Western Sahara-5-day-itinerary
Western Sahara 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Dakhla
- Arrival: Fly into Dakhla Airport (VIL) from Casablanca or Agadir
- Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Dakhla city, such as the Hotel Parador or similar
- Activity: Explore the city, visit the local market, and get a feel for the unique Sahrawi culture
- Things to Know:
- Western Sahara is a disputed territory, so be respectful of the local population and their customs
- Arabic and Spanish are widely spoken, but many locals also speak French and some English
Day 2: Dakhla to Boujdour
- Transportation: Take a shared taxi or bus from Dakhla to Boujdour ( approx. 3 hours)
- Activity: Visit the stunning coastal town of Boujdour, known for its beautiful beaches and water sports
- Places to Go:
- Explore the old town and its historic fort
- Relax on one of the many beaches, such as Plage de la Couronne or Plage des Oiseaux
- Things to Know:
- Be mindful of the strong Atlantic winds and currents when swimming or surfing
- Try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants
Day 3: Boujdour to Smara
- Transportation: Take a shared taxi or bus from Boujdour to Smara (approx. 4 hours)
- Activity: Visit the historic town of Smara, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant markets
- Places to Go:
- Explore the old medina and its many souks (markets)
- Visit the Spanish-era cathedral and other colonial landmarks
- Things to Know:
- Be prepared for dusty roads and limited amenities in this rural town
- Try some traditional Sahrawi tea and snacks at a local café
Day 4: Smara to El Aaiun
- Transportation: Take a shared taxi or bus from Smara to El Aaiun (approx. 5 hours)
- Activity: Visit the capital city of Western Sahara, known for its vibrant markets and rich history
- Places to Go:
- Explore the old medina and its many souks (markets)
- Visit the Museum of Sahrawi Resistance and Liberation
- Things to Know:
- Be respectful of the local population and their struggle for independence
- Try some traditional Sahrawi cuisine, such as tagine or couscous
Day 5: Departure from El Aaiun
- Transportation: Take a flight from Hassan I Airport (EUN) back to Casablanca or Agadir
- Things to Know:
- Check the latest travel restrictions and requirements before departing
- Be sure to exchange any remaining currency before leaving
Visa Requirements:
- Citizens of many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, do not need a visa to enter Western Sahara for tourism purposes
- However, it is recommended to check with the Moroccan Embassy or Consulate in your home country for the latest requirements
Transportation:
- Shared taxis (grand taxis) are widely available and affordable, but can be crowded and unpredictable
- Buses are also an option, but may not run on a fixed schedule
- Renting a car is possible, but be prepared for rough roads and limited infrastructure
Safety:
- Western Sahara is generally a safe country to visit, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
- Avoid traveling alone at night or in remote areas
- Stay informed about local conditions and any potential unrest
Health:
- Western Sahara has limited medical facilities, so be sure to have adequate health insurance
- Take necessary precautions against the sun, heat, and sandstorms
- Drink plenty of water and avoid eating undercooked food or raw vegetables