A nation still under political dispute, Western Sahara lies at the northwestern tip of Africa and borders the North Atlantic ocean to the west. It is one of the least populated places in the world, owing mostly to the dry, arid land and highly inhospitable weather.
What is it?: Western Sahara is a disputed territory in North Africa, bordered by Morocco, Algeria, and Mauritania, known for its vast desert landscapes and strategic location along the Atlantic Ocean. The region is characterized by rolling sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and a coastline offering unique coastal scenery. Due to its political status, Western Sahara remains an underexplored destination, with the majority of visitors seeking adventure in its remote natural beauty or cultural significance. The region offers opportunities for desert trekking, bird watching, and a glimpse into the local Sahrawi culture.
Affordability: Western Sahara is relatively affordable for travelers, especially when considering the cost of local food and basic accommodations. Public transportation, including shared taxis, is inexpensive, and the cost of living is low compared to other parts of North Africa. However, due to the limited number of tourist services and infrastructure, costs for guided tours or trips to remote locations can be higher. Despite these factors, Western Sahara is an inexpensive option for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Safety: Western Sahara is generally safe for travelers, particularly in the areas controlled by Morocco, such as Laayoune and Dakhla. However, visitors should be aware of the ongoing political dispute over the region’s status, as tensions between Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) occasionally flare up. While most tourists stay in the safer, Moroccan-controlled areas, it’s important to stay updated on political developments and follow local advice. Visitors should also take basic precautions in remote areas, as some regions may lack adequate medical or emergency services.
Popularity: Western Sahara is not a widely visited tourist destination, primarily due to its political status and limited tourism infrastructure. However, it attracts adventurers and those interested in the unique culture and natural beauty of the region. The area remains a hidden gem for travelers seeking a quiet, remote experience in the desert, away from mass tourism. Its isolation and lack of commercial development contribute to the allure of an authentic, unspoiled environment.
Tourist Infrastructure: Western Sahara’s infrastructure is underdeveloped, especially outside of major cities like Laayoune and Dakhla. While accommodations and services in these cities are sufficient for travelers, rural areas and desert regions may require private transport or organized tours. Visitors looking to explore the region’s natural beauty, such as its sand dunes, beaches, and historical sites, will likely need a guide. Due to the sparse infrastructure, it is advisable to plan trips in advance, especially to more remote or disputed areas.
Weather: Western Sahara has a hot desert climate, with scorching temperatures during the summer months (June to September) and cooler, more comfortable temperatures during the winter (October to March). The dry season (October–April) is the best time to visit, offering more moderate weather ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and sightseeing. The summer months can be extremely hot, especially in the interior regions, making travel less ideal during this time.
Best Time to Go: October–March for the best weather, ideal for outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and desert adventures. The summer months (June–September) are very hot, especially in the interior, and should be avoided for outdoor activities.
Known For: Laayoune, Dakhla, desert landscapes, Sahrawi culture, sandy beaches, political dispute, and natural beauty.
Top Destinations: Laayoune • Dakhla • Tifariti • Smara • Duna de Foum El Oued • Laguna de Dakhla
- Capital: Laayoune (claimed by Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic), Tifariti (temporary administrative capital)
- Population: ~600,000 (Density: ~2 people per km², ~5 per mi²)
- Area: 266,000 km² (102,703 mi²)
- Official Language: Arabic
- Common Languages: Hassaniya Arabic, Spanish (limited), Berber dialects
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) in Moroccan-controlled areas, Algerian Dinar in refugee camps
- Time Zone: UTC+0
- Electricity: Plug Type C, E (220V, 50Hz)
- Emergency Contacts: Varies by territory; infrastructure and services limited
- Drives On: Right
- Religions: Islam ~100% (Sunni)
- Government: Disputed (Morocco claims sovereignty; Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic claims independence)
- Map Links: Google Maps | Apple Maps
- Coordinates (for GPS): 24.2155, -12.8858
Western Sahara is a disputed territory in North Africa, known for its vast deserts, rocky plateaus, and long stretches of empty coastline along the Atlantic. Laayoune, the largest city, serves as the region’s administrative center, with a mix of Moroccan influence and Sahrawi culture. Inland, small settlements and nomadic camps dot the arid landscape. The region’s history is shaped by the Sahrawi people’s quest for independence and long-standing political tensions. While largely off the tourist trail, Western Sahara offers stark desert beauty, strong cultural identity, and a sense of isolation at the edge of the Sahara.
Western Sahara is a sparsely populated territory of vast deserts, rolling dunes, and a long, disputed history. Most travelers pass through en route to Dakhla, a coastal city known for kite surfing and seafood, or explore the windswept landscapes around Laayoune, the region’s largest city. Inland, the desert stretches endlessly, dotted with small settlements and camels grazing under a big sky. Western Sahara feels quiet, remote, and politically complex, offering a glimpse into Sahrawi culture alongside dramatic, open scenery.
