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Western Sahara

Western Sahara Highlights

Western Sahara is a disputed territory in North Africa, bordered by Morocco, Algeria, and Mauritania. The region offers a unique blend of desert landscapes, rich Sahrawi culture, and a complex geopolitical situation. Laayoune, the largest city, showcases the Moroccan influence in its architecture and culture. Visitors can explore the vast sand dunes of the Sahara Desert and enjoy camel treks. The coastal town of Dakhla is a popular destination for water sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. Traditional Sahrawi cuisine includes dishes like couscous, camel meat, and sweet mint tea. Western Sahara presents an opportunity to witness a unique cultural heritage while contemplating the complex political landscape of the region.

Top 10 Attractions

Ad-Dakhla Old Town

Ad-Dakhla Old Town, also known as Villa Cisneros, is the historical part of the city of Dakhla. It offers a unique mix of Spanish colonial architecture and traditional Sahrawi structures. Walking through the town`s narrow streets, you can explore his... more

Ad-Dakhla Old Town, also known as Villa Cisneros, is the historical part of the city of Dakhla. It offers a unique mix of Spanish colonial architecture and traditional Sahrawi structures. Walking through the town`s narrow streets, you can explore historical buildings, the old church, and the Spanish fort. The area is also home to several artisanal shops where visitors can buy traditional Sahrawi handicrafts. Despite the modern development of Dakhla, the Old Town retains its traditional charm and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Aousserd Road

Aousserd Road is a desert road that cuts through some of the most remote and pristine parts of Western Sahara, offering incredible views of the desert landscape. It`s also known for its rich birdlife, making it a popular route for birdwatchers. Trave... more

Aousserd Road is a desert road that cuts through some of the most remote and pristine parts of Western Sahara, offering incredible views of the desert landscape. It`s also known for its rich birdlife, making it a popular route for birdwatchers. Traveling along Aousserd Road is an adventure in itself, offering an authentic experience of the vast, open spaces that characterize Western Sahara. Despite the harsh conditions, the road reveals the desert`s unique beauty and the resilience of the local Sahrawi communities.

Bir Gandouz

Bir Gandouz is a small village located near the Mauritanian border, known for its role as a staging post for travellers and traders crossing the desert. Visitors can experience the traditional Sahrawi way of life, with its deep-rooted nomadic traditi... more

Bir Gandouz is a small village located near the Mauritanian border, known for its role as a staging post for travellers and traders crossing the desert. Visitors can experience the traditional Sahrawi way of life, with its deep-rooted nomadic traditions. The village is also a gateway to the Draa Valley, with its stunning landscapes and ancient kasbahs. Despite its remote location, Bir Gandouz exudes a unique charm that captivates travellers.

Boujdour Lighthouse

The Boujdour Lighthouse, perched on a rocky peninsula, is an iconic sight along Western Sahara`s coastline. Built by the Spanish in the 20th century, the lighthouse is still operational and stands as a reminder of the region`s colonial past. While ac... more

The Boujdour Lighthouse, perched on a rocky peninsula, is an iconic sight along Western Sahara`s coastline. Built by the Spanish in the 20th century, the lighthouse is still operational and stands as a reminder of the region`s colonial past. While access to the lighthouse itself is restricted, the surrounding area offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The location is especially popular at sunset when the lighthouse casts a long shadow over the rugged coastal landscape.

Cap Barbas

Cap Barbas is a coastal area located in the south of Western Sahara. It is known for its pristine beaches with golden sand and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and sunbathing. The area is also a nesting site for endangered loggerh... more

Cap Barbas is a coastal area located in the south of Western Sahara. It is known for its pristine beaches with golden sand and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and sunbathing. The area is also a nesting site for endangered loggerhead turtles, which come ashore to lay their eggs. This natural phenomenon is a unique spectacle that attracts nature enthusiasts from around the world. Despite its remote location, Cap Barbas` untouched beauty makes it worth a visit.

Cintra Bay

Cintra Bay is a large, secluded bay located along Western Sahara`s Atlantic coastline. It is known for its rich marine biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for fishing, snorkeling, and marine wildlife spotting. The bay`s remote location and untouche... more

Cintra Bay is a large, secluded bay located along Western Sahara`s Atlantic coastline. It is known for its rich marine biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for fishing, snorkeling, and marine wildlife spotting. The bay`s remote location and untouched natural beauty make it a peaceful getaway from the more populated areas. The surrounding area is a significant breeding site for various bird species, adding to its ecological importance. The tranquility of Cintra Bay, coupled with its rich marine life, makes it a must-visit destination in Western Sahara.

