation for medical reasons.

Getting to Ad Dakhla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ad Dakhla

The nearest airport is Dakhla Airport, located approximately 25 km north of the city center.

Bus Stations Near Ad Dakhla

Luxury buses run regularly between the city center and other destinations in the region.

Other Options

Car rentals are available at the airport and city center, giving visitors the freedom to explore the area at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Ad Dakhla

Buses and taxis are widely available in the city, however, the city center is small enough to walk. Bikes and Quad rentals are also available for outdoor adventures.

Where to Go Next from Ad Dakhla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to explore from Ad Dakhla:

  • El Argoub: a charming village located north of Ad Dakhla.
  • Guelmim: a city renowned for its traditional culture and rich history.
  • The White Beach: a stunning beach located south of Ad Dakhla with white sand.

Conclusion

Ad Dakhla is a stunning destination that is perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in North Africa. With so much to see and do, visitors will fall in love with the city’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Ad-Dakhla Lighthouse. Ad-Dakhla Lighthouse. Kite-Surfing at Ad-Dakhla. Kite-Surfing at Ad-Dakhla. Ad-Dakhla Lagoon. Ad-Dakhla Lagoon. Ad-Dakhla Lagoon (low-tide). Ad-Dakhla Lagoon (low-tide).