Ad-Dakhla: Lagoon, water sports and nature

Ad-Dakhla is a destination for travelers who want to spend their time by the water. In the town and its surroundings, activities on the shore and on the water go hand in hand with beaches that each have a different character. There are also landscapes and other experiences with their own distinct themes. When looking for a hotel in Ad-Dakhla, you can plan your trip around whether you mainly want to fish, enjoy water sports, swim or explore the area.

Fishing and exploring the water

Visitors can surf fish from the shore. Those who want to explore the local waters can rent a Zodiac and be accompanied by a guide. This offers two different ways to enjoy the water: fishing from the shore and a guided exploration. If exploring by Zodiac is part of your plans, check in advance whether it is available during your travel dates.

Beaches with different characteristics

The beaches around Ad-Dakhla differ in character. PK25 is on the lagoon side and is considered a kiteboarding spot; when the winds are favorable, tricks are possible there. PK25 is also considered a place to relax and swim peacefully in the clear, calm lagoon waters. Foum El Bouir is considered a gathering place for surfing enthusiasts in the area; it is livelier than PK25. So PK25 is the choice for peaceful swimming and kiteboarding, while Foum El Bouir suits surfing and a livelier atmosphere.

Landscapes and other activities

Tip of the Dragon is also considered a destination for fans of gliding and board sports. Sebkha Imlili offers a different kind of landscape: it is 130 kilometers southeast of Ad-Dakhla. Visitors can explore the dunes and distinctive landscape there on foot. The contrast between the coastal and dune landscapes adds another kind of natural setting to the range of travel options.

At Parc des Huîtres, visitors can sample oysters and take boat trips through the canals. Check before visiting whether these activities are currently offered. At the beaches of Puertito and Puerto Rico, visitors can spend the night in tents under the starry sky. Check in advance whether this option is available during your travel dates.

Western Sahara: Nature and cultural heritage

In the wider destination of Western Sahara, Dakhla Bay and its lagoon are habitats for migratory birds, flamingos, turtles, Mediterranean monk seals, rays and humpback dolphins. This wildlife is part of the region’s natural setting; sightings during a particular travel period are not guaranteed.

The archaeological site of Erqueyez is also in Western Sahara. It includes more than a hundred rock shelters with rock paintings. An archaeological study reports survey findings from 2002. This regional cultural heritage complements the water and landscape themes that Ad-Dakhla and its surroundings offer for trip planning.

Discover more destinations: Awsard.

Return to the main travel overview: Oued Ed-Dahab-Lagouira.