Tourism in Western Sahara

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Western Africa

Tourist attractions

Dakhla Lagoon

Region: Dakhla

Nature

Internationally renowned kitesurfing mecca with emerald-colored shallows.

Laayoune Old Spanish Quarter

Region: Laayoune

Cultural Heritage

Historic district with colonial architecture from the Spanish rule era.

Bou Craa Mine and Conveyor Belt

Region: Bou Craa

Industrial Tourism

The ore transport belt running endlessly through the desert is impressive in scale.

White Dunes

Region: North of Dakhla

Nature

Spectacular point where pure white sand dunes jut into the Atlantic.

Smara Fortress Ruins

Region: Smara

Historical Site

Ruins of a fort retaining traces of a caravan city built in the late 19th century.

Dragon Island

Region: Within Dakhla Lagoon

Nature

Island accessible on foot during low tide. Famous flamingo observation spot.

Boujdour Lighthouse

Region: Cape Boujdour

Modern Architecture

Red and white striped lighthouse standing on the desolate Atlantic coast.

Gleibat el Foula Starry Sky

Region: Within Liberated Zone

Nature

Desert with virtually no light pollution where the Milky Way can be observed with the naked eye.

Sahara Dune Safari

Region: Outskirts of Laayoune

Nature

Adventure tour traversing golden sand dunes in a 4WD vehicle.

Tifariti Monument

Region: Tifariti

Culture/Political History

Monument commemorating the SADR temporary capital declaration.

Suggested itineraries

Coastal & Lagoon Experience 5 Days

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Dakhla Lagoon, Dragon Island, White Dunes, Kitesurfing experience

Short-term plan to enjoy the spectacular lagoon scenery and water sports based in Dakhla.

Phosphate Mine and Desert Starry Sky 7 Days

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Bou Craa Mine, Laayoune Old Town, Desert Safari, Gleibat stargazing

Experience Sahara's multifaceted nature combining industrial heritage visits and dune camping.

Travel tips

  • Officially treated as entry to Morocco, so confirm Moroccan visa requirements.
  • Passport carrying is mandatory in southern Sahara due to frequent checkpoints.
  • Desert areas exceed 40°C during the day but cool to near 10°C at night.
  • Sunglasses and scarves are useful as sand is blown by strong winds.
  • Use commercially bottled drinking water; boiling oasis water is recommended.
  • Confirm in advance if travel insurance covers "conflict zones."
  • Cash primarily Moroccan dirham; card use limited to urban areas only.
  • Photography strictly prohibited at military facilities and checkpoints.
  • Restaurant operations are restricted during Ramadan.
  • Observe restricted areas near defensive walls as landmine danger zones remain.

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