Much of the activity and accommodation are in Laayoune, the capital, and the nearby town of Dahkla. Other places worth noting are the Berber encampments, the stark deserts of Bir Gandus, and the Atlas Mountains. Access to the country, at least on a tourist basis, is close to impossible, as it is currently caught in a sovereignty battle between Algeria and Morocco. However, the locals – mostly of Berber and Sahrawi descent – are generally friendly and accommodating to tourists.
There are several hotels in Laayoune, the capital, and booking is fairly easy since there aren’t many visitors. Outside the capital, accommodation is very limited, save for an occasional bed-and-breakfast or guest house. Most tourists opt to camp out or sleep in their vehicles, particularly those who are on road trips like the Atlantic Transsahara route.
Traveling in Western Sahara is affordable to mid-range, with basic hotels and guesthouses available in Laayoune and Dakhla. Food is simple: grilled fish, couscous, tagines, and flatbread are staples. Western food is available in larger towns, particularly Dakhla, where a few international restaurants cater to visitors.
Getting around is mainly by long-distance buses, shared taxis, or private cars. Roads along the coast are paved and well-maintained; inland travel requires preparation and local advice. Arabic and Spanish are widely spoken; French is common in services. English is rare. Western Sahara is generally safe for travelers sticking to major routes, though landmines remain in some off-road desert areas.
Families: Western Sahara’s attractions, desert dunes, empty beaches, and Spanish colonial remnants, are best for adventurous families with older children. Facilities are basic, and long distances between sites can be challenging.
Couples: Couples seeking off-the-grid solitude will enjoy the quiet beaches near Dakhla and romantic camel treks into the dunes. The region is ideal for those wanting peace, wind, and wide-open skies rather than conventional romance.
Backpackers: Western Sahara attracts intrepid backpackers exploring the road from Morocco to Mauritania. Key stops include Laayoune, Dakhla, and desert outposts. Budget guesthouses exist, though tourism is low-key.
Digital Nomads: Dakhla offers decent internet and a few coworking-friendly cafés; elsewhere, connectivity is unreliable. Short stays in Dakhla can work, especially for nomads into kitesurfing or desert scenery.
Luxury Travelers: Luxury tourism is limited but growing around Dakhla, with upscale kitesurfing resorts and boutique desert lodges. Beyond that, accommodation is basic or mid-range.
Foodies: Cuisine reflects Sahrawi, Moroccan, and Spanish influences, camel meat, grilled fish, couscous, and mint tea. Dakhla is the best spot for fresh seafood and casual dining.
Beach Bunnies: Western Sahara’s Atlantic beaches are long, wild, and nearly empty. Dakhla is a mecca for kitesurfers and sun-seekers who prefer space over crowds, though currents can be strong.
Nature Buffs: Nature lovers will appreciate the dunes, lagoons, and desolate beauty of Dakhla Bay. Flamingos, desert-adapted fauna, and coastal wetlands make it a unique natural environment.
History Buffs: Historical sites are few, mostly colonial-era Spanish buildings in Laayoune and scattered forts. Oral Sahrawi traditions and geopolitical landmarks add interest for niche travelers.
Culture Vultures: Western Sahara’s culture blends Sahrawi nomadic heritage, music, poetry, and crafts. Visitors can experience traditional tea ceremonies, music, and camel markets, though access is limited by local networks.
Adventure Seekers: Adventure includes desert camping, 4x4 dune driving, sandboarding, and kitesurfing. Dakhla is a global kitesurfing hub, while inland trips offer rugged, remote exploration.
Solo Travelers: Western Sahara is safe for solo travelers, especially those with desert travel experience. Laayoune and Dakhla are welcoming, but long stretches of desert require organized tours or solid logistics.
Party Animals: Nightlife is minimal. Dakhla offers a few casual beach bars; otherwise, evenings revolve around tea, conversation, and quiet gatherings.
Wildlife Watchers: Birdwatching in Dakhla Bay, including flamingos, pelicans, and migratory birds, is a highlight. Terrestrial wildlife is sparse but includes desert foxes and reptiles.
LGBTQ+: Same-sex relations are illegal, and attitudes are very conservative. LGBTQ+ travelers should remain extremely discreet, avoiding public displays of affection.
Why Go to Western Sahara?
- Dakhla’s Kite Surfing: Ride some of the world’s best wind conditions in a stunning lagoon setting.
- Laayoune’s Markets and Streets: Explore lively souks, colonial architecture, and Sahrawi culture in the region’s main city.
- Endless Desert Landscapes: Travel through vast stretches of dunes, rocky plains, and wide-open skies.
- Quiet Beaches: Visit remote Atlantic beaches with few visitors and dramatic coastal cliffs.
- Cultural Insight: Learn about Sahrawi life, history, and traditions in towns and camps.
- Birdwatching at Khenifiss Lagoon: Spot flamingos, herons, and migratory birds at this coastal nature reserve.
- Off-the-Path Adventure: Experience a territory few travelers explore, where the journey itself is part of the reward.
Who Might Not Enjoy Western Sahara?
- Safety-Conscious Travelers: Western Sahara is a disputed territory with occasional political tensions; many governments advise caution due to landmines and regional instability.
- Luxury-Only Travelers: Luxury accommodations are virtually nonexistent; most lodging is basic or simple guesthouses, even in Laayoune.
