Dakhla has a multitude of surprises in store for both extreme sports enthusiasts and non-sporty tourists. Here is a selection of 10 activities to do or discover in this region of Morocco.
Dragon Island
Dragon Island or Herné Island is one of the sites not to be missed in Dakhla. A walk on the island is an opportunity to admire different varieties of shells or to contemplate migratory birds. The island is surrounded by magnificent turquoise water at high tide. It is accessible on foot at low tide. It is also possible to go there by kayak or catamaran to discover the wonders of the lagoon. The luckiest will have the chance to discover dolphins.
The white dune
Located 30 km from the city, the white dune is an incredible natural phenomenon that stands in the heart of the lagoon. It is a white sand dune in the shape of a crescent. This wild site is a true paradise for pink flamingos and fiddler crabs. It turns into an island at high tide.
The white dune can be visited aboard a 4x4 or during kitesurfing expeditions. Magnificent wild landscapes are offered to tourists during the journeys across the desert plains of the Sahara. Many hotels offer different excursions in this region.
The beaches of Dakhla
Dakhla is also known for its many deserted beaches that stretch from north to south. The beaches of Puerto Rico and Puertito are among the most famous. Puerto Rico has a heavenly beach called "the king's private beach". A true treasure of nature, this long beach seems to be endless. Vacationers can relax there or swim in the crystal clear water. Even further south, Puertito beach is also the ideal place to swim or sunbathe.
Surfers will certainly enjoy Foum el Bouir beach, which is located about 6 km from the city. Pointe du Dragon is not far from there. This site is very popular with extreme sports enthusiasts from around the world for the Dakhla Attitude water sports center.
The hot springs of Asmaa
Located 35 km from the city, the hot springs of Asmaa are the ideal place for tourists who prefer activities off the beaten track. They are located in the heart of the desert, far from the classic tourist circuits. You have to travel a sandy track of about 25 km to get to this unique site. A powerful jet of water springs from the natural thermal spring. These hot waters are known for their virtues for bones, skin or respiratory disorders.
The village of Lassarga
Located at the extreme south of the peninsula, Lassarge is the link between the lagoon and the Atlantic. This fishing village is home to a legendary beach with clean waves. Lassarga offers an excellent spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Dakhla Souk
Being a Moroccan city, Dakhla has its own souk. However, it is smaller than the one in Marrakech. It is the best place to find souvenirs that cannot be found in other cities. Among these objects is the Melhfa, a light fabric used by women in the Sahara to cover themselves.
Dakhla Lagoon
Stretching over approximately 40 km, the Dakhla Lagoon is a true paradise for surfing including kitesurfing and windsurfing. It is one of the best spots in the world to learn or practice these water sports thanks to its constant wind and shallow waters.
Dakhla Oyster Farms
The Dakhla region is known for the export of oysters. Being a protected area, the Dakhla lagoon benefits from very clean oysters. In addition to being harvested by hand, they are handled and preserved with care. It is possible to observe the workers harvesting and checking the oysters in the morning.