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Things to Do in Dakhla

Things to Do in Dakhla

Dakhla Morocco Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace the wind and waves or explore the desert landscape.

Water Sports & Activities

Kiteboarding & Windsurfing

Dakhla is world-renowned for consistent winds and flat, shallow lagoon water. Numerous schools provide lessons for all levels.

Surfing

Enjoy wave surfing at Atlantic coastlines like Foum Labouir and Pointe de l'Or.

Kayaking & SUP

Available on the calm lagoon, especially in areas having less wind. You might find great Stand-up paddleboarding opportunities.

Desert & Wildlife Adventures

  • 4x4 Desert Excursions: Go to remote spots like Imililik or deep into the desert.
  • Sandboarding: Ride down the length of the magnificent White Dune.
  • Fishing: Enjoy deep-sea fishing or lagoon trips for fishing.
  • Birdwatching: This is the main wildlife activity. Look for flamingos in the shallow bay.

Hiking & Trekking

  • Formal hiking trails are limited.
  • Opportunities for walking along beaches.
  • Short treks in the dry lands require a guide.
  • No marked routes or varying challenge ratings.

Boat Trips

  • Excursions on the lagoon.
  • Trips to Dragon Island.
  • Visits to oyster farms.
  • Opportunities for fishing.

Cycling

  • Cycling trails are limited.
  • Some casual cycling around kite camps.
  • No dedicated mountain biking trails.
  • Mainly for leisure within resorts.

Safety Precautions for Outdoor Activities

Always go with experienced local guides for desert outings and water sports. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection. A rash guard like the O'Neill Basic Skins Long Sleeve Rash Guard helps protect your skin from the powerful sun. Keep your phone and valuables safe with a waterproof Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag or a JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch.

Cultural Immersion & Wellness

Discover local traditions and find opportunities for relaxation.

Cultural Engagement

  • Cultural Performances: Some resorts organize Sahrawi music or dance performances for guests.
  • Cultural Festivals: The Dakhla Festival promotes the region (dates vary). Local religious or tribal festivals (Moussem) occur sporadically.
  • Language Learning: Informal opportunities to practice Arabic or French with locals.
  • Community-Based Tourism: An emerging area, but not widely established.

Relaxation & Wellness

Spa and Wellness Centers

Many high-end resorts offer spa services, massages, and wellness treatments.

Hot Springs

Ain Asmaa, a natural sulfur spring, is good-liked for its therapeutic properties. Facilities are basic.

Yoga and Meditation

Some kite camps incorporate yoga sessions, often on dedicated platforms looking out over the lagoon.

Limited Workshops

Formal tourist workshops for art, craft, music, or dance are very limited.

Traditional Healing

Formal tourist access is limited, but locals might discuss some remedies.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Most resort hotels offer private beaches and swimming pools. Day passes may be available.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Dakhla's nightlife is generally quiet outside of resorts.

Evening Entertainment

  • Live Music Venues: Some resorts host live music, often local Sahrawi music or international DJs.
  • Nightclubs & Dancing: Few traditional nightclubs exist. Some resorts have bars that stay open late with a soundtrack.
  • Late-Night Entertainment: The evenings are generally quiet outside of resorts. Stargazing is a popular informal activity.
  • Bar Districts: No specific bar districts are present. Imbibing alcohol is generally confined to places to stay and private settings.

Cultural Performances & Theatre

Local Performances

Occasional heritage performances at main hotels provide a glimpse of local traditions.

Traditional Storytelling

Some desert camps might offer informal sessions of traditional storytelling.

Theatrical Venues

No dedicated theater or performance spaces exist for tourist entertainment.

Evening Activity Ideas

Sunset Views

Enjoy the stunning sunsets over the lagoon from your accommodation or the Corniche.

Dinner by the Lagoon

Many resorts offer fine dining experiences featuring stunning waterfront settings.

Relaxed Gatherings

Join fellow travelers at common areas in kite camps for evening chats.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local goods and souvenirs in Dakhla.

Traditional Markets

  • Marché Central: The Central Market in Dakhla city offers fresh produce, fish, clothing, and household items.
  • Less Touristy: It is less focused on tourist souvenirs than markets in Marrakech or Fes.
  • Artisan Workshops: Constrained and particular artisan workshops exist.
  • Local Crafts: Find some Sahrawi crafts, like leather products or traditional jewelry, in the market.

Souvenir & Luxury Shopping

Recommended Souvenirs

High-quality dates, authentic argan oil products, hand-made Sahrawi crafts like items made of leather or items of silver jewelry, and small bags of local spices.

Luxury Shopping

This is very limited. Some resorts might have small boutiques with swimwear or kite gear.

Boutique Options

Small, specialized shops found within larger hotels or dedicated kite centers.

Bargaining Tips

  • Bargain respectfully for goods.
  • Start with a lower offer.
  • Enjoy the interaction.
  • It is part of the local culture.

Ethical Shopping

  • Buy directly from artisans.
  • Support boutique local shops.
  • Avoid protected species items.
  • Contribute to fair trade.

Shipping & Customs

  • Shipping services via national postal service.
  • International couriers are available.
  • Can be slow and expensive.
  • Check your home country's import rules.

Specialty Products

Argan Oil
  • Culinary grade for cooking.
  • Cosmetic grade for skin and hair.
  • Look for certified pure argan oil.
Desert Dates
  • Sweet and nutrient-rich.
  • Often sold in attractive packaging.
  • Available fresh or dried.

Bargaining Etiquette

Bargaining is expected in markets, especially for non-fixed price items. It is a societal exchange. Always maintain a friendly demeanor.

Activity Planning Summary

Top Recommendations

  • Experience kiteboarding on the shallow bay.
  • Take a 4x4 excursion to the White Dune and Imililik.
  • Visit an oyster farm for fresh tastings.
  • Enjoy birdwatching, especially flamingos.

Considerations

  • Cultural immersion opportunities are more informal.
  • Nightlife is mainly resort-based.
  • Check local festival schedule for cultural events.
  • Carry small bills for market purchases.