Western Sahara-2-day-itinerary
Western Sahara 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Dakhla and the Coast
Morning
- 8:00 am: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in Dakhla, the capital city of Western Sahara.
- 9:00 am: Visit the Dakhla Market, where you can find traditional Sahrawi clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Afternoon
- 12:00 pm: Head to the coast and enjoy lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants in Plage Blanche, a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters.
- 2:00 pm: Take a leisurely walk along the beach and enjoy the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Evening
- 6:00 pm: Experience the warm hospitality of the Sahrawi people at a traditional tea ceremony, where you can learn about the local culture and customs.
- 8:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, serving traditional dishes such as tagine and couscous.
Day 2: Boujdour and the Desert
Morning
- 8:00 am: Depart for Boujdour, a coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty.
- 10:00 am: Visit the Boujdour Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Afternoon
- 12:30 pm: Take a camel ride through the desert, exploring the vast expanse of sand dunes and enjoying the serene atmosphere. (Make sure to book with a reputable tour operator)
- 3:00 pm: Visit a traditional Sahrawi nomadic tent, where you can learn about the history and culture of the region.
Evening
- 6:00 pm: Return to Dakhla and enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel or riad.
- 8:00 pm: Farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on an unforgettable trip to Western Sahara.
Things to Know
- Visa Requirements: Citizens of some countries may require a visa to enter Western Sahara. Check with the Moroccan Embassy or Consulate in your country for specific requirements.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but many locals also speak Spanish and French.
- Currency: The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is widely accepted, although you may encounter some Algerian Dinars (DZD) in border areas.
- Climate: Western Sahara has a hot desert climate, with very little rainfall. Be prepared for high temperatures during the day and cooler nights.
Transportation
- Flights: The easiest way to reach Western Sahara is by flying into Dakhla Airport (VIL) from Casablanca or Agadir in Morocco.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available, but make sure to negotiate prices beforehand.
- Camel Rides: Book with a reputable tour operator for camel rides through the desert.
Other Tips
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and respect local traditions and customs.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in the hot desert climate.
- Learn Some Arabic: Greet locals with a smile and a few words of Arabic, such as “As-salamu alaykum” (hello) and “Shukraan” (thank you).
Accommodation
- Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels in Dakhla, including the Hotel Parador de Dakhla and the Hotel Sahara.
- Riads: Experience traditional Moroccan architecture at a riad, such as Riad Dakhla or Riad El Aaiun.
Safety
- Travel Advisories: Check with your government’s travel advisory department for the latest information on traveling to Western Sahara.
- Local Guides: Consider hiring a local guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.