Dakhla, a unique playground
Dakhla is located 1250 km south of Agadir and 550 km north of the Mauritanian border. The city stretches along a sandy spit between the ocean and the lagoon. Without a car, access to the kite spots (Speed Spot, Foum Labouir, White Dune) and natural sites (the white dune, Asmaa hot springs, Point de l'Or) is very limited.
- Peninsula length: 40 km
- City → airport: 5 km
- City → Speed Spot (kite): 20 km
- City → White Dune: 40 km
- City → Asmaa hot springs: 60 km
Dakhla Airport (VIL) and Pick-up
Dakhla Airport (code VIL) is a small airport 5 km south of the city. It handles direct flights from Casablanca and some seasonal connections from Paris and Madrid.
Which vehicle to choose in Dakhla?
| Use | Recommended |
|---|---|
| City + tarmac kite spots | Saloon or SUV (Duster) |
| White Dune, Asmaa springs | 4WD SUV or 4x4 |
| Southern dunes expedition | Toyota Land Cruiser mandatory |
| Kite gear for a group | Van or SUV with a roof rack |
Models available in Dakhla
Sites to visit by car
- Point de l'Or — northern tip of the peninsula, red dunes
- Dune Blanche — spectacular dune on the edge of the lagoon, 40 km southwest
- Asmaa hot springs — 60 km away, thermal bathing in the middle of the desert
- Foum Labouir — large kite spot, 25 km south
- Speed Spot — beginner-friendly, flat kite spot, 20 km
- Dragon Island — accessible by kite or kayak from the south of the lagoon
- Imlili — traditional fishing village, 80 km south
Practical tips for Dakhla
- Constant strong wind: park facing the wind, open doors on the sheltered side
- Sand on the road: slow down in dips
- Few petrol stations: fill up in Dakhla city
- Gendarmerie checks at the entrance to the peninsula: have your passport ready
- Weak mobile signal as soon as you leave the main road
- Bring water and snacks for any trip longer than 2 hours
Off-roading
The tracks to the White Dune and Asmaa hot springs become sandy in places. A proper 4x4 (like a Land Cruiser) is strongly recommended. Ideally, hire with a driver if you have no experience driving in the dunes.
Arriving in Dakhla by car from Agadir
Many travellers drive down from Agadir over 3 to 7 days and then fly back from Dakhla. Wataluxe offers one-way options (dropping off in Dakhla) with several partner agencies for a supplement of 2,000–4,000 MAD, depending on the category.