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How to Get to Dakhla

How to Get to Dakhla

Dakhla Morocco Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airlines & Routes to Dakhla

Dakhla International Airport (DAK) is the region's main airport. Flights connect Dakhla to other cities, typically needing a layover for foreign visitors.

Connecting Flights

  • Royal Air Maroc: Connects Dakhla to Casablanca (CMN) and Agadir (AGA). Casablanca serves as a major hub for international connections.
  • Transavia: Offers seasonal direct flights from Paris-Orly (ORY).
  • Binter Canarias: Connects Dakhla to Gran Canaria (LPA) in the Canary Islands.

Airport Services & Transfers

DAK is a small airport with basic facilities, including cafes, vehicle rental firms, and currency exchange. Transfers to accommodation are readily available.

Getting to Your Stay

  • Taxis are available outside the terminal. Agree on the fare beforehand (approx. MAD 150-250 to Dakhla city center or main kite hotels).
  • Hotel Shuttles: Many kite camps and larger hotels offer pre-arranged airport transfers, commonly part of packages.
  • Rental Cars: Desks for local and international car rental companies are present at the airport. You can compare options from DiscoverCars.com.

Flight Availability

Flight frequency and prices go up during high wind season (March-September) around main holidays. Book ahead.

Flight Deals

Explore flight options using services like Dollar Flight Club for alerts or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Global Connections

No direct flights connect Dakhla to major global hubs. Connections are typically through Casablanca or European cities.

Departure Information

Before You Depart

  • No specific exit fees are typically charged directly to passengers at Dakhla Airport; these are usually included in the airfare.
  • Arrive at Dakhla International Airport (DAK) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is typical.
  • Online check-in is a good idea when obtainable. Standard airport security checks apply.
  • Passport control is needed for international departures.

Airport Facilities

  • Facilities for departing travelers are limited.
  • Dakhla Airport has small waiting areas, basic snack bars/cafes.
  • A duty-free shop with a limited selection is available.
  • Ensure all your belongings are with you before passing through security.

Travel Information

Border Crossing

Land crossings from Mauritania are possible however complex. They require careful planning and potential visas for Mauritania.

Train Services

No train services go to Dakhla. The Moroccan railway network ends at Marrakech.

Sea/River Arrivals

Dakhla does not have regular ferry services or cruise ports. River transportation is not applicable.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

CTM and Supratours, Morocco's main long-distance bus lines, offer services. They connect Dakhla to major cities like Agadir, Marrakech, and Casablanca.

Bus Journey Details

  • Journey times are long; for example, Dakhla to Agadir takes approximately 14-1A six-hour period.
  • Buses are generally comfortable and have air conditioning.
  • Book tickets ahead, especially during peak travel times.

Self-Driving Considerations

Car Rental & Driving

  • Requirements: A valid national driving license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and your passport. Minimum age is typically 21 or 23, with 1-2 years of driving experience.
  • Car Rental: Available at Dakhla Airport and in the city. Major companies like Avis and Hertz, plus local providers.
  • Roads leading to and from Dakhla, like the N1 highway, are generally well-maintained.

Road Safety Concerns

While main roads are good, particular factors for safety exist on longer drives.

Driving Alerts

  • Long distances between towns with limited services.
  • Animals like camels and goats may be on roads, especially at dawn or dusk.
  • Strong winds and sand on roads might happen.

Military Checkpoints & Fuel

Be aware of checkpoints and plan fuel stops for long distances.

Preparedness for the Road

  • Military checkpoints are common, specifically when entering or leaving Dakhla. Cooperate fully and have documents ready.
  • Check fuel levels as gas stations can be infrequent on long stretches.
  • Consider offline maps for navigation in areas with limited mobile data.

Driving Laws & Penalties

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Velocity limits are enforced.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • Drunk driving is illegal and severely penalized.
  • Parking is generally available and free in most areas of Dakhla city. Resorts and camps have assigned parking.
  • Off-road driving towards remote spots requires a 4x4 and experience with desert driving.

Getting Around Dakhla

Public Transportation Options

Dakhla city does not have metro, tram, or extensive public bus systems. Petit taxis are the main form of intra-city public transport.

Taxis & Accessibility

  • Petit Taxis: Small, usually light blue or beige cars operating within city limits. Agree on the price beforehand as meter use is inconsistent.
  • Grand Taxis: Larger, older Mercedes cars, usually white. For longer distances or shared rides in the suburbs, including to kite spots.
  • Public transport, especially taxis, is not generally wheelchair accessible.

Hailing Taxis & Payments

Taxis are easily hailed from the street. Payment should be generally in cash, Moroccan Dirhams.

Fares & Safety

  • Hailing: Simply wave a hand. Petit taxis could also be found at designated stands.
  • Usual Prices: Petit Taxis MAD 10-30 within the city. Shared Taxis MAD 50-100 per person for communal lifts to kite camps. Private hire is negotiable.
  • Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem are not in Dakhla.

Car Rental

Car rental supports independence. Requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) and your national license.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common than cars. Some local agencies may offer them. A motorcycle license is needed.

Bicycle Rentals

No formal bicycle sharing programs exist. Some hotels or kite camps may offer bicycle rentals.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Dakhla city center is walkable, specifically the Corniche (waterfront promenade). The lagoon area around kite camps is also suitable for walking, specifically along the coastlines.

Walking Insights

  • Self-guided investigation is feasible. No formal walking tours with a guide of Dakhla city are common.
  • All areas accessible to tourists are generally safe for walking. Avoid walking alone in very remote desert areas without proper navigation or informing others.
  • Learning basic Arabic phrases for directions and prices is beneficial.

Cycling & Specialized Transport

Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is limited. Cycling on main roads can be difficult because of traffic and wind. Other specialized transport options are not prevalent.

Other Transport Types

  • Cycling: Watch out for traffic and blustery conditions on main roads.
  • Boat taxis are confined to specific excursions on the lagoon (e.g., to Dragon Island), not regular transport.
  • No cable cars or funiculars exist in Dakhla.

Accessibility & Navigation Tips

General Accessibility

Dakhla's infrastructure is generally not designed for easy accessibility for travelers with mobility needs. Pavements can be uneven, and public transport is not adapted. Some newer resorts may offer better accessibility.

Efficient Navigation

Always agree on a price with a taxi driver before starting the journey. Understand your destination clearly, especially when using grand taxis for longer journeys.

Safety Measures

Always confirm the price before getting into a taxi. Ensure the taxi is licensed. Traveling in groups or informing someone of your whereabouts is a good practice, notably in the late evening.

Local Transport Insight

While ride-sharing apps are not available, local taxi drivers are accustomed to tourists. A friendly approach and clear communication go a long way in ensuring a smooth journey.