Dakhla Bay

Dakhla Bay is one of Western Sahara`s premier natural attractions. This expansive lagoon on the Atlantic coast offers stunning turquoise waters and is a haven for a variety of bird species, making it a favorite spot for bird watchers. Watersports ent... more

Dakhla Bay is one of Western Sahara`s premier natural attractions. This expansive lagoon on the Atlantic coast offers stunning turquoise waters and is a haven for a variety of bird species, making it a favorite spot for bird watchers. Watersports enthusiasts also frequent the bay for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and fishing due to its favorable wind conditions and rich marine life. The surrounding area is dotted with traditional fishing villages and oyster farms, which offer a glimpse into the local culture and economy. Dakhla Bay`s combination of natural beauty and vibrant local life make it a must-see.

Dayet Srji Salt Lake

Dayet Srji Salt Lake, situated in the northern part of Western Sahara, is a seasonal salt lake that attracts a wide array of bird species during the wet season, including flamingos, pelicans, and sandgrouses. This offers a remarkable spectacle for bi... more

Dayet Srji Salt Lake, situated in the northern part of Western Sahara, is a seasonal salt lake that attracts a wide array of bird species during the wet season, including flamingos, pelicans, and sandgrouses. This offers a remarkable spectacle for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The contrast between the stark, white salt flats and the vibrant, colourful birdlife creates a unique, otherworldly landscape that is mesmerising to behold.

Dragon Island

Dragon Island, or Dragon`s Island, located near Dakhla, is a fascinating rock formation jutting out of the sea that bears a striking resemblance to a dragon. This natural monument, shaped by the wind and sea over thousands of years, is a favorite sub... more

Dragon Island, or Dragon`s Island, located near Dakhla, is a fascinating rock formation jutting out of the sea that bears a striking resemblance to a dragon. This natural monument, shaped by the wind and sea over thousands of years, is a favorite subject for photographers and a popular spot for cliff diving. The island is accessible by boat, and the surrounding waters are teeming with a variety of marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling.

El Argoub

El Argoub is a coastal village located on a peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. The village is characterized by its white and blue houses, giving it a picturesque charm. The surrounding beaches offer beautiful views of the ocean and are gr... more

El Argoub is a coastal village located on a peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean. The village is characterized by its white and blue houses, giving it a picturesque charm. The surrounding beaches offer beautiful views of the ocean and are great spots for relaxing, walking, or birdwatching. The offshore waters are rich in fish, making it a perfect place for angling enthusiasts. The peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty of El Argoub make it a must-visit for those seeking a serene getaway.

El Khanga

El Khanga is a small oasis town located in the heart of Western Sahara. Known for its traditional Sahrawi architecture, the town is surrounded by palm tree groves that stand out against the arid desert landscape. El Khanga serves as a rest stop for t... more

El Khanga is a small oasis town located in the heart of Western Sahara. Known for its traditional Sahrawi architecture, the town is surrounded by palm tree groves that stand out against the arid desert landscape. El Khanga serves as a rest stop for travelers traversing the desert and offers a chance to experience Sahrawi hospitality. The local bazaar is a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts and sample local food.

Guelta Zemmur

Guelta Zemmur is a settlement located in the Liberated Territories of Western Sahara. Known for its rock formations and desert landscapes, it provides a glimpse into the traditional Sahrawi way of life. The area is also home to ancient rock paintings... more

Guelta Zemmur is a settlement located in the Liberated Territories of Western Sahara. Known for its rock formations and desert landscapes, it provides a glimpse into the traditional Sahrawi way of life. The area is also home to ancient rock paintings, offering a window into the region`s prehistoric past. Despite its remoteness, Guelta Zemmur`s unique landscape and cultural significance make it a noteworthy destination for adventurous travellers.

Hassi Abdallah

Hassi Abdallah is a small village located amidst the vast desert landscape of Western Sahara. Known for its traditional Sahrawi hospitality, the village offers an authentic cultural experience. Visitors can learn about the local way of life, sample t... more

Hassi Abdallah is a small village located amidst the vast desert landscape of Western Sahara. Known for its traditional Sahrawi hospitality, the village offers an authentic cultural experience. Visitors can learn about the local way of life, sample traditional Sahrawi cuisine, and take part in cultural activities like camel riding and traditional music performances. The village, with its palm tree groves and traditional mud-brick houses, provides a stark contrast to the surrounding barren desert and is a unique destination for cultural tourism.

La Güera

La Güera is a town located at the southern tip of Western Sahara. Although largely deserted due to its position on the front line during the Western Sahara conflict, the town offers a haunting yet fascinating sight with its abandoned buildings being... more

La Güera is a town located at the southern tip of Western Sahara. Although largely deserted due to its position on the front line during the Western Sahara conflict, the town offers a haunting yet fascinating sight with its abandoned buildings being reclaimed by the desert. It bears testament to the area`s turbulent history and is a poignant reminder of the consequences of conflict. Although not a traditional tourist site, it`s a destination that will appeal to those interested in history and culture.