- Tourists Expecting Polished Tourism Infrastructure: The region has minimal tourism infrastructure; attractions lack signage, organized tours are scarce, and facilities are basic.
- Budget Travelers Without Local Knowledge: Public transport options are limited and informal; navigating without local assistance can be challenging.
- Strict Vegetarians or Vegans: Cuisine is meat- and fish-based; vegetarian options are limited, and vegan-specific meals are rare outside self-catering.
- People Sensitive to Heat, Sun, and Wind: Western Sahara is extremely hot, dry, and windy, with harsh desert conditions that can make outdoor activities physically demanding.
- Visitors Hoping for Wildlife Safaris or Lush Landscapes: The territory is arid desert with sparse vegetation and wildlife; it lacks traditional safari or nature tourism appeal.
- Travelers Needing Reliable Medical Care and Internet: Medical facilities are basic; internet access is slow or unreliable outside urban centers like Laayoune.
- Tourists Wanting Vibrant Nightlife or Urban Entertainment: Laayoune offers limited nightlife; elsewhere, towns are quiet after dark with few entertainment options.
What’s Cool
Dramatic desert landscapes with dunes and rocky plateaus, remote and quiet beaches along the Atlantic, authentic off-the-beaten-path travel, welcoming and resilient Sahrawi people, traditional nomadic culture, strong tea culture and hospitality, unique political history and identity, excellent kite-surfing in Dakhla, opportunity for desert camping and 4x4 adventures, colorful local textiles and crafts.
What’s Not
Political tensions and disputed territory status, heavy military and police presence, limited tourism infrastructure, language barriers (Arabic, Spanish, Hassaniya), hot and harsh desert climate, unreliable internet outside cities, basic healthcare facilities, few luxury accommodations, travel restrictions in some areas, slow and bureaucratic permit processes, minimal nightlife and entertainment.
Western Sahara is a disputed territory on the northwest coast of Africa, bordered by Morocco to the north, Algeria to the northeast, Mauritania to the east and south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Much of the territory is administered by Morocco, while the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) claims independence. Tourism here is minimal and usually limited to Moroccan-controlled areas along the coast.
The geography is dominated by flat desert plains, rocky hamadas, and sand dunes, with very little vegetation. The Atlantic coastline features cliffs, sandy beaches, and fishing ports. The climate is arid and dry year-round, with occasional coastal fog providing some moisture.
Most travelers arrive via Hassan I Airport in Laayoune, the largest city, or by road from Morocco. Infrastructure is sparse inland, and travel beyond controlled zones is not recommended due to ongoing political tensions and landmine risks.
Coastal Western Sahara
The Atlantic coast of Western Sahara is home to fishing ports, small towns, and remote beaches. It attracts surfers, anglers, and adventurous travelers exploring the Saharan coastline.
- Laayoune: The largest city and administrative center, with a Spanish colonial center, mosque, and central market.
- Dakhla: A windsurfing and kitesurfing hotspot on a long peninsula, known for its lagoon and seafood.
- Boujdour: A smaller coastal town with a lighthouse, port, and quiet beaches.
- Tarfaya: A coastal town just north of the border with Morocco, associated with Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s aviation history.
- El Marsa: A fishing port near Laayoune with seafood restaurants and harbor views.
Inland Western Sahara
The inland desert areas are sparsely populated, dotted with nomadic camps, military zones, and occasional oasis towns. Travel here requires permission and local guides.
- Smara: An inland town with a mosque and ruins from a historic Islamic center.
- Bir Lehlou: A Sahrawi-controlled settlement, symbolic in the independence movement.
- Tifariti: Located in the Free Zone, controlled by the Polisario Front, sometimes visited by solidarity or aid missions.
- Oum Dreyga: A remote military outpost area, rarely visited by outsiders.
- Guerguerat: A southern border crossing into Mauritania, used for overland trade routes.
Much of the land is hot, dry desert, with very little rainfall. Weather is hot and arid most of the year, although nights can get harsh and cold. Offshore currents sometimes blow cool winds over the area. Heavy dew and fog can occur during strong currents.
The only international airport is in El Auin (Laayoune), mostly serving flights from Spain, Morocco, and the Canary Islands.
Buses and taxis provide good connections in the capital, but are very limited in other areas. Fares are very affordable, and the roads in Laayoune are in decent condition. However, few of the roads are paved outside the city, and most tourists bring their own cars, preferably an off-road vehicle to stand up to the rugged terrains. Have your passport and travel documents ready to show officials at the police checkpoints, which are located throughout the country and around the borders.
There are serious health risks for tropical diseases like malaria, typhoid, polio, and yellow fever. Laayoune has good medical facilities, but there is little to no medical service outside the capital.
Terrorism threats are high in both Western Sahara and neighboring Morocco. most of the attacks have been in the Morocco-controlled regions. Land mines are also a major risk; avoid driving off-road, particularly in remote places. There is also limited consular service to most countries, since Western Sahara is still under dispute. Whatever you do, don’t get stuck out in the desert, 911 won’t work here!