La Sarga Rock Paintings

La Sarga, located in the northeastern part of Western Sahara, is home to ancient rock paintings that offer insight into the region`s prehistoric past. Believed to be several thousands of years old, the paintings depict animals like giraffes and eleph... more

La Sarga, located in the northeastern part of Western Sahara, is home to ancient rock paintings that offer insight into the region`s prehistoric past. Believed to be several thousands of years old, the paintings depict animals like giraffes and elephants, suggesting that the area was once a more fertile land. These unique archaeological sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric cultures that once inhabited this desert landscape. Visitors to these remote sites should be mindful to preserve the fragile artwork for future generations.

Lagouira

Located at the southernmost point of Western Sahara, Lagouira is a ghost town that was abandoned due to its position on the front line during the Western Sahara conflict. Today, the town`s deserted streets and buildings offer a poignant sight. The ne... more

Located at the southernmost point of Western Sahara, Lagouira is a ghost town that was abandoned due to its position on the front line during the Western Sahara conflict. Today, the town`s deserted streets and buildings offer a poignant sight. The nearby beach, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, provides a striking contrast to the abandoned town. Despite its troubled past, the area`s natural beauty makes it a unique and memorable destination.

Naila Lagoon

The Naila Lagoon, also known as Khenifiss National Park, is a natural reserve characterized by its coastal lagoons, sand dunes, and rich biodiversity. The reserve is home to many bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The blue waters o... more

The Naila Lagoon, also known as Khenifiss National Park, is a natural reserve characterized by its coastal lagoons, sand dunes, and rich biodiversity. The reserve is home to many bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. The blue waters of the lagoon against the backdrop of the golden desert sands provide a stunning visual contrast. The local population relies on traditional fishing, giving visitors the opportunity to get a glimpse of their traditional way of life.

Ouadane

Located in the desert region of Western Sahara, Ouadane is an ancient trading town known for its fortress-like architecture. Although partially in ruins, the old structures of this historic settlement provide a glimpse into the region`s past. The nar... more

Located in the desert region of Western Sahara, Ouadane is an ancient trading town known for its fortress-like architecture. Although partially in ruins, the old structures of this historic settlement provide a glimpse into the region`s past. The narrow lanes, crumbling houses, and fortress walls are a testament to the area`s rich history. The nearby ancient salt mines also offer a fascinating insight into the region`s historic trade routes.

Oum Dba

Oum Dba is a coastal area known for its unique rocky coastline and tidal pools. The area is rich in marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring underwater ecosystems. The stark contrast between the desert landscape and the Atla... more

Oum Dba is a coastal area known for its unique rocky coastline and tidal pools. The area is rich in marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring underwater ecosystems. The stark contrast between the desert landscape and the Atlantic Ocean creates a stunning visual spectacle that is not to be missed. Oum Dba, with its untouched natural beauty and rich biodiversity, is a highlight of any visit to Western Sahara.

Smara

Smara is a traditional Sahrawi town located in the heart of Western Sahara. Its main attraction is the old Spanish fort, a remnant of the colonial period. Despite the fort`s dilapidated state, it provides an insight into the area`s colonial history.... more

Smara is a traditional Sahrawi town located in the heart of Western Sahara. Its main attraction is the old Spanish fort, a remnant of the colonial period. Despite the fort`s dilapidated state, it provides an insight into the area`s colonial history. The town is also a starting point for desert expeditions, with the surrounding landscapes offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Tifariti

Tifariti, located in the Liberated Territories of Western Sahara, is known for its outdoor museum of prehistoric rock art. The artwork includes carvings and paintings depicting animals, human figures, and abstract symbols, providing evidence of early... more

Tifariti, located in the Liberated Territories of Western Sahara, is known for its outdoor museum of prehistoric rock art. The artwork includes carvings and paintings depicting animals, human figures, and abstract symbols, providing evidence of early human settlement in the area. Tifariti also bears the scars of more recent history and is known for its war-damaged buildings, a remnant of the Western Sahara conflict. The contrast between the ancient artwork and the modern-day ruins makes Tifariti a fascinating destination.

White Dune

The White Dune, or Dune Blanche, near Dakhla is a striking natural feature that contrasts with the surrounding flat landscape. This large sand dune, which appears to rise out of the lagoon waters, is a popular spot for visitors who come to enjoy the... more

The White Dune, or Dune Blanche, near Dakhla is a striking natural feature that contrasts with the surrounding flat landscape. This large sand dune, which appears to rise out of the lagoon waters, is a popular spot for visitors who come to enjoy the panoramic views, photograph the stunning landscapes, or simply experience the tranquility of the area. At low tide, you can walk out to the dune across the lagoon bed. It`s especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the light creates a play of colors on the sand and water.

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